Chapter Six

 

Sarah awoke Saturday morning feeling like she had been run over by a truck. She couldn’t remember sleeping that poorly in a long time. No matter what, she had to be ready for Harry’s game and try to be the best mother she could be. Thankfully, when she emerged from her room, she discovered that her mom had already made breakfast and brewed the coffee. Sarah was happy to see Harry sitting there talking to her mom smiling, but the good feelings didn’t last long. When he turned his head and saw her, the smile turned to a frown and he left the table.

“Don’t take it too hard, Sarah. He’ll come around.”

“What. When he’s twenty?”

“It’ll be okay. He was given a lot of information yesterday. He needs time to process it. How would you feel if the shoe was on the other foot?”

“I know, mom. I already feel like shit about this, but now I feel like the worst mother in the world. I don’t know what to do about it. No matter what I do, I can’t win. If I tell him now, it’ll be almost impossible for him to not let it slip and then if he does at school the other kids will make fun of him. Tell me, mom. What’s the right answer?”

“I don’t know honey. I think you need to take some time and figure it out. Also, just give Harry time. His dad will be there when it’s time. You’re right about telling him too soon, but it could be a late birthday present. I assume you’ll tell Harrison before the season starts. Give him some time to process everything before he starts back up full-time.”

“You’re right, mom. I’ll tell him before the season starts even if I have to fly down to Florida and tell him then. Which might actually be a little safer. I will tell Harry when the time is right. I don’t know how soon after the New Year it will happen, but it will happen. This is going to be a helluva new year.”

“Don’t worry about it now. You have Thanksgiving and a wedding to deal with before Christmas. Let’s just enjoy the time together, and deal with what comes up when it happens.”

Sarah thanked her mom, hugging her before trudging upstairs to her bedroom to finish getting ready for Harry’s game.

The game went as they usually did with Harry outshining his teammates and the competition, but still she found herself getting the silent treatment from her son. After a long tension filled day, Sarah found herself staring at the walls of her bedroom. As she started to peel her clothes off, a strange thought entered her head. She didn’t really want to be alone right now, and she needed someone other than her mom for company. Sadly, the only person she wanted to be with was Coop, but how long could she keep up this charade with him about Harry. Being around him with people in the room was hard enough, but she seemed to be inviting trouble if she was alone with him. Maybe they could meet for a drink and talk. That way she wouldn’t be alone with him, just surrounded by strangers. Picking up her phone she sent him a text.

S: You busy? Your GF over at your house? ;)

Coop was sitting on the veranda enjoying the first vestiges of fall when his phone rang. He had a great day visiting with Rhett, Alexa, and baby Emily. After looking at his phone he thought it might just be about to get a little better.

H: Nope. She just left. JK. Told you I wasn’t seeing anyone and haven’t in a while. What’s up?

S:Wanna get some coffee and dessert?

Coop’s heartrate jumped up and his hands started sweating. Sarah wanted to see him outside of work. Holy shit. Maybe things were changing for the better.

H:I could eat. What do you have in mind?

S:Café Intermezzo ten o’clock.

Coop looked at his watch and then replied.

H:I can do that. See you at ten. Thanks

S:Why are you thanking me?

H:Because you want to spend time with me.

S:You might not be thanking me in time. Can’t wait to see you.

Sarah had a little more time to get ready than Harrison, but she couldn’t wait too long or she was afraid that she’d lose her nerve. Sarah changed clothes to look a little more presentable, than her current baseball mom look. She chose a pair of black leggings and a red scoop neck sweater that she paired with a nice set of black wedge boots. The wedge would put her a little closer to Coop’s height. Wiping her sweating hands on her leggings she grabbed her purse and headed downstairs receiving a raised eyebrow from her mother.

“Booty call?”

“What the hell, mom. I don’t ever want to hear you say that again. You’re too old to be talking like that.”

“Well, you are leaving the house at nine-forty at night. You changed clothes and look really nice and added a nice perfume to match. So, it’s either a booty call or you want to see a certain young man and talk to him. I hope it’s the latter, because I’m pretty sure you still have that born again virgin thing going on since last year.”

“UGHHHHH!!!! Really, mom. Born again virgin. No, I’m not going out for a ‘booty call’, but I’m going to meet Harrison for some coffee and dessert. I love you, but I really need to see him right now.”

“Good for you. Just remember to double wrap that shit this time, because we all know he is one virile man.”

