Complications - Part 3

Chapter 5    Complications

Part 3

There she sat in the condo that was once piercing with light, but was now duller than ever. How life got this depressing she didn’t know. What happened to them? Nic and SB were the perfect two, but now could hardly stand to be around one another. She sat at the dining table bouncing their now one year old son, trying to calm him. She searched Billboard top 100 and iTunes and was disappointed to see that her newest album hadn’t debuted at the top on either. Less time was put into it thanks to her home life. Almost every day the couple fought sometimes over work, their son and the lack of love and effort put into their relationship. While SB ignored the baby’s cries, she sat in a corner of the closet, arms wrapped around her legs crying into her knees. How do you go from living the life you’ve always wanted, to living one that made you want to walk away from it all? The baby’s sobs began to get closer and closer blending with hers until the sound was earsplitting.

She woke with a start - eyes flinging open wide. Her eyebrows were lodged in a worried line. The sun was just getting up; climbing to the highest point in the sky. But it wasn't the light that woke her. It was just a dream, She reminded herself over again. A dream…but also her worst nightmare. The morning sun woke the room from its slumber; piercing the large glass door, reflecting bright light off every piece of furniture. The room was too warm, stuffier than the breezy weather outside. A bead of sweat dewed up on her forehead. Careful not to wake SB she crept out of the bed; walking slowly to the balcony door easing it open. Sunlight stroked her lovingly as the cool breeze swept the room; the white curtain above the door swayed delicately. She stepped outside admiring the flocks of pedestrians lolling in the streets. Taking in the families stopping by the ice cream parlor, and buying colorful balloons from the little cart ran by a tiny pudgy man. There was a fair in town, festively brightening the morning essence. Sights like these are what make couples want kids; the beautiful, inseparable bond between parents and their offspring. The horrid dream she woke from shifted, and a fulfilling future took its place. There was no loud crying, fights, or flopped albums. Just the ideal fairytale life. Maybe having this baby wouldn’t be so bad, they could handle anything together. She was ready to face anything as long as her “husband” was with her. A kiss on the shoulder ripped her from the daydream.

“It’s kinda hot in there” He said apologetically. “I turned the heat up last night. Ya hands were freezing”

“It’s good. I like it hot”

“Pauz” Their laughs blared, attracting eyes from below.

“We’re going to the fun place today.” She demanded, facing him. The light wind danced through her hair, blowing several strands into her face.

“Oh are we?” He asked raising an eyebrow. Her demanding ways was another habit of hers that appealed to him. It was the person she really was that had him stuck.

“Yes, we’re gonna play all day”

“PAUZ Nic, damn” He shook his head. “Anyway I was wondering…” He spoke slowly. “If you wanted to take a casual shower this fine morning?” He took a deep breath, voice more at ease when he spoke again. 

“Then we can go play” He winked. She ran her tongue over her teeth; pondering. Though she knew there was nothing to think about. She gazed up at him. Tenderness glowed his features, causing vulnerability to enveloped her; no one other than her mother had ever looked at her that way, As if she were precious, a treasure. She just smiled wickedly; posing, hands on her hips, taunting. Grabbing her up, he hitched her legs around his waist; strolling casually to the bathroom. Taking his time, building the anticipation. She lifted his t shirt, tossing it on the bedroom floor. His hand tunneled under her lace night gown, pulling it over her head. Her skin glowed as the sun rays shone strait into the room through the open door. The possibilities of wondering eyes only created a thick irresistible fog of ecstasy. Never turning on the light he set her in the shower turning on the hot water. His pants weren’t all the way off before he hoped in. The scorching water seared pouring over their skin. He kissed a path down her cheek, and along her jaw; running his hands over her smooth skin-up the flatness of her stomach, gripping her bare waist between his greedy palms loving the feel. She arched her hips, leaning in, taking him inside of her; need reached a new level, she straddled him. A pleasure filled sigh escaped him, the sound poured over her skin like caress; meshing their lips together she moaned, he swallowed the sound. The blistering water drops soaking their skin, added to the pleasure making his thrusts unbearable. Stomach quivering she kneaded his back, her nails scoring his skin. An intense fire banked the contours of his features. He ran his tongue over the center of her neck, and then sucked. She writhed against him, her hands clutching his back; holding him captive. She uttered an array of breathless pants. He lifted his head to see a faint red bruise appearing on her neck before pinning her against the marble wall of the shower, impaling her further. Both of them moaned in heady pleasure. Her feet hadn’t touched the ground since they’d both got in. Shiver bumps rose on her skin; she braced her palms flat on his chest, feeling the wild erratic drum of his heartbeat. He slid his hands down the dripping wet sensuous contours of her body. Her legs spread as wide as she could get them, as she sucked in a breath waiting for him take her all the way down. Nothing was visible in the pitch blackness of the bathroom, their body heat radiated fogging the mirrors. In and out he pumped, their body’s spasm’d in unison. His skin was sleeked with sweat and passion.

