“Let’s drive to Sandpoint after dinner and see a movie.” Ashley suggested to them.
“Why so you and Mike can spend the entire movie making out like last time.” Mandy complained. She didn’t have a boyfriend yet, she was too shy around boys. They made her nervous.

“How about it Mindy, do you want to go?” Ashley said ignoring her sister’s remarks.

“Sure.” Mindy said remembering the kisses she’d shared with Colby.

“Fine I’ll go.” Mandy muttered not wanting to be left out.

“I’ll go get something to eat and change.” Mindy told them walking away.

“Come on Mandy, let’s go talk Dad into letting us take the car.” Ashley said as they headed to the cabin their Grampa owned. If you could call it a cabin, it was really a two story white frame house. Trimmed with green shutters. It contained four bedrooms, Three upstairs and one on the first floor. There was also a large kitchen and living room, with a huge stone fireplace. The furniture was old but in good condition. The furniture had come from their grandparent’s house when her Grandma had bought new stuff. There was a large green sofa and matching love seat. Two oak end tables located on both ends of the sofa. An oak coffee table covered with magazines and several interior design books. There was an overstuffed cream colored chair and ottoman. A large oak Entertainment center took up most of one wall. Their was a 37 inch tv, vcr,dvd, stereo, and surround sound system. All of which, had been chosen by their grandsons. The kitchen was done in a sky blue color, with white tile counters, The cupboards were also white, a large ceramic pig decorated one counter, a gift from their, granddaughters’. The kitchen had all the modern connivances. A fridge, and freezer, microwave, coffee maker, stove. There was a sliding door leading out to a huge deck with a view of the lake below. This was where the family spent most of their time in the evenings. There was a large barbecue pit built into the deck. A long wood picnic, table. A round umbrella table with chairs decorated with green and white stripes. Coming into the lake house Ashley and Mandy found their father sitting in the cream colored chair, watching tv. “Dad, we need your car keys.” Ashley told him coming to stand by his chair with Mandy .

“Why?” Robert Morgan asked sparing them a glance, but his attention still on the tv. Robert was a big man, standing at 6”4 with broad shoulders. He had dark hair, and even darker eyes. There was just a touch of gray in his hair. His skin was tanned from hours spent in the sun on his boat. He was lean carrying no extra wait on his frame. An avid sportsman, he hunted and fished. He also golfed eighteen holes once a week when the weather allowed. He was a successful attorney, with his own law firm. He’d been disappointed that only one of his sons had chosen to follow in his footsteps. Doug had chosen to be a family doctor, which had made his wife happy. So he guessed that was alright, but Colby’s decision to become a medical examiner, now that was just a waste in his opinion. Sure his son would still be considered a doctor. But why in the hell would anyone choose to spend their days cutting up bodies. Something wasn’t right with that boy. He’d always been a little odd. There was the way he seemed to know things before they happened, that was unnerving. He had tried to reason with the boy, but it hadn’t done any good.

“We want to drive in to Sandpoint, and see a movie after dinner.” Ashley asked moving to block his view of the TV.

“Move, I can’t see. Did you ask your mother?” He asked impatiently trying to see around his daughter.

“Yes.” Ashley lied smoothly still blocking his view of the tv.

“Fine, take the car.” Robert muttered digging his car keys out of his pocket. “You be back by eleven.” He ordered before giving her the keys.

“Okay Daddy.” Ashley replied sweetly. “Will need some money?” She said taking the keys from him.

“Of course, I should have known.” Robert muttered reaching for his wallet. He handed her a hundred dollar bill. “Fill the car up with gas, and I want change.”

“Sure Daddy.” Ashley said taking the money.

“Ashley, Mandy, come in here.” Their mother called from the kitchen. The girls headed to the kitchen with a groan. They found her setting food out for dinner. Laura Morgan was a tall slender woman, with shoulder length blonde hair that she kept dyed. She had deep blue eyes. Her face showed only a few small wrinkles which she kept concealed with make up. Laura was meticulous about her appearance. Even after making dinner there wasn’t a spot on her. Not for the first time the girls wondered how she managed to cook without messing up her appearance in the slightest way. They had never seen their mom with even a hair out of place. Even though they were at the lake, Laura was dressed in nice gray slacks and a white silk top. She’d never in her life worn a pair of jeans or sweats. She also wore a pearl necklace and earrings, and a cold watch that’s face was circled in diamonds. She ate healthy and exercised daily to keep her trim figure. She kept a clean and orderly household. Colby had inherited her need for order. “You girls can go set the tables for dinner.” Laura instructed them indicating the plates and silverware she had set out. The girls dutifully picked up the plates and headed out to the deck to set the table. They were careful to set the plates and silverware up properly. They had been schooled from an early age in proper etiquette. When they were done they headed off to change and clean up before dinner.

After dinner Ashley and Mandy hopped into the car. They stopped to pick Mindy up at the cabin Mindy’s Dad had rented. Mindy had changed into tight black jeans and a red top. She wore back high heeled boots and carried a black handbag. She had applied make up but wore her hair loose about her shroulders. Ashley was also dressed in a pair of blue designer jeans, with a black top that bared her midrift. Her long Black hair was pulled back at the sides, but fell loose down her back. She wore a pair of sneakers. Mandy was dressed in blue designer jeans as well. She had on a blue top that she tucked into her jeans, and a pair of black leather low heeled shoes. They headed to Sandpoint, where Ashley met up with her boyfriend Mike. They walked around the mall, looking at clothes. They went to see an action movie with

Tom Conners in it, which was weird for Mindy since she had been on the set of the movie when Tom was shooting it. Ashely spent the whole movie making out with Mike. Mandy and Mindy tried to ignore them. They headed back to the lake after the movie, since the girls had to be back by eleven or face their Dad’s temper. Mindy was staying on her boat and didn’t have a curfew. Which Ashley and Mandy thought was so unfair. Mindy got back to her boat a little after 11pm that night. She laid in the bed reading another romance novel, before turning the lights off finally at midnight. She listened to the water gently lapping against the bow of her boat. She couldn’t sleep, Ashley had invited her to go boating with them the next day. Mindy had planned to avoid, Colby as much as possible. Being on a boat with him would make that impossible. She had tried to get out of going, which had set off Ashley’s radar. She had wanted to know why Mindy wouldn’t want to go with them. After all Colby was going to be going. And she and Colby were good friends, weren’t they? Realizing she couldn’t admit she wanted to avoid their brother Mindy had been trapped. So she had agreed to go out with them in the morning. It was going to be a long day! Mindy jerked awake to the sound of someone jumping onto her boat.

“Mindy are you awake.” Mandy said tapping on the door. Mindy groaned looking at her watch, it wasn’t even seven yet. Didn’t they ever sleep? “ I’m getting up.” She called sitting up. She could see by the light coming through the hatch on the bow. Pulling out clean jeans and a sweat shirt, she quickly got dressed. She brushed her hair and pulled it back into a ponytail. Opening the door to the bow, she saw that Mandy and Ashley were sitting in chairs on her boat. “Morning.” She greeted grabbing a pair of sneakers off the floor. She found a pair of clean socks in her bag.

“Don’t you guys ever sleep in.” Mindy mumbled climbing the stairs and coming out onto the deck. She sat down to pull her shoes on.

“This isn’t early.” Ashley told her. “Dad and Grandpa went out on the boat at five, now that’s early!”

“Come on, were going to miss breakfast.” Mandy complained hopping out of the boat onto the dock.

“When exactly did I sign on for breakfast?” Mindy grumbled standing up.

