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From: " Dorsai" <dorsai@mail.com>
Subject: {ASSM} (STORY) Justice Served (MF, Ff, MFF, inc, oral, viol)
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Date: Fri, 14 Jan 2005 09:10:03 -0500
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Justice Served

Copyright (c) 2005 - Dorsai

LEGAL DISBLAMER This is a dirty, nasty, *filthy* story - or some people
would have you believe. If you're old enough to read it in your area,
make up your own mind. If you're not `of age', then you're not
_supposed_ to be reading this stuff. Don't get caught - I won't accept
the blame.

INFORMATION You can get a copy of this story in text and .pdf (Adobe
Acrobat) formats, and my other stories, at the alt.sex.stories text
repository at www.asstr-mirror.org under my Author name of Dorsai. Or, if you
prefer, you can read it as an HTML document on my web page at asstr. If
you do, *PLEASE* make a donation to them so they can continue to afford
to make erotica available on the net. The money they receive is used
ONLY to maintain the site (pay for bandwidth [faster downloads!],
servers, etc.), NOT to pay us authors. They will accept any donation,
and you can donate anonymously - see their donations page to learn how.

You can reach me directly at my public email account at:

dorsai@mail.com

This story is released for FREE public distribution provided the
copyright notice is retained. This story is NOT FOR SALE at any time, by
anyone. This story may NOT be included in any collections or posted on
any site for which ANY type of fee or other charge is required before
the user can read it. I *WILL* prosecute any violations of my copyright,
or the terms of distribution.

For those wishing to provide feedback to me, or any other author, there
are a number of anonymous remailers available from the site:

http://www.1netcentral.com/anonymous-email.html

-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-==-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-

This is yet another in the Next Door Neighbor series; reading those stories
isn't strictly necessary, but would probably be helpful.

   I met Lucy when the two of us were next door neighbors in an apartment
complex.  I'm a free-lance computer programmer, and work from home; so when
it had been raining one day, I let her daughter Robyn come inside my
apartment to get out of the rain and dry off when she'd forgotten her key
and couldn't get into her own apartment.  While she was waiting for her
mother to get home, Robyn got interested in what I did for a living.  We
got to know a little bit about each other, and she became interested in me.
I also got to meet Lucy, and the two of us became somewhat friendly.

   Over the weeks that followed, Robyn and I got better acquainted.  Much
better acquainted.  Enough so that she'd first let me become familiar with
her cute little 13-year-old body, then on to the point where she gave me
her virginity.  Robyn and Lucy both each came to me at different times and
told me that they were having trouble communicating with each other. 
Acting as a mediator of sorts, I was able to get the two of them talking.

   Shortly after that, Robyn's friend and 15-year-old cousin Sandra came to
visit them; at Robyn's urging, I became almost as intimate with Sandra as I
was with Robyn.  Lucy and I had established a relationship by the time she
found out that the two youngsters and I had become at least somewhat
intimate; because of the relationship between us, she was at least tolerant
of the intimacy I had with them.  When Lucy was called out of town on
business, she agreed to let me "watch" the two little sex bombs - fully
expecting that I'd wind up in bed with them.  When it was discovered that
there was a problem on the job she'd been sent on, she'd called me in as an
"independent" party to figure out what was going on.  Along the way, Lucy
had come clean about knowing what the girls were doing with each other -
and with me; then she'd gone on to become just as involved with them as I
was.  What the problem turned out to be was a major criminal operation that
involved us getting protection from the FBI - and helping one of the Bureau
agents protecting us (Amy) get over a dislike of intimacy with men.  By the
time it was all over, I'd earned myself a multi-million dollar fee after I
showed Lucy's employer where over a quarter of a BILLION dollars had gotten
off to.  I proposed to Lucy, and she agreed to marry me.

   Some time later, I got a call from Amy; she needed help in dealing with
the computer systems being used by a miniature drug cartel in the area. 
Lucy had encouraged me to help her; in the process of doing that, I found
myself becoming very good friends with two MORE Bureau agents - with Lucy's
encouragement and support.  Sadly, Sandra's parents were killed as part of
an attempt to froce me to stop helping the FBI - something that had just
the opposite of the effect.  I didn't hesitate to adopt Sandra after the
death of her parents, with the permission of her only living relatives: a
pair of elderly grandparents who didn't have the wherewithal to take care
of her.  I went back to work for the FBI with a vengeance, and eventually
was able to provide them with the information they needed to stage a
nation-wide drug bust.

   I got involved in a third pass at helping the Bureau when the local
Special Agent in Charge asked Amy for help with a problem HE was having. 
She directed him toward me; Lucy, the kids, and I found ourselves providing
protective custody - in our own home, no less - for a woman and her
daughter that were key witnesses against a local gang leader: the woman's
husband.  While she was with us, she discovered the degree of intimacy
between all of us; after initially objecting to it, she finally came to
understand the nature of it.  Understanding enough, in fact, that she
encouraged me to agree when her daughter asked me to be the one to deflower
her at fifteen.  That little adventure ended with the woman and her
daughter going into the witness protection program, where the woman found
the kind of husband she deserved.