“Safaree” She gasped. The phone rang, but was inaudible in the sensual paradise. Her stomach twisted, but she ignored the wrenching pain, too caught up in the moment.

“Mhmm” He mumbled against her parted lips. Sweet Heaven. Her eyelids clasped together as her white teeth tortured his bottom lip. Only when she was screaming in ecstasy, shouting his name – which sent jolts through his entire body, rocking him back and forth – did he switch into overdrive finally giving them release. Their body’s jerked closer leaving negative space between them, their muscles tensing, relaxing, tensing and relaxing. She bit his shoulder, her nails digging into him with so much force his bone should’ve cracked. SB watched her lips part and her breath turn shallow. Violently wobbling he carried her back into the sunlit bedroom, gently placing her on the bed. The sheets were instantly drenched. The breeze cooled their scorching skin. When she stilled, he laid his head on her chest; wrapping them in the soaked lush white Egyptian cotton sheets, listening to her racing heartbeat.  He wound his arms around her waist pulling her closer, holding her prisoner. She snuggled closer to him, closing her eyes, sighing contently.

Nothing was better than this moment. Every time they made love it was a new experience. None even remotely similar to the last. When they became one it didn’t matter where they were. The atmosphere made itself. Listening to their heartbeats after was SB’s favorite part. It was like a recap off the passion they’d shared. Their hearts beating wildly for each other and no one else. Setting their spirits free, it was the only the way to be. A little while later he fell asleep with a smile on his face.

SB was 90% sure he was dreaming. The reasons he was so sure were that, first, Nicki had finally confessed her love for him - second, they were engaged - and third, they had a baby on the way. What more could a man want? He’d waited his whole life for this.

When his eyes reopened orange-ish light shone around the room; shining into his eyes. It was too quiet minus the soft chatter floating up from below the balcony. The sun struggled to stay awake; slowly drifting from the top spot in the sky. He tensed when he didn’t feel Nicki’s divine weight on him; jumping up when he’d noticed her side of the bed was vacant.

“Babe?” He shouted into the dimness. No answer. “Nicki!” His muscles were locked in place, he struggled to get up. Worry hazed his mind. He frantically searched the oversized condo for his missing woman. Where the hell was she? Terror struck him. He called down to the front desk to ask if they’ve seen his missing lady. No answer. Running downstairs he checked every possible place she could be, asking several people if they’ve saw her. No one knew anything. Silent tears streamed down his face; his hands clenched into fist. He couldn’t help but assume something bad had happened. In that instant a picture of Nicki laid out in a hospital bed clinging to life while giving birth flashed across his mind.

Next thing he knew he was upright nearly falling out of the king size bed. A dream. His panicked expression subsided when Nic came into view in the doorway.

“I’m ready for the fun place” She said excitedly; voice like wind chimes.