“Colby’s right you’re a grump first thing in the morning.” Ashley informed her hopping onto the dock.
“What? When did he say that?” Mindy asked hopping out of the boat to follow them. Ignoring her they hurried along the dock. They had to walk through the parking lot and then turn to go up a steep road to where the lake house, sat on a ridge. They found everyone gathering on the deck for breakfast. Everyone included Colby’s grandparents, George and Elizabeth Morgan.,his Uncles James, and John Morgan, their wives, Emily and Susan, and their perspective children. James and Emily had three children, Matt who was studying law at Stanford in California, Caroline, who was a student at University of Washington. A blow, to her parents, that were former WSU Alumni. She was accompanied by her financee’, Jason,

another lawyer. Next came Abigail, or Abby for short. She was thirteen and in junior high. John and Susan had two girls, Christina ten, and Melissa eight. John had married in his early forties, and was also a lawyer. It was hard to keep track of Colby’s large, and very catholic family. The women being more devout then their husbands, who were pretty laid back about religion for the most part. Although, you
didn’t mention, the word abortion, without starting a huge debate with the family. Mindy kept her head down among the older adults. She grabbed a plate to serve herself from the buffet that had been set up on the deck. Everyone knew her and greeted her warmly. “Well it’s not everyday that we get a celebrity.” Colby’s Dad said in greeting. He liked Mindy, because she loved to debate him. He was Republican, she was for the democrats. “Where’s Colby?” His Dad asked of everyone.
“Colby and Matt aren’t here yet.” His wife answered.
“Well they’d better get here soon, the boat leaves at eight with or without them.” He pointed out looking at his watch.
Mindy took a seat on a chair, and started eating. She’d only taken a couple bites when she heard “Hi Teri, Colby’s not here yet.” Colby’s mom greeted warmly. “He’ll be so excited to see you.” Mindy nearly choked. Well there goes my appetite. She managed to force the rest of her food down. It would have been rude to throw the food out. Teri wasn’t happy to see her either, given the glare she had shot her way. When she was done she took her plate to the kitchen, where Teri was busy kissing Colby’s Mom’s, and Grandma’s asses. She set the plate down next to the sink. And headed back outside intending to go back down to the dock to wait. “Don’t you have a family of your own?” Teri asked grabbing her arm.

“Ashley and Mandy invited me.” Mindy answered calmly, feeling anything but calm. And then the little hairs were going up on her neck. Oh no, she thought, he’s here.

“What’s going on?” Came the deep familiar voice that sent an ache of awareness through her.

“Nothing, I didn’t know you were here.” Teri said releasing her arm.

“Colby!” Mandy said jumping on her brother, who was nearly knocked to the floor. Mindy smiled at Mandy’s enthusiasm. “I missed you.” Mandy told him.

“I can see that. Can you let go? I can’t breath.” Colby said smiling down at her.

“Hey Mindy.” He said greeting her as he pushed his little sister to the side.

“Hi.” Mindy replied surprised that she could even speak her throat was so dry.

“Come on you two; let’s go down to the dock for a while.” Ashley said, grabbing Mindy, and Mandy’s arms.

“Sure.” Mindy answered relieved to have an excuse to get away from Colby. The three girls headed down to the dock. Mindy climbed a board her boat to change into her bikini. She then pulled a pair of black jean shorts over her bikini bottoms. She grabbed a white windbreaker and zipped it up over her bikini top. She then changed into a pair of water socks. She put her mirrored sun glasses on, and grabbed her beach bag. That contained a towel and sunscreen, as well as a book to read. She then locked the cabin and climbed from her boat. She caught up with Ashley and Mandy on the dock by their Dad’s cabin cruiser.
“Where is everybody?” Mandy complained.

The next day Colby drove Mindy to the airport. Both were relieved she was going. Even though they knew they would miss each other. For now, they both felt distance was the best remedy for their current problems. Reaching the boarding gate she turned to say goodbye.
“Well I guess this is it.” She said looking up at him. She expected a friendly hug like always. She ended up getting way more. Colby leaned over and kissed her. And it wasn't a simple brushing of lips. It was a lengthy meeting of mouths and tongues. She completely forgot about the fact that other people were around them. As she looped her arms around his necks. The kiss seemed to last forever, and then he was pulling back leaving her dazed.

“I’ll see you Fourth of July weekend.” He said getting a hold of himself. He stared at her for a moment, before turning to leave. Mindy watched him disappear into the crowd. She just stood there in a daze; finally she was able to move. She turned and boarded the plane. She spent the entire flight dreamily reliving that last kiss. Her flight landed in Spokane, and her Grandma was there to meet her. She absently answered her grandma’s questions, all the while wondering about Colby.

Chapter Three

Time seemed to fly once Mindy arrived home. She was kept busy during the day helping her Dad get ready for harvest. Her days were spent washing and servicing trucks. Her evenings were spent working on her latest manuscript. Her experiences with Colby had taken her writing to a whole new level. She worked late into the night, writing about a teenage girl who finds love. Still she was unable to move beyond doing an adolescent love story. She was still a virgin, and there was still much she had yet to experience. Which was frustrating, for her. She had several ideas for mature scripts. But the love scenes were devoid of intensity. She knew the mechanics of things. But she couldn't’ capture the feelings involved, which left her scripts empty and shallow. She needed more experience; she needed to lose her virginity, which presented a huge problem for her. She needed to find someone willing to do it. But she didn’t have a boyfriend. She had discounted Colby early on. Even considering the things that had taken place on her last trip she knew that he

would never be willing to go all the way with her. Left up to him she would be waiting until she was eighteen. And her career couldn’t wait that long. She had earned a name with her Disney films, but she needed to make the transition away from kid’s stuff. She had, several male friends, there was Todd. He was her age, and cute. But she didn’t see Todd like that, which was a problem. And she wasn’t the type to just go out and sleep with someone she hardly knew. If only Colby wasn’t so stubborn about things like this. It wasn’t like she would ever tell anyone. She had told no one about the incidents this past trip. Of course who would have believed her anyway? She didn’t believe it herself and she’d been there. She couldn’t believe that he could actually want her. After all he had a gorgeous girlfriend, even if she was a bitch. Not that what had happened hadn’t been a dream come true for Mindy. But it had stirred up a confusing mix of feelings, along with her hormones. She was horny; she’d never masturbated so much in her life. Her body ached for something she didn’t fully understand. She didn’t have a whole lot of time to dwell on all of this thankfully. She had made another quick trip to California in early June. Colby had graduated receiving two masters degrees. She had flown down to attend the ceremony. She had stayed at Tom’s, since Colby’s house was full of family. She hadn’t gotten to spend anytime alone with him. And Teri had been there throwing a damper on the whole experience. June sped by and before she knew it, she was getting ready to attend the annual Farmer’s Festival with friends and family. The

Farmer’s Festival was a gathering of Lacrosse citizens for a large picnic held in the Town Park. Tables and chairs were set up the day before the event. Family groups and neighbors gathered around tables in different sections of the park. Mindy’s family gathered their neighbors from neighboring farms in their area. It was a big event, with a parade down Main Street. There was a costume contest for the little kids. Every year a different theme was selected. And whomever had the best costume won a cash prize. There were other contests as well. While the old people gathered around tables in the park to visit, the kids ran wild on the park playground. And area teens walked around town with their friends. Mindy was in the parade again this year. She got to ride down Main Street in the back of a convertible driven by her cousin Randy. She was considered a local celebrity because of the films she had written for Disney. It had been a big deal when she was thirteen, and had sold her first script. But now it was more of a drag. She’d spend the day answering questions from people. She looked forward to the following weekend when she would be camping up at lake Ponderay. She would get to see Colby who was coming up for the fourth of July. He was only spending one night though; he would have to return to California on the fifth. She couldn’t wait to get up to the lake. She had used some of the money she had earned selling her scripts to buy a boat. It wasn’t a real big boat, but it had a bed in the bow for sleeping, and a port a potty, so she would be able to sleep on the lake. Her Dad had rented a cabin

at the Hudson Bay resort. Her grandparents had not been happy about her blowing all that money on a boat. They felt she should spend it on getting a car and paying for college. She hadn’t told them she didn’t intend to go to college. She was already doing what she wanted to do with her life, and making good money. Her Dad was an impulse buyer, and so it hadn’t been hard to talk him into letting her buy a boat. Her parents had owned a Bayliner cabin cruiser at one time, but it had been sold in the divorce. A move that had broken Mindy’s heart. She had loved that old boat. So her Dad had gone boat shopping for her, he was thinking a small ski boat. But she had fallen in love with a bigger boat, one that she could sleep on. She’d had a huge debate with her Dad in front of a very uncomfortable salesman. In the end she’d told the salesman she would bring a bank draft for the full amount of the boat if he would just give her a total. “It’s your money.” Her Dad had muttered not really mad. She had always been able to get her own way in things. Besides she knew her Dad looked forward to cruising the lake in the new boat. She had purchased the boat a few days after returning from California. She’d spent a little over forty thousand dollars on it. But she still had plenty of money. She had a little over fifty thousand left in her saving account. And she would be done with her latest script soon. She only hoped Disney would buy it. Her latest script was entitled Through the Gates Of Heaven. It was about a girl and her St. Bernard. But it also had a developing love story. She didn’t intend to sell this one as an animated future; she wanted to move away from those.

