BREAKING AND ENTERING ^{© 2003-2007}

By Lessa and Takara Soong

Chapter Seven

Monday came and while it was hard to say goodbye to her folks, it was exciting to think that she was about to begin a new life, one Lyssa could not even imagine.

The flight seemed to take forever as Lyssa's anticipation grew. When the flight finally landed at JFK, Sabrin was waiting for her. As soon as he spotted her, he rushed towards Lyssa, threw his arms around her and kissed her.

"I've missed you so much," he whispered in her ear. "I'm so excited about our future."

"So am I. So am I."

"Let's get your things and go home."

"I like the sound of that," she smiled.

Once they had collected all of her belongings from the baggage carousel, Sabrin was surprised by how little she had brought.

"You didn't bring much with you. You had a lot more clothes than this," he teased.

"Yes, but most of them won't fit much longer will they so I packed them up and shipped them to LA."

Sabrin stopped to place his hand over her abdomen. “Our babies. You’re carrying our babies. Before I never wanted to have any children and now I’m going to have two and I can’t wait. I can’t wait to see your body change as they grow. I’m so in love with you, I can’t help but love these babies and they’re, what, the size of a grape?”

Lyssa laughed. “Maybe a little bigger, I’m not sure.” They started to walk again and this time made it to the car Sabrin had rented. The place he had rented for their time in New York was nice, but not as posh as a hotel room. Still, it had a kitchen and enough room for both of them, so that was all the mattered. Once Lyssa took off her coat, Sabrin took Lyssa’s hand and guided her into the bedroom.

“May this be the room you see the most of while we’re here. Take your clothes off, Lyssa. I want to see what progress I’ve missed.”

"Sabrin, I'm really tired. Would you mind if I got ready for bed instead."

He looked disappointed but understood. ~ She is pregnant and it's bound to have some effect on things ~ he thought. Lyssa picked up her bag that the special lingerie she bought was in. She needed to get Sabrin out of the room for a few minutes so she asked if he would make her a hot chocolate. He smiled and headed for the kitchen to warm the milk. Lyssa changed quickly but could not help but admire how good her attire looked on her.

"Sabrin, I've changed my mind. I don't want any hot chocolate but I do need your help please," she called.

"I'll be right there," he called. Sabrin put away the milk and returned to the bedroom. Lyssa had her back to him when he entered. She appeared to be wearing a floor length robe but appearances can be deceiving.

"What can I help-" he became speechless when Lyssa turned around to reveal the front was quite a bit more revealing. She moved slowly to him and then wrapped her arms around his neck kissing him passionately.

Sabrin took a moment to recover from his shock and switch gears. He put his arms around her, under her sexy robe. He returned her kiss with growing enthusiasm. His hands moved down her body, to her bottom and discovered her bottom seemed uncovered. Further exploration revealed she was wearing a very sexy g-string. He pulled back to get a better look at Lyssa in this very sexy outfit. The robe was tied with what looked like barely a thread across her breasts. It made it look as though only this thread stood between her and exposure. It also made her look like a gift, just ready to open, so Sabrin did. Her nipples were almost erect before he even took one between his teeth.

He turned his attention back to her luscious lips before leading Lyssa over to the bed. Lyssa crawled to the middle of the bed while Sabrin undressed quickly. She held out her arms beckoning Sabrin to join her. Sabrin kissed her hard before he ran his lips down her neck, making his way back to her beautiful breasts. He reclaimed in his mouth the nipple he had been playing with moments ago while his hand explored Lyssa's other breast. He lowered his hand caressing her stomach and could feel an ever so slight change in it. He looked down at Lyssa's stomach and could see just the slightest hint of curvature that was not there before and smiled. He rose up and kissed Lyssa passionately.

He had caused this change in her body. Sabrin was shocked at how this fact excited him. It was as though his children growing within her stood as his claim on her. It bound them together, more than just physically as they were now. It was a testament to their deeper connection.

Sabrin lifted up and looked at Lyssa with sudden concern. "Lyssa, should you be on top? I don't want to hurt you."

Lyssa reached up and ran her fingers through his silver hair. "You won't hurt me. I barely feel anything from it yet, my love. I'll let you know when that changes. Now, come back here and kiss me. I've so missed your kisses. And the rest of you too."

Sabrin was only too happy to do so.

Sabrin’s kisses always had such an intoxicating effect on Lyssa. Sabrin gently caressed her cheek. He looked at her with such love on his face that Lyssa could not help but beam before she guided his lips back to hers. His hand slowly moved down her body. His gentle touch left a trail of gooseflesh behind. He began to notice some other subtle changes in her body. Her breasts were a little larger than before and even more sensitive to his touch. He still had concerns about hurting her but with each moan of pleasure she emitted he felt reassured. He would never hurt her in any way, ever.

Lyssa noted Sabrin’s hesitation, so she wrapped her legs around him, pulled him over her body and into the proper position. Sabrin took a deep, calming breath and then gently pulled her legs away so that he could slowly remove her g-string. He kissed her low on the belly, but teased her by looking like he would move lower, but did not. He kissed his way from her thigh to her ankle. He slipped her g-string off her body and moved back up to claim her. Just before he was too high up, Sabrin kneeled down and tongued her clit just before moving swiftly to enter her, deeply. She gasped at the touch of his tongue and then again as he filled her with his length.

Her whole body was consumed with passion. Sabrin felt so good inside her. With each thrust the fire within her grew. She brought her legs to his hips to enhance the depth of delight while her hands roamed his body. The enthusiasm of their kisses together with all of the other sensations soon brought each of them to the boiling point. Lyssa had her most intense orgasm yet. It went through her entire body like a tidal wave of pleasure.

Every stroke of his body across her breasts, every thrust, every kiss felt so intoxicating, Lyssa was sure she was drowning in pleasure. She exhaled deeply and long, releasing a held breath very slowly. Sabrin had released her mouth, but she did not know when. He was kissing and nipping her neck and it was now adding to the intensity of this overwhelming experience.

Sabrin observed her powerful reaction and it excited him as well. Just as Lyssa was coming down, Sabrin sped up his thrusts. Lyssa gasped at this. It was too much for him. He threw his head back and gasped. The gasp turned into a deep, throaty moan as Sabrin exploded within her.

After they had recovered from their incredible experience Sabrin slid down next to Lyssa and wrapped his arms around her. Sabrin kissed her forehead.

"I love it when you do that," Lyssa sighed.

"Do what?"

"Hold me in your arms and kiss my forehead. You do it every time after we make love. It always makes me feel so loved."

Sabrin held her tighter. "That's exactly how I always want you to feel."

They silently cuddled for a few minutes before Sabrin broke the silence.

"My mother was so excited when I told her you’re pregnant. She wanted to jump on a plane to be here when you arrived. I convinced her to let you settle in first. She said she's coming before the end of March. Is that okay?"

"Of course. I'm looking forward to meeting her."

"I hope you feel the same way after you meet her," Sabrin said with a laugh. "Oh, I did tell her we are having twins. I wanted to wait so we could tell her together but she was so excited about one that I couldn’t wait. Hey, we have to find you a doctor. Maybe we can get an ultrasound picture to show her. I'd love to see the look on her face as you point out the babies." Sabrin squeezed Lyssa absently as he imagined. "Will we get to find out the sex of the babies?"

"You want to?" she asked, enjoying his joy in talking about his children.

"Yes. We need to know so we can have names picked out. Will they sleep in two different bedrooms or the same one? Will we need two cribs or one?" Sabrin continued to think up questions and Lyssa realized she too had many questions.

"I have the name of an obstetrician that my doctor in Chicago recommended. I'll call tomorrow to see if I can get an appointment. What time would be best for you?"

"Any time this week. Once we open we have matinee performances on Wednesdays but don't let that stop you from making an appointment. I can miss a matinee," he reassured her.

"If one or both of the babies are boys have you thought about who we should name sandek for the Brit Milah?" Lyssa asked.

"I have a few suggestions but I don't want to say anything yet. You haven't met them all."

Lyssa cuddled in closer to Sabrin.

She laughed softly. "I haven't met any of them, have I?"

Sabrin just looked at her and smiled.

Lyssa's jaw dropped. "Sonny?" she gasped.

Sabrin’s smile got wider. "Of course. But you need to meet the other candidates, too. I have lots of time to decide. Right now I want to lay back and hold the mother of my children."

Lyssa grinned and cuddled closer, imagining Sonny holding a son of hers for the rite, his face almost split in two from the pride he was feeling. It was a very happy image that lulled Lyssa to sleep.

Lyssa was asleep for about an hour when she opened her eyes suddenly. This startled Sabrin who had been watching her sleep while he held her in his arms. Lyssa jumped up from the bed and ran out of the room and straight to the bathroom. A worried Sabrin followed, catching up with her as she leaned over the toilet and began to vomit.

"Are you okay, Lyssa?" Sabrin asked, close to a panic. After Lyssa had vomited twice more, she slowly nodded her head in the affirmative.

"Damn, I don't know why they call it morning sickness. I swear that is the only time of day I'm not puking my guts out," Lyssa groaned.

Sabrin helped Lyssa up from the floor and held her.

Sabrin got her a wet washcloth to wipe her face and helped her find her toothbrush out of her suitcase so she could brush her teeth.

Sabrin helped her back to bed, asking if she wanted anything to eat.

She grimaced and shook her head.

"Maybe something later. Not right now. I just want to sleep."

Sabrin held her as she went back to sleep, but now he was worried. There was more to this being pregnant than Sabrin had realized. Lyssa was not well and needed tending, and he had just taken her away from everyone she knew.

Sabrin made a light dinner for himself but also wrapped some up for Lyssa in case she woke up and was hungry. He watched a bit of the news on television before joining Lyssa in the bedroom. Lyssa looked very peaceful in her sleep. Sabrin crawled into bed next to her and wrapped his arms around her. She cuddled in closer to Sabrin and smiled in her sleep. He would definitely make sure she could get a doctor's appointment as soon as possible. He had even more questions now and concerns about his own abilities to help Lyssa through everything.

Lyssa woke in the middle of the night with hunger pangs. She got up from the bed, smiled at the man lying next to her and made her way to the kitchen she had previously not seen. There was very much bachelor type food in the fridge. Lunchmeat, bread, beer, coke, cheese, and a few tomatoes that Lyssa assumed must be for sandwich making. She found a wrapped up sandwich that Sabrin must have made earlier and knew it was for her. She grinned at his thoughtfulness. She pulled it out, got a glass of milk and took them to the small kitchen table to eat.

Sabrin came ambling in when she was half way done. “Why are you out of bed?” she asked, but leaned into his embrace when he bent to hug her.

“You were gone. I wanted to check on you. Is the sandwich okay?” he asked, taking a seat.

“I took the tomato off. The acid is bothering me, but it’s just what I needed. Thank you.” She gave him an appreciative smile. Sabrin ran a hand through his hair and smiled. “Go back to bed. You need your rest. I’m fine. I’ll join you in a bit,” Lyssa told him, patting his hand.

Sabrin smiled and yawned. He chuckled, got to his feet and bent to kiss her temple before heading back to the bedroom.

Sabrin was relieved Lyssa seemed a lot better. Her color was certainly back in her cheeks and he was glad she had been hungry. He climbed back into bed but was not able to fall asleep until after she returned and was in his arms again.

Sabrin’s alarm rang at 8:00. He had to be to rehearsal for 9:00. He did his best not to wake Lyssa as he got ready. He showered, got dressed and had sat down for a quick breakfast when Lyssa came out of the bedroom wearing the terrycloth robe she had bought from the hotel the last time she had been in New York.

"Good morning. How are you feeling?" he asked. Lyssa kissed Sabrin.

"I feel wonderful," she smiled.