SB didn’t move. Where the hell did that come from? The gears in his head stopped turning. He was trapped in the aftermath of his dream.

~TBC~

PS. Tired of trying to figure me out??? You should be ;)

Complications - Part 2

Chapter 5    Complications

Part 2

It’s been two days since Nicki’s been sickly. And she only seemed to be getting better. But her new sleeping pattern still bothered SB. She slept like the dead, motionless. Sleeping the days away, only briefly getting up to relieve herself, or nibble on random pieces of food. He checked in every so often making sure Nic was well. This day was dreary, the heavy rain cascaded from the angry darkened sky; the wind whistled as wisps bombarded the windows. Thunder bellowed severely, while the palm trees thrashed in a whirlwind. The muted street lights reflected off the thin stream gliding along the ground. It was impossible to tell it was mid afternoon. Light escaped nowhere in this blackness.

“Nic?” SB whispered through the cracked door. He couldn’t stay away; she shouldn’t be alone in this sinister weather. The bedroom was an eclipse, only dully illuminated now by the hall light. Through the glass door to the balcony the storm played like a picture show. Saying nothing Nicki lifted her head slightly off the pillow, casting a shadow. The storm woke her; she hadn’t been asleep for hours. SB flicked off the hallway light and flopped on his side of the bed.

“You okay?” He asked. No response, she just reached out to him. Kicking off his sweat pants he threw the covers up to settle underneath; cold air swirled between them. Nic lounged drowsily across his chest. He kissed her forehead. This powerless feeling was not amusing. He was incapable of ridding this sickness that transformed Nicki into a sleepwalker. And even in this condition he wanted her more than he wanted to take his next breath; to be her aid. Her protection. Since that fateful day in the park and hotel they seemed to exist outside of time, floating in a perfect state.

“Could this have been my fault?” He asked warily. For the first time he had prepared dinner for them, just a few days ago. Nic rested while he attempted to make grilled lemon chicken, sautéed garlic green beans, and baked potatoes. He said it was his idea, though he got it from the Morton’s steakhouse website. But something made him think that maybe he had made her sick. Possibly undercooking the chicken or mixing some wrong ingredients. He faintly remembered a peculiar smell overwhelming the kitchen.

“Could what have been your fault?” She asked uninterested. Drowsiness ruled her mind.

“Why you’re sick”

“Well you make me sick all the time so…” She clamped her hand over her mouth; hiding her smile. He laughed jabbing her forehead with his finger.

“For real though” He added seriously.

“No Safaree” She rolled her eyes. He was always thinking something was his fault. “I’m probably just about to come on my…….” She trailed off; jerking herself upright. Counting the weeks on her fingers, she darted into the bathroom. SB’s brow furrowed in confusion while he lingered in the doorway, intently waiting for a clue of what was going through her mind.

“So you think this is pre period syndrome, or something?” He asked completely clueless. Nic laughed at his diagnosis. She snatched the light pink Playtex box from the white cabinet of her vanity; realizing that she should have used them all by now. Her menstrual was five days late. Involuntarily, her hand dropped to her stomach. "Oh" she breathed; clutching the marble counter for support, her knees wobbling.

“What it is?” SB urged. Her mind raced; breaths shallow.

“I don’t think it was the food” She whispered; hand still cradling her abdomen. Her bewildered expression, while emphasizing her belly finally registered in his mind.

“You don’t think you’re…” He struggled to speak it. “Pregnant” his voice was low, but still too loud as it broke the thick silence. She flinched away from the word. Fear enveloped her body, making breathing nearly impossible. This was all too much. It was already inevitable to have to tell the world about their engagement, and now there was a baby on the way. How would they get through this? Together she agreed, no matter what they decided. Though she wasn’t ready for a baby, abortion was not an option, nor was adoption. Like any new mother she wanted her child, maternal instincts were front and center; even at this early stage. But she couldn’t shake the feeling that now was not the right time, not at this pivotal point in her career, and life. She’d only been engaged to Safaree about two weeks which was enough to keep her nerves on edge, this she just could not handle.