“Hey Mindy!” She turned to see who had called out to her. She had been walking along Main Street; which was crowded with people waiting for the parade. She smiled when she saw that it was Todd.
“Hey Todd, what’s up?” she asked him as he caught up.
“Not much, aren’t you in the parade?” Todd asked putting a friendly arm around her.
“Yes, I was just headed in that direction.” She answered looking up at him.
“You better hurry the parade starts anytime now.” Todd said dragging her through the crowd toward the starting point.
“Slow down, I’m not at the head of this parade.” She exclaimed tugging on his arm.
“So did you sell another script while you were in L.A?” Todd asked slowing down a bit.
“I think so, I just have to put some final touches on it.” She answered as they walked . She had always loved Todd, who could be an arrogant jerk, and was really full of himself. But she loved him like a friend. He’d never made her feel the way Colby had. Of course, she had never done anything with Todd either. Maybe she would kiss Todd and see what happened. He was bound to be much more willing to go all the way then Colby ever would be. She just wished she could get Colby out of her thoughts. Randy was leaning on his car waiting for her. “Cutting it close aren’t you?” Randy asked her opening the door for her to get in.
I’ll see ya later.” Todd said before walking off.

“See ya.” She called after him. And so she did her little stint down the street. Waving to the crowd, and throwing candy to the little kids. She knew that the high school kids would be getting together somewhere for a party. She’d find Todd later, he’d know the where abouts of any parties. And as long as she didn’t get caught she’d be fine. The county sheriff’s department rarely came into their little town, unless there was trouble. Not that they were any help during times of trouble, just the opposite. On one occasion the bank alarm had gone off, the sheriff deputies had arrived and used the bank manager as a shield when they entered the bank. Everyone knew that if you got in trouble you called your neighbors for help first, then you called the Sherriff. At any rate she looked forward to going to a party.
It seemed like the week had dragged unbearably, but finally they had arrived at the lake. Her Dad was busy backing her boat down the boat launch ramp. Mindy had a hold of the rope so the boat wouldn’t drift away. She had already made up a bed in the bow of the boat. She had laid out thick sleeping bags that would keep her warm. It got cold on the lake even in the summer. Lake Ponderay didn’t ever get that warm, it was one of the deepest lakes in the world, so deep that the navy tested submarines in the lake. The water was cold, requiring a wet suit if you planned to be in the water for more then a quick dip. The Lake was surrounded by mountains. It was a great lake for fishing, and for seeing mountain goats. Once the boat was in the water they tied it to the dock, while her Dad went to park his truck. When her Dad

returned he drove the boat over too a boat slip, where they tied it up. They, then headed, back to the truck climbing in. Her Dad drove up to the cabin he had rented for the week. It was a small, one bedroom cabin, with a small living room and kitchen. The sofa had a pull out bed, where her younger brother would sleep. Mindy was the oldest of three kids. She had a younger sister Karen, and her brother Caleb. Her sister, was at home with their Mom, she didn’t like camping. Her brother was nine, and loved to fish. Karen was 11 years old, and a city girl through and through. They quickly helped their Dad unload the truck, and then Mindy put all the food away in the kitchen. The small kitchen contained the bare basics, a refrigerator, stove, and several small cupboards for storage. There was also a small kitchen table next to the window. The windows in the living room overlooked the lake. The cabin sat in a row of cabins along a ledge overlooking the lake. The living room contained sparse furniture, an old brown pull out couch, a couple of end tables with lamps. A Small table with chairs, the tiny bathroom contained only a toilet. Showers were located in another building. The cabin had didn’t have a TV or telephone. Although there was a stand for those who brought a tv of their own, like her Dad. “Come on Dad, let’s take the boat out.” Mindy urged impatiently. Her Dad finally got up from the couch he was resting on. Leaving the truck they walked down the hill to the dock, her Dad stopped in the store located on the docks. They all went inside to pick out some snacks. Her Dad visited with Gary, one of the owners. He had known Gary all his life. He’d been coming up to Ponderay since he was a boy. Gary’s Dad owned

and operated the resort. His name was Jim, and he resembled a giant. He was at least 6”6, and nearly as broad in the shoulders as a door, and as strong as an ox. Gary and her dad had spent years trying to throw him off the docks. But every attempt had sent them flying through the air into the lake. Mindy loved to pester Jim, and had been tossed into the lake more then once. Gary was busy filling her Dad in on the best places to fish on the lake. “Did you see my new boat?” Mindy asked proudly while Gary added up their purchases to put on her Dad’s tab.
“Your boat?” He questioned as he added the total onto her Dad’s tab.
“Yup, I just bought it a couple of weeks ago. Used the money I made selling my scripts.” She answered watching Gary bag their purchases.
“So how many movie scripts have you sold now?” Gary asked handing them their purchases.
“Five, and I’m nearly finished with another one.” She said taking one of the bags. “See ya later Gary.” She said hurrying to the door and bumping into Jim who had come in from the docks. “Hi Jim, come see my new boat.” She gabbed his arm with her spare hand, and led him down the dock to her boat. “What do you think?” She said releasing his hand to climb a board.
“Nice, writing movies must pay well.” Jim replied admiring the boat. “ Russell, how’s the farm doing?” He asked turning to her dad as he approached with Gary.
“Not too bad, looks to be a good crop this year if the weather holds.” Her Dad replied, handing the bags to Mindy. Daniel hopped into the boat and took a seat.

“Are the Morgan’s up here yet?” Mindy asked them taking a seat in the boat. The door leading to the small cabin in the bow was closed. She opened it to set the bags inside on the bed.
“Yup, Mandy was down hassling me early this morning. Their out on the lake with their new cabin cruiser.” Gary answered turning to go. “I’ll see you guys later.”
“Come on Dad.” She said impatiently.
“I’m coming.” He reached down to untie the boat. Jim went around to untie the other side. Her Dad climbed into the boat, as Jim pushed it back with his foot, the boated drifted backwards. Her Dad started the engine, putting it in reverse he slowly backed the boat out. Before turning, once clear of the dock he put it in drive and they glided slowly out of the marina. Mindy sat on the back of the passenger seat so she could see over the windshield. She liked the feel of the air through her hair. Once they cleared the outer markers. He pushed the throttle forward and the boat sped up its bow coming up out of the water. She smiled enjoying the feel of the wind on her face. It was a perfect day for boating, the water was calm making for a smooth ride. Her Dad headed the boat toward a cove where Gary said the fish were biting pretty good. It was late in the day, so the fish probably wouldn’t be biting but they’d give it a shot. If they didn’t have any luck, they’d get the water skiis out. They fished for about an hour and then gave up, nothing was biting. Daniel and Mindy took turns changing into their bathing suit in the small cabin compartment. They also pulled on wet suits that reached to their knees. The suits would help keep

them warm in the cold water. Mindy buckled a life jacket on before diving into the cold water from the back of the boat. Her Dad tossed the skis into the water, and she pulled them on. He then tossed her the ski rope, before slowly pulling the boat forward until the slack was taken out of the rope. She waved letting them know she was ready. The boat shot forward pulling her up onto her skis. She loved water skiing. It was a beautiful day to be on the water. They spent another couple hours on the lake before going in. Mindy was very pleased with her boat.
They spent the next couple days, fishing and skiing. They took several long cruises on the lake, enjoying the scenery. They got to see several mountain goats high up on the cliffs. In the evenings Mindy wandered the docks with Mandy and Ashley Morgan. They were Colby’s younger sisters, and Mindy had become good friends with them. Ashley was seventeen with long black hair. She was tall and slender, with the body of a model. Her breasts were small, but not too small. She had deep blue eyes, surrounded by long thick lashes. Mandy was the same age as Mindy. She had long blonde hair, and blue eyes. She was small in stature, the same height as Mindy. Her body was slender, with small breasts. The two girls were total hellions that drove their parents to distraction. It had gotten worse, since their two older brothers had moved to California. That left only Jeff, and he was too busy being a lawyer and chasing women. Ashley had taken full advantage of her brother’s total lack of attention. She had used his apartment while he was away visiting Doug and Colby. She had told her parents she was at a friend’s house, but

instead she had taken her boyfriend to her brother’s empty apartment. And she had promptly lost her virginity that night. Her boyfriend Mike had been nervous about using her brother’s apartment, but she’d gotten her way. She always got her way. She had been thrilled when Colby moved to California, he had been a definite problem. Her brother was psychic, she’d swear to it. He seemed to always know what she was thinking. She hoped she would be able to hide her lost virginity from him. Mike was three years older then her and would be starting his junior year at Washing State University that fall. He was studying to be an accountant a very boring career in her estimation, but she loved him anyway. They planned to marry as soon as he graduated from college. She was glad Mindy had come up for the fourth. Colby was always more distracted when Mindy was around. She would just avoid him as much as possible. She liked Mindy a lot, and she knew that Mindy was crazy about Colby, which was sad because Colby seemed to view Mindy as a friend and nothing more. He had been going with Teri for several years now. She couldn’t figure out what her brother saw in Teri. I mean sure she had a great body, but she was a selfish bitch. Everything was about her. She hoped her brother wouldn’t marry her, she thought Teri would make him miserable. Mindy was better suited for him, she was pretty Ashley thought. Not a raving beauty, but she did have big breasts, and guys liked that. Mindy was an open and honest friend who truly cared about others. She was also a lot of fun, and willing to try anything once. “Colby’s

suppose to be here in the morning.” He’s flying into Spokane late tonight, and will drive up here tomorrow.” Ashley told her as they walked along the dock. They were all dressed in shorts and tank tops.