"Great and I want you to stay that way. You need to talk to that doctor today. I hope he’s a good one. You deserve the best."

Sabrin grabbed her, kissed her soundly and said goodbye with a sad sounding sigh. He hated to leave her, but he did love his job. 

Lyssa made some breakfast for herself and ate as much as she could. She grabbed the phone book and looked up the name of the obstetrician her doctor had given her while she ate. Lyssa had admired and respected Dr. Levene and trusted her advice so if she recommended Dr. Joseph Simmons then Lyssa would try him first. She went to the phone and called about an appointment. As it turned out, they were expecting her call and were able to schedule her in very quickly. She was given an appointment for the next day at 4:30. Lyssa had a quick shower and got dressed. She wanted to explore the neighborhood a little. She went down to the lobby and was greeted warmly by the doorman.

"Good morning. You must be Ms. Page," the doorman greeted her.

"Yes I am," she replied.

"Mr. Berry described you perfectly. I'm Rich Carlton, the day doorman. If I can help you with anything, please let me know."

Lyssa asked where the closest market that delivered was located and whether there was a deli close by. She needed to restock the kitchen as quickly as possible.

Lyssa walked through the market Mr. Carlton told her about and marveled at some of the interesting food they had. She had to decide on some of the dishes she wanted to prepare for Sabrin, but trying some new things would be fun too. There was a whole section of Italian foods and this caused Lyssa to miss Sonny. It also made her very glad that Sabrin and Sonny got along. If she had been forced to choose, she was not sure she could have done it. Sabrin was the man of her dreams, but Sonny had been her best friend for so long. He was closer to her than her own brother. She decided she would give Sonny a call later to see how he was doing and to tell him she missed him.

Lyssa filled a cart, paid for the items and gave the address where they should be delivered.

Dinner would be salmon with dill, lemon and garlic, salad, rice pilaf and wheat rolls. She planned on making a chocolate cream pie for dessert.

The clerk at the market told Lyssa the groceries would be delivered in approximately two hours. This gave Lyssa more time to explore the area and still be back to the apartment before lunch. She had been walking for a half hour when she came across Temple Emanu-El. Lyssa entered the synagogue and marveled at its beauty. She had only been in the Inner Sanctuary for a few minutes when she was approached by one of the Associate Rabbis of the Temple who introduced herself as Rabbi Amy Silverstein. They spoke for a moment before Rabbi Silverstein led Lyssa into an office so they could speak without disturbing anyone. Lyssa explained how she had just arrived in New York and that she and Sabrin would be living there for possibly six months. Rabbi Silverstein said they would be more than welcome to attend services at the Temple. The two women spoke for forty-five minutes before Lyssa headed home. She had not been home for long before the groceries were delivered. In fact she was still putting things away when Sabrin arrived on his lunch break.

"You've made yourself at home. Look at all this food. Are we going to eat all of this?" Sabrin asked, wrapping his arms around Lyssa from behind.

"Not all in one day. Hey, guess what? I went to Temple Emanu-El. I met a very nice Rabbi there. She invited us to come for the Sabbath."

Sabrin turned Lyssa around to face him.

"Are you wanting to observe the Sabbath, Lyssa?" he asked with a grin.

"You will have a performance Friday night and Saturday afternoon. We can't observe it fully, but we can go to Temple on Saturday."

Sabrin smiled at her. He had stopped going much after getting together with Niki, but with Lyssa also being Jewish, this would give him a chance to be Jewish again.

"The Temple isn't far from here and the Saturday service is at 10:30," Lyssa paused for a moment. "You do want to go, Sabrin, don't you? I can go by myself if you don't want to. I don't mind."

"I haven't gone to Temple regularly in a long time," he told Lyssa. She understood without him saying that Niki had something to do with that. "I would really like to reclaim that part of me with your help. So to answer your question, yes, I want to go." He kissed her again.

"Of course I'll help. We can talk more about this later. Right now you need to have some lunch."

She made them both grilled turkey and Swiss on rye. She had bought some chips as the side along with huge dill pickles.

"You trying to have me looking pregnant before you do?" Sabrin teased, rubbing his very full belly.

"Is that a complaint? I don't cook for men who complain about the service," she warned.

Sabrin made a zipping motion across his lips and grinned.

"Not me. I'm too full to complain. I think I'm going to like living with someone who cooks." He reached out to give Lyssa's hand a squeeze.

"She didn't cook?"

Sabrin rolled his eyes. "About as well as I do," he laughed. "We ate out a lot."

"My mother had me helping in the kitchen when I was quite young. She let me help with the measuring and stirring and it really sparked an interest for me. My parents paid for me to take some cooking courses when I was in high school but only if I agreed to take one on kosher cooking," she grinned. "Both of my parents were raised in the Conservative branch but they raised me and my brother in the Reform branch but they were a little more strict than my friends' parents."

"My mother is going to love you so much. First, she was so thrilled that you’re Jewish, then when she found out she is finally going to be a grandmother she was over the moon. When she finds out we’re going to Temple and that you can not only cook but cook kosher, she'll love you more than me."

Lyssa grabbed him. "With this face?" she said, pinching his cheeks. "How could anyone not love this face?" She kissed him. "You are too cute for words and I don't believe for a moment that you are not loved by your mother."

Sabrin chuckled. "Well, that's true, but she is going to love you. I already do." He kissed her tenderly. "I have to go back, Lyssa. I'll be home about 5:00. I love you. I'm so glad you're here."

"Me too, Sabrin. I love you. See you tonight."

Reluctantly, he left her arms to go back to rehearsal.

Tired from the day’s activities, Lyssa cleaned up the kitchen and then went to take a nap.

Lyssa was just about to lie down when she realized she had forgotten to tell Sabrin about the doctor's appointment she had for the next day. She had heard that memory could be affected by pregnancy but did it have to start already. She made herself a note to tell Sabrin when he got home. Lyssa slept for a couple of hours but woke up a little restless. She was not used to being home all day and she needed something to do. She remembered passing a bookstore down the street and decided to check the selection of baby books. ~ I wonder if there's a book in the Dummies series about babies, ~ she joked to herself. It only took Lyssa a few minutes to get to the bookstore. As she looked through the books on the shelves she burst out laughing when she spotted two titles ‘Pregnancy for Dummies’ and ‘Baby Care for Dummies’. One of the clerks in the store saw Lyssa and came over to offer her assistance. She helped Lyssa choose two books on what to expect during pregnancy. One book was written for the expectant mother and one for what the father could expect from his mate.

Lyssa bought them both and happily headed home. Dinner would need to be started soon. Lyssa was happily washing the vegetables for the salad when Sabrin came home. When he came through the door, Lyssa looked up to see a bouquet of wildflowers in his hands. Lyssa smiled brightly at him.

“Dinner’s almost ready. You didn’t have to get flowers for the table, but they’re lovely.”

“I didn’t get them for the table and you damn well know that.” Sabrin came over and encircled her in his arms once he had laid down the flowers. “Can you mix flowers with honey, or would that be too sticky an affair?” he teased.

"You better be careful. Where there's honey and flowers there are bound to be bees and you wouldn't want to get stung," she teased back. "Now here," she handed Sabrin a salad bowl and the lettuce. "Start tearing the lettuce into the bowl while I cut up the rest of the salad."

They finished preparing the salad together. Sabrin set the table while Lyssa brought out their dinner. While they ate, they told each other about their afternoons. Sabrin was pleased with how the afternoon rehearsal went.

"That reminds me. I have an appointment with Dr. Simmons, the obstetrician, tomorrow at 4:30. Will you be able to come with me?"

"Definitely. I want to come to all of your appointments, Lyssa." They finished their dinner and sat down on the couch to snuggle. Lyssa picked up a bag on the coffee table in front of the couch.

"I have something for you," she told him as she pulled two books out of the bag and handed him one.

"The Expectant Father: Facts, Tips and Advice for Dads-To-Be," he read out loud. "Thank you Lyssa. I really need this." He kissed her and snuggled closer. He looked at the title of the book Lyssa was looking through – ‘Twins! : Expert Advice from two practicing physicians on pregnancy, birth and the first year of life,’ and smiled.

They spent about an hour and a half skimming through their respective books and telling each other of different things they had learned. Lyssa was shocked to read just how often mothers with twins went into labor early and how there was an increase of health problems in these cases too.

"It looks like I'm going to have to keep a very close eye on what I eat," Lyssa commented. Sabrin was reading this section over her shoulder.

"And eat a lot more," he pointed to a part that talked about needing to gain weight early. "Every two hours."

Sabrin took Lyssa's book, closed it and laid them both on the coffee table. He wrapped his arms around her and kissed her.

"You've always been the sexiest woman I've ever seen but you're even sexier now that you're pregnant." He kissed her again.

"You say that now but will you still think that when I'm as big as a house," she teased.

Sabrin sat back for a moment thinking. "I hadn't thought of that."

"Sabrin!" Lyssa hit his arm in indignation.

"Of course I will and I'm not saying that because you hit me," he laughed and took Lyssa back in his arms to kiss her again. A few minutes later the phone began to ring but neither made a move to answer it. The answering machine clicked on after four rings. Sabrin’s voice could be heard saying "You've reached Sabrin and Lyssa. We can't take your call right now so please leave a message and we'll get back to you as soon as we can." After the beep, a familiar voice came on the line.

"Lyssa, are you there. It's mom. I have some news for you,"

Lyssa looked at Sabrin and sighed. "I better take that." Lyssa went to the phone and picked up.

"Hi, mom." Lyssa and her mother talked for about ten minutes. When she returned to the couch next to Sabrin she smiled and kissed him.

"Looks like you'll be able to meet my parents sooner rather than later. My father has to come to New York on business and my mother is going to come with him. They’ll be coming on the 29th and leaving April 1."

"They going to like me?" he asked her, wrapping her up in his arms.

"If they don't they will have a hard time seeing their grandbabies." Sabrin raised his eyebrows at her expression.

"Going to be a hard ass about it, huh?"

"Should I let them take me back to Illinois and refuse to see you?"

Sabrin looked stunned, then shook his head vehemently. "Nope, hard ass is fine with me."

Lyssa laughed. "I think they’re going to be fine, really. Mom and I had a nice long talk about you and I and she knows what you mean to me. What was it Sonny said - three magic words - successful, Jewish, grandbabies." She grinned. "They’ll love you."

"I think they may be here around the time my mother was thinking of coming. We may have all the parents we can stand by the end of the month."

"That’s what happens when you're having the first babies on both sides. You’re in the spotlight, something you should be used to by now, I would think." Lyssa teased.

"I'm used to it as much as I can be but this sounds like it might be more like an old fashioned police interrogation with the light shining in my eyes," he laughed. His face then grew more serious. "Lyssa, how sure are you that they will like me? I would understand if they didn't. You have a secret relationship with a man twenty years older than you who proceeds to impregnate you-" Lyssa cut off his words by leaning over and kissing Sabrin.

"I met a wonderful man, fell in love with him and I'm carrying his children that were conceived out of that love. What my parents want most for me is my happiness. You have nothing to worry about because I've never been happier in my life."

Sabrin gave her a giddy smile as she pulled his head down for a hungry kiss. Sabrin lowered her back to the couch and followed her down. Lyssa was trying to pull his shirttail from his pants as soon as he had her down. Her hands reached under his shirt and played over his flesh. Just her touch was more than enough to excite him.

"Not enough room here, Lyssa. Come to the bedroom. I don't want to take the chance of hurting you."

"I've told you I'm fine," she assured him.

"Then the old man wants more room so he won't fall on his ass. Falls are dangerous for people my age," he reminded her.

"You are not old."