“We’re keeping it right?” He asked half cautious, half hopeful. The picture of a perfect family played through his mind; family outings, dinners, birthday parties, the baby’s first day of school. But the less desirable way their lives would change forever eluded him. What would happen to her career, how badly would the press devour them? How would the people closest to them respond? At the moment he didn’t care. Finally he had the woman he’s always wanted and soon to have what he could only have dreamed.

“I…don’t know.” She choked out. Though she had every intension on keeping their child, her internal dilemma fought against her.

“The hell you mean you don’t know?” His tone escalated. She stalked past him out into the bedroom, almost tripping over his Nike sneakers splayed in the middle of the floor.

“Onika!” He shouted as heavy thunder cracked and subsided. Rain continued to attack the glass door, loud taps surged through the room. She spun around facing him; shoulders slumped forward, eyes a watery puddle. Sorrow pulsed through his every vein, pain and fear apparent on her perfect features.

“You don’t understand the position I’m in” She cried out nearly yelling, warm tears leaked down her face.

“Maybe not, but you’re not aborting OUR child. I have a say in this too!” For the first time in a while water moistened his eyes.

“I never said that!”

“You didn’t not say it!”

“Well I didn’t say it either.”

“Whatever” He turned to walk out.

“Don’t Leave!” She shouted. He stopped in his tracks, but didn’t face her. Not wanting to leave her feeling the way she did, but didn’t want to see her feeling the way he did.

“You don’t have to risk you’re job, I do. You don’t have to carry a baby for 38 weeks either, I do.” She informed no longer screaming, but strong bass remained in her voice.

“Man…” Was all he could say, knowing she was right. But still he refused to lose the family he’d always wanted. He hesitated before ambling off, leaving her alone. Nic picked up his shoe and launched it at him; furious that he didn’t even try to understand. It just barely missed his head. In the same instant, a sudden pain coiled in her stomach, almost like the follow up of catching a punch in the gut. She doubled over; a muffled whine escaped her. Unable to follow through SB approached the door, leaning his head against it.

“Faree” Nic’s cries were a murmur. In a flash he was at her side with the trashcan he’d cleaned out the night before, holding her anxiously keeping her hair out of the way, waiting. She closed her eyes in surrender; clinging to Safaree like her life depended on it before slipping into unconsciousness. That’s it he thought, she’s going to the hospital tomorrow whether she wants to or not. He couldn’t take seeing her this way for another minute.

Outside the storm raged on.

~TBC~

PS. Don’t try to guess what’s going on or what’s going to happen, you’ll only strain yourself ;)

Complications

Chapter 5  Complications

For weeks the new power couple were inseparable. Never entertaining guests unless necessary; Shows, appearances, parties then right back to the hotel. They were ecstatic to be back in LA at the condo. A home they could say was their own. The 3 bedroom, 4.5 bath, 3535 sq. ft condo fit them just right. Windows at every possible place, Nic liked light, and the bright California sun never failed to illuminate every room. The bed room was dimly lighted by a silent moon through the glass doors leading to the balcony. The all white California king bed reflected a muted pale white from the night sky. A bouquet of lilies rested in the round tan swivel chair.  Life was good until Nicki came to the realization that they would have to tell EVERYONE. This scared her; she wasn’t ready to possibly ruin all that she and Safaree had become. The sound of the TV ripped her from the worries that lingered in the back of her mind. Sheltered in SB’s right arm she lay against his chest, wrapped in the smooth Egyptian cotton sheets. Smelling the growing flowers in the two corners of the room; Eyes heavy with sleep she looked up to see SB intently watching the Family Guy episode he’d Tivo’d the night before. The scary thoughts that loitered suddenly subsided. He was all that mattered.

“Good Morning Babe” She chimed playing with his chin hair. He smiled down at her.