   A few years later, Lucy and I took the time to be by ourselves and have
fun traveling around the country in a big motor home - kind of a year-long
road trip.  In Idaho, we came across a young girl hitchhiking; despite our
agreement not to pick anyone up, Lucy had me stop for this one.  Once she
was inside, we found out that she was trying to get away from a corrupt and
bullying county sheriff - who caught up with her, and us, a few minutes
later.  Lucy and I had the misfortune of learning what kind of
reprehensible animal he was before our close association with the FBI
caused him to release us.  We also insisted on the sheriff turning the girl
loose after we saw how he abused her; there wasn't any doubt that it would
only be worse for her if she had to stay.  With Lucy and I both angry about
what was happening, we stayed in the area - with the girls mother, actually
- and started trying to find out what was going on.  We finally discovered
that the sheriff was kidnapping young girls that had run away from home and
was selling them into an underground slave market.  With the prospect of
jail time ahead of him, the sheriff abducted Lucy and tried to make an
escape; I caught up with him in the Idaho wilderness and stopped him before
he did any serious damage to Lucy.  Before the whole thing ended, Lucy and
I had both made love with the girl's mother.

   It was rapidly approaching summer a couple of years after Lucy and I had
gone out on our grand tour of the United States.  Sandra was finishing her
Junior year of college and Robyn doing the same for her Freshman year. 
They were sharing an apartment not far from the college; both knew they
were MORE than welcome to live at home with Lucy and me, but as Robyn had
put it "Dad, both of us are going to have to go out and live on our own
sooner or later, any way.  Why not let us start now, while we're close, so
you can help if we have any problems while we're learning to take care of
ourselves?"

   Neither Lucy nor I were all that enthusiastic about the idea - but what
Robyn said simply made too much sense.  There had been some negotiating
about the arrangements - amusingly, Lucy and I were having trouble getting
them to accept as much help as we wanted to give them, while they were
adamant about taking as little as they could get away with.  It finally
settled out that Lucy and I would pay for their tuition and books; they
would accept an "allowance" equal to forty hours a week at minimum wage for
each of them.  Lucy and I managed to fudge things a bit in the process of
getting them to accept it by not telling them about the assorted taxes that
were deducted from an actual paycheck; that way, we were able to send them
a bit more than they'd indicated they were willing to accept.  From that
allowance, they were to pay their rent and utilities, as well as any
entertainment, food, and miscellaneous school supplies such as notebooks
and the like.  Their apartment was smaller than the bedrooms they had in
our house, but it was theirs, and they were happy with it.

   Both of them were over having supper with us one Friday night when I
suggested that all of us spend the summer visiting different parks, and
camping out.  It had been a while since we'd done anything like that, and
both girls were enthusiastic about the idea.  Lucy was too, but doubtful
that the company where she had risen to a vice-presidency would be
particularly thrilled at the idea of her taking an entire summer off -
particularly so soon after she'd been gone a full year so we could tour the
country.

   I snorted and told Lucy "Get things set up so you can, then tell them
you're going.  If they fuss too hard, tell them to get stuffed.  Its not
like you need the job!"

   That earned me a laugh from her - with the twenty-million-plus paycheck
I'd gotten from working for her the first time, none of us needed to work,
ever, as long as we were alive.

   "I don't think it'll come to that, Dan - but if it does, I'll keep what
you said in mind", she told me, smiling.  Robyn and Sandra just grinned at
me; as much as they knew I loved them, they also knew that I could be a
contrary, obstinate bastard when it suited me.  That's probably the nicest
part about having a nice chunk of money: if somebody gets too annoying, you
can just tell them to buzz off and not have to worry about it afterwards.

   With that out of the way, we finished supper talking about other things;
both girls were doing extremely well in school, and Lucy and I had already
met their current boyfriends - the girls invariably brought potential
boyfriends over because they trusted Lucy, and particularly me for some
reason, as good judges of character.

   When supper was finished, we all chipped in to clear the table and clean
things up.  Afterwards, it was into the family room to watch a movie; the
girls didn't have anything near the setup in their apartment as we did at
home, so when there was something they particularly wanted to watch on
video they'd bring it with them.

   As Robyn was getting it set up, Sandra unhesitatingly planted herself in
my lap and pulled my arms around her.  I kissed her ear and told her I
loved her; she just smiled and snuggled into my chest in reply.  When Robyn
was done, she went over to park herself next to Lucy, and each of them put
an arm around the other.

   When the movie was over, I waited to see what Sandra and Robyn would do.
With their own apartment, they'd started living their own lives; most of
the times that they came over, they'd go on back to their apartment after
they'd visited for a while - but every so often, they'd stay the night so
they could share Lucy's and my bed.  As it turned out, that was going to be
one of those nights.

   Turning her head and kissing me on the cheek, Sandra asked "Is it okay
if we stay with you tonight, Uncle Dan?"

   I wasn't her uncle biologically, but when I offered to adopt her after
her parent's death, she'd asked me if she could call me that.  Touched
deeply, it had taken me no time at all to agree.  She called Lucy "Aunt";
there was a biological connection, but it was tenuous.  For her part, Robyn
called me "Dad" because she said that I was more of a father to her than
Lucy's ex-husband had EVER been.  I was proud that she thought well enough
of me to address me that way.

   I kissed Sandra on the lips and told her "Of course it is, dear.  You
know you're always welcome here or in our bed, for whatever reason."

   I sat there for a second, just looking at her.  With her pale, pale
blonde hair, clear complexion, and brilliant blue-gray eyes, she looked
incredibly like Elke Sommer.  For as long as I'd known her, she carried
herself with a kind of quiet dignity, and had shown that she was all but
unflappable in a number of circumstances - including some rather extreme
ones.

   She slid off my lap and extended her hand toward me; I took it and stood
next to her.  As we started to leave the family room, I saw Robyn stand and
head for the video center while Lucy got to her feet.