"Then you are not pregnant." She gave him a confused expression as he pulled her to the bedroom. "I am old and have the incredible hots for a sweet young thing who turns me into a male nymphomaniac every time I see her."

Lyssa looked thoughtful. "Hey, what do you call a male nymphomaniac?" she asked, as he lowered her to the bed.

"Sabrin Berry."

"You're bad," Lyssa laughed as Sabrin took off his shirt and joined her on the bed. They kissed tenderly. Sabrin raised his head and smiled at Lyssa as he ran his fingers through her hair.

"What?" Lyssa asked as Sabrin continued to stare at her. He kissed her again before speaking.

"You are so incredible, Lyssa, in every way imaginable. Maybe it's my insecurities talking but there are times when I can't help but wonder how the hell did I get so lucky to have such a beautiful, sexy, amazing woman like you fall in love with a guy like me."

“Insecurities? You?” She pinched his nose playfully. “You, the man who can just look at me and make me melt? You, who it ripped my heart out to leave you, who was determined to find me and sharp enough to do it? You, who hold my heart in the palm of your hand? You have nothing to be insecure about. I am the one who was blessed. Maybe that’s why I want to go to Temple again. I want God to know just how thankful I am that he gave me you.”

"So do I. And I'll keep working on getting rid of the insecurities although I won't be able to get rid of them completely. It's part of the job description for being an actor." He paused for a moment before continuing. "I'll never forget the first time I saw you, Lyssa. You looked so beautiful in that yellow halter dress-"

"Whoa a second. Yellow halter dress? I wasn't wearing a yellow halter dress," Lyssa stated with a confused look on her face.

"You were when I saw you at the Denver airport," he smiled. A look of astonishment came over Lyssa's face.

"You saw me at the airport?"

"I was waiting for the convention rep to pick me up when I saw you come down an escalator and walk over to the baggage carousel. I had never been much of a believer in love at first sight but that changed when I saw you. I was about to go over to talk to you when the rep showed up and dragged me out of there. I was determined I was going to find you somehow and when I came into my room later and you were there...you can't imagine how great that felt."

"You wanted to meet me? Oh my God!" Lyssa just stared at him wide eyed for a moment. Sabrin touched her face with just a finger, tracing the side.

"There was something about you. Something that called to me, that pulled me towards you. I wish that damn guy could have been late, but it may have been that if I approached you, you would have been turned off. Guess things worked out for the best."

"Turned off? You couldn't turn me off if I were a robot and had a switch." As if to prove her words, Lyssa grabbed him and pulled him into a very hot kiss. They were both very turned on then.

Sabrin wrapped his arms around Lyssa and undid the zipper of her dress. He pushed the fabric off her shoulder as she removed her arm from the sleeve. Lyssa moved up from the bed for a moment, removing her arm from the other sleeve and letting the dress hit the floor. Sabrin did not take his eyes off of her as he undid his jeans and pulled them off. She climbed back on to the bed and slid herself next to Sabrin. Their kisses were even hotter now. Sabrin’s hand was caressing Lyssa's thigh. She spread her legs more so Sabrin could explore further. He slid the material of her panties to one side and inserted two fingers in Lyssa while he played with her clit with his thumb. Lyssa broke their kiss momentarily to let out a gasp of delight.

Lyssa ran her hands up Sabrin’s strong arms. She reached his shoulders, continuing to link her fingers behind his head, pulling him back for a deep kiss. Sabrin slowly withdrew his fingers, giving her one more sensual caress before turning his attention to her panties, slowly drawing them down her body, running his hands over her as he did so. Lyssa sat up to pull him urgently back to her arms. She seemed determined to now take control of this encounter. Pulling him back on the bad with a playful shove, she mounted him, lowering herself slowly down his beautiful length. Sabrin was now the one gasping as she squeezed him tightly inside her.

Lyssa leaned down to kiss Sabrin while she raised and lowered herself on his stiff rod. He reached his hand down and began to massage her clit as her motions quickened. She let out a gasp and then reclaimed his mouth. He ran his fingers through her hair with his free hand as their kisses grew longer and even more passionate. Lyssa sat upright as she felt the fire within her body building to a feverish pitch. She could tell Sabrin was close to exploding within her and felt the heat rise even more.

The motions of his fingers slacked off as Sabrin’s orgasm approached. He could not concentrate on anything but the heat building within him. Lyssa threw back her head, breaking their kiss and calling out Sabrin’s name loudly, yet almost breathlessly.

Sabrin grabbed her ass, not allowing her to slow their rhythm. It took almost no time at all before Sabrin too was climaxing within her. As the waves of passion came down, Sabrin pulled Lyssa to lie beside him. He ran a hand over her body. Just enjoying the feel of her silky skin.

"I'll love you forever."

"I will love you for just a little longer than that," she teased, caressing his chest with relaxed pleasure.

They lay together, kissing, touching and caressing for several minutes until Lyssa suddenly turned decidedly green. She put a hand over her mouth and jumped from the bed.

Sabrin was glad Lyssa had given him that book. He had read the section on morning sickness and was much more prepared for this now. He followed Lyssa into the bathroom as she continued to vomit into the toilet. He helped Lyssa as much as he could. After she brushed her teeth, she stood looking in the mirror for a moment. Sabrin wrapped his arms around her.

"It's a good thing you gave me that book," he whispered. "Otherwise, you throwing up after we make love wouldn't have been too good for my insecurities."

They both burst out laughing. Lyssa turned in his arms to face him and kissed him.

The happy couple returned to bed. Sabrin held Lyssa in his arms and kissed her forehead. Lyssa, smiling, quickly fell asleep.

Lyssa woke in Sabrin’s arms. She felt green again, hopped from the bed and discovered just how yellow stomach acid was. She turned to see Sabrin holding a glass of water and a wet washcloth for her to wipe her face. The retching caused her eyes to water too. Once she had carefully brushed her teeth, noting that even this upset her stomach, Sabrin had crackers ready. She thanked him and ate one while sitting weakly on the side of the bed.

“Pregnancy definitely proves what a fallacy the belief that women are the weaker sex. I could never handle this, Lyssa,” He rubbed her back, comfortingly.

“I think that may have been the babies way of saying “good morning, mommy and daddy,” she answered with a weak smile.

"I hope they don't do this every morning. For your sake."

"Me too but it shouldn't last too much longer," Lyssa said hopefully. "The book I was reading said it usually only lasts for the first trimester. I hope that's true."

"We'll definitely ask the doctor this afternoon. I have a whole list of things I want to ask him about."

"Don't you think you should start getting ready? You have to be to rehearsal soon," she prodded. He looked at her with concern in his eyes. "I'm fine now, really."

Sabrin went to take a quick shower and shave. Lyssa put on a bathrobe and headed to the kitchen to make breakfast. She had bought some bagels and low fat cream cheese the day before at the deli. She cut three bagels in half and began to toast them. As the last bagel popped out of the toaster, Lyssa could hear Sabrin making his way to the kitchen.

"Just cream cheese or would you like some lox too?" she asked.

"You bought some lox? I haven't had it years," he smiled. "Lox too would be great."

Lyssa finished preparing the bagels and brought them to the table along with a cup of coffee for Sabrin and a glass of milk for herself.

As Sabrin ate, he kept staring at Lyssa. He smiled behind his coffee and reached for her hand often. When breakfast was over, Lyssa told him to leave the dishes, she would get them later. He pulled her to a stand, kissing her very tenderly.

"You know, you don't just turn me on. You fill my heart. I said it before, I'm going to say it again. You're the piece of the puzzle I was missing." He put a hand on her belly. "I didn’t know I wanted these pieces until you told me, but now, I can't imagine not sharing this with you. We're going to be...no, we are a family already. I've never wanted anything more than everything you have given me. I've never loved anyone as much as I love you." He kissed her once more, again, very tenderly then went to the door, got his coat and was gone. Lyssa found herself crying for twenty minutes.

As soon as she regained her composure, Lyssa had a shower and got dressed. She washed up the breakfast dishes before sitting down to read more of her book. She kept a pad of paper and a pen next to her so she could write down any questions for the doctor at the appointment that afternoon. She became so enthralled in what she was doing she was surprised when she heard the key in the door and saw Sabrin was home for lunch.

"Is it lunch time already?"

"I'm glad to see you too," Sabrin laughed.

Lyssa put down her book and walked over to Sabrin.

"I'm glad you're home," she said before she kissed him. "I was reading and lost track of time. I haven't made anything for lunch yet. What would you like?"

"You on the kitchen table," he answered, following her into the kitchen.

“Not very filling,” she scolded, rolling her eyes at him.

“Have you ever had you on the kitchen table? How can you know that?” He pulled her back into his arms and kissed her neck from behind.

“I can make you a cold sandwich,” she offered. Sabrin agreed, but did his best to get in her way and make a playful pest out of himself as she did her best to get around him.

Lyssa made a sandwich for each of them which Sabrin ate rather quickly as he was quite intent of playing a little before he had to leave. He stood behind Lyssa and began to caress her arm softly. He then leaned down and began to nibble her neck. When Lyssa finished the last bite of her sandwich, she stood up and took the dirty dishes to the kitchen, much to Sabrin’s disappointment. When she came back, Lyssa climbed up to sit on the table with her dress draped on the top. She held her arms out to Sabrin and he rushed to her.

Just the sight of her and Sabrin felt himself grow hard. When he slipped a hand under her dress, he discovered she was not wearing anything underneath. This excited him even more.

"No time for pretty," he told her and unzipped his pants. He pulled her close to the edge of the table and plunged into her.

Lyssa wrapped her legs around his butt, pulling him deeper.

~ God, she can make me so horny, ~ he thought to himself as he thrust into her again and again.

It was not pretty but it was good. Lyssa's orgasm started moments before Sabrin’s. Lyssa collapsed into Sabrin’s arms with a big smile on her face. She kissed him tenderly.

"Are you going to be late?" she asked. He took a quick glance at his watch.

"No, I have time," he smiled and kissed her. "You are so amazing."

Sabrin reached down to pull his pants back up. He kissed her passionately before saying he had to go.

"Do you want me to come back here or meet you at the doctor's office?" he asked before leaving.

"Meet me there. I'm going to go shopping first."

Sabrin threw on his coat and kissed Lyssa before leaving.

Lyssa had yet to even look for a dress for the opening night of Sabrin’s play. She also needed a new dress for dinner with the Smythes. Lyssa had mentioned she was going to go shopping yesterday and Sabrin had gone to his wallet and pulled out a credit card. Lyssa had been embarrassed and had tried to refuse, but he had asked her what money she was going to use to pay it off when she got the bill. Having no job was going to make that rather difficult.

“I could get a job for-“

“Like hell you could!” Sabrin had interrupted. “Your full time job is to carry our babies and spoiling me rotten,” he said with an impish grin. “And I get to spoil you rotten right back. Now take the card.”

So she had taken the card.

It was almost like living a little fairy tale trying on some of these dresses. Lyssa had asked the sales woman for help in what one would wear to this type of function and was surprised they were not as dressy as she would have expected. She found a simple black dress that hugged the curves of her body. It would go perfectly with the black heels and pearls she already owned. For the dinner, she found a blue, knee-length drape neck dress. It was simple, but stylish. She stopped by the building, asking Rich Carlton, the doorman, if she could leave them there until she returned.  She then headed for her doctor’s office.

Lyssa was checking in at the reception desk when Sabrin arrived. He slid up next to her and kissed her cheek.

"Is this your husband?" the receptionist asked.

"We're not married," Lyssa replied as she filled out the forms required for a first visit. When she got to the area of insurance, Lyssa stopped and turned to Sabrin. "I don't have insurance coverage anymore. What are we going to do?" she asked.