“What are you doing up?” Night had long since fallen; It was 3:30AM. She was usually knocked out cold at this hour. What made today different? Something had to be wrong.

“I don’t feel good. I’ve been waking up all night.” SB frowned. She wasn’t feeling well? This made him unhappy.

“What’s wrong?” Worry strong in his voice.

“My lower back has been killing me. And these on and off cramps are not helping.” She stretched her arms over her head, arching her back, the knots untangling from her muscles. This sent a bolt of pain up her back. Wincing, she slowly sat up, scooting off the bed. Her feet warmed against the light tan carpet. She trudged into the bathroom one hand on her abdomen, the other on her back. SB couldn’t help but feel bad; he hated seeing Nicki in pain. But he would do all he could to help. It took her a while to return, and when she did she looked worse. Her face was flushed a sickly pale over her worn out features. Her muscles appeared intensely weak the way she dragged herself around. Even her black curtain of hair dully hung around her shoulders, yet she was still beyond beautiful, exquisite even, in a damsel-in-distress kind of way. She carefully climbed back into the bed, settling against SB. Wrapping his arms securely around her fragile body, he stroked her hair.

“Want me to get you something?” He asked desperately; needing to protect her from pain. A need that ran bone deep.

“Can you get me some pickles and ice cream?” Her voice was a strained murmur. Before she could finish he had already moved her to the side and was out of the bed; searching the dark room for the phone. She laid her cheek against the mattress, her gaze tracking his every move as if she couldn’t help but focus on him. She watched him in wonder. What possessed him to immediately react, and stop what he was doing to fetch her food, and nurse her sickness? He never failed to amaze and remind her why she wanted him, why she needed him. The rest of the world seemed so dull in comparison whenever he wasn’t around. He loved to share her joys and pain. He always seemed to enhance a smile and alleviate her burdened shoulders. Even at a dark moment like this, he made her light up. He would sacrifice anything and this was a fact. And for that she loved him more than anything, willing to die for him. Anything he asked of her, anything at all, if it brought him happiness she would make it happen without any hesitation. Love was an understatement of the feeling that resided in their souls.

“I’ll be right back” He assured her, putting on the first pieces of clothing he got his hands on, and rushing out the door. Turning the TV up she borrowed underneath the sleek sheets; closing her eyes as nausea turned her stomach. She swiftly jumped up, charged into the bathroom, and lingered over the toilet. When nothing came up she returned to the room. But instead of getting back in bed, she drifted out the tall glass door onto the balcony. A light warm breeze fondled her skin. Hushed moonlight streamed from the sky, blending with the golden glow of the streetlights, casting shadows on the pavement below. She leaned against the stone wall and peered up at the dark sky. The stars were dynamic tonight, like diamonds scattered across black satin. 

“Nic? You okay?” SB asked opening the door. Cool air rushed out.

“I don’t know” She replied shaking her head. He grabbed her hand, it was hot, abnormally so.

“I got your stuff. They ain’t have cookies and crème, so I vanilla.”

“That’s fine” Cookies wasn’t exactly a good thing right now. He tucked her back in bed, placing two pillows behind her for support, before setting the stainless steel tray on her lap.

“I’ll go get you some water” He went to walk out.

“Wait” She called. “Get back here, I don’t need anything else.”

“You sure?” He couldn’t help but cater to her, especially when she was sick.

“Yes, now get over here.” She moved as close as she could get to him. Feeling him next to her was enough to put her at ease. Pure love lit her expression, momentarily chasing away that glint of pain. He held her, rubbing her stomach underneath the sheets, watching another episode of Family Guy. The first couple pickles and scoops of ice cream she enjoyed indulging, but as she began to eat the rest nausea took over the satisfying feeling. Noticing when Nicki froze, SB shifted his focus from the TV to her ashen face.

“Safaree” She breathed.

“What is it? What you need?” He asked bothered.