   As Sandra and I made our way upstairs, Robyn and Lucy weren't far behind
us with an arm around each other.

   In the bedroom, Sandra had me stand next to the bed while Robyn did the
same with Lucy on the other side, then she smiled and began undressing me.
It was something she liked to do for some reason, so I simply cooperated
with her until the only thing I was wearing was a smile of my own.  At that
point, she guided me to lie down on the bed, just as Robyn was doing with
Lucy.  Then the two of them moved to the foot of the bed where Lucy and I
could both see them, and began undressing each other - not as a striptease
for me and Lucy, but doing it for each other, knowing that we were
watching. That made it even more erotic to watch as first Robyn's medium
bust and small dark nipples came into view, then Sandra's slightly larger
breasts capped with areolas that were barely darker than her skin. 
Following that, each removed the others panties, letting Lucy and me see
their small, tight asses; when they turned, the thatch of hair that each
had at the apex of their thighs, the same color as on their heads.

   With each of them as naked and Lucy and me, they clambered onto the bed
and made their way up to us: Robyn to Lucy, Sandra to me.  I happily took
my adopted daughter into my arms and kissed her - softly at first, then
with growing desire.  From the time each of the girls had started college,
there had been a gradual decrease in the frequency with which they shared
Lucy's and my bed; so having them there that night was something of a treat
for Lucy and me.

   As Sandra and I kissed, I relaxed my arms from the hug I'd been giving
her and began using my hands to reacquaint myself with her body - from her
small firm ass to her delicate neck, and everything I could reach in
between.  Her skin was soft and smooth, unmarred by any blemishes; it was
cool and responsive to my touch as the two of us kissed more frequently,
and with rising passion.  When she lifted herself up, I could see that
Sandra had already started to develop a little bit of a blush from her
arousal.  Raising herself even further, she also scooted up a bit so that
she brought her firm breasts and hardening nipples within range of my eager
mouth.

   I quickly fastened onto one nipple, softly sucking on it as I gently
chewed on the pale areola it rose from; Sandra's response was to put her
hands in my hand and hold me there in encouragement to continue.

   It didn't take me long to get her nipple erect and move on to the other
with a soft moan of pleasure from her.  When the second was ready, I
returned to the first to bring it fully to life again.  Back and forth I
went until the ends of both her breasts were shiny with my saliva and
peaked in her excitement.  My next considered action was to softly nudge
her forward again - she quickly understood what I wanted, and eagerly moved
to straddle my head, making the area between her thighs available to me.

   Lifting my head, I didn't hesitate to extend my tongue and draw it
through the cleft between her labia.  From the bottom of her mons to the
top, my tongue collected its first sample of her woman's essence;
delighting me again with the unique flavor of her before I softly fluttered
my tongue across her visible - but not yet erect - clitoris.  It took only
a couple of minutes of my oral attentions before she was moaning her
pleasure as she opened herself to me even more.  Next to me, I could hear
the panting and moans as Lucy and Robyn renewed their intimacy, as well.

   I continued lapping at Sandra's vaginal opening, with side trips to
clitoris, and expanding my efforts to include putting my mouth over her
entire opening and trying to suck all of the oils she was producing.  It
didn't work, but it was fun trying.  My efforts were rewarded a few minutes
later when she had a powerful orgasm, pressing herself down onto my mouth
as she gasped and groaned her way through her release.

   When she was done, she carefully moved from over my head and kissed me
before moving to lie down with her head by my waist.  Once she was
situated, she leaned over and took my semi-erect penis in her hand and
lifted it so she could take the head of it in her mouth.  With her body no
longer blocking my vision, I could turn my head and watch as Robyn and Lucy
engaged in a passionate '69' with each other.  I could clearly see where
Lucy had her head between Robyn's thighs and watched as she happily engaged
in trying to bring her daughter to a climax.  Between that vision, and the
feeling of what Sandra was doing to my penis, it didn't take long before I
was fully erect.

   Sandra continued her efforts a little longer before deciding that it was
time for more.  Releasing my manhood from her lips, she quickly sat up and
moved to position herself over me, facing my head.  Holding me steady, she
lowered herself enough so that the head of my erection was pressing against
her opening; then, looking it my eyes with a lusty grin on her face, she
lowered herself even further - taking my entire length in a single, slow
motion.  It was terrific from my perspective, and judging from the smile on
her face, felt pretty good to her, too.

   With her firm ass settled onto my legs, she held herself steady for a
bit before leaning over to support her body by putting her hands on either
side of my chest.  That left the front of her available for my attentions -
and attend to her I did.  Cupping her breasts in my hands, I gently ran my
thumbs over her nipples as she raised herself again and began arching her
back to slide herself up and down on my penis.  That left the upper part of
her body steady, making it easy for me to expand my touch on her breasts to
include caressing them and gently squeezing them and softly pinching her
nipples.  We brought our heads together so we could share a deep,
passionate kiss before both of us looked down to where we were joined:
watching as she slid her tight, wet sheath up and down my length.  When she
rose up, we could both see her vaginal lips extend as they clasped at me;
when she lowered herself again, they would disappear as though guiding me
deeper into her.  At the top of her cleft, I could see that her motion on
me was causing a small amount of pressure to be applied to her erect and
visible clitoris.  With that added stimulation for her, I knew it wouldn't
take her long to find her pleasure.