Sarah covered her ears and shouted “LALALALALALALALALA” before turning a scorching gaze to her mom. “Seriously, mom. Dessert with other people around. No need to ‘double wrap that shit’ because there won’t be anything to wrap.”

“Don’t know what you’re missing,” her mom said in a sing-song voice.

“I’m going to try and pretend you didn’t just say that, and try to bleach that thought from my brain.” Sarah walked out to her car still having full body shivers from the conversation with her mom. Ewwe. Just ewwe. She thought. Thankfully the traffic was calm for a Friday night and she didn’t have any trouble getting to the restaurant. Unfortunately, the closer she got the more the butterflies in her stomach started doing circus acts. Sarah gave herself a few minutes to sit in her car and try to get her nerves under control before facing Coop. What was I thinking, she thought as she made the walk from the parking lot? Sarah walked through the front door and saw Coop stand up from a table and wave her over. As she approached, she walked into Coop’s embrace and accepted a kiss on the cheek. She immediately felt the heat race from her cheek to her panties and an overwhelming desire pooled there, begging to be released.

Coop felt the desire from holding Sarah in his arms shoot straight to his groin. He quickly released her and pulled her chair out for her to sit. Even though he was excited to see Sarah, he had to tamper his feelings. He had no idea what she wanted, but the fact that she asked was enough to send him running right to her. God, she looked amazing in her outfit. She always did look stunning in red and black.

“Sarah, you look amazing tonight. Not…not that you don’t normally look amazing…I mean shit. I’m just so nervous.” He watched Sarah smile and it went straight to his heart. Her smile could still light up a room.

“You’re nervous. I’m feeling the women’s gymnastics team, practicing in my stomach. I honestly don’t know why I texted you other than I needed someone, and you were the only person that came to mind. Thanks, for meeting me.”

“Anytime. You call and I’ll be there. So, what had you so upset tonight that you needed someone to talk to?”

“Just family stuff. I don’t really want to talk about that, I just wanted a friendly person to talk to about anything but my family.”

The waitress came over and took their orders for coffee and crème brulee. She was still amazed that Harrison remembered the small details about her. She guessed she shouldn’t be surprised, since she remembered everything about him.

“Okay then. How was your day off? Did you get some rest?”

“More than I usually do. Since tomorrow isn’t a work day, I could sleep longer and spend the weekend recovering. How do you do it with work? I mean you mostly work at night, and I know you don’t finish a game and go straight home.”

Harrison laughed at her question. “No, sweet Sarah. I usually go out with a couple of teammates for a really late dinner. Then, I’ll usually finish off the night on my veranda with a bourbon or scotch and a cigar. I usually wake up early and workout then take a nap around lunch before heading down to the stadium for batting practice. I don’t have much of a life during baseball season. The truth is, it gets harder each year. It would be great to have someone to share it all with, but for the time being, it’s just me and my family.”

“Your schedule seems a lot like mine when I’m on call. You’re right about it getting harder. I love my mom, but she’s not who I envision going home to every night. I…I thought…never mind. Not important. Why haven’t you ever…you know married?”

Harrison was thankful that the waitress picked that time to deliver their order. He watched as Sarah cracked the crust of her dessert and her tongue teased the crème off the end of her spoon. Coop had never wanted to be a spoon more in his life than he did right now. Watching her eat, sent waves of pleasure down to his groin. The little moans that came from her with each passing bite seemed to intensify his erection.

“So, good. Not hungry?” Sarah asked pointing at his desert.

“Sorry. I was just enjoying watching you eat. You still savor your food like it is the best thing you have ever had.”

Sarah blushed. “Sorry. I just get so into the food and tastes exploding on my tongue.”

Coop sat there and stared straight ahead because at that moment he wanted nothing more than to explode on her tongue himself. Subtly shifting around in his chair, Coop tried to relieve the intense pain he was feeling in his groin. He really needed to change the conversation, or he was going to be in pain for a while.

“Wait. What were you going to say? You started something and said never mind, but it must have been important.”

“It’s really not, but you seem to be avoiding my question.”

“Just allowing you to finish your statement before I answer your question.”

“Fine.” Sarah lowered her head and, barely above a whisper, said, “I thought I’d be married to you.”

Coop was shocked to hear Sarah utter those words. How did he respond? Should he say well we would be if you hadn’t run? No. Tonight, wasn’t about the past. Tonight, was about the present, and he wanted her with a ferocity that he hadn’t known in years.

