The Homeless

I looked up from the computer and stared at the wall. My job sucks. I have been doing the same thing for twenty years. For the last ten, I have been bored out of my mind. Somehow I managed to lessen my workload to the point where I almost felt guilty accepting my paycheck. My lunch hour has stretched into two and I have a tendency to leave early on many occasions. Being a director of a small IT department in a medium sized company allowed me the leeway to be lazy.

Unfortunately for my company, I am a difficult person to replace. My early years were packed with motivation. I was given free reign over the network and the software that the company used. In many cases, I ended up coding solutions that just couldn't be purchased. My contributions are now an integral part of the company. I am not so naive to think I couldn't be replaced but, it would be very painful. The only manuals and documentation for my software are in my head. I didn't plan it that way, it just evolved as the company grew.

I went from a one man shop to a department of five. Now most of the day to day is handled by subordinates and I just worry about my databases. Strangely, my paycheck grew as my duties began to slack. My biggest issues are making sure my people are at work on time and the occasional ad-hoc report that only I can build.

I have close to a hundred days of vacation saved. I rarely use it since I really have no place to go. My wife passed seven years ago and even before that we weren't big travelers. I now considered the cached days as a retirement bonus. Eventually I will get it all as a lump sum and do something wild. I am, of course, fooling myself. I haven't done anything wild since my stint in the army many years back. I am just plain vanilla boring. The only excitement I get these days is finding a new episode on my DVR.

I looked at the clock again and saw it was just past eleven. Time for lunch. Most of the people in the company have grown used to me not being in the office between eleven and one. I am sure they suspected my extended lunch but, they never broached it to me. I had inadvertently trained them over time.

Lately I have been going home for lunch. I only live ten minutes away from the office. My normal routine was to make a sandwich or zap a frozen something and game on my computer for two hours. Turn based strategy games are my cocaine. I can still sometimes find myself at three in the morning taking one more turn. Today was different. For some reason, the thought of my empty house turned me off. I figured I would go to the local greasy spoon and let someone else cook and clean the dishes.

I arrived at Marty's well before the main lunch crowd. Susan, the waitress that ran the counter service knew me by name. She was an older woman with a jovial smile. I think she may have been working at Marty's when I was in diapers. I envied her perceived happiness and wondered how she maintained it.

"Hi Tom, haven't seen you in a while." She gave me her grandmotherly greeting. You couldn't help but warm up to her.

"Got a new Civ game. I was busy trying to take over the world." I had made her privy to my passions over many conversations. For some reason I felt the need to have an excuse. She just had that type of personality. Someone you didn't want to disappoint.

"Well we kept your seat warm. What can I get you today?" Business first. I knew she wanted to get my order in before the place got crowded. She knew how to treat the regulars.

It wasn't long before I had a stacked reuben with fries in front of me. I grabbed one of the papers from the counter and tried to catch up on current events. I was distracted by a conversation Susan was having with a skinny girl down the counter. The girl sported a kind of punk look. The left side of her head was shaved to stubble and the rest was let to grow. There were two purple streaks that started about an inch from her scalp and ran to the ends on the long side of her brown hair. Her exposed ear sported a few more piercings than I thought attractive. She wore way too much mascara and her attire tended to the black. Looking at her structure, I thought there must be a really pissed off father somewhere. If you could ignore the costume, she was a very pretty girl in her early twenties.

The girl was trying to negotiate a meal out of Susan for four dollars. Looking at her more closely, I noticed that she did look a little emaciated. Susan was trying to tell her that half a sandwich and water was all that the four dollars would get her. The girl relented and handed over what looked like the last of her money. A rather sullen expression crossed her face.

In the past I never really felt sorry for nonconformists. They decided to look and act differently and paid for it with lower prospects. But, as I got older, I mellowed. People are people and we all have to find our way in the world. I may not agree with the girls choices but, she has the right to make them. Hell, I made many bad choices when I was young. Still make a few today. I fished in my wallet for ten bucks and signaled Susan for a coffee refill. When she came for my cup I leaned in and said as quietly as I could, "Get that girl a full meal." and I slipped her the ten.

Susan gave me that 'what are you a perv' look. "No, no. Just tell her the kitchen made a mistake. Don't tell her it was from me." I defended my honor the best I could. Susan smiled like a proud grandmother and nodded her head. I went back to my paper figuring I did my good deed for the day.

When the food arrived, I glanced over as Susan explained that the cook accidently made the full lunch basket instead of the the half sandwich. They didn't want to throw it away and certainly couldn't serve it someone else. It looked like the girl won the lottery. She had a pretty smile that didn't fit the rough image she tried to portray. She started eating like she hadn't had a good meal in a long time. I was pretty happy with myself. I settled up with Susan who smiled and winked at me then tilted her head to girl. I smiled and walked next door to the pharmacy to grab some blades and shaving cream.

When I exited the store the punk girl was waiting outside. "You bought me lunch. Didn't you?" She said in an accusatory fashion.

"I'm not sure what you're talking about." I feigned ignorance and continued to my car. This was a bit more intrusive than I desired. Maybe it wasn't such a good idea in the first place.

"I saw the waitress wink at you. The kitchen didn't make a mistake did it?" She seemed a bit angry. It came off insulting. Well, no good deed goes unpunished.

"Look, I'm sorry. You looked hungry. I guess I made a mistake." I made it to the car and opened the driver door. I figured a quick exit was in order.

"I don't need your charity. I don't need anyones charity." She was very angry and almost shouting. I was never good at getting yelled at. I have a tendency to get defensive and say stupid things that only inflame the situation. I whipped my bag of shaving supplies across the front seats and turned back to her.

"Look I don't know what you want from me. Just puke it back up and don't bitch at me for trying to be nice." It came out a little nastier than I expected. I emphasized 'puke' and 'bitch' while narrowing my eyes. She took a step back a little shocked at my response. Her pause gave me the out I needed. "Shit" I said as I shook my head and hopped into the drivers seat and slammed the car door shut. I took a deep breath before starting the car. I didn't feel good as my body spiked adrenaline.

I heard a lite series of taps on the door window. "Fuck Me!" I yelled to myself as I rolled down the window ready to let loose with a tirade. I looked up and saw wet eyes. "I'm sorry." she said sincerely and turned and walked away. "fuck me," I whispered to myself. I opened the door and stood out of the car.

"I'm sorry too. You weren't supposed to know about it." I was trying to sound contrite. It was a feeble attempt.

"I was hungry. I am just not ready for help." She had stopped moving but, she didn't turn back to me. I had the distinct impression she was crying. I got myself in way deeper than I desired.

"Look, I got some time before I have to get back to work. You want me to drop you off somewhere." I was hoping for a no so we could part on decent terms. All I got was real tears.

"I don't have anywhere to go anymore." She wouldn't look at me and I didn't feel right turning her around. I sensed she needed a hug but, I didn't know her and the thought felt kind of creepy. I closed the car door and sat on the hood of the car figuring it would make me more neutral. I couldn't leave her crying in the middle of a parking lot.

"Parents?" I decided she needed some analysis. Programming was my forte and calculating best methods of execution was second nature to me.

"I won't go back there. They wouldn't let me in anyway." She turned and I saw crooked black stripes running down her cheeks. Seems mascara was given a higher priority than food.

"Friends?" I was trying to get her to think clearer. Everything is dismal at the bottom of the pit but, if you look up you see light. She wasn't moving any closer to me which I thought was good thing. It was a little weird talking privately with someone who is ten feet away.

"I used them all up. Some of them never want to see me again." The crying was starting again. Never having had any children this was kind of foreign. Whenever my wife cried I could just hold her. I had no idea how deal with this girl.

"By the way, I'm Tom, and you are?" I tried to get off subject a bit to stall the crying. I was really out of my element and the tears made it worse.

"Natalie. Most people just call my Natty." Natty fit her more than Natalie. Natalie is a pretty name and she looked a bit too ridiculous to be Natalie right now.

"Natty, you do know there are agencies that deal with ... this type of stuff." I was about to say homelessness but figured it would sound like a bad word at the moment.

"I know. I mean, I don't know where but, I know there are." She didn't sound too excited about the proposition. I guess I wouldn't be either if I were in her position. Her clothes had that lived in look. I decided to be a bit more probing.

"Where did you stay last night?" She seemed hesitant to answer. Maybe more embarrassed than hesitant.

"I hid in the library till it closed." She started tearing again. Damn, she had really hit rock bottom. I knew I couldn't leave her standing in the parking lot.

"Look, if you want, we can call up a few agencies together and I can take you to the best option." I wanted to at least get her started. The way she was going, she would be a statistic in no time.

"I guess I need the help." She sounded and looked distraught. I hate when people look defeated. It makes everyone around them a little depressed. I still felt weird about helping. I pulled out my wallet and grabbed my license. I held it out with my phone to Natty.

"Why don't you call someone and let them know you're going to my house for a bit." I would feel better if this wasn't private. It just didn't quite feel right but, it was better than leaving her here. She stepped forward and took them both. She looked at them for a minute then handed them back.

"I have no one to call." No tears this time. Just a sad realization that she had run out of safety net. I was not very comfortable with the situation. She was an adult but, I would have felt a lot better if someone else was looking out for her. I called the office and took the rest of day off.

We arrived at the house about ten minutes later. I showed Natty the guest room with attached bath. I got fresh towels and clean robe. The robe will swamp her small frame but, it was all I had. I left her to clean up while I got started on finding the appropriate agencies.

There was only one shelter in the area and it was full. I didn't even know that they could fill up. The manager said that room assignments were day to day. If the weather was bad, they would be full up by noon otherwise, it would fill up by four or five. There were storms forecasted for tonight so it had filled early. Wow, it would really suck to be homeless.