   As I continued to molest her mammaries, Sandra lowered her head in
invitation - and the two of us went back to kissing each other as the pace
of her movements on me steadily increased.  Our kisses finally had to end
simply because of her increased arousal and excitement - she was panting
with her efforts, and moaning in pleasure as she repeatedly impaled herself
on my manhood.

   I thrust myself up into Sandra a few times, but she lowered her head
again to gasp "Don't, if you can help it - Robyn wants you, too."

   Suitably warned, I held myself still under her, and tried to control the
amount of pleasure and stimulation I was getting from Sandra's activity.  I
was starting to wonder if I'd be able to hold out when she suddenly all but
slammed herself down onto me a couple of times before pressing herself down
as hard as she could to get me deep inside her as she climaxed with a soft
cry.  I could feel her vaginal walls tighten around me before her internal
muscles began a cyclic clenching that started near the base of my penis and
ran toward its head, as though she was trying to milk me for my semen.  If
she hadn't cautioned me that Robyn wanted to make love with me, too, I'd
have gladly given myself up to the incredible pleasure her spasming
womanhood was creating around me.

   When it was almost over for her, I took my hands away from her firm
breasts so that she could simply lower herself to lie on top of me.  She
managed to smile at me in thanks before doing that very thing; I wrapped my
arms around her and held her as she panted in my ear to get her breath
back. Once her breathing and heartbeat had returned to normal, I began
softly caressing her body again as I softly told her how much I loved her.
She had just lifted herself up a bit when we heard Lucy's deep, guttural
moan as she slipped into an orgasm.  Both of us looked over to where Robyn
was doing her best to intensify and prolong her mother's pleasure while
Lucy's body almost convulsed from the waves of release coursing through it.

   Robyn lifted her head from between Lucy's thighs and looked over at us
with a lecherous grin; Sandra and I both smiled back, knowing how much
Robyn enjoyed pleasuring her mother that way.

   Robyn saw my Sandra-slickened penis waving in the air and asked her
"You're done already?"

   Sandra nodded, and Robyn told her "Why don't you comfort Mom so I can
have Dad?"

   Sandra turned to me a gave me a quick kiss before moving to get off of
me as Robyn sat up and began to do the same for Lucy.  When both of them
were between Lucy and me, they paused to give each other a kiss - and
fondle each other a bit in the process - before finishing the exchange of
partners.  When I had Robyn's attention, she gave me a lecherous smile
before lowering her body enough to take me into her mouth and begin an
enthusiastic cleaning of my penis to remove Sandra's oils.  Once that was
accomplished, she went on to leave a fine sheen of her saliva on me before
straddling my hips.

   When she was aroused, Robyn got very wet inside, so it didn't surprise
me in the slightest when she was able to settle herself onto my erection
without effort.  The delight that it brought ME, however, was something
else entirely: her ample lubrication made it possible for her to settle
onto me so easily, but it didn't do a damn thing about how tight and hot
she was inside while she did it.  Even as she rapidly closed in on her
twenty-first birthday, she was still almost as tight inside as she'd been
when I'd deflowered her at thirteen - despite the repeated and enthusiastic
test fittings we'd made in the intervening years.

   She paused a few moments, giving BOTH of us the chance to savor the
feeling of my penis in her before she started slowly raising herself off of
me.  While Sandra had been content to move along only a quarter of my
length, Robyn wanted to feel more of me cycling in and out of her; she
didn't stop her ascent until the tight ring of her entrance was wrapped
around my penis just behind the glans before letting herself slide back
down onto me.

   For the first couple of minutes, Robyn was content to move relatively
slowly as she moved herself up and down my manhood.  But as she became more
and more excited, she gradually reduced the range of her motions until she
was moving herself on little more than half of me.  From the way her more
than ample lubrication was slowly soaking into my pubic hair, I knew that
she was enjoying our coupling.  Even her youthful energy had its limits,
though, and she eventually began to slow down a bit.  Putting my hands on
her hips, I finally got her to stop so I could suggest "How about if I do
the work, now?"

   Lecherously, she answered "This isn't work, this is fun - but okay."

   She lowered her body so I could wrap my arms around her, and with a
little adjustment of our legs along the way, we had quickly reversed
positions so that she was on her back with me over her.  Looking up at me
affectionately, she said "Make love to me, Dad..."

   I simply smiled my reply before beginning to withdraw from her until
almost all of my penis was outside her hot, wet vagina - then slowly
pressing myself back into her as she softly moaned her pleasure.

   She'd gotten me going pretty well, so it wasn't long until I was
pistoning in and out of her as quickly as she'd been moving on me.  The
liquid sounds of our joining went on for some time before I had to lower my
body so I could rest on my elbows; the two of us took the opportunity to
exchange a number of passionate kisses before I began softly biting her
neck and shoulders - something that I knew aroused her tremendously.  I
could feel her nipples drawing curlicues on my chest as her breasts wobbled
in synchronization with my thrusts in her; the feeling was wonderfully
erotic, and helped arouse me even more.

   As I felt myself getting closer and closer to my release, I raised
myself over her again.  The two of us looked into each others eyes as each
of us focused on the sensations the other was creating for us.  I could
tell from the twinges in Robyn's vagina that she was almost ready to
climax; the feeling of that around my penis soon had me feeling the
tightening in my balls that signaled my own imminent release.  With a few
rapid, short thrusts into her, I buried myself as deeply as I could into
her just as I felt myself slip over into my climax.  The sensation of me
emptying myself into her must have been enough to trigger Robyn's orgasm,
as well - I'd barely shot the first wad of my jism into her when she
released a deep groan and tightened around me even more.  I quickly lowered
myself to my elbows again and tried to press myself even deeper into her,
knowing that I was applying pressure to her clitoris when I did - and
making her orgasm more intense.  In response, her vaginal muscles began a
kind of fluttering that only made MY climax better, too.