Coop simply nodded at her statement. He watched as she slowly raised her head and noticed the tears in her eyes. He absentmindedly reached across the table and used the pad of his thumb to wipe away the stray tears. “It’s okay, Sarah. It simply wasn’t our time. To answer your question though, I only wanted to marry you. You’re the one I have been waiting for to get married.”

Sarah was shocked into silence. She had just dropped a bombshell on Coop, but the one that he dropped back was even bigger. Sarah didn’t know what to say. She couldn’t speak so she just took his hand in hers and held it to her cheek. She was suffused with warmth at his tender touch. Sarah wanted to kiss him right now and the consequences be damned, but she didn’t want to make an ass out of herself in a public place.

“Can we get out of here?”

Coop raised his hand and yelled “Check please.”

Thankfully the waitress was nearby and dropped off their check. She nearly fainted when she saw the hundred-dollar tip that Coop left. He was in such a hurry to get Sarah out of there, he would have dropped a thousand if it meant getting her alone. Stepping outside, Coop looked at her and said, “Where do you want to go?”

“I’m going to sound like a tramp when I say this, but your place is too far and we can’t go to mine, so the Marriott is close.”

“One car or two?”

“Two. Definitely two.”

They drove to the hotel and after quickly securing a suite on the top floor, they took the elevator to their room.

Coop opened the door and pulled Sarah inside before slamming it closed. He pressed her up against the door and let out ten years of pent up frustration as his lips crushed hers. He felt her arms wrap around his neck and her legs wrapped around his waist. There was nothing gentle about their kiss. No hi, I’ve missed you, or let’s get to know each other again. There was aggression from both parties in that kiss. Teeth gnashed, tongues dueled, and lips bruised. Coop broke the kiss struggling for breath. He looked into Sarah’s dark chocolate eyes brimming with desire. Her lips were swollen from their kiss. He carried her over to the bed and laid her down.

“Are you sure you want to do this, because if we start, I don’t think I will be able to stop.”

“God help me, Coop. I want you.”

Coop reached for the hem of her shirt and pulled it over her head exposing the creamy expanse of skin hiding under there. Her black and pink lace bra set off her glowing skin. He could see her nipples puckered under the demi-cups of the lace. Coop pushed the cups down, exposing her hard nipples. He watched her skin pucker as the cool air blew through the room. Coop took the turgid nipple into his mouth and gently bit down eliciting a gasp from her. His hand massaged her left breast as he attended to the right breast. Releasing her nipple with a pop from his mouth, he turned his attention to the other one. His hand reached behind her and unclasped her bra, pulling it down her arms and tossing it to the ground. Coop started working his way down her abdomen leaving light kisses as he trailed down. He hooked his thumbs into the waistband of her leggings and pulled them down her legs forgetting, in his haste to taste heaven, the boots. He made quick work of her boots and then pulled off her leggings. He was riveted by the pink and black lace of her panties. God, did women know how sexy men thought a matching bra and panty set were. His mouth watered as her scent wafted through the air to his nostrils.

Coop continued his journey south kissing each hip bone, which he noted were fuller than before, and then over her panties as his tongue stroked the aroused skin between her folds. He kissed down her legs and back to the spot behind her knees that still made her squirm and moan at the same time. His patience worn thin, he ripped her panties off in one swift motion.

“Ummm…I was going to need those in a little while.”

“I’ll buy you a hundred pairs.” Coop spread her legs and kissed each inner thigh dragging his tongue to her center. His tongue swiped her bottom to top and then his lips latched onto her clit suckling the bundle of nerves. He placed his hand on her stomach to hold her still while he continued his slow tortuous journey. As his lips and tongue continued to taste her musky nectar, he inserted two fingers into her tight channel and curled them into her g-spot. He felt her tighten around his fingers before she finally exploded around them.

Sarah lay there panting, trying to catch her breath. Finally, with heavily lidded eyes, she looked at Coop and said, you’re still over-dressed.

Coop stripped faster than he ever had before. He plucked his wallet out of his pants and grabbed the condom that he thought he had stupidly stashed in there. Well, at least his planning paid off. He felt Sarah reach out and grasp his hard cock. Her slim fingers felt like velvet around his shaft, but he reached down and pulled her hand away. “Sweet Sarah, if you keep touching me like that, it’ll be over before it even starts.” Coop sheathed himself and pushed Sarah up the bed so her head was resting on the pillows. He rubbed the head of his erection over her wet opening before entering her. God, he had never felt anything so good. He slowly pushed forward allowing her time to adjust to his size. Once he was all the way in, he slowly withdrew and thrust back home.