“I know.” Mindy answered her absently. She wondered what would happen when Colby arrived. She had never been nervous about seeing him before. Teri was at the lake with her folks waiting for Colby as well. Doug had already arrived with his wife Monica the day before. Mindy didn’t plan to spend much time around Colby, she really didn’t want to see him with Teri. She’d always been fine with Teri before. But everything had changed and now what had once been a dull ache was a stabbing pain. She had wanted to scratch Teri’s eyes out at Colby’s graduation, which was stupid, after all Teri was his girlfriend. Besides she took comfort in the fact that Colby had cheated on Teri with her. Colby’s brother Jeff was in a rotten mood, Amber had broken it off with him. She wasn’t surprised; she knew Amber had been unhappy for a while. For all his good looks Amber said he was lousy in bed. And she’d gotten tired of Jeff’s slam bam thank you ma’am bouts in bed. She wanted intimacy and more foreplay. Amber was taking the break up much better then Jeff. She had indicated on the phone that she was involved with someone else. But Mindy had been unable to discover whom.

She’s avoiding me Colby thought. He hadn’t seen her in three days. Between classes and work he was only home about five hours a day, and Mindy made sure she was out of the house while he was there. He missed her and he hated what had become of their friendship. She was leaving on Saturday to go home. He wondered

if he would get to see her before she left. They were supposed to go to dinner and a movie on Friday night, since that was his night off. But now he wasn’t sure she planned to go with him. He decided he would have to call her and see. Picking up the phone on his desk where he had been working, he dialed her number.
“Hello,” he smiled at the sound of her voice it was so different. She had a deep voice, which was unusual in a woman. But he liked the way it sounded. “Hi it’s me, I wanted to see if were still on for Friday night?”
“Why, are you backing out?” She tried to sound as if it didn’t matter.
“No, but I haven’t seen you lately so I wanted to make sure that was still the plan.” Colby assured her.
“That’s still the plan.” Mindy replied after a moment of consideration. She’d never been reluctant to see him before, but things had changed. Still she missed him, and wanted to see him.
On Friday night Mindy met Colby at his house at five o’clock. They left his house and headed to dinner. Colby had made reservations at Gino’s, a fine Italian restaurant that Mindy had discovered. It was her favorite restaurant. Gino adored her and she always got star treatment at the restaurant. For his part Gino owed Mindy a lot. Mindy had fallen in love with the restaurant and brought all her friends to it. And of course she had brought her good friend Tom Conner and his wife to Geno’s. Tom was a big star, with lots of movie star friends. And he had told all those friends about Geno’s. So over night Geno’s had become a celebrity hot

spot. His tables were booked every night of the week. People made reservations months in advance. The waiting list to get a reservation was long and distinguished. But Mindy had her own table and could get in to eat anytime. Geno kept her table in storage, and rolled it out whenever she or Colby called. For her part Mindy didn’t think she had done anything that deserved the fuss she got at Geno’s. All she had done was bring Tom and Nic in to eat, because the food was great. It was Tom that had brought in all the stars. Having her own table would have been enough, but she also had her own tab. And Geno insisted on charging her the original menu prices. He had raised his prices considerably when he became a celebrity hot spot. And Mindy had a fight every time she went to pay off her monthly tab. Because Geno would gladly give her meals free of charge. But she insisted on paying her tab. And she had learned to pay in cash, since Geno would conveniently not cash her checks. And she kept her own records, because Geno would forget to add items to her tab. As a result she usually paid the hostess when Geno was in back. Geno’s was packed when they arrived for their six o’clock reservation. But her table was set and ready and they were seated immediately. Mindy’s table was located in a back corner, which had been her choice. She could have had a center location, but she preferred the back, which afforded her a view of the whole restaurant. It also gave her an opportunity to greet many of the celebrities already seated. Mindy spoke to everyone, whether she knew him or her well or not. They all knew she was a close friend of Tom’s, and that she was a writer. She had the kind of personality that drew people. And anyone, who met her, always remembered her. She left a lasting impression. It took them twenty minutes to cross the room to their table. But Colby was used to her parades through Geno’s and he waited patiently, while she talked to various people. He was introduced to everyone she talked to, but stayed quietly in the background. This was her realm, where she shone the brightest. When they finally made it to their table, Geno was waiting to take their orders. Colby looked at the menu, but she studied the room. She had a favorite that she always ordered. There were some big names in the room tonight. Several Producers and a couple big movie execs. She was most interested in the movie executives; she needed some contacts inside the many movie studios. Knowing Geno he would drag her over to their tables to introduce her. He was always doing that. “I’ll have the usual Geno.” Mindy told him handing back the unused menu. “Looks like you’ve got a pretty good crowd in here tonight.”
“There are some big names tonight.” Geno replied proudly. “Some big studio hot shots over there.” He said with a nod of his head toward them.
“I saw that. You’re really pulling them in Geno.”
“Yes, all thenks to you.” Geno replied gratefully.
“I keep telling you I didn’t do anything. I just brought Tom, it was your food that earned his referring all his star friends.” She replied smiling at several celebrities that had come in. “Excuse me, I’m just going to go over and say hello.” Mindy got up and headed over to greet a group of young stars. There was Pam Myers, Will Stokes, Jeff Miller, and Aubrey Miles. They all had new movies out, and promising careers. Mindy had met Will Stokes through Tom. Will Stokes was a very talented

young black actor. He’d gotten his start on a family comedy sitcom, which had led to a movie deal. He’d landed a supporting role in one of Tom’s films. He was an instant hit. At nineteen he had more scripts then he knew what to do with. Pam was also new to movies; she had started out as a model and caught a lucky break. She had been given a bit part in a movie, which had led to other offers. Jeff and Aubrey were new to the scene; they had both had small roles in recent hit movies. But from all accounts, they looked to have promising careers. “Hey girl, what are you doing in this neck of the woods?” Will asked, with a teasing glint in his eyes, before sweeping her into a bear hug.
“Okay, I can’t breath.” Mindy complained, she liked Will he was a real wise ass, but fun to be around.
Will released her and turned to introduce her to his friends. She smiled and greeted each of them, before returning to her table. She found Colby watching her, Geno having taken his order and left. “Sorry.” She said returning to her chair, which a hovering waiter quickly pulled out for her.”
“I’m used to it.” Colby said, watching her sit down and take a sip of the Italian soda in front of her. “Friends of yours?” Colby asked curious about the man who had hugged her.
“Will is, I hadn’t met the others before.” Mindy replied, digging into the basket of fresh bread sticks. She came to the restaurant just for the breadsticks. No one could compete with Geno’s breadsticks; they literally melted in your mouth. Dipping one into the sauce, she savored every bite.
“Where did you meet him?” Colby asked smiling as he watched her plow down a breadstick.
“I met him on the set of Tom’s last movie. He’s a real wise ass.” Mindy answered getting another breadstick from the basket. “So how was work, any interesting cases this week.” Mindy asked before biting into another breadstick.
“A couple tough one’s.” Colby replied taking a breadstick from the basket. He knew from experience that she would eat all of the bread if he didn’t get one pretty quick.
“What happened?” Mindy asked between bites.
Watching her start into her third breadstick he told her about his work week. The corner’s office had gotten a call at 2am and responded to the scene of what appeared to be a drug sell gone wrong. There were four bodies in all in a two-bedroom house. The inside of the house was riddled with bullets. They’d found the first body in the living room, not far from the front door. A black male that looked to be in his twenties had taken three rounds to the chest, and died where he fell onto his back. The second body was discovered in the kitchen laying face down in a pool of blood. Another black male, early twenties, he’d been shot twice in the back at close range. The third victim was found in a back bedroom. The victim a black kid, maybe sixteen was laying face down a crossed the bed, a bullet wound to the head. He was naked, his clothes lying next to the bed. The fourth victim was located in the closet of that same room, a young, white female, maybe fourteen, with a single gunshot to her chest. She had apparently grabbed the sheet off the bed to cover her