   By the time it was over for both of us, each of us knew that we'd
brought considerable pleasure and happiness to each other; the look we
shared with each other was a joyful, loving one.

   I continued to hold myself over her, my penis a prisoner in her womanly
jail until it finally shrank enough to pull free of her intimate embrace.
When she gently nudged me to let me know she was ready for me to get off of
her, I delayed just long enough for the two of us to share a quick kiss
before moving to lie next to her.  When I did, I saw that Lucy and Sandra
had apparently taken the time to go to the bathroom and get some things to
clean us up and keep us from making a mess on the bed.  Both had big smiles
on their faces as they moved in to take care of their self-appointed tasks:
Lucy to me, and Sandra to Robyn.

   As Lucy was wiping the mixture of Robyn's oils and my semen from my
penis, I pulled her down for a kiss before telling her "Thank you." Her
smile got wider, and she told me "It is always so hot to watch you and her
together.  Or you and Sandra.  Or you and anybody, for that matter!", with
a soft laugh.  I laughed along with her, and replied "I feel the same way
about you and either - or both - of them, or anyone else.  But you're the
one that really gets my motor going."

   Hearing that, Lucy gave me a loving look and leaned down for another
kiss before telling me "And THAT is why I love you so much!"

   Once all of us were reasonably cleaned up - no longer at risk of getting
sticky, though still a trifle whiff - we settle in to get some sleep:
Sandra tucked against my back as I spooned with Lucy, who was holding
Robyn.

   The next morning, there was time for a group shower - extended because
of all the groping, fondling, and literal grab-ass going on - before we all
sat down for breakfast.

   The girls were enthusiastic about the idea of going camping that summer,
and we could see that it had a fair amount of appeal for Lucy, too - even
if she did think that the company where she worked would turn down her
request for the summer "off".

   It didn't take much for us to get her involved in working out a general
plan for things.  We all realized that it had been long enough since we'd
gone camping like that, that we needed to get some new stuff - hiking
boots, for example.  The girls tried to object when I said that I'd pay for
their stuff, but after a little friendly arguing, I managed to convince
them that a special occasion like what we were planning wasn't something
that they should have to pay out of their "allowance" As we talked, I
started making mental notes about what we'd need and where to get it, along
with the necessity of checking a few things that concerned me.

   Once we had a tentative plan, Robyn and Sandra took care of the
breakfast dishes so Lucy and I could go into the family room and snuggle a
little - and for me to gently work on encouraging her to make the trip,
regardless of what her company said.

   "You know, they're going to be graduating before too long.  When that
happens, you know they're going to want to start their own lives." I told
her.

   "I know, Dan.  It's just that things are kind of busy at work, and I
don't know that the rest of the board will be willing to let me go -
particularly so soon after I took a whole year off!"

   "Both of us know damn well just how much you've done for them, and how
valuable you are.  I'm PROUD of you, and how far you've gone with them; but
if they really aren't willing to give you time off for this, then I have to
wonder if THEY know how much they need you."

   "When we were gone that year, I got back and found out that some of the
board members had been telling my staff to do things that I told them that
they were NOT supposed to do.  And a couple of them even tried to get some
kind of reorganization going, and break my group up so they could try to
get their own houses in order.  I'm just afraid that if I take a whole
summer off, this time they'll succeed", she told me.

   I answered "If that's the kind of people you're working with, then maybe
you should LET them make their dumbass mistakes.  Then maybe they'll
understand just how good you are, and start listening to you.  Do you have
any idea how many times you've come home and fussed about how they
wouldn't?"

   She looked at me, and I quickly raised a hand to let her know I wasn't
done talking.  She settled down and listened as I told her "I'm not
bitching about listening to you.  I love you, and like I said, I'm proud of
you and the work you do there; and if helping you unwind when you get home
help you, then I'm glad to do it.  What I AM saying is that most of that
unwinding is you telling me about the office politics, and how they won't
listen to what you say to them, and start working together.  So if they
aren't willing to give you this time off, then I'm suggesting that it might
be time for you to let them step on their own dicks and see if that doesn't
get their attention."

   That last bit made her smile briefly before she said "I'm just not sure
it would do any good..."

   "Then maybe its time to find out.  You've told me that half of them know
things don't work right, but don't want to change anything as long as the
company is going along halfway decent.  I'm suggesting that its time to
show them that its time to either shit, or get off the pot: they can either
decide to start listening to someone that has shown that they know what
they're talking about - that would be you, dear" - she stuck her tongue out
at me - "or they can choose to do nothing and watch the place slowly fall
apart.  As proud of you as I am, I still love you, too - and I'm not all
that enthusiastic about watching you beating your pretty head against the
wall trying to get the jackasses to pay attention to what you have to say.
The whole reason they brought you onto the Board of Directors was because
you got results faster and more efficiently than anyone else.  I just don't
think you should have to fight them to do the job they brought you in to
do, is all."

   She looked at me uncertainly, and I told her "Look, you don't have to
quit, if you don't want to.  I'd bet they'll go for giving you a couple
months off for a sabbatical, or unpaid leave of absence, or something.  Do
that, and let them realize just how much you're doing for them while you
spend what might be the last chance we get to spend this much time together
as a family."