“Dammit, Coop. I’m not some porcelain doll who’s going to break. Stop screwing around and fuck me.”

This was a different Sarah. She’d have never talked dirty during sex and if possible, it made him even harder. He slammed back home and set a blistering pace driving them to the edge. He felt her nails bite into his shoulders with each thrust, and her moans drowned out the sound of his breathing. He had never wanted anything more than he did right now. This is where he was supposed to be, with this woman. He couldn’t hold out anymore.

“Come now, Sarah.” With his words, he heard Sarah cry out his name and felt her fall over the edge. As she clenched around him and milked him he finally lost the battle and followed her over. Not wanting to crush her, Coop rolled off of her and quickly disposed of the condom before pulling Sarah to his chest. He allowed his fingertips to trail up and down Sarah’s back. He could feel warm tears coating his chest as he kept rubbing her back.

“What’s wrong, baby? Did I hurt you?”

“No, Coop. I’m just so happy right now. I’ve thought about this for so long.” Sarah had to fight herself from shouting out that she was still in love with him. Instead, she snuggled in closer trying to absorb all his body heat and warmth.

Coop pulled the covers back, and covered over them. He didn’t want to fall asleep because he was afraid he would wake up and this would’ve all been a dream.

Sarah looked up at Coop and said, “I’m sorry. I didn’t mean for this to turn into a booty call.”

Coop laughed at her. “Baby, that was the last thing on my mind when I ran out of the house tonight. I was so excited just to spend time with you. I’m not complaining, because that was incredible. I think it was more incredible than when we were together before. Don’t over think this. We’ll figure it out in time.”

Sarah laid in his arms and glanced over at the clock seeing that it was three in the morning. “Shit, Coop. I need go. I wish I could stay, but I should get home. Thanks for the evening. Would I sound too slutty if I said I wanted to do this again? Maybe next time you can show me your house.”

“I’d like that too. I’ll even cook dinner for you, but I won’t be around for a few weeks. I’m heading to Arizona to help evaluate and teach some of the prospects. However, I promise you we’ll try to talk every night. You can even sex skype with me.”

Sarah, laughed. “When do you leave?”

“Monday. Unfortunately, I have a family thing tomorrow and even though I’d love to take you with me, I fear that it would be too much too soon for you.”

“You’d be right about that. Anyway, I have a family thing on Sunday also. I’ll call you later tonight and we can talk. You still owe me panties, mister.”

“Anything you want. I’ll set you up an account at Victoria’s Secret. Just as long as I’m the only one who gets to see them.”

“That’s an easy promise to make.” Sarah pulled herself out of bed and collected her clothes. She couldn’t wait to have to explain this to her mother. With her luck, she would be sitting on the couch reading a book and drinking some tea when she walked in the door. When Sarah reached the door, she felt Coop come up behind her and turn her around. She wrapped her arms around his neck and kissed him good bye, but this time it was more of a see you later.”

“Good…kiss…night…kiss…sweet…Sarah.”

“Good night.” Sarah did the walk of shame out of the hotel, but she didn’t feel any shame in what had just happened. She couldn’t wipe the smile off her face as she drove home. When she pulled into the driveway, she noticed the living room light on, and hoped that her mother had just left it on for her safety. As she walked up to the front door, her hopes were dashed as she heard the low murmur of the TV. Opening the door and walking in she saw her mother sitting there sipping her tea, reading a listening to the TV.

Her mother’s eyes looked up and gave her a questioning look. “Not a booty call?”

Sarah couldn’t stop blushing at her mother’s statement. “Dammit, mom. I thought we talked about this.”

“You’re glowing, sweetheart. You’re smiling, you lips are swollen, and you’re sneaking in at three-thirty in the morning.”

“Fine, it turned into a booty call. We talked, he touched me, and we were both done.”

“Well, you had better get to bed. You look worn out and Harry has a game tomorrow afternoon. Get some rest, I’ll see you before lunch.”

No matter what, Sarah couldn’t erase the smile from her as she peeled off her clothes and took in her commando state. He was definitely going to owe her some new panties, especially if he kept that up.” Sleep came easily, and the dreams were more erotic than she had in a long time.