I never thought there would be a problem in getting Natty situated. I was starting to kick myself for offering to help. I couldn't send her out into the night but, it was really uncomfortable to have her stay at the house. For all I knew, she could be some kind of crazed psycho. Well, what's done is done. I would just have to live with my decisions for one night.

I headed to the guest room and no longer heard the shower. I knocked lightly on the bedroom door and she didn't answer. I tried again with the same response. I opened the door calling her name and still no response. I found her sound asleep on the bed. She had mummified her hair in a towel and double wrapped herself in my robe. It looked like she had just laid down for a moment and passed out. She looked so peaceful, I decided to let her be. I guess when you are on the street, sleep is a premium. She wasn't going anywhere tonight anyway.

She slept through dinner and I began to expect she wouldn't wake up till morning. I put a sign on her door so she wouldn't freak out; 'Shelter full tonight. Food in fridge if hungry. See you in the morning.' I then crawled into bed. Even though my wife had been dead these seven years, I still slept on the right side. It was a king sized bed and anyone in their right mind would just spread out. I just felt more comfortable on the right. I made a mental note to flip the mattress around next time I changed the sheets. Don't want a one sided dent in the mattress.

They weren't wrong about the storm. It hit around two AM and woke me from a dead sleep. The lightning was constant followed by the roar of thunder. I sensed the power was out. The house was missing some of the glow from the little vampire LEDs in the appliances. I briefly wondered if Natty was going to sleep through this racket. I got my answer about two minutes later. I felt a body quickly run past the end of the bed and slip into my wife's side. I was pretty freaked until I felt her pull the covers over her head. I feigned sleep and smiled. Natty was so afraid of the lightning she risked my bed. My wife was the same way. Good thing I didn't put her out into the night. As silently as I could, I scooted to the right edge. I didn't want any accidental contact to occur.

My alarm went off at six as it has for the last twenty years. I remembered I had a guest so I didn't hit the snooze. I sat up in bed and rubbed my eyes. I really hated waking up to an alarm. It always seemed to catch me in a deep sleep. Sun was peaking through the curtains with no sign of last nights storm. Natty didn't seem to hear the alarm. She was still out cold though the covers were no longer over her head. Part of the robe was pulled open and most of one breast was exposed. It looked so soft I almost instinctively reached out. I caught myself quickly and thought that I should pull her robe closed. Visions of her waking with my hand at her chest stopped me in my tracks. I let her be and grabbed a shower.

The water wasn't cold enough. Somehow that partially exposed breast had become the only thing I could think about. It hadn't been with anyone since my wife passed and my dick was thinking it was about time. I tried to move on to work subjects but, I kept coming back to that breast. It was so young and soft looking. I did the only thing I could. I grabbed my cock and rubbed one off. It usually took the internet to get me going but, this morning the vision in my head was all I needed. It was an especially powerful climax and brought back memories of my youth. At least I wouldn't spend the morning with a hardon.

I toweled off, robed up and snuck back into to the room. The damn breast was still there. I quietly opened drawers and grabbed the days clothes. I succeeded in not waking Natty so I headed to the hall bathroom and got dressed. I have lived in privacy since my wife died. It had become a habit to sit and eat breakfast in just my underwear. There was never any need for modesty. I needed to find a solution for Natty so I could return to the lonely order of my mornings. The change was uncomfortable.

I needed to get Natty up. I didn't want to wake her physically with her being partially exposed like she was. It would be embarrassing for her and a little too intimate for me. I decided to set off the nose alarm. I cooked some bacon. I really like bacon but, didn't eat it often. With only one person at home, I ended up throwing away most of it and good bacon is expensive. As the smell of bacon began to permeate the house, I grabbed some Bisquick and a bowl. I had decided that pancakes would go good with the bacon. A much bigger breakfast than I usually made but, having a guest allowed me some leeway. I guess it wasn't so bad having her here for one night.

As expected, Natty's head poked out of the hallway following the heavenly smell. Her hair was a mess. Never fall asleep with wet hair wrapped in a towel. I smiled, "Good morning Natty." and gestured to a stool at the kitchen counter. She smiled back and quickly took the seat. Thankfully she had reset her robe more conservatively.

"Sorry about last night. Lightning kind of freaks me out." She didn't sound embarrassed. She was simply stating a fact. I guess the fear ran deep and she saw no problem in sharing it with me.

"I'm used to it. My wife was the same way. Pancakes and bacon okay?" I went back to stirring up the mix.

"Perfect, I'm starved." Ah yes, the smell of bacon works its magic again. She glanced around the room with her eyes stopping at a set of pictures on the credenza in the hall. She rose and carefully picked up one of my favorites. "Is this your wife." She was looking at it closely.

"Yes, that's Mary. She died a few years back. Cancer." I stated matter of factly. I was past the emotional loss of her death and I kept myself that way by making sure all my statements about it were clinical in nature.

"She was pretty." She was running her finger slowly across the face of the picture.

"I always thought so." I felt a tinge of the old wound. I didn't want the conversation to continue down this path. "I think I have some strawberries. Should we top off the pancakes?"

"Yes please, that sounds wonderful." She carefully placed the picture back down and excitedly returned to the stool. I had to admit to myself that it felt good to cook for someone else. Especially someone who seemed to really need a good meal. I grabbed the cutting board, knife and pulled the strawberries from the fridge. I placed them in front of Natty.

"You cut and I'll cook." The statement brought back memories of my wife and I sharing the kitchen duties. I strangely felt comfortable again. She was adorable as she attacked the strawberries. Everytime she made a cut, she would stick her tongue out slightly in concentration. I retrieved the first batch of bacon and placed in some paper towels to soak up some grease. Loaded the last batch and dolloped the pancake batter into the frying pan. We were a well oiled machine. I suddenly had absolutely no desire to go to work today.

As far as I could tell, it was the best breakfast Natty had ever eaten. She cherished every bite and didn't even leave a syrup stain on the plate. She looked so contented when she finally pushed her plate away. I sensed she felt at home. I just stared at her half smile, rather pleased with myself.

"What?" She startled me. I didn't realize I was staring.

"Sorry, I was kind of enjoying you enjoying breakfast. Don't have guests very often." I think I was blushing a bit. I looked away and starting gathering the dishes. I caught a smile from the corner of my eye so I figured no harm was done.

"Can I possibly use your washing machine?" I had forgotten about her clothes.

"Sure, its across the hall from the guest room. Detergents on the shelf. Just set it to normal and push the start." I wondered if this was the only set of clothes that she had. I figured she had some stashed somewhere. Shit, I should have asked her yesterday if she needed to pick something up. I set the dishes in the sink and followed her to the laundry room.

"I guess I should have asked yesterday but, do you need to pick up your things." Where do the homeless stash their stuff?

"No, this is all I got now." She didn't sound right. I think the question hurt. I sat on the stool in the back of the room.

"What happened?" She looked away from me and I sensed the tears coming back. Fuck, I didn't want to do that. I didn't press and almost got up to walk out.

"My supposed boyfriend, Rick, and I were hitching across country following this band. We were living hand to mouth. Just some odd jobs now and then." I heard the tears in her voice,"We got pretty drunk a few days back and I ended up in bed with him and some guy we met on the road. It just sort of happened and seemed okay at the time." She began wiping her eyes. "The next day I saw the guy giving Rick money and I heard him tell Rick that I was worth every penny." I could see tears down her cheeks. "The asshole told me he loved me then he sold me like whore." Her shoulders were shaking and she leaned onto the washing machine. "I left everything and ran."

There was no way I was going to allow her to go to a shelter now. Not after what that bastard did to her. I knew it was improper but, I couldn't let her bear this alone. I stood up behind her and hugged her close. I couldn't think of anything to say that didn't sound useless so, I just held her. She turned in my arms and drove her eyes into my shoulder and cried. I just stayed that way until the sobbing stopped.

"I'm not letting you go to some homeless shelter. You've had enough crap kicked in your face." Sometimes I just wished I owned a gun. "You can stay here till you back on your feet again." I pulled her away from my shoulder and grabbed the detergent off the shelf.

"I can't let you do that. You don't even know me. I just curse everything I touch." She sounded liked she believed it.

"Well you're my curse now and you're staying til you find something better." I added the detergent to her clothes and set the machine to normal. For some reason it was on delicates. I hit the start and the cycle began. "This house has been way too empty for too long. The spare bedroom is yours." I just gave myself a new mission. Save Natty from a shitty life.

She gave me a quick hug, "Then I'm doing the dishes." She marched off to the kitchen. As long as she keeps those breasts covered, she would be like the daughter I never had. At least as long as she needed a father. With assholes like Rick around, she needed a father.

I called in to work and told them that something important has come up and I needed a few days off. They didn't ask me to clarify, I was just told to take the time I needed. Twenty years on the job builds a lot of trust. I walked into the kitchen and Natty was hand washing the dishes. "We have a dishwasher for that." I said it with a bit of humor.

"Oh, never used one of those." She was looking down the counter and couldn't pick it out. I walked around her and opened it up.

"Just give them a quick rinse and add em to the rack." I pulled out one of the racks. "You didn't grow up with one?"

"Naw, we lucky if we could pay the electric bill." She smiled and held up her hands, "I was the automatic dishwasher." I guess her childhood was a bit tougher than mine. I let her continue and sat down on one of the stools.

"Natty, did you graduate?" I kind of knew she didn't go to college but, I was hoping she finished high school.

"Naw, I dropped out senior year. School and I didn't really get along back then." She sounded a bit sad about it. "I know it was stupid but, it seemed to make sense at that time." She continued rinsing and filling.

"Okay, well then the first step is a GED." It was a logical step in my mind. I have always built processes to solve my problems and I figured this would be no different.

"I was never any good at school. I've been out for four years, now it could only be worse." She stopped her loading and looked back at me. She had no confidence in herself. That could be a problem.