   Having made my case, I just shut up and held Lucy against my chest as
she thought about what I'd just said.

   A bit later, the girls were done with the dishes - that is, having put
them away from the dishwasher - and came into the family room.  Lucy and I
didn't let on the conversation we'd had; she simply got up and went to the
other end of the couch so the girls could snuggle with us.  Sandra got some
classical music going while Robyn took station on my lap, then she went
over and cuddled with Lucy.  As the rest of the morning passed, the girls
would occasionally trade off - Sandra coming to me and Robyn going to Lucy.
After we'd had a light lunch, Sandra and Robyn took care of getting the
dishes started before letting us know they needed to get home and study. 
Lucy and I kissed each of them goodbye before they left.

   The following Monday, I started getting things organized for a summer of
camping.  Until I heard from Lucy, I wasn't going to make any definite
reservations for anyplace or anything, but I could still start taking care
of a lot of other stuff.

   As the days went by, I continued my bit of welcoming Lucy home and
listening to her as she unloaded the stresses of her job.  I noticed, but
didn't say anything about, the glaring omission that she didn't mention
anything about taking time off from work.  Nor did I say anything about the
lack of office politics that she normally made mention of.  I loved her,
and was willing to leave her to work things out for herself in her own mind
until and unless she asked for my help.

   It was Tuesday of the week after that when she let me know what had been
going on.

   As normal, I was holding her in my arms after she'd changed out of her
business clothes.  She'd been silent for a few minutes, and I was content
to wait for her to say something when she was ready.

   Tilting her head, she gave me a kiss on the cheek before saying "Thanks,
Dan."

   "You're welcome.  What for?"

   "For not pushing.  I know you noticed I wasn't saying anything about the
other Board members, and I didn't tell you anything about whether or not
they'd give me the time off.  But you didn't say anything, you didn't ask,
you didn't bug me about it - you just left me alone, and I appreciate it."

   She kissed me on the cheek again, and when I looked at her she smiled
and told me "I know you love me more than anything, and I love you, too -
and that's just one of the things about you that means so much to me"
before resting her head against my shoulder and saying "I didn't say
anything to them the first few days about wanting to take time off again.
What I wanted to do first was just watch them, and listen to what they said
and see what they DO.  I finally realized that you were right when you told
me that I shouldn't have to fight them to do the job they hired me for -
and that was just what I spend most of my time doing: trying to keep them
from screwing up the things that I've already done to help, and wasting
time and energy and money to convince them to do the stuff that they've
ADMITTED needs to happen, but they won't do because they just don't like
it."

   She took a deep breath and went on "I talked to some of the other Board
members, and once I got the bullshit filtered out, what they told me was
that as long as they were making the money they were from their stock, they
really didn't see any point in changing anything.  They were all more
worried about keeping their short-term perks than getting the long-term
benefits.  So in yesterday's meeting, I told them that I wanted to take the
summer to be with my family, and why.  There were only a couple of them
that didn't fuss about it; I finally had enough and just...  unloaded on
them.  I told them that I was tired of the office politics, I was through
arguing with them about things that it shouldn't have even been necessary
to talk about; I wasn't going to try and stop them from screwing up the
most effective and money-making department in the company any longer, and
that I was fed up with wasting time and energy trying to drum up support
for things that any thinking person could see would benefit the whole
company.  I didn't cry, I didn't scream, I didn't even cuss at them; I was
calm and polite the whole time.  You'd have been proud of me."

   I hugged her and said "Dearest, I'm always proud of you", and got a hug
back before she said "Well, they were surprised at what I told them, as you
can imagine.  Then I told them that all things considered, I was taking two
months off - that they could do whatever they wanted, and I wasn't going to
fuss or fight about it.  I told them that, in fact, I wasn't going to be
available to them for any reason.  That scared them, I think, but they
didn't say anything.  Then I told them that when I got back, I was going to
see what changes had been made while I was gone before I made exactly one
appearance in the Board room - and that if I didn't like what happened
while I was gone AND didn't have the freedom to do what all of them knew
damn well needed to be done, then I would be quitting and they could find
someone else to jerk around.  Tom Smithers, the Chairman, told me that if I
took that much time off, it would be without pay; I just laughed at him and
said that they already weren't paying me enough to put up with all the
nonsense, so not getting paid so I could be with my family was fine.  I
thought he was going to have a stroke!" she laughed.

   "Anyway, today several of the other Board members tried to get me to
change my mind.  I just told them that they knew full well that everything
I'd said was true, and that THEY needed to make a decision on what they
wanted to happen, and then make it known and stick with it.  A few of them
were terrified by the idea of actually doing that, but the rest understood
what I was saying.  The bottom line is that I've got the summer off; damned
if I know if I'll have a job when I get back, though.  And you know what?
I'm really not worried about it.  I've had headhunters contact me before
with offers to go to work somewhere else; I stayed where I was because I
was loyal to them.  But if they aren't going to be loyal to me, then I
don't see any reason not to find someplace where I'll be happier."

   I put my hand under her chin and she let me tilt her head up so I could
give her a kiss before telling her "It sounds to me like you only did what
you had to.  Now it's up to them to figure out what they want to do - and
whether they're willing to live with the consequences of a bad decision. 
However it turns out, I love you - and that's all that matters to me."

   She gave me a beatific smile and kissed me back before saying "Yes, that
IS all that matters - that you love me, and I love you and we love our
kids. If they can't get their heads out of their asses, then screw 'em!"