The next morning Sarah awoke rested and ready to face the day. She certainly had missed sex, but as hard and fast as it was last night, that wasn’t sex. It was about two people reconnecting and making love. She could feel it in his touch and in the way he held her during and afterwards. No matter what, Sarah couldn’t lose track of what she had to do. She couldn’t get too attached to his touch, because she knew she was going to lose it when he found out about Harry. Showered and dressed for the day, Sarah dreaded the attitude that awaited her downstairs with Harry. As she walked into the kitchen, she heard her mom and Harry laughing about something. She was surprised when Harry hopped off the barstool and wrapped his arms around her.

“I love you, mom. I’m sorry about the way I acted the last couple of days. Nana and I talked, and though I don’t understand why you did what you did, I respect your decisions, and will wait until you’re ready for me to meet him.”

Sarah kissed the top of his head, “Thank you, buddy. I love you, too and I promise that it will happen.”

Sarah sat down, and they ate breakfast together, enjoying their normal family conversation. As soon as they were finished, Harry ran back upstairs to get ready for his game, and Sarah braced herself for more of her mother’s inquisition.

“So, I take it you slept well.” Her mom said with a wink.

“Better than I have in a long time. I’m not sorry that I did it. I think it’s what we both needed. There was definitely not a lot of talking. I mean we talked while we ate, and we both said some things that really hit the other square in the heart. We didn’t resolve any long-standing issues, but it felt so good to be in his arms again.”

“Well, I have faith that you two will eventually find your way back to each other. The road may be rocky, but the end will be worth it.”

“I hope so, mom. I just think…” Sarah stopped talking when she heard Harry come down the stairs.

“Are y’all ready to go? The game’s not going to win itself.”

Sarah laughed and stood as she and her mother gathered their things. With everything that happened last night, she hoped that Coop didn’t make a surprise visit to the ballfield today. She couldn’t easily run away today and she would have a lot of explaining to do.

As the game ended, Sarah had just about lost her voice from yelling for Harry. He had hit three homeruns and made four excellent plays at third base. They won 20-2 and the game ended after the top of the fifth inning. Thankfully, there had been no Coop sightings at the field.

After a quick team meeting, they all headed to Dave and Busters for a celebratory lunch. No matter how old Harry got, Sarah always enjoyed watching the thrill in Harry’s eyes as he won tickets playing the various games. She had learned long ago not to accept his challenges, but she still played skeeball with him just for the fun of it. About halfway through their time in the Midway, Sarah felt her phone buzz. Looking at it she was not surprised to see a text from Coop.

H: Done with the family thing early. Can I fix you dinner tonight? I wanted to see you again before I left town.

Sarah, stopped walking as she read the text. She wanted to see him again before he left, but would this make her look too eager. To hell with it. Her mom was working tonight and Harry was going to his best friend’s house to spend the night since they were off from school for a teacher’ work day on Monday so she would just be at home alone. Sarah walked over to her mom and showed her the text. “What do you think? Will I look too needy?”

“I think you both need each other. What were you going to do otherwise, sit around in your yoga pants, eat ice cream, and binge watch Netflix? I think you should go and enjoy each other.”

S: What time? I can’t be there before seven and I need your address.

H:Seven is fine. I will plan to have dinner around seven-thirty.

S:See you then. Bye.

Sarah’s heartbeat increased as she thought about the night to come. The thought of Coop’s hands on her again dampened her panties and made her flush.

Her mom looked at her and said, “Honey, you’re too young for hot flashes.” She walked away laughing.

Shit. That went well. Sarah stood there and mentally calculated the amount of time she had between dropping off Harry and getting to Coop’s. Wanting to make sure she was prepared for the night with Cooper, and she knew there was going to be a long night to come, she quickly called her spa and was able to get a four-thirty appointment for a mani-pedi and a Brazilian. She was going to knock his socks off. The only thing left was to call Wes’s mom and see if Harry could get dropped off around three-forty-five so that she had enough time to get to her appointment. Thankfully, there were no issues with Harry going early, other than the fact that they needed to leave like ten minutes ago, so that he could get a shower and grab his stuff for the night.

Sarah walked over and found her mom losing at whack-a-mole and said, “Harry, I have something that has come up. I talked to Wes’s mom and she said you can come over whenever you get ready. So, if it is okay with you I thought we would go on and head home.”

“Sure Mom. Just let me go cash in these tickets.”