"Don't worry. You're covered. I added your name on my health insurance. I checked the mail when I left at lunch and your card finally arrived." Sabrin pulled out his wallet and gave Lyssa the insurance card. Lyssa finished filling out the forms with Sabrin’s help. They sat in the waiting room to wait for her name to be called.

"You didn't tell me about putting me on your insurance. Is there anything else I need to know about?"

"Actually I was going to talk to you about this later. I've already changed my will and the beneficiary on my life insurance. You and our children will be well taken care of should anything happen to me," he assured her. Before Lyssa could respond a nurse appeared and called out her name. She and Sabrin followed the nurse to an examination room and were told the doctor would be in right away. She had not even closed the door to the room when the doctor appeared.

The doctor greeted Lyssa. She introduced Sabrin as the father and the two men shook hands.

"We have been forwarded your records, Lyssa. You’re progressing fine. Taking your vitamins daily?" Lyssa nodded. "Great. Now, I want you both to understand, having twins is not like having a singleton birth. So, we will be doing things differently and paying a lot more attention to you even now. Since most twins are born pre-term, we want you to gain now rather than later. You need to eat frequently. You may feel like you're turning into a glutton, but it’s mostly for the little ones you’re carrying," he grinned. "Now we men are going to step outside and let you get undressed. I’ll ask a nurse in to help with the exam. Here’s a gown. I'll be back in a flash." The doctor led Sabrin outside and turned to him. "I hope you understand. This is not going to be easy for your girlfriend. Twins are a huge commitment and she is going to need help."

"I'll make sure she has all the help she needs doctor. That's a promise," Sabrin assured him.

"While Lyssa is changing, are there any questions you have?" the doctor asked Sabrin.

"Well there are a few," Sabrin responded as he pulled out his list.

The doctor laughed. "Are these your first too?"

"You can tell?" Sabrin laughed.

"I like it when the parents come prepared," the doctor smiled as he looked over Sabrin’s list of questions. He answered most then explained he would answer the others in the exam room as they were in areas he wanted to discuss with Lyssa as well.

The nurse checked on Lyssa and, seeing she was ready, the three entered the room to begin the examination.

The doctor checked her size and did a brief internal exam. Then the fun part came.

"Now we see if we can hear some heartbeats." The nurse handed him a blue box about the size of a computer mouse. Once the doctor had spread some KY jelly on Lyssa’s belly, he placed the devise over it, searching. It was a strange thing to listen to, but finally there was a familiar pattern to the sound, the doctor looked up and smiled at the two awestruck parents. Sabrin, who was close to tears, squeezed Lyssa's hand.

"That's it?" he asked. "That's one of our babies?"

"I think I found the other one too. Here," the doctor moved the devise and another heartbeat could be heard. It sounded the same, but the device was over a different area of Lyssa's womb.

Sabrin looked down at Lyssa, eyes brimming with tears.

"Baby beats," he said and kissed her with awe and tenderness.

"Can we do that again, I almost forgot I brought a tape recorder. Can you get it from purse please?"

Sabrin opened Lyssa's purse and saw the handheld tape recorder on top. He took it out and handed it to Lyssa. The doctor found the heartbeats again and Lyssa recorded each one for about twenty seconds each.

"Thank you, doctor." Lyssa then turned to Sabrin. "Your mother and my parents are going to love to hear this."

Sabrin beamed, "and I'll be wanting to hear it over and over again too."

When the doctor had finished the exam, he answered the rest of Sabrin’s questions and all of Lyssa's too. The doctor, nurse and Sabrin left Lyssa alone while she got dressed.

"Thank you for everything, doctor. I really appreciate you taking the time to answer all of our questions and there were a lot."

"If you have any other questions don't hesitate to call the office," he told Sabrin as Lyssa came out of the exam room. "Now, I want to see you back in three weeks. Okay? The nurse can book an appointment for you now. Bye."

Sabrin and Lyssa said goodbye to the doctor and then made their next appointment for early afternoon on April 4.

As they left the office, hand in hand, Sabrin reached over to her purse, indicating for her to open it. Grinning, he pulled out the recorder and listened to the heartbeats again. Sabrin wrapped an arm around Lyssa's waist as they walked. His expression, was once again, misty.

"I'm scared, Lyssa. What if I'm terrible? What if they hate me?" he asked with a sad laugh.

Lyssa shook her head at him, giving him a gentle smile.

"This is going to be new for me too. We'll just have to learn as we go and depend on each other. I love you, and the babies are going to love you." Sabrin smiled and rewound the tape again.

"Wonder what they are. Two girls or two boys?"

"Or one of each. They should be able to tell by the next visit. What are you hoping for?" she asked, curious.

Sabrin thought for a moment. "One of each sounds perfect. I'd like a son to carry on the family name, and a daughter who looks like you, that would wonderful," he smiled.

When they arrived home, the message light was flashing on the answering machine. Both Sabrin and Lyssa's parents knew about the appointment that day and messages from both mothers had been left with instructions to call. Sabrin went first. He spoke to his mother. His voice filled with pride. He played the tape of the heartbeats for her and once again his eyes became moist. When he hung up, he told Lyssa his mother had started to cry as she heard the heartbeats. She was a very happy woman.

Lyssa called her mother and got similar results. Lots of tears and happiness. Any doubts her parents still had regarding Lyssa's relationship with Sabrin evaporated with the sound of the thump, thump on the tape.

After she hung up, Lyssa went to the kitchen to start dinner. There was a knock at the door, which Sabrin answered. The doorman had brought the purchases Lyssa had left with him earlier in the day. She had completely forgotten about them when she and Sabrin had arrived home.

"You didn't even say a word about what you got today. I like this blue number. Very nice." Sabrin teased, coming into the kitchen with the bags in hand.

"I was distracted by the babies," she defended from the stove.

Sabrin came up behind her after draping the bags across the back of one of the dining room chairs. He wrapped his arms around her and rubbed her tiny belly with affection.

"I believe that is going to be happening a lot more in the future. Two babies - there may be a time when I don't get to make love to you for days," he teased.

"You did read the part in the book where it says after birth, I can't have sex for six weeks, didn't you?" Lyssa asked.

"God forbid," he gasped as Lyssa giggled.

"I'll do my best to help you in other ways but I might be pretty tired. Twins are a lot of work you know."

"And that's why I want to hire someone to help you."

"So I won't be too tired to have sex?" Lyssa teased.

"That too," he laughed. "Seriously, twins are a lot of work. We can afford help so I want to take advantage of that so it won't be so hard.”

"We can afford - I can't afford anything. All my funds are tied up in the house."

"We need to visit the bank too so I can add you to my account. I called the credit cards I have and you'll be getting cards in your name on all my accounts...are you good with money...it sounds like it. Will you handle the bills for us?"

Lyssa turned around, looking stunned. "Are we going to be visiting a lawyer soon too?" she asked, cautiously.

"No, why? Do we need to?" Sabrin asked, confused.

"To draw up an agreement like you had with Niki."

Sabrin smiled, shook his head and kissed her nose.

"No, you are not Niki. I don't want one with you unless you feel the need to protect yourself from me?" he offered, totally serious.

Lyssa laughed. "No, I don't. Are you sure about this? I'll sign one if you want."

Sabrin pulled her close. "I’m sure. I trust you. You won't take me to the cleaners, because I am not letting you go."

"Good because you won't be able to get rid of me even if you did. You are stuck with me Sabrin Berry so get used to it," she laughed.

"I'm very used to it and lovin' every minute," he kissed Lyssa hard.

"If you want to eat, we better stop this now or everything will be burned," Lyssa teased as she turned her attention back to the vegetables steaming on the stove.

"That smells delicious. I have a question for you, Lyssa. Are the men in Illinois really stupid?" he asked seriously.

"What? Why would you think that?" She was puzzled.

"You are beautiful, smart, funny. A really incredible woman who is an amazing lover and a terrific cook. I don't understand why no man swept you off your feet and whisked you down the aisle."

Lyssa laughed. "Well, maybe some tried to sweep me off my feet but you are the first one to be successful. As for being whisked down the aisle, no one's ever asked."

"What if I asked?" he said, but his nervousness was showing.

Lyssa’s heart was racing. Being married to him was something she had not even dared hope for. “I know you’re not fond of the idea of marriage, Sabrin.” She turned from him and stirred the sauce that was to go over the pasta she was boiling. “I wasn’t going to ask that of you.”

Sabrin stood behind her in silence for a long, uncomfortable moment. Finally, he moved away.

“Is there anything I can do to help with dinner?” he asked.

Lyssa took a deep breath to try and regain control of her emotions. “You can set the table.”

Sabrin went to the cabinets and retrieved the proper items. As he moved about the kitchen behind her, Lyssa realized she was continuing to sigh softly.

~ What is it about marriage that turns him off? ~ Lyssa wondered.

Sabrin was having the same thoughts. It was true he had been in a couple of very long term relationships but the idea of wanting to marry either woman had not been something he had considered. Each woman had, but not him. He looked at Lyssa and thought how he had not wanted children even more than he did not want to marry and now look at him. He was seven, possibly six, months away from becoming a father of twins and he had never been happier. ~ If I could be so wrong about wanting children, ~ he thought ~ maybe I'm just as wrong about the idea of marriage. ~ He knew his feelings for Lyssa were so much stronger than he had ever felt for anyone. ~ Lyssa Berry. ~ He smiled at the thought. ~ Damn that sounds good. It sounds...right. ~

Sabrin released a breath he had unconsciously been holding. But if this was going to be done, it had to be done right. And perhaps when there was more time. Opening night was coming up fast, he was going to be very busy for the next few days. Sabrin sighed. He noticed an identical sound coming for the lips of his lover.

She was just about done with the cooking by the look and wonderful smell of it.

Sabrin went to her elbow, smiling. "Can I take that to the table for you?"

"Sure, thanks." Lyssa did not sound right, he noted. He took the plate to the table and returned to pull her to face him.

"You know I love you, don't you?" he asked, holding her chin lightly in his fingers.

"Yes, I know that." Lyssa smiled, but it was only half hearted, and he knew it.

"That's not going to change, Lyssa. I mean it." He kissed her tenderly.

"I know," she smiled. "I know."

Sabrin carried the rest of their dinner to the table as Lyssa followed. She wished Sabrin had not made that comment about why no one had whisked her down the aisle. She had not given marriage a lot of thought because she knew Sabrin was not keen on the idea. Still, there had been moments when she thought how wonderful it would be to be his wife. Dinner was a little quieter this evening although they talked about what the doctor had said and about dinner the next evening. Sabrin noticed Lyssa seemed a little subdued.

Sabrin offered to help Lyssa with the dishes, but she gave him a gentle smile and told him to go take a nice hot bath. "You look tense. Opening night is in two days and you need to relax. I'll take care of the dishes. You go ahead."

"Join me soon?" he asked, hopeful.

"I'm going to read some. I want to make sure this food stays down. The hot water makes me woozy a bit. Maybe I'll come wash your back later." She gave him a kiss and shooed him off.

Sabrin reluctantly went.

Lyssa watched him go, thinking about the events of the day and marriage. He was here, she was here. He loved her, was not leaving at the mention of twins, he was not going to take her to a lawyer and he was going to put her in charge of their day-to-day finances. He obviously trusted her. He was going to try to go to Temple with her and he loved Sonny. Marriage was not needed. She already had more of him than she had ever imagined possible. It was selfish and foolish to want a silly piece of paper that could not tell her what she already knew.

Sabrin, with eyes closed, was laying back in the water when Lyssa entered and knelt down next to the tub. Sabrin opened his eyes and smiled.

"I love you," Lyssa smiled. She tested the water with her hand to see how hot it was. It felt nice so Lyssa began to get undressed.

"I thought you weren't going to join me. I don't want you to get sick," Sabrin cautioned.