"Well then you'll love the GED. It allows you to skip your whole senior year." I tried to sound upbeat. I can't imagine how difficult the job market is without at least a high school diploma.

"Look, I don't think this is going to work. You've done enough for me already. I'll just grab my clothes when they're ready and leave you be." She sounded resolute but there was a bit a fear mixed in. She started walking toward the laundry room never closing the dishwasher. I had a feeling she wanted to run. I was kind of dumbfounded at her reaction. Maybe I was pushing too fast. Then a thought struck me.

"Natty, can you read?" The dishwasher was labeled 'Whirlpool Dishwasher' and I initially thought she just missed it. Her steps slowed. Then she just plopped down on the floor, leaned against the wall and started crying again. Damn, I really suck at this father stuff. Now some of her past decisions began to make sense. How the hell did a school system let her get to senior year without being able to read?

"I'm fucking stupid, Okay. You can't fix me." She was lower than I thought. She had zero self confidence with shame piled on top. No wonder why Rick was able to drag her around. She was dependent upon a slime ball to handle the day to day. Well that ends today.

"Well, than we'll start with reading but, not today." I thought I would lesson the pressure a bit. "You're going to need some clothes whether or not you decide to stay. There's a Kohl's around the corner. Will see if you like anything there." I figured some new clothes might lighten her mood a bit.

"I want to say no but, I really need some clothes." She was still teary and not looking back at me.

"Well that just proves you're not as stupid as you thought." I added some levity to my tone. "The failure of some shitty school system is not going to lower my opinion of you." The tears stopped.

"I don't deserve this." She turned to look at me. She was still distraught.

"That woman there will haunt me for eternity if I let you back out on the street without a decent set of clothes." I was pointing at the picture of my wife that Natty examined earlier. "So it doesn't matter if you deserve it or not." She rose from the floor and went back to the kitchen and finished loading the dishwasher.

"How do I start it?" She at least was back to completing the task at hand. I didn't want her running away from the problem.

"You don't." I smiled. "We have to add a few more meals of dishes before it gets fired up. Just close it and we'll start it tonight." Her shoulder slumped and she looked at the floor.

"I don't know how to pay you back for all this." She had sunk back into herself. She felt bad that I was helping her without some kind of payback..

"Well, there's vacuuming and I really hate cleaning the bathrooms." I wasn't really looking for a housekeeper but, I felt options were in needed. I guess freeloading was going to make her miserable. Natty put out her hand.

"Agreed, I will be the maid while I stay here." I clasped her hand and shook. It was softer than I had imagined. I disliked having to let go.

We arrived at the store and Natty became more animated. I assumed she hadn't been shopping in a long time and she was looking forward to it. "What's my limit." She asked as we exited the car.

"You kind of need everything. Let's try and keep it under $200 and we'll decide what to do from there." The number shocked me as I said it. I couldn't believe I went from $10 to $200 in one day. It's not that I couldn't afford it. I just wasn't used to giving away my money. Natty smiled and grabbed my hand. I guess I wasn't walking fast enough. It was a really nice hand.

Inside the store, she was a new woman. Bouncing from rack to rack. Trying on shoes and quietly grabbing undergarments. About an hour later our cart was filled and I sensed that we may have overdone the budget. "We may have gone over a bit but, I don't think we have anything you could do without." I said as we approached the register. I really didn't have the heart to put anything back. I realized I was enjoying her enthusiasm. After a morning of crying, it simply made me feel good.

"Nope, 181.76. That's if they get the discounts right." Natty said this as a fact. She didn't write anything down and obviously didn't have a calculator. She smiled, "I can get some more if you want to go over."

"181.76? There's no way you figured that out." She had to be guessing.

"Numbers aren't my problem. It's letters that screw me up." She was again stating fact. She was confident that her calculations were correct. "I stopped a little under for sales tax."

I watched with curiosity as the cashier began running the clothes past the scanner. Natty made the cashier correct two of the sale items that rang up wrong. She was quite the bargain hunter. I usually ignored price and just grabbed what I wanted. I was enthralled.

The total came up $195.39 which was 181.76 plus tax. I was floored. Natty was grinning ear to ear. She was a shopping savant. I couldn't believe anyone could be throwing so much stuff into and out of a cart and keep track of the running total.

"Well you're obviously wrong about being stupid." I said as soon as we were out of earshot. "That was amazing. I couldn't have done that with pen and paper." I was so proud of her. I didn't know why, I barely knew her. She continued beaming while she soaked in my praise.

I realized clothes wouldn't be enough. She would need some toiletries. We pulled into the pharmacy and I gave her a $50 target. She grabbed a basket and headed down the isles. I hung out at the magazine rack. I didn't really feel comfortable following her around as she picked up her feminine products. I began to wonder if $50 was enough. I had absolutely no idea what a box tampons or other items cost. God, I would have made a really bad father.

I meet her at the cashier. "How much? I quizzed her.

"$38.15 ." She said flashing a smile. The cashier, a young girl, seemed slightly impressed when Natty got it perfect. Not as big a feat as the clothing store but, amazing none the less. It seemed to be effortless for her. There was obviously nothing wrong with her intelligence. She must have some kind of learning disability to have not picked up reading. I had to get her reviewed by someone who knew what they were doing.

As soon as we got home, she ran the bags into the laundry room. When I caught up to her she was separating and putting the whites in the wash. "What are you doing?" I couldn't understand why anyone would wash new clothes.

"Do you know how many people could have tried these on? Got to wash them first. Otherwise, it would just gross me out." I seriously never thought about it. I wondered if my wife used to wash my new clothes before I found them in my closet. I watched Natty competently turn the dial to normal.

"I thought you couldn't read." I said quizzically pointing at the machines dial.

"I can't but, I can cope." She wasn't smiling anymore "You corrected my setting yesterday. I just put in the same place you did." Damn, she must have a whole slew of countermeasures. She was a smart girl. A really smart girl.

"We have to find out why you have trouble reading. It is definitely not due to a lack of brains." I said staring at the dial. How much trivial stuff does she have to memorize to get by without reading? Out of no where, a pair of lips kissed my cheek.

"Thanks," was all she said as she pushed the start button and headed off to put away the toiletries. I just stood there thinking how soft her lips were.

I spent the balance of the morning searching the internet for someone who could diagnose why Natty had a problem learning to read. It was difficult since I didn't know the proper search words. I was at it for about an hour before I came across a remedial learning center within driving distance. It sounded like they targeted younger kids but, it was worth a try.

I rang them up and spoke with a Dr. Palmer. She was the owner operator of the center and sounded competent. I explained the issue with Natty and asked if she was too old for the center. Dr. Palmer assured me that no one is too old and she would be happy to interview Natty and see what the problem was. She suggested an evening appointment when all the smaller kids were gone. It may be more comfortable for Natty. I agreed and penciled in 6 PM. All I had to do now is convince Natty.

Over lunch I confronted Natty. "I spoke with a Dr. Palmer and she would like to interview you and try to identify your reading issue." I expected some resistance. Maybe some more crying or the desire to leave. I figured this had to be the only thing holding her back so, I didn't want to wait and inch her into it.

"Okay, when?" She didn't seem the least bit hesitant. I must have looked a little surprised because her eyebrows lifted a bit as she waited for my response.

"Ahh, 6 tonight." I stammered, "Kind of thought I would have to talk you into it."

"Nope. You just spent a small fortune on someone you don't know who will probably never be able to pay you back. At the very least, I owe you a little trust." She shrugged and took another bite out of her sandwich. She was growing on me. How the hell did that happen in one day?

"Ok then, we'll see Dr. Palmer and then hit Smitty's BBQ for dinner." I smiled at killing two birds with one stone. Take another step with Natty and feast at my favorite bistro. Luckily, Dr. Palmer was strategically located two blocks away from hog heaven.

Dr. Palmer meet us outside of her office. We had to pass a few small classrooms obviously set up for young children. I was happy we were meeting later. It might have been a bit embarrassing if Natty felt she was walking into a grade school. "You must be Tom Barstow." Dr. Palmer held out her hand. I agreed and shook it. "That would make you Natalie. I'm Karen Palmer. I understand you have some reading issues." Natty lowered her eyes.

"Yes, I guess so." She sounded like she lost ten years of maturity. This was not starting well.

"Tom tells me you're a human calculator. I'll see about the reading and maybe you can help my math because, I suck at it." Karen smiled and held out her hand to Natty. Natty raised her eyes, smiled back and took her hand. "Why don't you wait out here Tom so Natalie and I can talk." I nodded and took one of the uncomfortable seats that were available. I figured it would be a while so I pulled up a word game on my phone.

It was indeed a while. I was busy proving I was an idiot on the phone when the office door finally opened. Natty exited with a big smile followed by Karen. I stood for what I hoped was some good news. Natty looked a Susan and said "Go ahead and tell him."

Karen looked at me, "Natalie is just dyslexic. Nothing that can't be overcome. She just needs to learn some special skills and she will be reading in no time." Natty was getting bouncy.

"Tell him the best part." I think she was going to bounce off the wall.

"I not sure I would call it the best part." Karen was stalling and watching Natty squirm. "I think she is referring to my dyslexia. I was just lucky I found out in fourth grade. In her case, the school dropped the ball." In a mere sixty minutes, Karen had endeared herself to Natty. I was ecstatic and extremely proud of myself.

"Where do we go from here?" I asked.

"At your age Natalie, I think you could get away with a two hour session once or twice a week. You could do most of it on your own once you learn the skills." Karen addressed Natty directly. I was forgetting I wasn't her father. This would have to be her struggle. "Insurance sometimes covers these things. It runs $75 an hour but, I don't think you will need me for very long." Natty was suddenly wary. She had forgotten about the possible costs.

"I'm her transportation right now. If we can keep it to the evenings, it would work out best for me." I didn't want to let Susan in on the whole situation and I wasn't going to make Natty ask me for the money in front of her.