   With that, both of us laughed before she eased herself off my lap so the
two of us could go downstairs.

   In the few weeks that followed, Lucy made arrangements at work for
things to be taken care of while she was gone.  For my part, I made the
necessary reservations and got the rest of our vacation lined up.  Along
with that, the four of us took care of getting the various bits and pieces
of equipment and such we'd need; we also had a few overnight camping trips
to get familiar with the stuff we'd gotten, and to make sure it worked the
way it was supposed to.

   By the time final exams were over for Robyn and Sandra, we'd all gotten
our clothing and other wearables broken in so there wouldn't be any
blisters or chafing or anything to get in the way of our fun.  The last day
Lucy came home from work, I could see that a huge weight had been taken off
of her - and was quietly delighted and thankful.

   The plan was pretty simple and straightforward: I'd arranged the rental
of one of those campers that was built right onto the frame of a truck -
none of us saw any need for the massive motor home of the kind that Lucy
and I had used during our grand tour of the country.  Granted the one we
got was the largest available, but it was still small enough that we could
take it almost anywhere.  Using it as a base, we were going to drive to a
few different locations so we could backpack our way into more remote areas
for several days before moving on to the next location.  The camper was a
little cramped with four of us in it, but I think all of us knew that it
was probably going to be our last chance to spend that much time having fun
with each other, so all of us were more than willing to overlook the few
minor inconveniences.

   Our first destination was the Texas Big Bend area.  The few days it took
us to get there let us settle into a routine that served us well.  The week
we spent camping out deep in the wilderness was great.  With nothing to get
in the way, we had a great time.  All four of us shared a tent - and
sleeping bags - and paired off when we wanted to go "exploring": each of us
carried a small GPS receiver with our base camp clearly identified, and we
all had a hand held radio in the Family Radio Service band in case there
were any problems.  All of us got wrapped up in various activities - Lucy
and I, for example, got to watch a herd of deer in one of the mountain
meadows.  The girls spotted a mother black bear and her cub - and carefully
kept their distance as they watched.  All of us were amazed when we almost
literally stumbled across a cave just as its population of bats were
exiting to start their nightly foraging for insects.

   Next was northern New Mexico, where we hiked back - and up and up and up
and up - to a remote lake for a few days.  The trail we were on started at
about 7000 feet; the lake was at 12000 - and there was a 13000 foot peak
between.  But we didn't push too hard, and enjoyed the sights as we went
along; the fish I caught for breakfast one morning couldn't have tasted any
better to us.

   From there, it was over to Utah via northern Arizona - where we delayed
a few days to become acquainted with the Navajo and Hopi cultures, and buy
some beautiful handmade wool rugs.

   Utah was nice, but as non-Mormons we couldn't help but feel a little out
of place; it wasn't that anybody wasn't friendly, just that the LDS church
is such a big part of life in so much of Utah that we couldn't help feeling
a bit excluded.  Still, a few hours in the Great Salt Lake made it well
worthwhile, as did a visit to the Mormon Tabernacle.

   Grand Teton park in Wyoming impressed the hell out of all of us.  We
were there in July, and there were STILL some pretty good-sized patches of
snow on the ground in places!  On top of that, the sheer remoteness of
where we camped meant that many of the assorted creatures we saw weren't
bothered by us much - I doubted that they had seen people any time
recently, if ever.

   We were in an isolated area of a State park in Colorado when the whole
deal turned to crap.

   I was doing a bit of trout fishing one morning while Lucy and the girls
were off somewhere else when I heard the radio clipped to my shirt click,
and Lucy's voice say my name before it went silent again.

   I unclipped the radio and tried ask Lucy what she wanted, but didn't get
a response.  Thinking that perhaps she'd gotten behind something that was
blocking the signal, I gave it a couple of minutes before trying again -
with no luck.  Starting to get a little concerned, I tried calling Robyn
next; when I didn't hear anything from her, I called for Sandra.

   Lucy's voice hadn't sounded worried or excited or frightened, so I
didn't worry about it too much.  Still, I was concerned, and kept trying
them every few minutes, and not getting any results.  As the number of
times I tried to call them without getting an answer went by, I got more
and more worried.  It crossed my mind to go looking for them, but they'd
only given me a vague description of where they were heading - and the
Colorado mountains have a LOT of wilderness.  All I could do was keep
trying to reach them on the radio - and not accomplishing a damn thing.  It
was getting close to nightfall and I was well past frantic when I heard
someone approaching our camp.

   It turned out to be three someones - Lucy and both of the girls.  In the
twilight, I didn't see anything wrong with them, and was about to raise
hell with them when I realized that all three were considerably more
disheveled than I had any reason to expect.  I started toward them, and it
didn't take long to realize that all three had been through something: torn
clothes, dirt-smeared, and on the ragged edge of hysterical.

   That was all I needed to settle me down - big-time.  I carefully and
gently guided all three into the tent and turned on the battery operated
fluorescent light hanging from the peak - and in the improved light I saw
that my first impression of their appearance had been far, far short of
reality.

   All three were covered in scratches, their clothing caked with dirt
where there was cloth to hold it: there were spots where their shirts had
obviously been torn away.  Lucy's face was bruised, and she had a split lip
while Sandra and Robyn were both bruised and obviously sore.  I quickly
broke out the first aid kit and began treating the most obvious problems -
cleaning and bandaging the worst of their scratches, and so on.  As I did,
the story slowly came out of them.