"I'll be fine. The water's nice, not too hot but if you don't want me to join you-"

Sabrin reached out his hand, which Lyssa accepted as she stepped in the tub. She sat between his legs, leaned back and rested her head on his chest as he wrapped his arms around her.

"I was just thinking about how lucky I am.” Lyssa looked him in the eyes. "You're here and we are together. I love you so much, I can't even express it properly."

"I love you too, Lyssa. I love you and I'm never going to leave you."

They relaxed in the tub for another fifteen minutes before Sabrin suggested they get out. They were almost finished toweling each other off when Lyssa suddenly started to laugh.

"What's so funny?" Sabrin asked her.

"I was just thinking that it's a good thing I watched Seinfeld or I never would have known about shrinkage," she laughed.

"Oh, you're so bad."

"And you love it," she said as she ran from the bathroom to the bedroom. Sabrin followed her, watching as she climbed on to the bed before joining her. He wrapped his arms around Lyssa and kissed her.

"Shrinkage isn't a problem now," he smirked.

"If it had been a problem, you would have been sleeping on the couch," she teased, but only by half.

"Are you saying you only want me for my erect penis?"

"Ah huh," she said nodding.

"You are horrible!" he cried, grabbing her by the legs and trying to pull her under him, as she had moved away while making that statement.

Lyssa giggled and pulled away again. Sabrin crawled over to grab her, but she slipped away a third time.

"You playing hard to get?" he asked, grimacing at her from the opposite side of the bed. Lyssa grinned at him challengingly.

"No, I'm being evasive, you're the one playing at being hard."

"Playing at being hard?” he repeated, insulted.

"You have yet to sheath that sword. It’s futile to have a sharp blade unless you have something to plunge it into." The sultry expression on her face was enough to drive Sabrin half crazy. He lunged at her again and this time, he caught her.

Sabrin pulled Lyssa towards him, maneuvering himself to be straddling her legs while he held her wrists above her head. Lyssa was breathing heavily from their game. Sabrin stared down at Lyssa.

"Damn, you're so beautiful," he said as he moved between her legs and released her wrists. He lowered himself down to kiss her.

"You are the sexiest man I have ever known. No man affects me like you do. Sheath that sword, now."

Sabrin grinned for a second, until the tip of his erection made contact with Lyssa. He rubbed against her clit for a moment until it seemed she was holding her breath. She released her breath in a long, deep sigh as he finally impaled her. Lyssa arched her back and sunk her nails into his back. The pain mixed with pleasure pulled Sabrin deeper and deeper. Sabrin kissed her, soft and teasingly at first, then deeper and harder. His thrusts were deeper and harder too.

Lyssa moaned with pleasure from the feel of Sabrin within her. His hot kisses were driving her wild. The intensity of the sensations seemed even greater. No man ever made her feel like this. Her body began to writhe, her back arching so she pressed against him even closer. Her orgasm coursed through her body with such ferocity she was literally shaking. Sabrin kept going, bringing her to the brink again. Lyssa grabbed onto the sheets as she cried his name. He came within her like a volcano erupting.

"Don't stop!" Lyssa pleaded. She grabbed his face, begging him not to lose his erection.

"I don't know if I can keep it, Lyssa, I-"

"Picture a glass elevator. You and I are in this elevator, going up to a party in a penthouse suite. The car gets stuck on the seventh floor. Only you and I are in the car. I am wearing a very short skirt and black spiked heels. You know I'm not wearing anything underneath." Sabrin listened to Lyssa's sexy voice paint a picture in his mind as he continued to evenly thrust into her.

"The car is going to be stuck for at least an hour. You and I have been apart for days and have not been able to make love since your return. You want me, but the glass is clear and the place is crowded below. I'm bored. I lean over, resting my elbows on the railing and my forehead on the glass. From behind me, you can see the curve of my ass and a hint of something more. You feel yourself getting hard. You move to run your hand over my behind. Your hands are so hot on me. Nothing is in your way, but your own clothing." Sabrin had totally regained his erection and was pumping into her again with enthusiasm.

"Tell me the rest," he pleaded, panting now.

"You can't take it anymore. You move your hand down and begin to finger my clit. You can feel it getting hard. You insert two fingers in me. You want to make sure I'm nice and wet. I am. You undo your pants and let them fall to your ankles. You thrust your hardness into me. You feel so good, you always feel so good inside me. You thrust hard within me - your body is slamming against my butt. My moans are getting louder. Suddenly the elevator begins to move. We can't stop. You thrust harder and harder as I cry out in ecstasy. You explode within me a moment later. You lean against me for a moment as we catch our breath. We barely have our clothes in place as the doors to the elevator open. But you know everyone on the ground floor saw us. Their eyes were wide as the elevator began to rise to the 40th floor."

Sabrin cut off any possible addition to the story by claiming Lyssa’s mouth in a savage kiss. He moaned through it as he had been in Lyssa's imagery, he was slamming against her hard. He was almost wild with the need to come inside her again. He felt on fire with the heat stoked by Lyssa’s words. Her erotic story had touched Sabrin on a deep subconscious level. It was a secret fantasy. To make love in public. To be seen and caught, but still get away with it. It was base, but it struck a cord with him and brought him to the brink of passion once more. Lyssa was arching her back beneath him. She broke their kiss to cry out. The world spun for a moment and Sabrin was sucked into it. He let loose with a great guttural cry as he was released from this void and his seed rushed in to the woman he loved.

Lyssa grabbed hold of Sabrin and held him tightly as her body began to relax from the incredible climaxes she had just experienced. She loved the way her story had turned him on so much. Sharing one of her fantasies with him and seeing his reaction to it was incredible. Sabrin withdrew from Lyssa and moved next to her. He kissed her forehead and she sighed. ~ My life is so wonderful. I know how much he loves me. I don't need a piece of paper to validate this, ~ she thought.

Chapter Eight

Lyssa teased Sabrin the next morning about what a waste of money it would be for anyone to buy them pajamas.

"We wake up naked every morning. Did you wear them when we weren't together?" she asked as he was heading to the bathroom.

"I did then. But you're right. Now it would be a complete waste. However, if you see any maternity lingerie you like, buy it.” Sabrin showered and readied for rehearsals. He kissed Lyssa good-bye and promised to be home for lunch. Lyssa made him fried potatoes with onion, mushrooms, ham and cheddar cheese for lunch.

Lyssa served the meal to Sabrin, and it was well received. Sabrin told her he should be home early so they could get ready for dinner that evening with Paul and Deborah.

Lyssa had just finished drying her hair and was about to start her make-up when Sabrin arrived home. He seemed a little stressed from the last rehearsal but, as soon as he saw Lyssa, it evaporated. He kissed her neck so he would not mess up her make-up. Lyssa turned to Sabrin and kissed him tenderly.

"How was your afternoon?" she asked.

"Better now. Theatre superstition says it's supposed to be a good sign when the last rehearsal doesn't go well but it still makes me nervous."

"I know you'll be wonderful," she reassured him. "You better start getting ready for dinner." Lyssa finished applying her make-up before getting dressed. When she was ready, she studied her appearance in the full-length mirror. Paying close attention to her stomach, she wondered whether anyone would be able to tell she was pregnant.

 Lyssa came out of the bathroom to find Sabrin in their closet, dressed in a black suit and a collarless cream silk shirt. Lyssa thought he looked breathtakingly handsome.

"Oh my God," she whispered. Sabrin, startled, turned around.

"What's wrong? Are you all right?" he asked as he rushed to her.

"I'm fine. I just can’t believe how handsome you look in that." She was still staring at him in a dreamy eyed stare. Sabrin blushed a little.

"You are so sexy and you say that of me?" He grinned, took her by the shoulders and tried to pull her close, but she resisted.

"Wait, first, tell me I look fat."

"What?" he exclaimed.

"Well, I know I'm showing a little. It kills me that I'm only two months along and I am already. But for tonight, tell me I look fat and not pregnant."

Sabrin pulled her into his arms and, this time, she allowed it. He chuckled at her words. "Lyssa, my love, you look beautiful and if you look pregnant, then I'm happy. You are pregnant and I am thrilled that you are. I can't wait to watch the changes in you as you show more." He kissed her tenderly.

"Sabrin, I'm really nervous about tonight. They're your best friends. What if they don't like me?"

"You have absolutely nothing to be nervous about, Lyssa."

"I wish I had your confidence. Were they close to Niki? Are they going to see me as some sort of relationship-wrecking gold digger or something?"

"Lyssa, they will think no such thing. Stop that please - for me. Deborah and Niki were friends for a while but haven't been close for years. Paul and Deborah knew before I did that it was over with Niki. Even if they did have some misgivings, which I am not saying they do, once they see how happy I am with you they'll love you too." Sabrin kissed Lyssa again and held her tightly. "Now we better get going or we'll be late."

Lyssa was still nervous during the taxi ride to the restaurant. They arrived first and waited in the restaurant lobby for their dinner companions. They did not have to wait long as the Smythes arrived only a couple of minutes later.

Lyssa was impressed with how handsome Paul also looked this evening. Then she realized this was the first time she had actually seen him in person and smiled to herself. Paul was dressed in a dark blue suit with a light blue and white striped dress shirt and a blue tie. He looked very sharp. Deborah had on a burgundy dress that went well with her husband's attire. Sabrin was on his feet as soon as he saw them and took Lyssa in hand to greet his long time friends.

"You two look great. Thanks for meeting us tonight. I just had to have you meet the woman whose been keeping my pulse racing. Deborah, Paul, I'd like to introduce Lyssa Page." Sabrin put his arm around her and smiled down at her. Lyssa returned his glowing smile before turning to shake the hands of both of the Smythes.

"So you're the mystery woman who put a smile back on Sabrin’s face," Paul said with a charming grin.

Lyssa returned his grin with a smile of her own. "I'm so happy to meet you both. When Sabrin told me about your invitation, well, I know how much your friendship means to him and I am so thrilled you wanted to include me this evening."

"Lyssa, it’s Sabrin who is the lucky one. We only invited him because we wanted to meet you," Paul laughed.

"Oh, the abuse I have to put up with," Sabrin lamented and then laughed.

The foursome was shown to their table by the maitre d'. It was a private area of the restaurant that was used for celebrity guests so they could enjoy an uninterrupted dinner. The menu had a spectacular selection of food and Lyssa had a difficult time deciding what to have. Some items she would have normally loved seemed totally unappealing to her but she was able to make up her mind and was ready to order when the waiter arrived.

Deborah was sitting across from Lyssa, so she leaned forward to speak.

"Lyssa, tell us how you and Sabrin met."

Everyone else’s eyes around the table went wide. Sabrin chuckled while resting a hand over Lyssa to let her know he was going to save her.

"She broke into my hotel room at a convention in Denver, seduced me, and then spent the weekend with me," Sabrin answered with a completely straight face.

Deborah began laughing so hard she had to cover her mouth. No one else joined her.

"You can't mean you're serious?" Deborah sputtered. Everyone nodded.

"I was actually rather surprised he didn't throw me out of his room, but-" Lyssa began.

"Throw you out," Sabrin exclaimed. "A sexy woman breaks into my room with the intent of seduction and is dressed the part. No man could have refused you at that point. Right Paul?" Sabrin asked.

"Me? Of course I could have refused. I would have sent her packing at once."

"Good answer," Deborah smiled at Paul. "And you knew all of this and didn't tell me, Paul?"

"That's my fault, Deborah. I made him swear not to say anything to anyone, including you. My apologies to you but I'm sure you can imagine that things were complicated for a little while.” Sabrin paused for a moment. “Actually, I had seen Lyssa at the airport and if she hadn't broken into my room, I would have tracked her down and broken into hers. Right from that first moment I saw her, I knew she was the woman I had been waiting for all my life - just like Paul felt with you," he smiled and then kissed Lyssa gently.