Sarah ruffled his shaggy blonde hair and watched him walk to the ticket redemption area. Before she could move, her mom grabbed her arm and turned her around.

“Honey, just make sure you wear sexy lingerie. You know everyman goes nuts for sexy lingerie.”

“Ughh, mom. I’m so not having this conversation with you, but if you must know I have a quick spa thing for a mani-pedi and a Brazilian.”

“That’s my girl. Smooth as a baby’s bottom is something else I hear that young men like.”

Sarah blushed, before turning to collect Harry. Somehow, she had to quickly pack a bag and get it in the car without Harry seeing it and asking a lot of questions. She didn’t know if she would spend the night, but she wanted to be prepared for anything.

After dropping off a clean Harry at Wes’s house, Sarah hurried to the spa for their last appointment of the day. Thankfully, they were ahead of schedule and were able to take her in as soon as she walked in the door. Sarah was happy that her normal spa tech, Kim, was able to fit her in. They chatted about life and what was going on. Sarah was able to get most of the butterflies to calm down by the time she left. Now she just had to make it Coop’s without chickening out.

Sarah used her GPS and easily found Coop’s house. However, as she walked up to the front door, the butterflies returned full force. Before she could reach the door, it swung open and she was lifted off her feet by Coop as he planted a searing kiss on her lips.

“I know you’re on time, but I thought you’d never get here. Come on in and make yourself comfortable. I was just getting ready to put the steaks on. I forgot to ask but you still eat meat, don’t you?”

“Yes, very much and still medium rare.”

With a peck on the lips, Coop said, “Is there any other way?”

“Nope.”

Sarah followed Coop into the house and she was shocked to see a tastefully well-appointed house that didn’t look like a bachelor pad.

“My mom and my sister.”

“Huh?”

“You were thinking that this doesn’t look like a bachelor pad. My mom and sister decorated it so that it wouldn’t look like one.”

“How did you…I mean. Never mind. You always could read my mind.”

Coop took Sarah’s hand and gave her the grand tour. “I know it seems like a lot of house, but I was planning for the future. This is the family room that leads out to the veranda and the fire pit and pool. The formal living room is over there, but hardly ever gets used. This is the dining room and the chef’s kitchen. This was the only place, other than the bedroom, that I got any say in. I wanted all stainless steel with an island and a sub-zero refrigerator.

As they continued the tour, Sarah wondered how many other women he had brought here. She shouldn’t be jealous, but that ugly shade of green just couldn’t be avoided.

“You’re the first woman, other than my family, that I’ve ever had here. I mean, well, the cleaning lady, but that doesn’t count.”

“How do you do that?”

“You had this little look of jealousy developing, so I wanted to put your mind at ease. This has always been my refuge, plus in the beginning I didn’t want any crazy ones to know where I lived. Now it’s just me and this big house. Would you like a glass of wine while we wait? I have a nice bottle of Pinot Noir from Willamette Valley Vineyards. I remembered you were always partial to pinots.”

“Yes, please.”

Sarah accepted the wine as she followed Coop and the steaks outside to the outdoor kitchen. “The view is amazing. Do you play golf here?”

“I’m a member, but it is always so crowded that I usually stick to East Lake or Atlanta National. You still play?”

“Sparingly. I usually embarrass myself with Aubrey and Jennifer, Nicole and Marcie’s children and humiliate myself when I play with Nicole when she’s in town. They make me wish I had stuck with it when I was younger, but you know my focus was always medicine.”

“Well, if it makes you feel any better, I’m an all-star third baseman who’s lucky to break eighty-five. I’d really like to take you to play sometime.”

“I’d like that too.” Sarah watched as Coop expertly grilled the steaks and asparagus. The scent of the food was making her mouth water and her stomach gave an unceremonious growl causing Coop to chuckle.

“Good thing I’m feeding you. I wouldn’t want you to dry up and blow away.”

Sarah punched Coop in the arm and shook her hand, feeling like she had just hit a brick wall. “Dammit Coop. That hurt. Where did all of that muscle come from?”

“Babe, I work out three hours a day lifting weights and hitting balls. What were you expecting, a dough boy arm?”

“Nope. You have filled out nicely though.”

“So have you, Coop. So have you.”

Coop wanted to say to hell with dinner and drag Sarah upstairs, but he promised himself he was going to take it slow. “Dinner’s ready. I set the corn on low inside and already made the salad. I didn’t have time to make dessert, so I picked up your favorite cheesecake from the Cheesecake Factory.”