“Get…the…trashcan” she said between breaths, trying to keep her food down. Without thought SB scurried into the bathroom snatching the empty can off the floor; running back to Nic moving the tray and holding the can under her chin. He sat with his arm around her as her body pushed out everything she’d eaten. Even under these circumstances he was happy to be there, content in being with Onika. He just hoped this was a virus that would be over soon.

~TBC~   ;)

The Morning After

Chapter 4   The Morning After

The suite was quiet; the evening decorations slumbered. Half burnt down candles drifted out, yellow rose petals rested peacefully in between the sheets; while the others lazed along the floor. The ice bucket was filled with warm water no longer cooling the champagne; while the soft instrumentals continued to play far away. The tiny flame in the fire place strived to remain lit. Melting chocolate bars kept the spoiling strawberries company on the drying table. Chirping birds glided past the double window above the backboard. The overhead early afternoon sun shone brightly caressing the length of the bed. They’d slept in. They were wiped out. SB woke shirtless to Nicki grinning happily at the huge pink diamond on her finger. Noticing he’d woken up she looked over to him, their eyes met in a tender clash. He lye silent for a while, just admiring. She crawled up onto his body, sitting on top of him. The feeling of her weight was divine; a touch of her skin pure allurement. The sun’s rays lime lighted her flawless features. He had never seen a more breathtaking sight. She settled her palms flat on his chest, feeling the steady beat of his heart. She licked her lips leaving glossy sheen he wanted to taste. Rolling her over he nuzzled her neck; before trailing kisses down her stomach. A calm fire suddenly banked his features. Not knowing where the desire to do this came from, she daintily sank her teeth into his neck. His skin tingled, he felt as if he'd just conquered the entire world looking down at her. Giggling at his surprised – whoa, I can’t believe that just happened – expression; her cheeks colored prettily. The sound of her laughter was magical filling the muted room. He lied his head on her chest; enjoying being there as she stroked his hair.

“Hungry?” He wondered. She thought about it.

“Actually yes. You know since I had ice cream for dinner”

It didn’t matter much last night, but now their stomachs desired substance. That was his cue. Lazing out of the bed threw on a pair of nearby by jeans and tee, sliding into a pair of all white Nikes. He grabbed the thick golden comforter from the edge if the bed wrapping it securely around Nicki’s little body, picking her up bringing her into the living room. The mist of last night’s liaison still prospered in the new day air. He unhooked her legs from him and set her down on the delicacy stained couch. She cried out in protest.

“I’ll be right back.” He assured her.  “I gotta eat before I die.”

Before leaving out the solid cherry wood door, he lifted her foot and kissed the arch. A soft raspy chuckle escaped her. Keeping warm under the blanket Nic turned on the TV. Reluctant to clean up the ornamentation around the suite, it gave it a little piece of them. And until they were checking out it would stay there. On TV she watched a little bit of iCarly before switching to CBS watching Cold Case. It wasn’t until the episode credits started that SB returned with a room service assistant pushing a cart behind him.

“I’ll take it from here” He said to the man passing him a twenty – and he was lucky to get that much out of Safaree -

“Ooooo. What ya got?” Nic asked in a weird accent rubbing her hands together.

 Under the trays were egg whites, toast, and (specifically) turkey bacon. In the others were a random assortment of fruits, doughnuts and Danishes. Attempting to stick to her diet Nicki ignored the sweets; eating only her usual dish. As she sat watching SB a million thoughts whispered through her mind, but the loudest one Screamed out. Surprise him. He had catered to her every wish last night, and now it was his time to be taken care of. Love and temptation beamed from her eyes wrapping around her fiancée. She shivered at the new title he now possessed. She would make sure these last two days were the best they’ve ever had; a moment to remember. SB watched as she gracefully sprung up from the couch. Walking into the bathroom Nic turned the light off; stepping into the glass doors of the large Paradon marble tile shower; turning on the hot and cold knobs. The clear water rained down from the shower’s ceiling.  She adjusted the color wheel; making the shower head glow a deep blue that lit the whole space. After stripping she stood by the tub, stomach knotted anticipating.