Deborah smiled at Paul as he gently squeezed her hand.

"I'm not angry, Sabrin. But I am obviously curious. How did you resolve things with Niki?" Deborah asked, delicately.

Sabrin opened his mouth, But Lyssa beat him to the punch.

"It's not resolved. Not yet at least." Sabrin looked over at Lyssa, stunned but she just shook her head at him. "You know it's not over. She was mad as hell when you ended it with her. She's going to show up and want you to pay for that sooner or later, Sabrin." Lyssa moved her hand to take his. Sabrin laced his fingers with hers.

"I don't care what happens, as long as we're together," he told her firmly.

"I don't want her to ruin your career. I know how much it means to you. I don't want to be the one that does it in." Lyssa looked upset.

"Lyssa, nothing like that is going to happen," Sabrin assured her.

"Actually, scandal often boosts one’s career, rather than hurt it. I wouldn’t worry. He'll be fine." Paul smiled gently and reassuringly at Lyssa. Deborah nodded, getting her attention.

"Paul should know. We had quite a scandal of our own," she admitted.

"That we did," Paul smiled at Deborah before turning to face Lyssa. "I had been married for many years when my wife fell ill. I met Deborah when we did a play together. She knew what it was like to have a terminally ill loved one and offered me her support. We didn’t plan to fall in love but we did.  The tabloids found out about our relationship and we were fodder for a little while until someone more famous did something they thought their readers would find more interesting. Deborah and I have been together for over five years now. Show business is filled with scandals, Lyssa. As long as you do quality work and show up at the set on time, the studios and producers don't care and the public forgives and forgets."

"If there is any type of scandal, Paul and I will be there for you both, just like Sabrin was there for us," Deborah said reassuringly.

"That is very true. You've been a wonderful friend for many years," Paul said to Sabrin. He turned to Lyssa and said, "he was even my best man when Deborah and I got married. Now that is a favor I would love to return for you some day."

Sabrin laughed, turned to Lyssa, and asked, "can I tell them?" Lyssa nodded her head.

"Tell us what? Are you two getting married?" Deborah asked.

"No, that’s not it. Lyssa's pregnant. We're going to be having twins," Sabrin beamed.

Lyssa gave him a smile and then turned to flash one at both Paul and Deborah.

"I'm only two months along. We were both very shocked to find out about this pregnancy, but-"

"But we're both thrilled," Sabrin finished for her. He placed a hand over her womb and gave her a gentle smiled filled with love.

"Congratulations," both Paul and Deborah told them, once they recovered from their shock.

"I can't wait for my mother to meet Lyssa. We made a recording of the heartbeats of the babies that bowled her over." Sabrin put his arm around Lyssa's chair and rested his hand on her shoulder.

"You haven't met Rose yet, Lyssa?" Deborah asked.

"No, not yet. She's coming soon though," Lyssa told them.

"She's a wonderful lady," Paul smiled.

"And Sabrin will soon be put under the microscope by my parents too," Lyssa laughed.

The dinner was very enjoyable for all. The food was wonderful and the conversation was even better. As they left the restaurant, plans were made for the next evening.

"Would you join us for a light dinner before going to the theatre or would you prefer we pick you up as we go over there?" Paul asked.

"Dinner would be wonderful if the two of you would allow me to cook for you," Lyssa suggested.

"Lyssa's an incredible cook," Sabrin added.

"Dinner at your apartment sounds terrific, if you are sure it won’t be too much trouble," Deborah replied.

"It will be no trouble at all," Lyssa reassured them. "How does 5:30 sound with dinner at 6:00?"

"Perfect," Paul responded. "We'll see you at 5:30 tomorrow."

The two couples said good-bye and went their separate ways. Lyssa and Sabrin, holding hands, headed back to their apartment. They walked in silence for a few blocks before Sabrin spoke. "I told you they would like you."

Lyssa gave his hand a squeeze. "It’s you they like. Me - they are going to have to put up with. I'm kidding. They are very nice people. It’s still kind of strange having dinner with an actor I’ve seen on television and in movies for so much of my life. "

Sabrin "harrumphed" at her.

"So what, making love to an actor you saw is old hat now?" he asked, indignantly.

They walked home talking more about the dinner and Friday's opening.

"What should I expect from you tomorrow?" Lyssa asked. "Do you get nervous or jumpy or what?"

"All of the above," he joked. "It's the nature of the beast I guess. This may be the first time that the opinion of the critics takes second place. You will be the most important person in that audience tomorrow night."

Once they reached the apartment, Lyssa was feeling rather tired from the walk. They both changed and headed off for bed. Sabrin held Lyssa closely and watched as she drifted off to sleep. He smiled as he looked at her angelic face. He knew in his heart he wanted Lyssa to be his wife.

Sabrin had trouble sleeping. Lyssa woke to his thrashing several times during the night. Each time, she would touch him and rub his back, speaking calming words into his ear. Each time he would relax and fall back into a deep sleep. Lyssa smiled to herself. He was very worried about opening night, just as he had said he would be. Lyssa rubbed his back until she too fell back asleep.

When Sabrin awoke in the morning, Lyssa's hand was still on his back. He realized what must have happened and how she had been there to comfort him. In the past, Niki had often gone to sleep in another room and Sabrin had always awakened still feeling tired. This morning he felt a little anxious, but well rested. He knew his sleep could only be attributed to Lyssa’s care. He had no idea how he had been so fortunate to find her, but it was clear that letting her go was out of the question.

Sabrin carefully moved Lyssa's hand and began to study it carefully. He was imagining how it would look with a special ring on her finger. His mother had always hoped one day he would give her grandmother's engagement ring to his future bride and he wanted to present that ring to Lyssa. He quietly got out of bed to call his mother from the living room. She would be expecting his call as it was sort of a tradition that he called the morning a play opened. He dialed the number and she answered on her customary third ring. They spoke about the play for about fifteen minutes when Sabrin brought up the ring.

"I need a favor when you come visit," he told his mother.

"Anything for you. What would you like?"

He took a quick look to see if Lyssa was still asleep.

"I need you to bring your grandmother's ring with you when you come visit. With your permission, I would like to give it to Lyssa when I ask her to marry me," he told her.

There was silence on the other end of the line and Sabrin became worried his mother would say no.

"You love this woman very much, don't you, son?"

"Yes I do."

"You have always expressed a distaste for marriage. What’s changed your mind?"

"I’ve finally found the woman I was meant to be with. She's the one."

"I’ll bring the ring with me when I visit. I love you, Sabrin, and break a leg tonight."

Sabrin smiled as he hung up the phone. He went back to the bedroom and saw Lyssa sitting up in bed.

"I thought I heard voices," Lyssa told him.

"Just me on the phone. I always call my mother the morning a play opens." He sat on the edge of the bed and kissed Lyssa good morning.

Lyssa was about to lean into him and wrap her arms around his waist, but her stomach suddenly turned over and she had to go sprinting for the bathroom with Sabrin just a few steps behind. He went for a wet washcloth and a glass of water. He appeared behind her and massaged her shoulders until the retching spasms subsided. He wiped her brow and handed her the water glass. Lyssa sighed and went to the sink to brush her teeth.

"Not exactly romantic stuff, huh?" she said with a mild grin.

Sabrin put his arms around her waist and met her eyes in the mirror.

"You are going through this to bear our children. I could not be more impressed, proud or in love with you." He kissed her temple with tender care and again whispered in her ear how much he loved her.

He held Lyssa until he was sure she was completely recovered. Lyssa kissed Sabrin tenderly.

"Can you come with me later when I go to the market? I need to pick up a few things for dinner."

"Of course. Come sit down. I'll make breakfast this morning."

He walked with Lyssa to the table before heading into the kitchen.

"I'll make you my specialty," he laughed. "Burnt toast."

"Maybe I'll come help. I don't really want to be sick again today," she teased.

Instead of burnt toast, they had French toast with real maple syrup.

Lyssa did look a little tired after breakfast, so Sabrin told her he would clean up and sent her into the bedroom to rest.

Once the kitchen was clean, Sabrin sat down and began to read more of the book Lyssa had bought for herself. He looked up some of the needs that she would have in the early stages of this pregnancy and decided that a foot massage or back massage may be a nice thing to do for Lyssa right now. He would need to have his shower so they could go shopping before he had to leave, but tending to Lyssa kept Sabrin’s mind off worrying about the evening. He was getting so nervous he wondered if he was going to mimic Lyssa's trip to the bathroom this morning before it was through.

He took a really quick shower and shaved before checking on Lyssa. He was wearing only a pair of boxers when he came into the bedroom. Lyssa opened her eyes and smiled at him.

"Did I wake you up? I'm sorry," he apologized.

"No, you didn't. I wasn't asleep," she smiled. Sabrin sat at the end of the bed and stroked Lyssa's lower leg before picking up her foot and beginning the most wonderful foot massage Lyssa had ever had.

"That feels so good," Lyssa moaned. Sabrin smiled and began to massage Lyssa's other foot. It turned him on that Lyssa enjoyed this so much.

"Would you like me to do it some more," he asked, after finishing the second massage. Lyssa shook her head and motioned with her finger for Sabrin to come closer. When he did, she pulled him onto her, kissing him vigorously.

"Make love to me, Sabrin. Please make love to me," she pleaded between kisses.

"I will," Sabrin said in a voice heavy with passion. He could already feel the blood rushing to his groin. As he kissed her, Sabrin pushed open one side of the robe Lyssa wore to reveal her right breast. Using his tongue, he dragged it lightly across the skin of her throat and over the mound to her hardening nipple. He breathed hot breath over it for just a moment, looking at her to monitor her reaction. He moved his right hand under the cover of her robe and let it travel to the nipple of her left breast. It was growing hard in his fingers. Slowly, he lowered his mouth to her right breast, licking, sucking and dancing his tongue over her sensitive skin until her nipples were tiny little points, displaying her state of arousal. Sabrin used his face to push aside the robe, licking his way across to devour her left breast, feeling his own desire rising as he did. His erection pressed against Lyssa’s lower thigh and he could not help but move so it rubbed along her velvet skin. Lyssa was already moaning at the attention he was giving to her breasts. He loved the sound of her moans.

He untied the belt of the robe as he lowered his hand down from Lyssa breast over her stomach and between her legs. He could feel her wetness instantly. He massaged her clit causing her to moan deeply. He inserted two of his fingers inside her while he continued his massage. Lyssa reached for Sabrin’s face, pulling him towards her and kissed him hard. She lowered her hands to push down Sabrin’s boxers.

"Now," she gasped. "I need you now."

Sabrin removed his fingers from Lyssa and slid his hard penis inside her.

"God, yes," Lyssa moaned as she moved to pull him closer, tighter against her. She brought her legs up and pushed against his sexy ass, forcing him to thrust deeper and deeper into her. Lyssa kissed him again. Plunging her tongue into his mouth as he plunged his rock hard erection deeper into her. One of Sabrin’s hands had gone under her for balance. The other, he used to tease her taunt nipples. Lyssa's nails were digging into his back once again. Sabrin absently wondered if he would be bleeding on opening night from wounds their fierce lovemaking would cause. There was always so much heated passion when they made love. So much pleasure. So much savage ecstasy.

The intensity of their session was building up within Lyssa until it was finally released in a powerful orgasm. She called out, "Oh Sabrin! Yes! Oh my God YES!" as her nails dug even deeper into his back. But he felt no pain, only the incredible pleasure of his own orgasm as he exploded inside her, filling her with his cum. He remained within Lyssa until every drop was inside her lusciousness. He kissed her tenderly before withdrawing and moving beside her. He gently stroked her face, brushing her hair aside before kissing her again.