“Wow, you think of everything.” Sarah helped Coop set the table and then poured them some wine before taking her seat. As she bit into the steak, she moaned in delight as the flavors hit her palate. “My God, Coop, this is amazing. You certainly know how to cook.” Sarah finished her dinner and patted her stomach. She hadn’t had a meal that good in a long time. Her mom was a good cook, but grilling was never her strong suit. Sarah had barely finished her meal when Coop arrived with a large slice of snickers cheesecake. Even though she was full, she wasn’t going to pass up cheesecake.

They finished eating, and Coop led her outside to the fire pit, turning it on to chase away the night chill. Setting down their wine glasses, Coop sat down in the chaise lounge and pulled Sarah down to sit beside him. He pulled her close and nuzzled her neck with his lips. She tasted like lavender and mint. He felt her shiver in his arms as he slowly kissed his way down the long column of her neck. He brushed her hair away to provide easier access. His lips moved down as he nipped little bites. Sarah moaned as he moved back up to her earlobe.

“Thank you for dinner.” Sarah said as she turned over to face him. She allowed her fingers to trace his scruffy jaw, before tracing his lips with her index finger. Sarah leaned in, gently placing her lips on his. She traced her tongue over his lips begging entrance which he granted. This kiss was sweet and tender, not like the bruising kiss they shared last night. As she swept the inside of his mouth, she could taste the tartness of the wine. As she continued her gentle exploration, Sarah felt Coop’s hands slide up her arms and cup her breasts. Even though she was kissing him, she moaned as his nimble fingers brushed across her erect nipples. This was the way it always was for them. Gentle and exploratory, a sweet kind of love that was meant to last.

Coop pulled back from Sarah and stared into the deep rich chocolate eyes that looked up at him through thick lashes. Coop stood up, picking up Sarah in his arms. He took her through the house and to his bedroom.

Sarah was amazed at his bedroom. The dark cherry wood with the ivory accents provided a contrast to the darkness that lightened the room. She saw the amazing California king-size bed, complete with a burgundy comforter. The comforter was cool to her skin as he laid her down and moved over on top of her. His weight pressed her down into the mattress. Sarah savored the feel of him over her.

Coop leaned down and kissed Sarah. He relished her taste as her fingers traced the corded muscles of his back. He didn’t want to rush this time with her. Coop leaned down and whispered in her ear, “Can you stay the night?”

Breathlessly Sarah answered, “Yes. I even brought a bag for work tomorrow.”

“Thank God, because this is going to take a while.” Coop reached his hands under the hem of her sweater and lifted it over her head. He admired the rose-colored bra she wore. It was set against her pale skin and shone like a beacon. He slowly reached down and unhooked the clasp allowing the cups to fall to the side exposing her breasts to the cool air in the room. If it was possible, her nipples puckered even more. Coop leaned his head down and took her nipple into his mouth and laved the areola while gently nipping at the distended bud. He felt Sarah’s hands grasp his head and pull him tighter to her breast. Coop released her breast and moved to the other one before kissing a trail down her abdomen to the waistband of her jeans. As he popped the button, he felt Sarah’s hand reach out to stop him.

“Tonight, is about us, but before you go any further I get my turn.” Sarah rolled over pinning Coop beneath her. She pulled his t-shirt free and brought it over his head exposing his muscular chest with a light dusting of blonde hair. Sarah kissed his chest and bit his nipples to return the favor before heading south. Her hands traced the definitions of his abdomen and finally rested on the button of his jeans. She popped the button and slowly lowered the zipper allowing his erection to spring free. Her slim fingers encircled the shaft as she slowly stroked him from root to tip. Her tongue traced the underside of his shaft and circled the velvety crown. Her tongue ran over his slit tasting the first drops of lubricant. He was salty and musky but tasted delicious. Sarah took the head between her lips and slowly slid down the shaft towards the back of her throat. As she swallowed, she massaged his erection and heard the loud moans coming from Coop. His hands found her head and guided her up and down as she continued to tend to his needs. Sarah’s hands moved up and cupped his balls eliciting an even louder moan.

“Sarah, you have to stop sweetheart. I don’t want to come like this.”

Unfortunately, Sarah had her own thoughts and doubled her efforts not releasing him. Finally, she felt his balls tighten and his shaft swell before he emptied himself into her mouth. Sarah swallowed every last drop before releasing his erection from her lips.