"How about Thursday at 5:30 to 7:30. I have the block open. Will that work for you two?" Natalie was hesitant to answer and looked at me. I don't think she liked how indebted she was becoming. I wasn't going to let this stop. I had a mission and I was going to see it through.

"Thursday at 5:30 works fine for me." I looked at Natty expecting her to answer.

"Ah, yay 5:30 is fine." She was feeling a bit guilty. I would have to change that. Karen looked at me a bit concerned but, booked the time and showed us out.

In the car Natty turned to me, "This is getting to be too much. I'm really not feeling good about all this stuff you're giving me." On the way to the car I thought up a possible solution. It just came to me and seemed like it might work.

"Ever paint a room?" I asked seemingly changing the subject.

"Yes, but what does that have to do with this." She wasn't going to let it go.

"My house hasn't been painted in over ten years. My wife used to handle it. Professional painters want five hundred a room." I was hopefully selling it properly. "I'll buy the supplies and give you two fifty a room." I turned to her with a serious face.

"Deal." She said and held her hand out. "I will be your painting maid." She added a smile. She had a real pretty smile. I shook her hand and we were off for BBQ.

Smitty's was as crowded as it always was. I usually won't wait for a table at a restaurant but, the food here was worth the wait. We were finally seated twenty minutes later. Natty spent the whole time talking about her conversation with Dr. Palmer. She was really impressed with the woman and what she was able to accomplish in spite of her dyslexia. I think Natty had found her first role model.

When we were finally seated, a good looking waitress about my age slid up to the table. "Hi I'm Julie and I will be taking care of you tonight. Would you and your daughter like something to drink while you look at the menu?" I was taken back by the daughter comment but, Natty just smirked.

"I'm just going to have coke. What you having dad?" Natty was smiling. I kind of liked the sound of her calling me dad. I was feeling pretty good about the day so I ordered a beer.

The drinks arrived and I was ready to order. Hell, I was ready before I walked in. I always ordered the same thing. Natty ordered first and before the waitress turned to me, they got into a conversation. I really wanted my pulled pork sandwich and I kept trying to cut in but, I was stymied by conversational protocol. I don't think the two were even stopping to breathe. Finally, Julie turned me and I ordered my pulled pork basket with baked beans and corn with extra sauce.

As soon as Julie left Natty turned to me. "Why don't you ask her out?" Now where in hell did that come from? "She's obviously interested and not bad looking." Natty was continuing to sell the idea.

"I can't just ask the waitress out. What do you mean she's interested?" I guess I missed something. Woman weren't really ever interested in me. Well, except Mary.

"Weren't you listening. She just spent five minutes gathering your vitals. You don't do that for someone you're not interested in." I was kind of lost. Dating was never high in my skill sets. I just want my pulled pork.

"I think you're reading it wrong. She's just being nice. She does work for tips you know." I wasn't really ready for any matchmaking. Much less an embarrassingly awkward BBQ moment.

"You loved your wife and stayed with her til the end. You are stable. You aren't out playing the field. You make a pretty good living. You're having dinner with your daughter. Face it Tom, at your age you are a hottie." She was ticking off my qualifications on her fingers proud of her analysis. I really didn't want to be a hottie. It just seemed like too much work to me.

"Nope, not interested. Nor do I think our waitress is." Where is that damned pulled pork.

"Okay, take it slow. Julie's not going anywhere." She was teasing me now. I did love the smile but, it began to take on a devious personality all its own.

Julie returned with our meal a few moments later. Boy did it smell good. "I had the cook throw a little extra on for you. You looked a little famished." She was correct. I looked up to thank her and saw that she was staring at me and smiling. It suddenly made me uncomfortable.

"Ahh, thanks." was all I could force out of my mouth.

"Wow, that's really nice Julie." Natty picked up for me. "You know we are going to be coming here on Thursday for the next few weeks. Won't be able to get here until about eight though. Dad really loves this place."

"Really, what a coincidence. I think I'm working Thursdays for the next month. Maybe I'll see you guys again." She touched my shoulder in a friendly manner and headed off to another table. I tried to ignore the incident and returned to my pork.

"Tommys got a girlfriend, Tommys got a girlfriend." Luckily, Natty was whispering.

"Come on, she was just being nice." I really didn't see the need to continue now that the food had arrived.

"I'll bet you that she wasn't working next Thursday but now she will be... and ... no matter where we sit, she will be waiting on us." Natty sounded very sure of herself. I wasn't convinced. Plus, I really didn't think of myself as available. I spread the extra sauce over my pork and began to fork my way in.

When Julie brought back my card, Natty and her got into another short conversation. I was ready to leave but, decorum forced me to be patient. Julie finally turned to me and put her hand on my shoulder. "You have such a lovely daughter." I just nodded and smiled stupidly. She gave me a little squeeze mixed with a smile and headed off to the kitchen.

"Next Thursday, you'll see." Natty said as we walked out the door. At least the pork was good.

After we got home, Natty and I watched half a movie before we realized that we were exhausted. A lot happened today and we were mentally drained. I was the first to start to nod off and after dozing through a good five minutes of the movie I decided to call it quits. I gave my regrets and headed off to bed. I barely made it through brushing my teeth, I kept yawning. I stripped to my shorts, killed the lights and crawled into bed.

I was almost to sleep when I heard the bedroom door open. Natty was there in her new sleep shirt. She stepped in and closed the door and crawled into Mary's side of the bed. "I just don't like sleeping alone in a strange house." She whispered as she pulled the sheets up. I smiled and started my obligatory scoot to the end of my side of the bed. I felt a hand on my shoulder, "Don't fuss. The bed is big enough for four." the hand retracted and I felt her curl into her pillow. The hand was nice and warm. I feel asleep wishing she would touch me again.

I woke up slowly the next morning. It was nice not to hear an alarm clock. I was bit warmer than usual. When the fog cleared I realized that Natty had spooned into me during the night. Her arm was limp over my side and her chest was snug to my back. I could feel her methodic breathing on the back of my neck. One of her feet was was on top of my calf. She felt wonderful and I didn't want to move an inch. I certainly didn't want to wake her up and have it end. I felt truly at peace with the world. I closed my eyes to burn the feeling into my brain and fell asleep again.

I woke again some time later to an empty bed. I sighed and sat up. At least I had my memory of her wrapped around me. I looked at the clock. It was just past ten. Damn, I haven't been able to sleep past eight in years. It was good sleep too. I felt rested not groggy as usual. I grabbed my robe and headed to the kitchen.

I found Natty sitting crosslegged on the couch watching some morning program. Her sleep shirt was pushed up to her waist and I could clearly see her white panties. They were pulled taut across her crotch by the position of her legs. I was trying not to look but, I found the view intoxicating. "Good morning sleepyhead." Natty smiled to me, "Thought you were going to sleep the day away." I was trying desperately to keep my eyes on her face. "We need to go pick up some paint and stuff."

"Yep, let me get some coffee going and hop in the shower." I was finding it hard to leave her there. I found the strength and pulled myself away and finished the truck to the kitchen. I started the coffee and looked over the counter toward the couch. I could only see the back of her head from here but my mind still saw her milky thighs pulling those panties tight. I knew I should make my mind move on but, it just felt too good to let it go.

The buzzer on the coffee machine brought me back to reality. I poured a cup, "Natty, you want any coffee?" I asked over my shoulder.

"Sure, black. Thanks". I poured another and carried them both to the couch. I handed one to Natty which allowed my eyes to wander again. She was truly beautiful. I sat on the other side and pretended to watch the TV. Stupid fantasies started to run through my mind and I took a big sip of the hot coffee to zap my mind back to reality. It worked, I torched my tongue and quickly forgot about legs and panties. I started to watch the show in earnest.

She finished her coffee and stood up and I got a quick flash of a perfect panty clad tushy before gravity pulled her shirt back down. My mind went straight back to the gutter. She sauntered her empty cup to the sink and called back to me. "I going to take a shower. I should be ready in about 30." She walked back behind the couch and suddenly leaned over to my ear. " You have my permission to look all you want." and gave me a peck on my cheek. I was startled by the boldness and almost tried to deny it but, she was already moving into the hallway. I obviously wasn't as slick as I thought. I suddenly felt like a perv.

After I shaved, showered and dressed I went back to the kitchen and found Natty just finishing up cleaning the coffee pot. She was dressed in a new pair of jeans and tshirt. The jeans fit her perfect and accented her flawless tushy. "Natty, I'm sorry about earlier. I didn't mean to oggle you like that." It sounded feeble and I regretted not practicing a bit more before I just blurted it out.

"I'm not so, don't worry about it." She said as she moved around the counter.

"Well I'm not usually like .." She quickly interrupted me.

"You looked, you liked it, I liked it, get over yourself. We have paint to buy." She liked it. That I didn't expect. Maybe she found it flattering. If she is going to keep dressing like she has been, I will be flattering her some more.

"Okay, paint it is." I grabbed my keys and off we went.

We shopped at the local big box for everything we would need. Tarps, brushes, rollers and of course, paint. I got enough to do the first two rooms. Natty picked out a neutral light tan color for the walls so that I wouldn't be committed to any particular design scheme. Smart girl. I had no idea what color to pick. I made her do the shopping cart trick again. Infallibly, she hit the mark again. I was secretly trying to duplicate the feat but lost track somewhere around the fifth item. She was simply amazing.

I helped her move the furniture out of one of the spare bedrooms. I took us the better part of an hour to get it all out. I went and found an old t-shirt so Natty wouldn't ruin her new clothes. She returned to the room barefoot wearing only the t-shirt. She had her hair pulled back and tied into a ponytail. Natty then kicked me out. I kind of wanted to help just to hang around her but, she was having none of it. This was her project. I brought in a little portable radio and let her work.