“Safaree!” She called, voice a little a shaken. She wanted that feeling of raw love back, to feel their spirits intertwine; for he was hers and she would brand his heart forever. SB casually strolled into the bedroom, unaware of what she had planned this time. He paused at the doorframe of the bathroom, his eyes amplified. Dear god, her clothes...he gulped; her heart slammed in her chest, as he looked over her, cheeks flushing the prettiest pink. She leaned against the glass door; wisps of hair fondled her shoulders. SB swallowed a sudden lump in his throat unable to tear his gaze away. Her body was a sensual feast to his eyes. She was perfection and all for him. His heart raced, beating erratically. Motioning him over with her pointer finger she stepped into the spacious tub; water drops of muted blue light favored her skin. Undressing Safaree felt like God. Getting into the shower he pulled the glass doors shut holding the heat prisoner. He kissed her neck; pleasure lit her lovely face as her head fell back; inviting. She bit down on her bottom lip; preparing for a life time soul exchange.

M4L

~TBC~

Best Day Ever - Part 2

Chapter 3   Best Day Ever

Part 2

Nicki piggy backed the way back to the hotel. The pink rock sparkled on her thin finger, while her arms held SB’s neck. She planted kisses on the side of his neck, before biting his earlobe and pulling on it; sending a sensual chill down his spine. He happily carried her on his back. The streets were nearly deserted keeping them in a private dream. The lobby was inactive, with the exception of the hushed voices coming from the other side. Waiting for the elevator to come down, Nic rested her head on SB’s shoulder. Such a simple gesture warmed his blood. He carried her to the room, letting her down on the flower petals that scattered across the floor. The heady scent of roses enveloped the space; engrossing them in a dreamy, unreal fog. The suite was dimly lighted, illustrated by an army of candles split into smaller units on every hard surface. The fireplace blazed illuminating the maroon couch they had several beautiful moments on. A small heart-shaped basket of chocolate covered strawberries sat next to an ice bucket with a bottle of chilled champagne, on the cherry wood coffee table; surrounded by yellow, red, pink, orange, and white roses. Each color had its significance. Chocolate candy kisses were randomly placed about. A small delicate saucer with two wine glasses completed the table. A low gasp escaped her. Instant excitement and wonder played through her mind. This was unordinary, for Safaree. He’d never done anything even remotely similar. He tapped her shoulder, pointing to the trail of over 100 red silk roses. She smiled up at him before following the disorderly path. Into the bathroom they guided her. 120-hour flicker candles set in frosted votive holders on the sinks and around the bathtub. Hot bathwater was already drawn, mixed with bath salts and lavender. Scented bath confetti lied about. A massager and loofah were aligned next to a little rubber duck.  Scented Cru De Provence line: Body Scrub, Body Lotion, and Bathing Gel waited at the corner. A sexy black bell skirt mini dress with dark red around the hem hung on the towel rack. (A present he picked up from Victoria secret). Nic giggled to herself, surprised and eager to continue the night. She wondered if SB was planning to join her in the deep whirlpool tub. Undressing she stepped in, letting the Jacuzzi temp water submerge her body. The plush water soaked into her skin. Picking up the tiny remote next to her, she turned on the iPod dock. A low serenity filled instrumental seeped through the speakers. She looked over at the phone; that was on a timer app set for an hour before leaning back against the tub.

Meanwhile SB was out of the shower, running around the room making sure everything was right. He darted down the hall to the ice machine refilling the bucket. Lounging on the couch he waited for her; giving Nic time to unwind. He wore a simple white tee and pajama pants. He wanted to seem as chilled as possible and not make it obvious that he was nervous.