"I've never made love on the day of an opening before," he smiled. "Definitely something that needs to be a tradition for us. I'm usually nervous as hell but I have a really good feeling about it now, because of you."

"Maybe I can give you another really good feeling after." He might have thought Lyssa was just teasing by her flirtatious expression, but he knew her well enough to know this was more of a promise than a tease.

"I'll hold you to that. You feeling better now?"

Lyssa laughed. "How could I feel anything but wonderful after making love to you?" She grabbed his face and kissed him with passion.

"You keep that up and something else will come up and then you will not get out of this apartment for shopping," he warned. Giving her ass a nice squeeze, he kissed her forehead and rolled out of bed. Lyssa soon followed.

Sabrin got dressed while Lyssa had a shower. She did protest a little when he would not join her but finally agreed they really did need to go shopping. When Lyssa was dried, dressed and ready to go, she found Sabrin sitting on the couch reading more of her pre-natal book. She sat next to him, resting her head on his shoulder.

"Ready?" he asked. She nodded. The happy couple headed out for the market. Lyssa bought everything she needed to make a nice meal for Paul and Deborah, getting Sabrin’s input into their likes and dislikes. She was a little nervous about being with them by herself but they had been so wonderful to her that she was able to push those fears away. When they got back to the apartment, the light to the answering machine was flashing. It was the realtor from LA. There had been an offer made on the house that needed Sabrin’s approval.

Sabrin sighed. This was not good timing for such a call with his being distracted about opening night, but he did wish to get this behind him as it was a link to Niki.

Lyssa told him she would leave him in peace. She went into the kitchen to put the food away and begin preparing for the dinner this evening with Paul and Deborah.

Sabrin contacted his realtor and discovered this potential buyer was very interested, but needed time to sell their house. They were willing to pay a substantial amount over the asking price if Sabrin were willing to wait to close until their house sold. After hearing the offer, Sabrin was more than willing. The realtor promised to have the papers couriered out by tomorrow. Smiling, Sabrin agreed and hung up the phone. He went to help Lyssa, but found she had matters well in hand, so he decided to kiss her instead.

Sabrin told Lyssa the good news about the offer on the house. The extra money offered was nice but they were both glad the house was going to be sold and they would not have to start their new life in LA in that house. Sabrin ‘helped’ Lyssa in the kitchen until it was time for him to leave for the theatre. He kissed her before heading for the door.

"Break a leg, love," she told Sabrin as he left.

Everything that could be done in the kitchen had been done and now all she could do was wait while things cooked. She went to do her make-up and change into her new black dress, occasionally checking on the progress of dinner. It was very close to the time Paul and Deborah would be arriving when she had finished getting herself ready. She took one more quick look at dinner when there was a buzz over the intercom. She spoke to the doorman who then let the Smythes in to the building. Lyssa was waiting just outside the apartment door when the elevator doors opened.

Lyssa greeted them and led them in, taking coats and hanging them. Paul obviously noticed the wonderful aromas coming from the kitchen as soon as he entered, as he sniffed the air, raising his eyebrows with appreciation.

Lyssa had bought wine for the evening, so she offered them both a glass of the Bordeaux that she had intended for this meal of lamb chops and button mushrooms in a red wine sauce.

"Sabrin was able to find a nice place for you two to stay during your time in New York. This is a lovely apartment," Deborah commented as Lyssa handed her a glass of the wine.

"I was impressed with his choice as well. I love that kitchen. It’s neat, modern and well designed. Surprising from a man who needs help making coffee." Lyssa grinned, but her guests laughed freely. The fact Sabrin would not know what to do with a cheese grater if you handed it to him with the cheese, was well known.

The table was set just waiting for the meal to begin. They chatted in the living room for a few minutes before Lyssa suggested they move to the table as she excused herself to the kitchen. Paul and Deborah were very impressed with the wonderful dinner Lyssa had prepared. Their conversation was very unforced and natural, making Lyssa so comfortable it was like she had known them for years. Paul told some hilarious stories about Sabrin that had Lyssa practically in tears from laughing so hard. Once dinner was finished, Lyssa cleared the table and the threesome made their way for the theatre and the opening night of "From the Balcony".

Once they arrived at the theatre everything took a surreal twist. There were photographers requesting photo opportunities as many celebrities made their way inside. Lyssa had tried to move out of camera range when the photographers had wanted to take Paul and Deborah's pictures but Paul brought her in for each picture.

"Paul, how's it feel to have two beautiful women on your arms this evening?" a photographer called out. "Can you identify everyone for us please?"

"Of course, you are familiar with my wonderful wife, Deborah, and this delightful lady is Lyssa Page, the partner of a very lucky Sabrin Berry," he responded.

After a few more pictures, they made their way inside the theatre to their seats. They talked while they waited for the lights to dim and the curtain to rise.

The seats the threesome had to enjoy the musical were seventh row and offered a wonderfully clear view of Sabrin in his makeup and costume for his character. He did have one solo that was a father's worried lament for his daughter's future. His rich tenor filled the building and had the usual effect on Lyssa. She found herself shifting constantly in her seat as Sabrin sang.

"Are you all right, Lyssa? Are you feeling ill?" Deborah asked her in a whisper after Sabrin’s song had concluded.

Lyssa knew she was flushed and Deborah's question only made it worse.

"I'm fine. I just love to hear him sing. He has a breathtaking voice," Lyssa whispered back.

Deborah nodded and smiled, seemingly understanding what had not been said.

The production was marvelous and the audience rose in thunderous applause when the curtain lowered at the end. The cast received a number of curtain calls. Lyssa was filled with love and pride for the man she loved. After many members of the audience filed out, the threesome made their way backstage. There were friends and family members of many of the cast already there and Paul and Deborah introduced Lyssa to a few acquaintances of theirs who were waiting. It was not too long before Sabrin came out dressed in a black suit, white shirt and black tie. Lyssa had a huge smile on her face when she saw him approach. She wrapped her arms around his neck and kissed him.

"You were absolutely incredible," she gushed as she hugged him tightly.

Paul and Deborah each congratulated Sabrin on his wonderful performance. There was a photographer backstage taking photos and he asked Sabrin to pose by himself for a couple. A few minutes later the photographer was taking more pictures of Sabrin with other members of the cast before getting a few shots of Sabrin and Lyssa alone and with Paul and Deborah. Unfortunately, Paul and Deborah were not going to be able to attend the after-party as they had an early flight the next day to London. They both wished Sabrin well with the production before addressing more personal matters.

"It was wonderful to meet you, Lyssa. Take care of yourself and those babies," Deborah said as she hugged Lyssa. She turned to Sabrin and hugged him. "You're a lucky man, Sabrin, and don't you ever forget that."

"Believe me I won't," he smiled as he hugged her back.

Paul too hugged Lyssa, "Dinner was wonderful but not as wonderful as the company. We're both looking forward to spending more time with you."

Lyssa beamed, "Thank you so much for making me feel so welcome."

Paul turned to Sabrin and they exchanged a man hug. "You did great, Sabrin and I'm not just talking about the play."

Paul and Deborah then left the theatre to head back to their hotel. Sabrin pulled Lyssa close to him and kissed her.

"Come on, now we get to go mingle with all the beautiful people," Sabrin said with a bright grin. He was still very much on a high from the play and the wonderful reception from the audience, and Lyssa could tell. He took her by the waist and led her down the stairs so they could make their way through the crowds and out of the theatre. The party was to be held at a wonderful place five blocks down away. It was far enough away that a limousine had been secured for the headliners. Sabrin and Lyssa rode in a limousine with the well-known actress who had played Juliet and her equally famous boyfriend. Many pictures were taken of them all entering the limousine and just as many, if not more, were taken as they exited it and made their way into the restaurant.

Lyssa felt very out of her element for this whole production, but Sabrin just smiled and waved like he had been born for this and perhaps he had been. Many stars had come to this opening. Sabrin was greeted warmly by several people Lyssa did not recognize, but also by quite a few she did. Just as he and Lyssa were finding their seats, Linda Grace, a former model turned actress Sabrin had dated once upon a time, came over to congratulate him. He greeted her with a happy smile and a friendly hug. Linda looked very sexy in a tight teal dress, but Lyssa did not even bat an eye. Once Linda had gone her way, Lyssa nudged him and grinned.

“I was not flirting. It was over with her years ago,” Sabrin insisted.

“I know. It’s just so strange to be here and see this for real instead of in the pages of a magazine.”

The restaurant had a buffet set up with a marvelous selection of food. Sabrin filled a dinner plate with different items, while Lyssa took just a few things on a smaller plate to snack on. A number of people stopped by the table to congratulate Sabrin. Some of Sabrin’s acquaintances were not quite sure what to make of Lyssa as they had not heard about Sabrin’s break up with Niki so there was a little bit of whispering going on around them. When they had finished eating, Sabrin reached for Lyssa's hand and smiled.

"You've been very quiet. Are you getting tired?" he asked. "We can leave if you want."

"I'm fine," Lyssa smiled. "Just a little overwhelmed. This is so new for me."

"You're doing great," Sabrin reassured her. "And you are definitely the sexiest, most beautiful woman here."

They got up from the table and began to mingle for a while. Lyssa felt a little out of place as a number of people began to discuss various productions that had opened and closed recently. Sabrin could tell Lyssa was not completely comfortable and she was looking tired. After the first reviews were in (which were all incredible), he took her hand and kissed her tenderly.

"Let's go home," he whispered and led her to the doors.

"Are you sure you're ready to leave?"

"Yes. Besides we have a matinee tomorrow. This old guy needs his rest," he teased.

“Should I translate the word rest for sex in that statement?” Lyssa asked in his ear. Sabrin grinned and pulled her so he could whisper back.

“That’s one of the many things I love about you. You know what I want even before I say it. So did my singing during the play make you hot, my love?” he asked.

Lyssa took his face in her hands and kissed him with passion. “You know the answer to that question before asking. Take me home and make love to me.” She kissed him once more with growing desire, just as a photographer snapped a picture.

The ride in the taxi back to their apartment was sweet torture. Lyssa had her hands all over Sabrin and did not care that the taxi driver seemed to be enjoying what he was seeing in the rearview mirror. Sabrin’s pants were bulging severely from a desperate erection and Lyssa was doing her best to ensure he did not lose it during the ride.

When they arrived at the building, Sabrin pulled out a twenty dollar bill and gave it to the driver. Without waiting for change, they rushed into the building while the driver grinned about his twelve dollar tip. ~ Lucky SOB! ~ he thought about Sabrin as he pulled away. Once the elevator doors closed, Lyssa was rubbing against Sabrin as they kissed ferociously. Lyssa had already started to unbutton Sabrin’s jacket and shirt and had loosened his tie and Lyssa's dress was partially unzipped all before the elevator opened onto their floor. They hurried to the door of their apartment. Sabrin was fumbling with the keys as Lyssa was distracting him by licking and biting his nipples as he tried to get the keys in each lock. Once they were inside, Lyssa ran to the bedroom while Sabrin re-locked all of the locks on the door. As he went to the bedroom, he could see a trail of clothes starting with Lyssa's shoes and dress. When he arrived in the bedroom he had already thrown down his own suit jacket, tie and shirt and was undoing his pant. He smiled as he saw Lyssa laying on the bed looking so delicious. He dropped his pants and underwear while walking to the bed and lay next to her, pulling her into his arms.

"You seem to want something from me. Can I help you with something?" Lyssa asked, doing a very poor imitation of coy.

"I was hoping you could give me a place to put this," he said, pressing his erection hard against her thigh.

"I think I may be able to accommodate you," she said and rolled over, rising up on her knees to offer him a wonderful view of her very sexy ass. "I have something just a little small for you. It may be a tight fit."