About two o'clock it dawned on me that we hadn't really eaten much today. I figured I would put together a meal for us. I had salad and some ground beef in the fridge. No buns for burgers but, I had spaghetti noodles. I started browning the meat and boiling the noodles. I dug out a few cans of tomato paste and a slew of seasonings. I didn't really have a recipe, I just seasoned till it tasted good. It wasn't long before I had a large pot with noodles, sauce and meat warming on the stove. I called for Natty.

Natty came around the corner and I laughed. I wondered how much paint she actually got on the walls. She had streaks on her arms and legs, a few blotches in her hair and a nice smear running from the bridge on her nose across her right cheek. She looked an adorable mess in the oversized t-shirt. "Are you dry yet." I jested.

"Yeah, the room looks good but, I guess I got a bit on myself." She was examining her arms and hands.

"Sit down, I think you rubbed your nose a bit." I pointed at a stool and began to wet a towel. I sat on the stool next to her and swirled her around till she was between my legs. I held her head with one hand and gently wiped the her nose with the towel. I had to scrub a little harder than I wanted too to get the paint off. I finished her nose and started to work on her cheek. She leaned in closer and looked me in the eyes as I began wiping off the rest of the paint. Natties eyes were brown with little freckles of black dusted around. They drew me in. I continued softly wiping her cheek even though the paint was long gone. A strand of her purple hair had escaped her ponytail and dropped in front of her face. It also had a streak a paint. I lightly pushed it back behind her ear. "You have paint in your hair." She shivered as my fingers caressed her ear.

Natty stood and grabbed my hand. "I'll need your help getting it out." She began to pull me down the hallway.

"What about lunch?" I was worried she hadn't had much to eat.

"It's spaghetti, it'll keep." She was smiling, "I have paint all over me. Don't you think that's more important?" she continued to lead me down the hall. I wondered if the paint could be combed out of her hair.

"Do you think we can comb it out?" I was concerned it might hurt a bit when the comb tugged through the painted part. Natty turned with her beautiful smile.

"I intend to have you shampoo it out. In the shower." She grabbed my other hand and began walking backwards pulling me into the bathroom. I wondered how we were going to accomplish that without getting our clothes wet. Her eyes and smile took on a mischievous quality. I began to connect the dots and I became aroused. She meant we would be naked. I wasn't sure that this was the right course of action. My dick was quite sure it was. I slowed her backward momentum trying to give myself some time to think.

"Come on Tom, a naked girl in the shower can't be all that bad." She let go of my hands and removed her t-shirt swift as a breeze. She stood before me in only her panties. She was simply breathtaking. Her breasts where milky white little firm pillows of softness. Not large but, perfect for her frame. They were both topped with small pale pink nipples that were sticking out a bit in the newly exposed air. She had somehow gotten paint on her flat belly. I looked back to her eyes and she wasn't smiling. She looked more hesitant albeit, adorable.

"You are so beautiful." I meant it. She was like a painting I shouldn't be allowed to touch. I didn't want to disturb the perfection. Her smile returned and her face began to glow again. She began to remove my clothes. I snapped out of it and helped her as quickly as I could. I felt like I was in highschool trying to remove my clothes before the girl changed her mind. When I dropped my shorts my cock sprang to attention and bounced a bit. I don't know why but, I was a bit embarrassed by it's enthusiasm. Natty just watch it bounce and gave me a giggle.

"See, you're having as much fun as I am." She reached into the shower and started the water. She had to bend over a bit which stuck out her panty clad tushy.

"You have the cutest little butt I have ever seen." I was smiling ear to ear. If she didn't mind me looking, I certainly wasn't going to stop. She looked over her shoulder smiling and began an exaggerated shimmy in her hips. She slowly dropped her panties to the floor. I could almost hear the striptease music as her butt shifted from side to side. She laughed at my lustful eyes, stood up and hopped into the shower. She held out her hand to guide me in. My god, I was having fun.

Natty soaked her hair and handed me the shampoo. She turned around and tilted her head back toward me. I could just see the top of her wet breasts as I began to work the shampoo into her hair. I massaged her scalp and ran my hands down her purple striped locks. Her hair was so smooth and luxurious, I didn't want to stop. It felt so nice to just feel another human so close, it had been a very long time. Every so often her butt would lightly drag across my hardon which sent chills up my spine. The paint was long gone by the time I rinsed out her hair.

She put her hand tenderly around my neck and pulled me close. "That was very nice." she said before pulling me in and kissing my lips. She let go and grabbed the soap. "There is still more paint." she giggled holding out the soap. I gladly grabbed it. I started with her hands and arms. Soaping them up and scrubbing away the paint. I cleared a smear on the side of her neck and dropped to my knee. I rubbed soap along her legs, higher than I needed to, stealing glances at the cutest little pussy I had ever seen. Just a small tuft of hair above her inviting entrance. I looked into her eyes as I gently washed the paint off her belly. She was smiling down at me. That glorious radiant smile that told me everything was fine with the world.

I rinsed her off again and lightly ran my hand up her thigh and drew it along her gorgeous womanhood. She shivered and pulled me back to my feet. "Tonight." was all she said as she removed the soap from my hand. The word was soaked with promise. I felt my cock throb at the thought of what that meant. She looked me in my eyes and began to soap up my straining hardon. I moaned as she began slowly stroking my member. Our lips met again and she started to explore with her tongue. There was no way I could hold back any longer. I grunted into her lips and my cock exploded. I couldn't remember having an orgasm so intense. She never let go and just slowly stroked me through it as I spasmed again and again. She released my lips as I began to catch my breath, the warm water running down my back. Her hands were no longer stroking, just lightly caressing.

I heard her try to hold back a laugh, "My god Tom, when was the last time you were with a woman." I opened my eyes and followed hers to her belly. Natty's hands, arms and belly were coated with my cum. I could scarcely believe that that much came out of me. She looked a bit silly examining the mess.

"Not since Mary died." I admitted sheepishly.

"Good thing we were in the shower." She laughed and I had no choice but to join her. It was to infectious to ignore. She began to rinse herself off and I enjoyed helping. She shut off the water once she was clean again. I passed out the towels and enjoyed watching her dry off. I was wondering how she made it so much fun. Intimacy was always good for me but, it had never provoked laughter and been as much fun as it was erotic. I realized I had crossed my moral perv line and I really didn't care. Life was too short to care.

I put on my boxers and threw the rest of my clothes in the hamper. Natty gave me a questioning look. I shrugged my shoulders, "It's spaghetti, I would just stain them anyways." It never failed, no matter how careful I am, spaghetti just loves my shirts. She gave me a small laugh and decided to not put her t-shirt back on. We both sat down to eat in our underwear, Natty looking a whole lot better than I. It was liberating in its own strange way. Her tits were there in all their beauty but, I no longer felt the need to stare. When they attracted the inevitable tomato splatter, I just reached over and swiped it off with my finger. She barely noticed and continued to discuss which room needed painting next. I can only describe it as blissfully comfortable.

We stayed up late watching movies. She was curled up in my arms trying to figure out why I found the Lord of the Rings trilogy so entertaining. I gave up trying to explain it to her and just enjoyed her body next to mine. I didn't make her watch the last one. With a quick peck on her forehead, I stood up and held out my hand. She took my hand smiling and rose gracefully from the couch. I was taking her to my bedroom when she broke the hold and scampered off to the guest bathroom. I brushed my teeth and climbed in bed. I wasn't sure she was going to join me until her shadow appeared in the doorway. I saw her take down her panties and she sat next to me on my side of the bed.

"Tom, I don't want to have your babies and I won't be here forever." She was serious and expected a response. I realized the truth in her statement. I wasn't thinking much past tonight but, I guess I was starting to form an attachment that would never hold. I was actually glad she brought it out in the open.

"I never really wanted children and I know you can't stay for long. I think I will be a little sad when you leave though." I was looking in her eyes when I finished. It was the truth. I liked Natty, maybe even loved her a bit. I also knew that permanency was out of the question. I received one of those endearing puppy dog looks which was a bit more emotional than we needed right now. "Of course, that doesn't mean we can't have fun while you're here." I smiled and tenderly rolled her over my body onto her back. She laughed at my unexpected dominance. I had a sudden desire to see her in orgasm.

I rolled on top of her and sat lightly on her thighs. I had her pinned as I ran my fingers lightly down the sides of her torso. She started laughing and tried to push my hands away. I moved quickly to avoid her blocks and replaced my hands above her breasts. I, ever so lightly, traced the outline of her perfect breasts admiring their symmetry. I was rewarded by her nipples elongating. She stopped trying to block my caresses as they became more sensual and less ticklish. I moved to the breasts themselves, gently painting them with my finger tips. I could feel goosebumps appear on the skin. I lowered my body some more and gently licked the right nipple. I heard a little giggle and the nipple strained out a bit more. I slowly moved to the left nipple and repeated the process. I was strangely proud of growing her nipples with such ease. My tongue moved between her breasts and I dropped wet kisses as I moved to her belly.

As my head moved I began dragging my feathery fingers down her sides again. Her giggling increased and she struggled to remain still. I could feel her muscles tightening every time my fingers moved. I left little tongue trails across her tight belly. Each one elicited a small gasp as she tried to suck in her skin. I dropped below her belly button and my nose was met with an intoxicating musky scent. I stayed still for a moment and just breathed her in. The smell promised softness and sanctuary. Natty moaned quietly and squirmed a bit trying to get me moving again. I complied continuing to run my kisses at the very top of her thighs.

I opened her left leg slightly and began leaving wet kisses down the inside if her thigh. I felt little quivers as I moved back up slowly. I caught another whiff of Natty as a I moved to her other precious thigh. My hardon was now raging but, this wasn't for me. I could sense some frustration as I passed by her flower again and began kissing her quivering right thigh. As I moved back up her thigh and got close to her sex, Natty began to run her fingers through my hair. I could see her lips glistening with the light from the hallway. She was ready and her hands were there to make sure I wasn't passing up my target again.