naked body when she ran to hide in the closet. The house was riddled with bullet holes. And blood from victims was sprayed a crossed the walls, and soaked into the carpet. Neighbors had reported the sound of gunfire, but the cops were too late. Colby described the whole thing from start to finish. Mindy listened intently while she ate she loved hearing the stories from his work. She felt sorry for the young woman that had been killed. By the time Colby finished his account, they had finished off their breadsticks and salads, and waiters were serving their main course. They ate quietly savoring the food and the comfort of being together for the first time in nearly a week. They kept the conversation light, neither bringing up their recent problems. When their plates had been cleared away, Colby looked over the bill and smiled.
“What?” Mindy asked seeing his smile.
“You’re a cheap date, you don’t eat anything.” Colby answered with a shrug.
“My stuffs not on there is it?” Mindy asked, already knowing the answer.
“I’ll let the waiter know.” Colby said setting his credit card down on the bill. He did point out the mistake to the waiter and was assured that the mistake would be taken care of. But when he brought the receipt back to be signed, Colby noted that nothing had been added.
“He didn’t fix it did he” Mindy asked? At his look, she mentally added the meal onto her tab. Getting up they started to leave.

“Ha I caught you.” Geno said coming up to them. “Mindy I want to introduce you to someone before you leave.” Geno told her steering them toward a table in the center of the room. Oh God! She thought recognizing the older man they were headed towards. Not Sam Martin, anyone but him. Sam was a notorious bastard, and one of the few people Mindy had always avoided. He was a very powerful man, who all but ran the movie scene. But he was known to be a very vengeful person if crossed. Seeing that Sam was their destination Mindy stopped suddenly causing Colby to run into her. She barely noticed being bumped; she was busy searching out an escape route. But it was too late; she realized as Geno started the introductions. “Ah Mr. Martin, I wanted to introduce you to a close friend of mine. This is Mindy Anderson; she’s a writer. She’s written several movies for Disney.” She groaned inwardly, did he have to bring up her being a writer. Stepping forward she shook the politely offered hand.
“Hi, and this is my boyfriend Colby Morgan he’s studying to be a medical examiner.” She literally shoved him toward Sam.
“Nice meeting you.” Sam acknowledged Colby shaking his hand. “It was nice meeting you Miss Anderson, I’ve heard good things about you. Good luck with your studies Mr. Morgan.” And with that they were politely dismissed. Mindy didn’t say another word she got the hell out of there. Colby caught up with her in the parking lot.
“What’s gotten into you?” He asked taking her arm.

“Nothing, I just don’t want to miss the movie.” She replied as they approached his corvette. He didn’t say anything just opened her door for her.
“So why did you nearly shove me onto Mr. Martin’s table.” Colby asked settling behind the wheel and starting the car.
“I wanted to introduce you to him.” She replied messing with the radio and the heater.
“Really?” He asked skeptically.
“What.” She asked innocently settling back in her seat.
“Since when do you throw out the fact that I’m studying to be a medical examiner?” He asked pulling onto the street.
“I was nervous.” She admitted. “Geno, shouldn’t have drug me over to meet him.”
“Why? What’s so big about that guy?” he asked switching lanes.
“He’s the most powerful man in Hollywood. He’s also a cranky old bastard, who enjoys ruining lives.” She replied gazing out the window.
He glanced at her; he had sensed her fear in the restaurant. She was afraid of Sam Martin.
“Sounds like he would make a powerful friend.” He commented turning right.
“He doesn’t have friends.” She commented glancing over at him.
“Maybe he needs one, sounds like an awful lonely lifestyle.” He replied getting onto the freeway.
“Could you read him?” She asked turning toward him.

“Yes.” He said simply. He had never been comfortable with his ability to see into other people’s minds.
“And?” She asked when he didn’t go on.
“He misses his wife; she died of cancer several years ago. He doesn’t have any children, which he regrets. He has a few distant relatives but none that he likes.” He answered reluctantly.
“Wow, I’m surprised you could read him. He must have pretty tough shields.” She was impressed.
“He didn’t have a shield, he feels safe and secure in himself. People like those don’t tend to shield themselves. Insecurity leads to tough shields for protection.” He commented getting off the freeway and slowing down. He made a right and headed down the street to a large mall that contained a movie complex. Finding a parking spot was a hassle on Friday nights. So they ended up walking a ways. Mindy was quiet mulling over what she had learned about Clair Martin. She hadn’t known that he was a widower. Not having close family would suck she thought. Suddenly she couldn’t help feeling sorry for the man. Maybe Colby was right; maybe what Clair Martin needed was a friend. She pushed aside her thoughts on Clair martin as they entered the theater. She had chosen a scary movie, and several times during the show she grabbed Colby’s arm in fright. It was a good movie, as she didn’t scare easily.

Doug and Amber got up to follow her out so she could lock up and set the alarm. Not saying a word Mindy locked up and headed for Amber’s gold Saturn parked in the driveway. Doug didn’t say a word either just got into his Mercedes. Getting into the car Amber turned to look at Mindy. “What was that all about?” Amber asked.
“Colby’s upset because I got into trouble at a party last night.” Mindy answered, which was partly true she thought.
“What happened?” Amber asked, backing her car out of the driveway.
“Some guy slipped a rape drug into my soda.” Mindy answered.
“What?” Amber turned back to her with concern.
“It’s all right, I called Colby and he came and got me.” Mindy assured her.
“Did the guy do something to you.”
“No, Colby found me hiding in a closet, where I had passed out.” Mindy replied.
“Thank god, you could have been raped or molested at the very least.” Amber stated. “You need to be more careful, no wonder Colby’s upset.” Not exactly Mindy thought, but she said nothing more to Amber about it. They enjoyed a fun dinner at TGI Friday, and then decided to stop and see if another friend of Amber’s wanted to go with them to a movie. But instead of going to a movie with them, she wanted to go to a party being thrown by a friend of hers. Amber had decided that since it was a small house party, it would be all right to take Mindy to it. Mindy ended up having three margaritas, and was totally messed up by the time she arrived home early the next morning. It had been an all night party. It was after seven when Mindy crawled into Colby’s house. Closing the door she leaned heavily against it

trying to get her bearings. She needed to get to bed. Then a wicked idea settled in, what if she got undressed and crawled into Colby’s bed. She would get him to make a woman out of her. She was to drunk to think about consequences. She started taking her clothes off right there in the living room. Colby had returned home earlier totally exhausted from a long night spent removing bodies from various crime scenes. He had taken a quick shower and crawled into bed. He was aware that Mindy hadn’t come home last night. She had probably stayed with amber so he wasn’t worried. He had just drifted to sleep when he felt something get on the bed. Probably Brutus he thought too tired to move. He’s so cute Mindy thought settling back onto the pillows next to him. The smell of her perfume drifted to Colby’s noise. Mindy he thought. Turning his head he opened his eyes to find her lying in bed next to him. He groaned, what now he thought? “What are you doing in here?” he asked he was too tired to be nice he thought. “Aren’t you happy to see me.” She asked running a hand down over his chest.
“No.” Colby stated catching her wayward hand. “Go get in your own bed.”
“Don’t you want me?” Mindy asked shifting her body up against his naked body. Her bare breasts brushed up against his naked chest sending a wave of desire through both of them. Christ she’s not wearing any clothes Colby thought wildly. What the hell was going on? And then the smell of tequila caught his attention. “Have you been drinking?” He asked.
“Maybe a little.” She admitted wrapping a leg around his.