Sabrin ran a hand over the silky skin on her cream white bottom. He pulled her thighs apart just a bit more, before snaking his fingers down to find this tight fit. Sabrin found her to be already quite wet and swollen with need. He came up behind her on his knees, caressing her sweet ass and pressed gratefully into her. This was the tight fit he had wet dreams about when they were apart.

Sabrin held Lyssa's hips as he thrust in and out. Lyssa reached back and was massaging her clit. She could feel his balls crashing into her butt as he thrust deeper and deeper into her. His moans always increased Lyssa's enjoyment. She loved to please Sabrin so much right from the very first time they were together. He erased so many bad memories of the insults she had endured from the man who was in a way responsible for her meeting Sabrin. Sabrin had certainly shown her it had not been her fault for the unsatisfying sex life she had had before.

Sabrin reached around her waist and leaning over her, slipped two fingers in to fondle her clit. He continued his hard thrusts with a deep even motion until his rhythm and fingering brought her to climax. The arching of her back and her high moans caused Sabrin’s groin muscles to tighten in excitement. He quickened his pace, thrusting into her harder and faster until the world exploded for him.

Once he had finished releasing his fluids into Lyssa, Sabrin gently stroked her back and butt for a moment before pulling out and lying on the bed next to her. She lay down and flashed him a beautiful, sexy smile. He reached over and gently caressed her cheek before kissing her tenderly.

"I love you, Lyssa," he smiled and moved closer, wrapping his arms around her.

"I love you, Sabrin." She kissed him gently before cuddling into his arms even more. He kissed her forehead as she closed her eyes and quickly fell asleep.

The morning papers all had wonderful reviews of "From the Balcony” and Sabrin’s performance which Sabrin read as he and Lyssa enjoyed a leisurely breakfast at a local restaurant. Later, Lyssa had a chance to see how review related his mood could be when a small paper printed a review that was not so pleasing a week after the play had opened. The producer had brought this review to the attention of the cast just after a performance late one evening. He was not terribly upset by the insulting review since the paper had a bad reputation and minimal circulation anyway. Sabrin, however, did not react well to the review. Lyssa noticed that for three days after that, Sabrin was quieter, a little brooding and that first evening, was not in the mood.

Oddly, it seemed that going to Temple that weekend helped. In addition, the candle lit evening was relaxing and romantic after, and the lovemaking was slower and tender.

Sabrin held Lyssa in his arms and watched as she fell asleep. She always had such a beautiful smile on her face as she slept. He thought a little about the next day and meeting Lyssa's parents. He was nervous about meeting them. He thought about how Lyssa had such a comforting effect on him. No matter what the problem was she always had the right words or knew when he needed to feel her arms around him and he always felt better.

~ My life has changed so much since I met Miss Lyssa Page, ~ he thought. ~ And I'm loving every second. ~ He smiled and drifted off to sleep with his hand resting on Lyssa's stomach.

The next morning was a beautiful, sunny spring day. Sabrin and Lyssa had a leisurely breakfast. Lyssa was going to drive to the airport to meet her parents at 1:00 while Sabrin was going to have to leave for the theatre around the same time. He would not be able to meet the Pages until dinner that evening. He had offered to take the day off but Lyssa had thought it best if she spend a couple of hours alone with her parents so they could quiz her and inspect the apartment to see how Sabrin was treating their daughter.

Aaron and Ruth Page were surprised to see Lyssa was already having to wear looser clothing this early in her pregnancy.

"Twins take up more room in me," Lyssa assured them. The sight of their beautiful daughter looking happy, loved and content, in addition to her expanding figure, caused her father to be struck dumb and her mother to be near tears.

On the drive to the hotel where her parents had a room, her mother asked, "You are happy with this arrangement, Lyssa? Living with him, but not being married to him?"

"He is a wonderful man, mom. Wait until you meet him. I know you'll like him. He’s at the theatre now, but he'll be home for dinner. I want you two to come then to meet him."

"Where will we eat, Lyssa?" her father asked.

"I'll cook, daddy. I know you like my vegetable soup. I started it this morning," Lyssa answered as they pulled into the hotel parking lot. Fortunately, the hotel was a short walk from Sabrin and Lyssa's apartment and the weather had become even nicer.

Lyssa dropped off her parents so she could drive the car back to the parking garage. She walked back to the hotel and arrived before her parents had gone up to their room to drop off their bags. Her father took them up while Lyssa and her mother waited in the lobby.

"Your father and I are still worried about you but seeing how happy you look helps a lot," Ruth told Lyssa.

"I am happy, mom. Happier than I have ever been in my life," she smiled as she hugged her mother.

As they walked over to the apartment, Lyssa pointed out some of the features of the area. A number of the merchants waved to Lyssa and she introduced her parents to the owners of the deli and the market where she shopped regularly. They arrived at the apartment building where the doorman welcomed Lyssa's parents warmly. Aaron and Ruth Page were impressed with the area and felt much better about their daughter living in ‘big, bad New York City’. When they entered the apartment, they were once again pleasantly surprised. They knew Sabrin was not a starving actor so they were happy to see a nice but not lavish apartment.

Lyssa had already purchased her parents’ favorite tea, so she heated a kettle and had them sit at the kitchen table. Her mother was impressed with the well-organized kitchen and how at home her daughter seemed to be there.

They talked some after the tea was made, but Sabrin was due home soon and Lyssa knew he would be famished when he arrived. She began to put the finishing touches on the soup and checked on the homemade bread she had rising. Her mother set the table while her father watched the news in the living room. Lyssa's face lit up with joy when she heard Sabrin’s keys working on the door locks. She dropped what she was doing and went to the door to welcome him home.

As soon as he was inside, Lyssa could tell right away from looking at him that the performance had gone well. She greeted Sabrin with a tender kiss.

"They're here," she whispered. "Don't be nervous."

Sabrin smiled as he and Lyssa walked hand in hand into the living room. Ruth Page had moved next to her husband, who had turned off the television when he saw Lyssa rush to the door. They were both standing in front of the couch waiting. Even though they knew Sabrin was older than Lyssa, it was still a shock to see their little girl with a man the same age as them. Lyssa smiled as she introduced her parents to Sabrin.

"Mom, daddy, I'd like you to meet Sabrin Berry. Sabrin, these are my parents, Aaron and Ruth Page,"

Sabrin reached out to shake Lyssa's father's hand. "I'm very pleased to meet you, Mr. Page."

"Please, I'm Aaron and this is Ruth."

Sabrin shook hands with Ruth.

They sat on the couch silently for a few moments until Lyssa's father spoke.

"You seem to be doing quite well for an actor," he said. Lyssa cringed.

"I've been very lucky in my career. I make a very comfortable living," Sabrin answered.

“The life of an actor – there must be times when you find yourself out of work. What then?” Lyssa’s father questioned. Lyssa cringed again.

“The series I did is still aired daily around the world and has been since production ended. The residuals from that are a healthy chunk of what I earn in a year. Plus, I’ve got savings and investments to make sure Lyssa and the babies will want for nothing.”

"Ruth and I have been married for 33 years now. Have you ever been married, Sabrin?" Mr. Page asked.

"No, I haven't," he responded.

"I see. Why? Do you have commitment problems or something?" Mr. Page pressed on.

"No, I don't have a problem making commitments. I am very committed to Lyssa. In the past I have had long term relationships but marriage was not contemplated for either."

"I see. How long did these relationships last?"

"One was for four years and the other for over fourteen," Sabrin answered without hesitating.

"I see, four and fourteen years," Aaron repeated. "Why didn't you marry either of them?"

"Daddy, that's enough," Lyssa interjected. Sabrin smiled at Lyssa and squeezed her hand.

"I don't mind answering your father's questions, Lyssa. At the time I wasn't comfortable with the idea of marriage. Using hindsight though, I believe a part of me knew I hadn't met the right woman yet," Sabrin responded showing no hint of discomfort over the question.

"Lyssa, you better check on dinner," her mother prodded Lyssa to go to the kitchen as her father prepared to ask Sabrin another question.

"And what about Lyssa?" Aaron quizzed.

Sabrin replied softly as he did not want Lyssa to hear his reply. "I love Lyssa more than anything. She is the right woman for me. My mother will be arriving on Monday and she's bringing an engagement ring that belonged to my great-grandmother with her. I am going to ask Lyssa to marry me once I have the ring, if you approve. If we can't have your blessing-"

"You have it," Aaron interrupted. "It's obvious to both of us that you love our daughter very much. You answered some pretty tough questions without hesitation and most importantly, we've never seen Lyssa happier. She doesn't know you are planning to propose?"

"No, I want surprise her," Sabrin grinned with eagerness.

"Your secret is safe with us," Ruth replied.

Sabrin sighed inwardly. He had expected something very similar to this inquiry, so he had been ready for it. The questions that followed were much easier. Where were they going to live after the play? Would he be home for Lyssa to help raise the babies? Did they plan on introducing the babies to their Jewish heritage?

These were questions Sabrin had no hesitation about answering. Finally, Lyssa called them all in to the dining room for dinner. The soup she had prepared was wonderful. The fresh bread was piping hot and, with real butter, it was to die for. She had also made a wonderful apple pie for dessert. Everyone was delighted with the dinner and the pie. Lyssa seemed to enjoy playing hostess and she did it well, Sabrin noted. Her parents noted how attentive Sabrin was to their daughter. He helped wherever he could and spoke to her with respect. There were many times during the evening that Ruth and Aaron exchanged meaningful, but approving glances.

After dinner Sabrin helped Lyssa with the dishes while her parents relaxed on the couch.

"I'm sorry about my father's interrogation," Lyssa said.

"You don't have to apologize, Lyssa. He loves you very much. I'm just glad I passed," he laughed before kissing Lyssa.

They joined the Pages and talked for quite a while. Sabrin made sure they would be in the city long enough to come to a performance of ‘From the Balcony’. Soon they headed back to their hotel, leaving Sabrin and Lyssa alone. They both let out a sigh of relief that everything had gone well. Sabrin was especially happy he had received the blessing of the Pages.

Since Rose would be arriving the next afternoon, Lyssa went to the guest room to make sure all was in order there. She had washed sheets and freshened towels in the guest bathroom, but she went in to dust and fluff the pillows on the bed.

"Nervous?" Sabrin asked from the doorway of the room.

Lyssa released her hold on the pillow with a guilty expression on her face.

"Me? Nervous? No," she said in a voice that was not the least bit convincing. With a defeated look, Lyssa sunk down on the bed she had just straightened. "What if she doesn't like me?"

Sabrin crossed the room and took hold of her shoulders. "My mother is going to love you. You’re beautiful, smart, Jewish, and making her a grandmother when she was giving up hope. There is no way you can miss, Lyssa. But if she hates you, which she won't, it will make no difference to me. I love you. Nothing will change that. Besides I can be a hard ass too." He pulled her to her feet to kiss her, but Lyssa covered her mouth and ran to the bathroom. Sabrin decided that nerves must make her morning sickness worse as he followed behind to offer her help.

They had established quite a routine for when Lyssa was sick. Sabrin had everything prepared quickly - wet cloth, toothbrush ready to go and anything else he could think of. He helped Lyssa up and, when she had finished brushing her teeth, he took her in his arms and kissed her.

"You look tired," Sabrin observed. "Let's go to bed. It's been a long day." He took Lyssa's hand and led her to the bedroom. She climbed into bed while Sabrin checked the doors and windows and turned off the lights of the apartment. By the time Sabrin climbed into bed next to her, Lyssa was already asleep. Sabrin wrapped his arms around her while trying to decide how and when he should propose to Lyssa. He was a little nervous but it was a good nervous. Soon he too drifted off to sleep.