I kissed and slightly sucked on her right labia releasing some more moisture. She was soaking wet. I felt her hands steering me a bit higher. I pulled my tongue along her slit barely tasting her sweetness. I received a moan and more pressure to move higher. I used my hands to slightly open her flower and lick deeper into her. She moaned louder. Her hand she was now gripping my hair tightly. I wet a finger with her secretions and lightly stroked the hood of her clit, careful to not touch the little bud itself. I then inserted a finger into her slowly and began massaging her channel as I licked above it. She was moving her hips as well as my head trying to line me up to where she needed me most. I resisted and continued the teasing and enjoying the heavenly scent.

"Tom.. Tom" She sounded almost upset as she tried desperately to end her frustration. I capitulated and relaxed my neck muscles and let her pull me higher. When my tongue hit her clit, her hips shot up and she began to drag her nub back and forth across my tongue. I had lost total control as she ground into me and moaned. I felt the involuntary spasms travel down her legs as her orgasm flowed up her body. She went rigid for a moment and then her hips dropped back to the mattress with a loud sigh. I followed her pussy down and attacked her love button again. Her hips shot back up. "Ahhh fuck" came out of her mouth as I carried her through another peak. When her hips fell back I intended to try it again only to be blocked by her hand covering her sex. "I surrender." She said laughing and pulled her hips away from my mouth. "That was unbelieveable, I didn't know I could ride that wave twice." She was panting trying to catch her breath. There were still little tremors running along her muscles.

"Payback for the shower." I said smiling ear to ear. I was about to joke about how long it's been for her when I remembered that prick Rick. Thank god, I kept my mouth shut. She pulled my up along side her and kissed me deep.

"I got to say, for an old man, you have some serious talent." She looked into my eyes as her body began to recover. "I have never had anyone tease me like that. I hated it and loved it at the same time." She was laughing again. What a wonderful laugh. I was pretty proud of myself. She reached down a felt my rock hard pole. "And you loved doing it you stud." She was surprised it got me going. I wondered how it couldn't. I gave an involuntary jerk when she ran her hand down the shaft. I was on a hair trigger. "Whoa baby, this ones not going into the sheets. Not after that performance." Natty was taking control.

Natty pushed me onto my back and straddled my thighs. I was smiling hard. I knew what was coming. I knew I would be lucky to last a minute but, boy I couldn't wait. She slowly dragged her hips up my thighs. Her soaking pussy enveloped the underside of my cock as her hips forced it against my tummy. I almost lost it right there. She reached the crown and I felt the tip enter her channel and she stopped. My groin felt like it was on fire. "What room am I supposed to paint next?" She had got to be kidding. Now she wants to discuss painting. I tried to move my hips to increase the penetration but, she moved with me. "Was it the front room or the back room?" She was pointing in the dark. Fine, I thought, let's get this out of the way.

"We decided on the...Oh God." As soon as I began to answer, she rotated her hips forward and slowly forced my cock deep inside of her. She was so tight, I didn't think I would get all the way in. She stopped again.

"Which room was it?" She looked down at me with an evil smile. She continued to move with my straining hips. I loved it and I hated it. I couldn't help it, I laughed. "See what I mean, " she stroked my face, "it's heaven and hell all at once."

"Please don't leave me like this." I was still laughing but, the pleading was real. She was laughing with me when she slowly raised up and dragged her heated box up my shaft. She slowly lowered herself again and I couldn't laugh anymore.

"Is that better Tom?" She asked in a motherly voice. I didn't answer. I was busy trying to make it last. She rose up again and came back down. I loved the friction. I loved knowing I was inside her. She rose up again and my hips wouldn't wait for her return. There was no way my body was going to hold off another second. I drove into her and climaxed. It felt as powerful as it did in the shower. I couldn't believe I was still capable of such an experience. I jerked a few more times as she stroked my chest. Finally, my hips settled and I started to catch my breath.

Natty brought her head close to mine. "Someone likes my pussy." She stated proudly and gave me a couple of vaginal squeezes. She had absolutely no aversion to talking about sex. I had never met anyone like her. "Tomorrow we should see if we can cum at the same time. That would be intense." She sat back up. "I think we could if we tried." She started rocking back and forth with me still deep inside.

"I vote for trying." I have never scheduled sex before in my life. Two days ago she was yelling at me for buying her food and tonight I was planning the next days romp. I can't remember when I had had this much fun before. She rose up off me and I felt a flood of wet warmth coat my groin and stomach. "We kind of made a mess. Might have to change the sheets." I said with smile. She sat back down on my stomach in the middle of the puddle and slid it with her off to the side. She ended with her sticky leg draped over my stomach with her tits pressing in my side.

"Leave it. It's just us." She kissed me, laid her head on my pillow and cuddled closer. Well I wasn't going to move now. I loved having her snuggle into me. I pulled the sheets up over us and was content to sleep in our mess. Worst case, It will give me a reason to shower with her again.

It took us two days to synchronize our climaxes. Natty seemed determined to get it right. I thought it was a win win no matter how it turned out. She was correct when she said it would be intense. I realized that I had fallen in love with her. I knew she wasn't going to stay and I was strangely okay with that. Somehow knowing it upfront had made it acceptable. I just wanted her to happy and I wanted to be one of the reasons for that happiness.

Thursday came around quickly. I had promised Natty that I would return to work on Friday. She was concerned I was going to screw up my life just to be with her. She was correct. Natty was my drug of choice and I wanted every minute I could with her. I sat outside Dr. Palmers office proving my ignorance to my phone once again. No matter how hard I tried, I was getting my ass kicked by foreigners in an english word game. Pinto47 was an Austrian prick. His fingers must move at the speed of light.

Natty exited the office with her precious smile. "I can read. I mean it isn't much yet, but Susan's got me reading. " She had an arm full of books. "I got a lot of homework."

"I'm still not sure how she handles numbers so well." Susan stated. "Simply amazing how she can calculate. Usually dyslexia messes up all symbology."

"There's only ten and the rules never change." Natty said as if it were obvious. "Letters are the screwy ones." I had to admit she was right. Unless you were born an Austrian prick.

"You work on the those exercises this week and it will soon become second nature." Susan said smiling, "I will see you next week." Yes, I was starving and it was BBQ time.

Natty had been teasing me all day about Julie. I was sure she was seeing things that weren't there but, I took it well. I was worried she might be a bit disappointed when Julie didn't respond as she expected. Even though it was a bit late, we still had to wait fifteen minutes for a table. We were seated in a booth near the back and young waitress quickly came to the table. "Hello, I'm Mindy and I will be taking care of you today." I could see the disappointment on Natty's face. I think me being her white knight had embellished my prospects in her eyes. There was a tinge of disappointment in my mind as well. It is always good to feel wanted. Natty ordered her coke and I, my beer.

I explained again to Natty that waitress work for tips. I reminded her that most women really don't give me a second glance. I wasn't sure why she was trying to set me up but, I just didn't want her disappointed. I noticed that she had stopped listening and was smiling over my shoulder. I followed her eyes and nearly fell off my seat. Julie was coming toward the table with a coke and a beer.

"Mindy just got handed a large group. Looks like I'm going to be taking care of you guys today." Julie had on a big smile. Her dirty blonde hair was pulled back into a ponytail and a few strands had broken free and graced her face. I hadn't noticed her blue eyes the last time I was here. They kind of sparkled when I looked into them.

"It's nice to see you again Julie." I smiled back at her. Her eyes brightened some more. Natty was just looking back and forth between our two faces smiling like a cheshire cat.

"How nice that remember me Tom. Now, if I got it right, you want the pulled pork platter with bake beans, corn and extra sauce." She ticked off the ingredients on her fingers.

"Wow, I think your memory is a bit better than mine." Why did I feel like a flirting school boy. I am sitting here with a girl half my age who is pretending to be my daugher but, is really sleeping with me and she is encouraging me make moves on the waitress. Damn, and I'm having fun doing it. "You're looking nice today." I was hoping my smile didn't look too perverted.

"Flattery won't get you out of tip Tom." She started laughing with me as she squeezed my shoulder. "Let me get you're order in and I'll be right back." I watched her cute figure saunter off to the kitchen. Not as tight as Natty's but, not bad at all. Natty smacked my arm.

"You like her you old dog." She was smiling ear to ear. "You were flirting so much she forgot to take my order." My little sex monster was having fun playing matchmaker. Any other woman in the world would have poured her drink in my lap. "I don't even think she knew I was here."

"Well, when you got it you have to flaunt it." I kidded. She smacked my arm again.

"Don't get all cocky. I like her and she deserves the real you." Natty was smiling but, I knew she was also serious. I do believe Natty loved me too. She didn't want to leave me if I it meant I would be alone again. God, I think she is doing more for me than I am for her.

Julie returned a few moments later all embarrassed."I'm sorry, I forgot to get Natalie's order." I could sense she felt foolish and a bit uncomfortable.

"We knew you would be back." I laughed trying to lessen the pain. "You must be busy taking on extra tables." She lightened up a bit. Natty placed her ordered and spent a few minutes talking with Julie. I just sat back admiring their expressions. Natty really did like Julie.

When my order arrived I received a smile and a pile of extra pork. She sure knew how to flirt with a guy. I guess it was apparent on my face because she squeezed my shoulder again then let her hand fall gently down my arm before she headed back off to her duties. Natty gave me a serious look.

"She would go home with you tonight if you asked." Natty was jumping the gun a bit. "She really likes you." I thought about it and figured Natty was a better judge of people than I was. I wasn't ready to give up Natty just yet. I also felt a little shitty pretending I was some kind of playboy that women would just wait for.