“Mindy.” Colby warned. His words were cut off as she put her mouth against his, her tongue slipping into his mouth. Colby was too aroused to keep himself from
responding to her assault on his mouth. He released his hold on her hand intending to push her back. But to his surprise she moved her body completely on top of his. Her legs moved to straddle him, bringing her vagina into contact with his hardened length. Colby gasped breaking the kiss. “Dammit Mindy!” He pushed her off him and shot out of the bed. Closing his eyes he gritted his teeth trying to get control of himself. Mindy just stared at his penis in wonder. It was standing straight and proud. She wanted to touch it again; the tip was dripping she thought. Colby opened his eyes finally to find Mindy sitting up naked on his bed staring at his penis in wonder. Christ he turned around to get a robe from the bathroom.
“You’re no fun Colby.” Mindy pouted, shivering. She laid back in the bed, and pulled the covers up to her chin. She was suddenly very tired and closed her eyes. She didn’t feel very good.
“Mindy.” Colby said shaking her to wake her. Mindy groaned and turned over onto her side.
“Go away, I’m tired.” She mumbled.
“You’re not sleeping in here. Go get in your own bed.” Colby stated irritably pulling the covers off her. He tried not to look at her nude body.
“You’re such a jerk Colby, everything always has to be your way. You can’t ever let someone else have his or her way. I hate you.” She hurled at him. And right then she

did hate him for hurting her. Getting up, she tried to stand. But her legs were so shaky, and she felt dizzy. She started to sink to the floor. Colby caught her lifting her into his arms. He carried her down the hall to her bed, where he dropped her on it, before turning to leave. Her words had hurt, even though she was clearly drunk.
He felt completely drained; the last twenty-four hour had been torture. Reaching his room he did something he’d never done, he locked his bedroom door. The lock was on the door because he always left his room locked when he wasn’t around. It occurred to him that it was a useless thing to do. She did have a key for the door. Though he doubted she could remember that in her condition. Crawling back into bed, Colby tried to get comfortable, which was hard given the huge erection he had. Finally and for the second time that day he took care of himself, cumming all over his sheets. He didn’t have the energy left to care about it. He could wash the sheets off later. Closing his eyes he finally drifted into an exhausted sleep. He was able to get five uninterrupted hours of sleep. He woke to the sound of Mindy puking in the guest bathroom. Not a pleasant sound to wake up too he thought. Poor thing, she must have a pretty bad hangover. He sighed getting up, he’d take a shower and then check on her. He knew how to make a concoction that would cure her hangover. His brother had given him the recipe, namely so Colby could make it for him when he was hung over. Colby wasn’t much of drinker; he didn’t see the point. He’d seen the results of alcohol to many times on an autopsy table. Stepping into the shower Colby felt totally refreshed; he’d needed the sleep badly.

Mindy felt miserable, her head was literally pounding. She needed pain killers; she knew Colby kept some stuff for headaches. She slowly made her way to his room from the bathroom. She tried the door it was locked. He’d locked the door; it was never locked when she was there. Because of last night she thought miserably. Now what? Is he still sleeping? Her pounding head was more important then his getting
to sleep longer she thought. She knocked on the door lightly. Colby who had just finished dressing answered her knock. “My head hurts.” Was all she could manage?
“I’ll go get the medicine, go sit down in the kitchen.” She looked awful; her face had no color at all. And her eyes were glazed with pain. Mindy slowly made her way to the kitchen, hoping she wouldn’t throw up. Sinking into a kitchen chair, she rested her head on the table. She felt like she was going to be sick again. God I’m never going to drink again if I survive this she thought. Where was Colby? She could hear him moving about the kitchen. After last night he probably wants me to suffer. Mindy didn’t know how long she laid there to miserable to lift her head. She felt Colby lifts her hair and wrap a cold pack around her neck. “Sit up, so you can take these.” Colby told her. Mindy forced herself to sit up. Colby held the ice pack in place. Taking the pills from his hand Mindy swallowed them with a beverage he had handed her. “Drink all of it, it will help to settle your stomach.”
Mindy nodded, reaching back to hold the ice pack to her neck. Colby moved away intending to pick up the clothes she’d scattered in his living room last night. He’d noticed them on his way into the kitchen. He quickly picked up the clothing and

carried it to her room, placing it in a clothes basket. Noticing the unmade bed, Colby set about making it. When everything was clean and orderly, he headed back to the kitchen. Mindy hadn’t moved, and was still holding the ice pack to the back of her neck. He noticed Brutus standing on the other side of the glass door, wanting in. Opening the door Colby allowed the big dog to come in. He reached down to rub the massive head and back. Hungry, Colby went to fix something to eat. Mindy looked down to finds Brutus resting his massive head on her lap. She reached down to rub his head, keeping the ice pack on her neck. She had finished off the drink Colby had given her. And already she was feeling better. She wondered what had been in it. The pain in her head was starting to ebb away as well. She watched Colby move about the kitchen, while continuing to rub the dog’s head. They had always been the best of friends, but she wondered if they could continue to be. Yesterday had thrown out some pretty heavy obstacles. Could they go back to the ways things were? She didn’t think so; she felt all achy and weird just watching him. Sensing her thoughts Colby looked up and sighed as he found her watching him. “Are you feeling better?” He asked wanting to distract her.
“Yes, thank you. I don’t know what you gave me but it worked.” Mindy replied taking the ice pack off her neck. The pain was nearly gone. She was still really tired. She decided to go back to bed for a while. Besides she wasn’t looking forward to the

discussion she knew was coming. “I’m going to lie down for a while.” She mumbled walking from the room.
“You don’t want anything to eat?” Colby asked her, she just shook her head and headed off to bed. She’s avoiding me he thought, he went back to fixing breakfast.
Mindy slept for several hours, before finally getting up. She took a shower, and dressed in a T-shirt and shorts. Feeling hungry she saw that it was nearly two in the afternoon. She wandered down to the kitchen barefoot. Opening the fridge she studied the contents, but nothing really appealed to her. “Are you hungry?” Colby asked coming up behind her, he had been downstairs in his office working.
“No.” Mindy commented closing the door to the fridge.
“And you’re just looking in the fridge out of boredom?” He wondered.
“I didn’t see anything I liked.” Mindy answered going to dig through the basket of fruit on the counter. “I’ll just have an apple.”
“I’m out of apples.” Colby said. “Want me to make you a sandwich?”
“I’ll just have some juice.” She said going back to the fridge.
“You should eat something.”
“I’ll blend up one of your shakes.” She said closing the fridge again. Moving around him she went to get a chair, she brought it back into the kitchen. Colby was leaning against the sink. She placed the chair in front of the fridge.
“What are you doing?” He asked slightly amused.

“Getting the blender, I can’t reach it.” Mindy replied starting to climb up on the chair. She gave a start as his arms came around her pulling her off the chair.
“I’m standing right here, I can get the blender down. All you had to do is ask.” He moved the chair back to the table. “Sit down; I’ll make you a shake.”
“I can do it if you get the blender down.” Mindy said, “You probably have work to do.”
“Sit” He pointed to the chair. This time she obeyed, not wanting to fight over a stupid shake. She waited while he blended a shake for her. Pouring it into a tall glass he brought it over to her, setting it down in front of her. He then took a seat a crossed from her at the table. “We need to talk.” He started.
“Why” Mindy asked? Here we go again, she thought grimly.
“We need to talk about what happened yesterday.”
“If this is about the whole drunk thing, I promise I won’t drink anymore.” Mindy told him.
“No this is about yesterday afternoon.”
“What about it?” She asked with dread, she really didn’t want to talk about what she had done.
“We can start by discussing what you were doing in my room?”
“I already told you I went in to wake you up.” She answered defensively.
“And that’s why you put your hand on my penis” He asked?

“No” Mindy said turning red. Why did he have to keep bringing that up, she’d touched other parts of his body as well?
“Then why?”
Mindy didn’t answer how could she? She didn’t know what had processed her to do it. “You started it!” She said after a few moments.
“I was asleep.” Colby answered calmly.
“I’m talking about what you did to me.” She shot back at him. “You have no right to get on my case over what I did to you, when you did it to me first.”
“I was still half asleep when I did those things to you; I stopped as soon as I realized it was you.” He answered.
“You were wide awake when we fooled around on the couch yesterday, explain that?”
“You were sitting on me; it’s pretty hard for a guy not be aroused by a woman sitting on him. I lost control is all?” He told her, not at all comfortable.
They sat there in silence both embarrassed, and disturbed. Finally Mindy came to a decision. She had always been honest with him, always able to talk to him. “I went into your room to wake you up, but when I saw you lying in bed I got curious. I wanted to touch you.” And with that she proceeded to tell him exactly what she had done. She spared no detail; she was a writer after all. “Do you feel better now?” She asked when she was done reciting her tale. Colby just stared at her in shock. He couldn’t believe that she’d done all that to him. She’d given him another painful

erection. “Were both guilty? Why don’t we just forget the whole thing?” She asked? Oddly enough, now that it was all in the open she felt better. “Will both have to remember to keep our hands to ourselves, that’s fair enough.” Since Colby didn’t seem to have anything to say she decided to go for a swim.
“Where are you going?” He asked finally finding his voice.
“Swimming, were done aren’t we” she replied. He nodded watching her head off to get her suit. Damn, she’d spared no detail in her story. She’d pretty much touched him everywhere. Telling him what she had touched would have been enough. But did she have to tell him how touching him made her feel. He didn’t need to hear how wet she’d been, or that she’d changed her panties as a result. Time for another cold shower he thought. Mindy appeared in a bikini with a towel draped about her waist. His throat went dry as he noticed Mindy’s hardened nipples showing through the material of her top. It didn’t help that he knew exactly what they looked like bare, and how good they tasted. She seemed to be free of all worries as she walked by reaching out to ruffle his hair. With a groan he headed off to enjoy another cold shower.