Nicki lied in the bath wanting to cut it short to go be with Safaree, but didn’t want to throw his plan out of whack. Though she was impatient she enjoyed her soothing time. Climbing out of the tub she grinned, dressing in the ensemble he’d picked out for her. The little dress fell just right, fitting like a prize; defining every curve. She looked in the mirror checking herself out, before gliding into the living room. When SB caught sight of her his eyes popped open wide; admiring his woman and all that she was.

“What do you think?” She asked pirouetting.

He cleared his throat. “You’re beautiful”

Snickering, she walked on the path he laid down for her and sat down next to him; keeping her distance, wanting him to take control. He lifted her legs off the ground letting them stretch across his lap. The two lolled on the big couch taking in the vanilla scent of the candles meshing with the roses. The heat of the fireplace fondled their skin; the soft melodies played in the background. SB took the champagne bottle from the basket, getting water from the melted ice on the table and floor. He poured a sufficient amount into two glasses handing one to Nicki.

“Cheers!”  She said holding her glass up. He tapped his glass on the side hers. The “clang” echoed throughout the room. After only taking a sip they put their glasses on the table. He adjusted himself, his side against the back of the couch, pulling her forward by her ankles; laying her down. He placed her little feet in his lap; taking a dark pink rose from the vase and lightly dragging it down her leg to her toes. He threw it to her, it landed on her chest. Rubbing his hands together, warming them he soothingly massaged her feet. She closed her eyes picking up the rose and holding it to her mouth, relaxing; listening to the faint music. Once he was finished with her feet he worked his way up; massaging her calves, thighs, waist, back and shoulders. This day was all about satisfying her. He went to turn the volume up on the dock, signaling her to come over. Holding his hands out he watched as she made her way to him; stepping on the flower covered floor in her tiny dress. She couldn’t wait to get to him. Coming up on him she reached up looking extra small next to his 6 foot 3 frame. Wrapping his arms around her waist he lifted her off the ground. She lolled on his body, holding him around the neck. They stayed in this rhythmic embrace; swaying side to side, and spinning in circles; her feet never touching the ground. Soon after he carried her back to the couch; sitting her down. She watched as SB unwrapped a mini milk chocolate bar; dipping it in chocolate syrup; and feeding it to her. He wanted to save the talking for later, careful not to ruin the moment. She opened her mouth allowing the double chocolate to submerge her taste buds. Licking her lips she grabbed the hem of Safaree’s shirt pulling it over his head. Pushing him down onto the cushions and settling on top him. She stroked his chest kissing the corner of his mouth, then down to his neck, before planting one right over his heart. She stared down at him, her hair a black curtain around his head. He took her face in his hands, bringing her down to him; brushing his tongue across her lips before kissing her fiercely.  She gripped his arms, soaking in his masculinity. He enthralled her thighs lifting her off the couch. Grinning she wound her legs around his waist, offering no resistance. Through the enchanted suite he carried her; over the petals on the floor, through the fog of vanilla and lavender, entering the bedroom. The dressers were covered with burning aromatherapy candles, creating a sensual mist that encased their every move. One hundred thread count Egyptian cotton sheets had a golden glisten as they draped over the king sized bed. Yellow rose petals slept in between the lush sheets. Lying on the bed he rolled over allowing her to be on top. His hands tangled in her hair, not jerking her away but urging her closer. He lit her soul flames consuming her. Clutching he held her steady as she arched into his touch; removing one another’s clothes caused a blinding light, to flash between them, its intensity blinding. This moment was so much more than she'd ever imagined...because it was with safaree.  She felt like part of her soul, had been replaced with part of his. Giving herself to him was a blessing. A thin glaze of sweat slicked his skin.

“I love you" She whispered into his ear, her warm breath caressing. His heart smiled, never in his life had he been so happy.

“I love you” He whispered back. She pulled back just a bit.

"Enough talking" She breathed. “I believe you had something planned for me...?" She smiled wickedly. He tightened his hands, pulling her down farther, taking her breath. He took it all in as he worked them both over the edge.

~TBC~