"One more week?" I asked Natty. She knew what I meant. I wasn't going to be a two woman man but, I wanted to be with Natty for a little while longer. She smiled at me and stroked my arm.

"Okay, one more week. It is kind of fun, isn't it?" I nodded and added my smile to hers. She turned serious. "I'm fun but, Julie could be a lifetime." Shit. She was right. I'm not sure how Natty could be so young and so old at the same time. Julie brought the check and grabbed my card. She said she would be right back with the credit slip. I gave Natty the car keys and told her I would catch up. Julie returned shortly with the receipt.

"How would I make sure I was at your table next week?" I asked. I had placed my hand on hers when she tried place the black book on the table. She smiled at the touch and left her hand under mine.

"Just tell Marty at the front. You might have to wait a few minutes extra." Her hand was still under mine. I liked the softness. "She's not your daughter, is she?" She was still smiling as the question sunk in. Women's intuition is amazing. I thought about lying and discounted it immediately. I thought about telling her about Natty. I discounted that as well. Since her hand was still under mine I knew I wasn't completely hosed. I choose the simple approach.

"No." I didn't expound or plead. I just looked into her eyes and told her a simple truth. She leaned into my ear.

"Thank you for not lying. I really hope you're here next week." I felt her breath move my hair and it sent a small shiver down my body. She removed her hand slowly and hesitantly headed back off to her duties. She looked sexier now that she knew. I have no idea why but, I found her more desirable..

"She knew you weren't my daughter." I told Natty in the car. Natty smiled.

"I knew she was smart. You guys will make a great couple." Natty already had me married off. I not sure I minded the loss of control. "She still wants to see you, right?"

"Yep. You had her pegged from day one." I admitted as I started the car. I should have felt insulted taking socal lessons from Natty but, I didn't. I loved her.

Work still sucked. I had to field a few questions about my absence. Nobody cared that I was gone, they only wanted to know why. It wasn't in my nature to suddenly take time off. I lied and told them it was private family issues. Most seemed satisfied with that. Only Tami, the receptionist smirked at my response. Fucking women's intuition. Is nothing a man does private?

I promised Natty that I wouldn't be home for lunch. She wanted to study her reading and didn't trust herself to keep her hands off me. I didn't believe her for a second. She was trying to wean me off her. I understood and loved her for it. We both knew what had to happen. I went back to Marty's for lunch.

""Hi Tom, how have you been?" It was Susan's pleasant voice that greeted me as I entered.

"Very well as a matter of fact." I smiled to prove the fact. She pulled her head back and stopped moving in an exaggerated manner.

"Well it's good see the world isn't kicking everyone in the behind." She smiled back obviously happy that I was happy. She shuffled close to me.

"Just so you know, there is some grease ball looking for that girl you fed last week." She wasn't smiling anymore. "Some of our more nosey patrons might have mentioned that they saw her getting into your car." She leaned it a bit farther. "Tom, I didn't like the look of the guy. You didn't do something stupid did you?" Shit, that's all I need is to have Rick find out where Natty is.

"Nothing I can't handle Susan. Let's just say that it would be helpful if the grease ball never saw the girl again." I looked her in the eyes. I think she trusted me but, how could she know.

"Your call Tom. Just be careful. You tip more than most you know." She smiled. I knew that I wouldn't have an issue with her. I smiled back and patted her hand. I wasn't used to touching other people. Since I had met Natty, I realized I had become a bit more outgoing. She seemed to accept it as a sign of friendship and reached back for the menu I pretty much knew by heart. I wondered how much of life I missed not making more personal connections with the people I saw everyday. Damn, thinking backwards was useless. I'll just have to be more outgoing from now on. I had a pleasant lunch and by time it was over I knew the name of Susan's three grandchildren and their prospects for college. I was amazed at how much she was willing to tell me if I was willing to listen. It gave me that warm comfortable feeling I haven't felt since my wife died. I had a new friend, granted I had to tip her, but a friend none the less. Friends just get bigger tips.

I was whistling the old Frito bandito tune on my way to the car. "I hear you know where Natty is." The voice came from behind me. I turned to see young man who was obviously an expert at making poor choices. Dressed in worn black clothes with way too much jewelry in his ears. I even think he had some type of lipstick on. He was buzzed bald around his ears and had a strange tuft of hair pulled to the side. The studded leather bracelets made him look kind of comical to me. I looked him in the eye.

"Fuck off." I didn't want to leave him with any impression that I might be helpful. He was a bit taller than me. A lot younger and maybe a bit stronger but, I didn't like him. My love for Natty kind of blew any fear away.

"Just tell me where she is old man." He took a step closer. His arms didn't move so it wasn't overtly aggressive. I didn't like the 'old man' addition to his statement but, in truth, I was older. There was no need to mince words.

"If you find her Rick, I rip your fucking head off." He was startled that I guessed his name. The conversation was over. I wasn't interested in a pissing contest in the middle of the parking lot. I turned to get into my car. This asshole wasn't going to ruin my day or Nattys.

I heard the knife open. I turned quickly and felt something in my side. It didn't really hurt so I assumed he missed. His mistake. He could run faster, punch faster and probably kick me to death. He shouldn't have never gotten close. My left hand shot up and grabbed his collar. I think he was surprised I moved so fast. I pulled his face forward and drove my right fist into it. I felt his legs buckle. I remembered what he did to Natty. I struck again even harder and he collapsed to the ground pulling me with him. I heard Susan screaming for someone to call the police and footsteps were coming my way. I wasn't done yet.

"You fucking go near her again." I hit the motionless face. "I'll cripple your ass". I hit his face again and drew back blood. "Fucking asshole." I heard bone snap when I hit him again. I wanted him dead. My hand was beginning to hurt. It didn't matter. I swung again and his nose moved weirdly to the left. I felt hands pulling me off him but, I wasn't done yet. My next swing missed. Someone had grabbed my arm and was pulling me off. I spit on him since they wouldn't let me hit him again. There was blood all over the piece of shit. I realized I might have killed him and I didn't care.

"Tom, oh god, he stabbed you." Susan was crying. Shit, it wasn't his blood. Everything went black.

There was an incessant beeping in my head. I tried to ignore it and go back to sleep. My whole side was sore as hell and I just wanted to go back to sleep so I didn't have to feel it. It wasn't going to happen. I tried to open my eyes but, it was bit too bright. I felt sweet warmth tenderly stroke my hair. It was a lot friendlier than I would expect from Susan. The thought triggered my memory of the lunch events. "Natty?"

"Hi Tom, welcome back." I could hear the smile in her voice. I weakly opened my eyes and was met with a bloodshot pair that screamed of pain. I felt horrible.

"I'm sorry. I didn't mean for it to happen." I wanted to remove her pain. Not add to it.

"It's not your fault sweety, it was mine. I told you I was cursed." I now heard tears in her voice. How could she blame herself for assholes like Rick. No, I wasn't going to drive her back into her shell.

"Well look who's awake." A confident well dressed man in a doctor coat walked in. "It was touch and go there for a little while but, luckily they wheeled you into my OR." He wore an infectious smile. "There was a little internal bleeding but, I am confident I got it all. I regret to inform you Mr. Barstow, you'll be paying taxes next April with the rest of us."

I liked him already. Brash, yes but, very likeable. I tried to laugh but, my side hurt to much. "That pain is one of the side effects of me digging around in there. The bulk of it should pass in a day or two although, it will remain uncomfortable for a few weeks." He was still smiling. I guess he was proud of his success.

"Dr. Bounder is the one who convinced the hospital to let me stay with you." I could tell the Natty admired him. That was good enough for me.

"Thanks doc. I guess I owe you my life." I wasn't sure what to tell a man who pulled you back from the brink of death.

"Ha, ha Mr. Collins. Nice try. You know slavery is outlawed, this hospital demands cash." I chuckled and pain shot through my side. I winced trying to hold back the next chuckle. "I'm going to have a nurse come by to give you a local so you breath a little easier. I can get you something a bit stronger if you like Mr. Barstow?"

"Tom please. A local would be fine and hold off on the jokes." I smiled trying to sound friendly.

"Well Tom, I'll leave you two alone. I will stop by on my rounds tomorrow morning." He headed out the door.

"Rick is the curse Natty." I returned to her previous statement. "You need to stay away from him. You can't let him know where you are." I suddenly felt helpless. I wouldn't be able to lift a finger stop Rick if I wanted too.

"I don't think that will be an issue Mr. Barstow." Damn, more interruptions. This time it was cop. "There were many witnesses that swear he stabbed you first. Ms. Raspsin here, has informed us as to the possible motive." Raspsin, I had been naked with her and I just realized I never knew her last name. He pulled out a notebook and pen. "Did he stab you first sir?"

"Yes." Even if he didn't, this officer just told me what my answer should be.

"The witnesses agree it was self defense. He has three priors and this will put him away for 10 to 20 depending how he pleads. I don't think Ms. Raspsin needs to worry about seeing him for a while." Damn, they have already convicted him. Good, the asshole deserves everything he gets. The officer looked back to Natty. "I will abide by your wishes and not file a complaint on the promoting prostitution offense Ms. Raspsin." She had told them everything. "Our interrogators did confront him with the issue and he had to be restrained. He kept hurling himself into the walls. I doubt he will seek you out in the future." I smiled. I doubt a slime like him would ever attempt contact again.

"Thank you so much officer. That is a load off my mind." I was satisfied.

"And ours sir." He smiled knowingly, "Captain wanted me to get a verbal statement when you woke up. We are going to need a formal signed statement when you are a little stronger. " He said his goodbyes and left the way he came.

"See, I lived and Rick will rot in prison. No curse, just justice." I reach out with the good sided arm pushed some errant hairs behind her ear.