Mindy had watched Colby walk away from her and into his room. Why had he stopped? She hadn’t asked him too. She had wanted him so bad, her virginity be damned. She lay there on the couch for several minutes, hoping he would change his mind and come back. Hearing the shower, she knew the moment had passed. It’s because he thinks I’m too young. So what if I’m only sixteen, it’s my body. She wanted him to be her first lover; she’d always loved him. She had never dreamed that he would be attracted to her, or that he would touch her so intimately. Sighing she got up, her legs trembled. I guess I’ll take a shower, she thought grimly. She headed to the guest bathroom, not bothering to put her top back on. She left it lying on the floor. She’d pick it up later. Turning on the shower, Mindy pulled her pajama bottoms and panties off. The crotches of both were damp. Climbing into the shower Mindy enjoyed the cooling spray of water over her body.

Hearing the sound of the shower Colby sighed. She was in the shower. If he hurried he could be out of the house before she was done. He finished dressing, and pulled on loafers. Dressed in a pair of tan shorts and a white polo shirt he headed to the garage, stopping to write a brief note to Mindy. He felt like a jerk for running out on her. But he had to get away. He hit the button for the garage door opener, and climbed into his black corvette. He’d gotten the corvette as a graduation gift from his Grandpa. Backing out of the garage and onto the street Colby headed toward Teri’s. Fishing his cell phone out of his pocket he dialed her familiar work number.

Chapter Two

In the house Mindy climbed out of the shower. Wrapping a towel around her, she headed to her room to get dressed. She pulled on clean panties and a matching bra. She dressed in shorts and a tank top. Feeling Hungry she headed to the kitchen bare foot. She noted Colby’s bedroom door was still closed. Arriving at the refrigerator Mindy found his note. It said simply be back later, Colby. Figures, he must have gone back to school. She was relieved that she wouldn’t have to see him again so soon after their little thing on the couch. Grabbing some juice from the fridge, Mindy decided to go out and sun bathe for a while. She did this when Colby was at school. Not wanting tan lines she laid out in the sun nude. Going back to her room she stripped off her clothes, grabbing a towel and tanning oil, she headed to the pool. Which was in the backyard, surrounded by a very tall stone wall? Opening the slider Mindy was greeted by Brutes, Colby’s mastiff. He was huge his back reaching nearly to her waist. His massive head came to her breasts. Brutus wasn’t a people person. He loved his master, and adored Mindy, but that was it. He tolerated others only if they stayed away from him. A warning growl alerted anyone who got to close to him. Setting the towel down, she walked to the edge of the deep end. Taking a deep breath she dove under the water. The cold water was refreshing. And she enjoyed the feel of it on her naked skin. She loved swimming naked, there was something so freeing about it. She swam for a little while, Brutus joining her in her swim. She wondered what Colby would think if he knew she rarely wore clothes in or around his pool. It was her wicked secret from him. She smiled, climbing from the pool refreshed. Drying her skin she applied the tanning oil, and lay down on her stomach. The sun warmth was very soothing and she drifted a sleep. After a while she turned onto her back, only half-awake. She drifted in and out of sleep. Mindy didn’t hear the sliding glass door open. Her eyes were closed as she relaxed. Colby had come home, knowing he would find her by the pool. What he hadn’t expected was that she would be nude. He’d spent several hours in Teri's bed. He was exhausted but totally satisfied. Or so he had thought, until he stumbled across Mindy laying nude on one of his lounge chairs. His eyes couldn’t help moving over her body. And they settled on the golden nest of hair between her legs. Teri shaved hers he thought absently. But he found he liked the feel of the hair on his fingers. Christ he could feel himself getting aroused again. As many times as he’d done it with Teri, it shouldn’t have been possible, but he was getting hard. Christ, she’s killing me he thought.

“What are you doing?” Colby demanded more than a little irritated.

Mindy had drifted asleep again. She jerked awake sitting up at the sound of his voice. Disoriented she was relieved to see it was Colby, and not some stranger. “I was sunbathing.” Realizing she was completely naked she got up to wrap the towel around herself.

“Why aren’t you wearing your suit?” Colby asked. From his stand point she was taking her time covering herself.

“I don’t like tan lines.”

“Since when?” Was Colby’s sarcastic reply?

“Do you see any tan lines?” Mindy asked dropping the towel to the ground. He just stared at her in disbelief. Not bothering to pick up her towel she marched into the house naked. That had probably been a dumb move, she thought. Colby was too shocked to follow her. Which was good, since there was a very telling bulge in his pants? Well modesty seemed to be a thing of the past as far as she was concerned. He needed to put a stop to this nonsense. Marching into the house he stopped in the living room. He could hear the shower. Going to sit on the sofa he noticed Mindy’s shirt lying on the floor by the couch. From this morning he thought. Reaching down he picked the shirt up, and headed down the hall to Mindy’s room. The clothes she’d stripped out of earlier were on floor. He picked them up as well. He than folded everything neatly, and laid them on the bed. Turning to leave the room he headed back down the hall, noting the shower was off. Feeling hungry he realized that he hadn’t eaten anything all day. Going to the kitchen he set about making a late lunch. Lunch was ready by the time Mindy appeared. Dressed in white shorts and a green top.

“I made lunch; are you hungry?” Colby asked. Mindy just nodded and took a seat at the kitchen table, aware she was on thin ice. She had figured out in the shower where Colby had been most of the day. He’d gone over to see Teri. He’d wanted someone with experience, and that hurt. She’d had a nice long cry in the bathroom. She had half hoped he’d be gone when she finally came out. She was hungry, having not eaten all day. Colby had made cucumber sandwiches, with light dill dressing. Biting into the sandwich was heaven. No one could compete with Colby in the kitchen, she thought. They ate in silence both of them too hungry and nervous to talk. Afterwards Mindy helped him carry the dishes to the kitchen. “Okay, were going to have to set up some new rules.” Colby stated breaking the silence. “No more running around naked when I’m not here, especially outside. My brother’s have a tendency to just show up. And my Mom drops in unexpected sometimes. All I need is for one of them to catch you out there. When I am home, you’re to keep your clothes on around me. I don’t want any repeats of this afternoon.” Colby stated firmly. Mindy just nodded staring at the floor. Reaching out Colby lifted her chin to look at him. He wasn’t surprised to find tears. He’d been aware of the deep hurt he’d caused her since she sat down. “I don’t want to hurt you. But what happened today can’t happen anymore. You’re only sixteen and I could get in a lot of trouble messing around with you. You didn’t do anything wrong this morning, I’ve never been more turned on than I was this morning.” Colby admitted, noting how the light came back into her eyes. “But that’s something we can address when you’re older.” Stepping away from her he went back to cleaning up the kitchen with her help. “I’m going to get some sleep before I have to be at work. Think you can stay out of trouble?” He asked before heading off to his room. Feeling a sudden urge to write Mindy headed downstairs to his office. She spent the rest of the afternoon immersed in her writing. The episode with Colby had added a new and mature dimension. And she suddenly understood what her agent meant about her writing being to immature to move into adult audiences. She needed more experience, much more to be any kind of a writer. She would have to stick with kid’s stuff for now. She quit working at four o’clock when her cell phone went off. “Hello.” She answered shutting the computer down.

“Hi Mindy, it’s Amber.” Amber told her from her desk at work. She worked in a law office as a legal assistant. “I was wondering if you would like to have dinner with me tonight, and than we could go see a movie?”

“Sure, Colby has to work.” Mindy replied.

“Great I’ll pick you up at five-thirty. I’m headed home now.” Amber said before hanging up.