Coop looked down at Sarah’s swollen lips and kissed her deeply. He swallowed her moans as his fingers tweaked her nipples. Coop wanted it all. He wanted to taste her and be in her all at once, but right now he wanted to return the favor and get another taste of paradise like he had last night. He worked his way down leaving a trail of kisses between her breasts not stopping until he reached the top of her curve hugging jeans. Unsnapping her jeans, he quickly divested her of them and her rose-colored thong. His eyes nearly popped out of his head when he noticed the fresh Brazilian wax she was sporting. Smiling he said, “Did you do this for me?” He watched as Sarah could only nod her head. While, he would have loved to take in the mental image of her lying naked in his bed, he just couldn’t resist anymore. Coop deftly trailed his fingers down her inner thigh and spread her knees as his head settled into the space between her thighs. Her scent was overwhelmingly exotic and called to him in the most primal ways. Slowly his tongue reached out and lazily swiped her length before concentrating on her engorged bundle of nerves. He could tell from her swollen lips and dripping fluids that she was ready to go off like a firework display. As Coop focused his efforts on her nub, his fingers parted her fleshy folds and entered her hot, tight, wet channel. Coop stroked her in time with the movements of his tongue, curling his fingers to hit that rough spot, sending her hurdling towards oblivion. It didn’t take long before he felt her tighten around him and squeeze his fingers. Her voice was low and sultry as she called out his name with her release. Coop swore he’d never seen anything more beautiful in his life than watching Sarah come apart in his arms.

“I think it gets better each time. That was so hot and draining, but, Coop, I need you inside of me now.”

Not wanting to disappoint the lady, Coop reached over to the nightstand to pluck a condom out of the box, but before he could open it, Sarah took his hand and shook her head.

“I’m clean and I have an IUD. If you’re good, I want, you inside of me without any barriers. I’ve dreamed about that for so long.”

“I swear to you I’m clean. I just had my year-end physical, and I’ve never been with anyone and not used a condom.”

Sarah looked into the depths of his eyes, nodding her head silently, telling him that this was what she wanted.

Coop brought himself over Sarah, his manhood nudging at the opening to her body. He felt her legs wrap around him and her hips come up to bring him home. As he pushed in inch by excruciating inch, Coop swore he had never felt anything so raw, so connecting, than when he was fully seated inside her. He couldn’t tell where he ended and she began. Coop took a moment to savor the feel of her velvet walls surrounding him. He was close to losing it because of this sensory overload, but when Sarah used her heels to nudge him into action, he didn’t delay. Coop didn’t want a fast, hard pace tonight. Tonight, was all about savoring Sarah. He slowly withdrew before slowly sliding back home. He knew that his heart was done and that Sarah was his. He could see the love and emotions in her eyes as they never left his. Coop was concentrating so hard on not finishing too quickly that as they took their time, their bodies became covered in a fine sheen of perspiration. He felt everything with Sarah. Every emotion, every movement, and especially every finger nail as they bit into his broad shoulders. Finally, just as Coop thought he was going to lose the race, he felt Sarah tighten around him and milk his engorged member pulling him over into the most delicious orgasm he’d ever experienced. He was so thankful that Sarah was wrapped around him, or else he feared that he might have floated away.

Coop had never been unsure of what to do after sex, but this wasn’t just sex. This was a monumental transformation in their relationship. This was more than he’d ever experienced in his life, and the connection was beyond words. He decided the gentlemanly thing to do would be to retrieve a warm wash cloth and clean her up. After he was finished, he launched the wash cloth across the room not wanting to get out of bed. Coop wrapped his arms around Sarah and pulled her into his chest. “So beautiful Sarah. Thank you for giving me such a precious gift.”

Sarah was so worn out she could barely mumble a response and curled even deeper into Coop’s body.

Coop laid there holding Sarah in his arms as she slept. He didn’t want to fall asleep but she had worn him out. He didn’t know when they would see each other again and he feared that something would happen to keep them apart. This is how he wanted his nights to end and his days to begin. Holding the love of his life and waiting for the day her belly swelled with their child. Not that he would readily admit it, but he was ready to be a father. He saw his brother and sister with their children, and he wanted nothing more than the fulfilling joy that they had with a complete family. Coop kissed Sarah on the temple and whispered, “I still love you, Sarah Buckley. I always have.” Then he drifted off to sleep.