"I was so scared when they called. They wanted a relative and I didn't know anyone to call." She was shaking a bit. "I thought you might die and I couldn't do anything about it." I curled my arm around her and pulled her closer. It hurt like hell but, I didn't make a sound. "You know I love you, right?" I was surprised to hear her say it. We both knew this was short term no matter what.

"Yes, no..I wasn't sure. I only knew I loved you." She leaned in and kissed me hard. That didn't hurt at all.

"I was so afraid you would die not knowing." She snuggled closer. "I mean dead was bad enough but, not letting you know seemed so much worse." She kissed me again. "God, I'm glad you didn't die." She grabbed me and pulled me closer which hurt like hell. I, again, didn't make a sound.

The nurse came in and kicked Natty out. Visiting hours were over. She gave me shot in my side which relieved the bulk of the pain and I was able to sleep again.

Natty spent the next three days at the hospital just talking with me. She did her homework with me and I was surprised at her progress. For someone who couldn't read a lick a week ago, she knocking off childrens books with little pain. The techniques that Dr. Palmer taught her were a little strange but, they seemed to work miracles with Natty. I was pretty damn proud of her.

Tuesday was a sad day. Natty told me she had found an apartment and Dr. Palmer had found her a job.I guess those two got closer than I thought. I was happy for her but, sad for me. I knew she needed to move on. I was selfish to think I could give her what she needed. I, of course, voiced none of my dismay. She said she would see me home on Friday when I was supposed to be released. I had to spend my last days with her in this damn hospital. My side still ached like I had pulled some muscles. The shooting pain was gone like Dr. Bounder said it would but, I couldn't truly be with Natty again. I would just have to be satisfied with her fully clothed which was better than not having her at all. I should have killed Rick. It would have made it more worth while.

On Wednesday, Dr. Palmer came around in the morning and said there would be some final xrays and blood tests on Thursday and if all came up negative as expected, I would be released Friday morning. He then removed a vial and syringe from his coat. "This will just remove that tightness you're feeling in your side. I don't recommend you move around a lot but, I was assured that wouldn't be necessary." He gave me a smile and a wink as he stuck me. I wasn't sure what he meant but, he saved my life so I trusted his judgement. "You have one hour Ms. Raspsin." He left the room and Natty entered. I heard the door lock.

Natty moved to the window smiling and closed the drapes. I was beginning to understand what was about to happen and feared for my stitches. She moved to the side of the bed and slowly removed her shirt. Her perfect braless breasts softly pointed directly at me. "Dr. Bounder believes that the attention of loved ones is important in one's recovery." She grabbed my hand and pulled it to her chest and I tenderly massaged her mounds.

"I do like that doctor." I said lustfully. I started to move my sore sided arm over to join the other and Natty pushed it back to the bed.

"No you don't. I promised the good doctor you wouldn't get to energetic." She leaned in and gave me a passionate kiss and ran her hand under the sheets down my good side. "You tasted me and now I get to taste you." My cock pulsed at her words. Her mouth replaced her hand and she slowly kissed her way down my torso. "I wonder if you'll enjoy it as much as I did." She flashed me a smiled and continued her descent. I now had a full fledged tent. God, can this girl get me going. She smiled at my obvious erection. "I think you like the idea." I didn't say a word. I was afraid to break the spell.

She pulled the sheet and exposed my manhood. I was rock hard, as much from her words as her descending kisses. She leaned over the bed and lightly scraped her nipples on my side and stomach as she kissed the crown. My dick twitched involuntarily and she giggled and kissed it again just to see reaction again. It performed as expected. She brought her knee up on the edge of the bed to give her more leverage and began to lovingly lick the head. My cock was twitching all over at the tickling sensation. She reached up and tenderly grasped the shaft to steady it and the licks became more solid, warm and wet. I moaned but, never let my eyes leave the erotic sight.

She looked back into my eyes and smiled. She returned and engulfed the head of my hardon and I felt her tongue start to make love to it. My hips started to strain a bit but, I didn't feel the dull pain I expected. Thanks Doc. Natty removed her mouth and let go of my cock. I sighed in disappointment. She climbed upon the bed and maneuvered to my feet. "I want to see you cum." My dick leaped at the words. She lowered her mouth back to my erection while looking directly into my eyes. I groaned trying to hold off. Her tongue was now massaging the underside of my cock causing me all sorts of control issues. It felt incredible.

She lifted her mouth again. "You taste delicious." she smiled and gave the head another lick. "I wonder if I can swallow it all?" My hips felt the strain even before she dropped her mouth back over my crown. Her lips dropped down and half my cock disappeared into her mouth. It was so wet, so warm and incredibly wonderful. She was still looking in my eyes as she raised back up and then plunged back down until three quarters were buried in her heavenly mouth.

"Oh God." I moaned as I sensed my impending climax. She held me there and I knew she had me at her limit. I felt the resistance at her throat. I couldn't believe how sexy she looked as she looked at me. My thighs were beginning to shake. Her eyes began to water as I felt the resistance suddenly give way and the rest of my cock disappeared down her throat. "Shitttt." That was it for me, I couldn't last with girl if I wanted to. The first spasm shot right down her throat and she pulled back up and massaged the rest of the them out with her lips. I kept cumming as more spasms emanated from my groin. Her eyes never left mine as I saw her swallow which generated another spasm. I wanted to reach down and pull her up to me but, I couldn't. She was and always would be my angel. God, I didn't deserve her.

My cock finally began to relax. She was still making love to it with her mouth, just a bit more tenderly. She removed her mouth and smiled up to me. She gave the head a couple of tender kisses and began to crawl up the good side of my body and laid next to me in the bed. I pulled her head close and kissed her deeply. I tasted some of myself but, the kiss was more important than any moral objection. "That was simply incredible. " I said looking into her eyes.

"I had never went all the way down before. Talk about freaky fun." She was happy again. She really loved sex. That made the experience so much better. I was going to miss that. "Dr. Bounder said I couldn't screw you so I did the next best thing."

"You talked with the Doctor about this?" I was smiling wondering how far she would go.

"Yep, and he okayed oral sex. He said the shot would dull any small pains that you might experience." I got a prescription for a blowjob. I really liked this doctor. "He told me you wouldn't be ready for sex for another week or so. I got him to compromise." Natty was proud of herself. I was a big fan of her efforts.

"I am going to miss you Natty." I needed to say it. I wanted her to know that I cherished our time together.

"I'll miss you too. More than you will ever know." She said as she hugged me close.

"You do know that if you ever need anything. You can call me anytime." She gave me a silly smile.

"I'm not leaving the planet Tom. We'll stay in touch. Just no more naked time for you horny boy." She jabbed me in my good side. I laughed at my stupidity. I didn't realize that she could just turn off that portion of our lives and continue as friends. I didn't think it was possible but, with Natty it made sense.

"God I love you." I meant it with all my heart.

"Ditto old man." She smiled as we cuddled for the last time.

She brought me home on Friday as promised. A clean and newly painted house. She was an excellent painting maid. I settled up with her and hoped it was enough to give her a good start. We had already said everything that needed saying on Wednesday so a received a little peck on my cheek when she left the house for good. God, I'll miss that girl. My house was empty again.

The damn doorbell rang at five PM. I was still a bit sore and getting up off the couch cost me a few groans. I wobbled over to the door and tried not to look angry when I opened it. Standing on my porch in jeans and a t-shirt was Julie with a serious look on her face and her hands clasped behind her back. I was shocked and I completely ignored the obvious question of how she knew where I lived.

"Oh shit!" I said out loud as I remembered. "Julie... I am so sorry. Look I know you may not believe this but, I was in the hospital. There was a situ.." She threw me off by giving me a big smile and I realized she wasn't pissed. "But you know this already." I surmised.

"Natty dropped by last night to keep your date. She told me everything." Thank you Natty and I hope you didn't really didn't tell her everything. Julie looked at me kind of funny. "Can I come in." Damn, where were my manners.

"Of course." I smiled. "Please, I am happy you came by." I wobbled over to the side to let her enter. She pulled a big bag from behind her.

"I brought some dinner if you're hungry. I understand you like pulled pork." She smiled.

"I am REALLY happy you came by." I exaggerated the greeting. I noticed the jeans showed off her curves more than her uniform. She really was a good looking woman. I put some plates down on the counter and Julie filled them pork and all the fixings. I got to know her during that meal. She was married once and it didn't take. She wasn't currently dating anyone and had no kids. Her father passed away a few years ago and her mother is in home up north. I learned more about her in thirty minutes than I knew about people I had known my whole life. Listening is definitely a great skill. We cleaned up the dishes and retired to the couch.

"Do you love Natty?" I was a little unprepared for a question like that coming from Julie. I just knew lying would be the beginning of the end.

"Yes." I figured the short truth would be more digestible than an elaborate answer.

"She told me everything you did for her. I know she loves you too." Julie paused for second. " I'm getting too old to beat around the bush so I will just be direct. Do you plan to be intimate with her again?" She was looking at my eyes. I guess she was trying suck the truth out of them.

"No." I smiled "She is a lovely girl who deserves a wonderful future with someone her own age." Julie shifted down the couch and placed a hand behind my head and surprised me with a passionate kiss. It was soft and inviting and carried the promise of so much more. I returned the kiss with equal passion.

"When Natty told me everything, I wasn't sure what to do. Then I decided we obviously like each other and I didn't want to throw that away for some stupid jealousy that I didn't have the right to feel in the first place." I was sure Natty didn't tell her everything. "You're obviously a good man and I want to give us a chance if you would like to."

"I would love that, Julie." I stroked her hair as I admired her blue eyes. Julie smiled and kissed me again. Natty must have worked her magic to get Julie over here. She didn't want me to be alone again. God, I loved that girl. I had a strong feeling I was also going to love Julie in time.

"Now, Natty said I have to wait a week but, I'm kind of interested in that heaven and hell thing." Julie's smile shifted to mischevious. Shit, Natty told her everything!