Turning off the computer Mindy headed upstairs expecting to find Colby in the kitchen. But there was no sign of him. Probably still in the shower. Grabbing a magazine Mindy sat on the couch, flipping through the pages. When Colby hadn’t appeared by four-thirty, she wondered if he had overslept. Getting up from the sofa she decided to check. She listened at the door, but couldn’t hear anything that indicated he was up. Tapping lightly on the door, she opened it. The room was dark, the shades drawn to keep out the sunlight. Colby was still sleeping, she realized. He hadn't heard her knock which was really unusual since he had really good ears. He must be out of it she thought going to the bed to wake him. He was lying on his stomach; he wasn’t wearing a shirt. He looked good without his shirt. She wondered what would happen if she ran her hand down his back. She wanted to touch him, feel his bare skin under her hand. He hadn’t moved, so Mindy sat gently on the edge of the bed. She moved her hand gently over his lean back, causing him to stir, but he didn’t wake. He’s really out of it she thought as her hand explored his back, moving lower. I wonder if he’s wearing anything. His lower body was covered. She hesitated; he still seemed to be asleep. Slowly she moved her hands under the cover and down over a hard butt. He wasn’t wearing anything. He groaned rolling onto his back. She froze, but relaxed when his eyes didn’t open. This was even better she thought staring at his hair-covered chest. She moved her hand over his chest exploring the hard surface of him. Colby stirred, dimly aware that someone was touching him but too tired to move. Hadn’t Teri gotten enough, he was too tired to do it again. Not that his penis cared it was hard and ready. He could feel her hand drifting lower over his navel, stopping. Why had she stopped? She wanted to touch him there, but she’d never touched a guy there before. She was curious, he’s asleep he wouldn’t know. Taking a deep breath, her hand slipped under the covers. She moved her hands through the thick hair covering his groin. It wasn’t hard to find him. His penis is huge she thought moving her hand over him lightly. She gave a start as his hand suddenly grasped her wrist pulling her hand away from him.

“What are you doing?” Colby asked.

“I came in to wake you up.” Mindy was so embarrassed she wanted to run from the room, but he had a hold of her wrist.

“And that required that you play with my penis?” He questioned sitting up.

“No, you were asleep, and I.” Mindy was at a loss for words. “You’re going to be late you overslept.” She finally pointed out.

Colby glanced at the clock and groaned. “Out!” He told her at the end of his patience. Mindy fairly flew from the bed and out of the room. What had she been thinking? He’d been so hard and soft to the touch. Huge as well, she was glad he’d stopped that morning. It would have hurt like hell to have him try to get that in her. Her crotch was all achy again, and she felt wet. Glancing at her watch she saw that it was a quarter to five. Whoops she’d made him even later. He wouldn’t have time to eat she thought, unless she made him something while he was getting ready. Going to the kitchen she pulled out the leftover lasagna he’d made. She placed it in the oven to reheat. Than went to get his lunch box. He always took food with him as it was a twelve our shift. Colby was a picky eater, and wouldn’t touch fast food. He was too health conscious for his own good she thought. He ran every day, which accounted for the great body. Getting a container, Mindy filled it with a cold pasta salad. She also packed carrot sticks, and an apple for him, along with a bottle of juice, and water. She than fixed up herbal tea for his thermos. His lunch done, she started a tossed salad, and was busy tossing it when Colby came into the kitchen. She didn’t look at him.

“I put the lasagna in the oven to warm up. It should be ready in time for you to eat it, and I made a salad.”

“Thanks.” Colby replied not quite sure how to deal with her. Getting a glass Colby went to the fridge to get some juice. Leaning against the counter he studied Mindy who was busy getting bowls down for the salad.

“I was just curious.” Mindy answered the unspoken question. “I’m sorry.”

“I don’t know what to say.” Colby replied. “I thought we settled this. But than you come into my room while I’m asleep, and do that.”

Mindy thought for a moment than said looking straight at him “Fair is fair.”

“What’s that suppose to mean?” Colby asked annoyed.

“You took advantage of me while I was drugged up. So I took advantage of you, were even.” Opening a drawer, she pulled out silverware.

“I didn’t do that deliberately, and you know that.” Colby argued.

“Do I?” She questioned. “I know that’s what you claim. But since I can’t remember anything, how do I know your telling the truth?”

“I’ve never lied to you and you damned well know it.” Her accusation hurt. He was aware that his brother’s car was pulling into the driveway. “My brother’s here, but were not through talking about this.” Colby warned before going to the front door. She started setting the table; she set two places knowing Doug would most likely be hungry. As usual Colby answered the door before his brother could ring the doorbell.

“What do you want?” Colby asked still irritated with Mindy.

“I came to check on Mindy.” Doug answered.

“She’s fine.” He started to close the door in his brother’s face. But Doug halted the door with his hand.

“What the hell’s wrong with you?” Doug demanded pissed off. “I drive out of my way to check on your friend and you try to slam the door in my face. Somebody needs to teach you some manners.” He replied pushing his way past Colby.

“Hi Doug,” Mindy appeared in the kitchen doorway. “Dinner’s ready, do you want something to eat?” She invited not wanting to be alone with Colby. She had clearly pissed him off.

“Sure, that would be nice.” He directed the comment to his brother who just glared at him.

“It’s on the table; I have to go get ready.” She started down the hall toward her room.

“Ready for what?” Colby asked grabbing her arm.

“I’m going out with Amber.” Mindy replied jerking her arm out of his grasp.

“Out, where?”

“None of your damn business” was called over her shoulder, followed by the sound of a slamming door.

“Teenagers, no wonder you’re in a bad mood.” Doug commented heading to the kitchen. Colby followed his brother; he barely had time to eat. He’d deal with her later. Sitting down at the table the two brothers ate in silence. Both lost in their own thoughts until Mindy returned. She was dressed in tight black jeans, and a low cut, tight red shirt tucked into the waist of her jeans. She was wearing makeup, something she rarely did. She looked hot, Colby thought grimly.

“Where are you going dressed like that?” It was Doug’s turn to question her.

“Dinner and a movie.” Mindy answered him.

“Like that?” Colby asked noting the high-heeled black boots on her feet.

“Yes.” Came the simple reply. “Colby I packed some food for you to take to work. I didn’t think you would have time. I set the lunch box by the door to the garage.” Hearing the doorbell Mindy went to answer it. “Hi Amber.” Mindy greeted. Amber was dressed in a black leather mini skirt and a green silk blouse. Amber was tall with the kind of body she wished she had. Her hair was dark with just a hint of red in it. Her eyes were a deep shade of green that twinkled when she laughed which was often. Amber was a warm and loving friend. Mindy thought of her like a big sister, and went to her with most of her problems. It sucked that she couldn’t confide her latest problem in Amber. But she couldn’t risk getting Colby into trouble. “I’ll just let Colby know were leaving. “ She said. They found him quickly cleaning up the dishes. “Amber’s here so were leaving. Nice seeing you again Doug.” Mindy said. “Let me just grab my purse.” Mindy headed off to get her purse from her room.

“Hi.” Amber said coming into the kitchen.

“Hey Amber.” Doug replied watching his brother brush by Amber without a word and head after Mindy. Doug didn’t like what he was seeing. Clearly Mindy had him tied up in knots for some reason. Was it the fact that she’d been molested at the party? He hoped so. “So where are you going for dinner?” Doug asked turning his attention to Amber.

“TGI Friday, I think.” Amber answered frowning. “What’s up with Colby?”

“He’s in a bad mood.” Doug answered.

In her room Mindy, grabbed her purse, before running a brush through her hair. Setting the brush aside, she picked up a gold locket Colby had given her for her birthday. She fastened it around her neck. She rarely went anywhere without it. She glanced up to see Colby entering her room. “You’re going to be late.” She said straightening the chain.

“Stay out of trouble tonight.” Colby warned her reaching out to grasp her arm when she tried to pass him.

“I’ll be good.” She promised him.

“Were not done with our discussion, will talk tomorrow.” He informed her.

“Fine can I go?” She asked in exasperation. Her attitude only served to press Colby’s buttons further. He started to let her go but at her smug look something snapped.

“Not yet.” Colby said pulling her toward him. Without thinking he lowered his mouth onto hers. The air went out of her lungs as he kissed her with a determined possessiveness. He wanted her to know whom she belonged to. When he pulled back, he saw the dazed expression in her eyes. “I need to get to work.” That said he left her standing there in a daze. He stormed out of the house without a word to Amber or his brother. Amber and Doug just stared after him, wincing when he slammed the door. After several minutes Mindy appeared. “I’m ready.” Mindy said heading for the front door.