   They'd gotten nearly as far as the small lake they wanted to visit when
a half-dozen men suddenly appeared.  Lucy had seen that all of them were
carrying sidearms, and tried to call me on the radio; one of them had
knocked it out of her hand and viciously slapped her before stomping on it.
A couple more had taken the radios from Robyn and Sandra before herding the
three of them to what had appeared to Lucy to be some kind of base camp. 
There, the men had decided to have a little fun with their captives after a
couple of hours by molesting all three of them.  Lucy had put up a fight,
and been beaten for her efforts; Sandra and Robyn had been knocked around
and were about to be raped when someone new appeared.  All three of them
agreed that he must have been the leader - the ones that had been abusing
the three of them quickly stopped what they were doing when he yelled at
them.  At that point, one of the men that had captured them told the leader
what had happened, and where Lucy and the girls had been.

   The leader listened, then told them that they were all a bunch of
fuckups - that if anyone came looking for the women, they were ALL in deep
shit.  After that, he went over to Robyn and Sandra and looked them over
before telling one of the men to give them their clothes back.  Next he
went over to Lucy and started asking her questions about why she and the
girls had been in the area, and wanting to know who else was with them. 
Lucy told him about our camping vacation, and had the wit to make all of us
as mild and harmless as possible: she'd figured that unless she did, there
was a pretty good chance that she and the girls would be raped and killed
before the rest of them came after me to keep their existence in the area a
secret.

   The leader had been difficult to convince, but Lucy managed to do it;
that she kept mentioning I was a computer programmer seemed to make him
want to believe.  Though not very close to her, Robyn and Sandra heard
enough of what she said that when asked, they were able to verify what Lucy
had told him.

   When he finally made up his mind, the leader got all three of them
together and told them that he and his group were just camping out in the
area, and that he was sorry his buddies had hurt and frightened them.  He
went on to tell them that there really couldn't be any good come out of any
of them - or me - telling anybody about what had happened.  As he talked to
them, he heavily intimated that if he and his friends had any trouble, they
could and would make the girls and me sorry.  When he was done, and was
convinced that Lucy and the girls would see to it that I didn't make any
trouble either, he had a couple of other men lead them back to where they'd
been captured.  They'd been left just one of the GPS receivers so they
could find their way back to camp.

   By the time they were done telling me what had happened, there were
three things that kept me from hunting the bastards down and killing them
slowly.  First, Lucy and the girls needed me then.  Second, it was dark,
and I knew that I'd need daylight to start tracking them down.  Finally, I
had to face the possibility that I wouldn't be able to manage it by myself
- if I failed, they'd almost certainly find our little camp and finish what
they'd started with Lucy and the girls.

   I was carefully tending Lucy's split lip when she must have seen the
look in my eyes and known what was on my mind.  Softly, so the girls
couldn't hear, she told me "No, Dan.  If you do it, you'll be the one in
trouble, not them.  Let the law handle it."

   When I had Lucy treated, she calmly suggested that I step outside for a
moment so they could change clothes.  When I heard that, I knew that it
wasn't modesty that prompted the suggestion - it was Lucy knowing that if I
saw what else had happened to them, I would go after the animals that had
attacked them.  So I did as she suggested - but took the GPS receiver
they'd been allowed to keep with me.  As I listened to them change clothes
inside the tent, I checked it out.  I wasn't surprised to find that
whichever one of them it had belonged to, she had done just what she was
supposed to: periodically tell it to record a waypoint - at least, up until
the time they'd been captured.  I carefully recorded the last point in it,
knowing that even though it wasn't where the gang of assholes was, it was a
good starting point in finding them.  I also had to think about what to do
about our camp: with them having one of our GPS units with our camp
location noted on it, I had to think of something to keep the Lucy and the
girls safe - it was full dark, and there simply wasn't any way they were
going to be able to move camp, and the three of them still needed some time
to at least physically recover from what they'd been through.

   When they let me know it was okay to come back inside the tent, I was
relieved to see that all of them had at least started to come back to
something approximating normal.  But the tightness around their eyes and
their nervousness told me that they were far from having come to grips with
it.  Not knowing what else to do, I carefully and gently kissed Sandra,
only to be surprised when she threw her arms around me and began crying
into my chest in great, heaving sobs.  That was the trigger for the rest of
them to do the same, leaving me standing there while my three greatest
treasures broke my heart with their tears.  I did my best to console and
comfort them, and offer them whatever words of reassurance I could. 
Eventually, all three cried themselves out and let go of me to take seats
on their respective sleeping bags while they dried their tears and got
themselves composed again.  Telling them to just sit and take it easy, I
went back outside and got something for them to eat.

   When I took it back inside the tent, none of them had much of an
appetite.  Understandable, of course, but it still hurt me as I discretely
watched them picking at their food.

   By the time I got things cleaned up from supper, it was time for bed. 
Back inside the tent, I saw that they'd zippered all the sleeping bags
together, making it obvious that we would all be staying together that
night.  With the light out, I was guided to a position between Robyn and
Sandra - apparently so I could hold them, since both latched on to me as
soon as I was horizontal.  Lucy was next to Robyn, and put one a hand on my
arm so that she was touching me, too.  As I lay there and pretended that I
was going to be able to sleep any time soon, I thought about what Lucy had
said to me about going after the animals that had hurt her and the girls.
Even though I knew she was right, it was still a couple of hours before I
was able to accept it.  After a while, the three of them managed to fall
asleep; I carefully eased myself from among them and found a spot at the
edge of our camp where I could keep an eye on things in case the characters
that had bothered them had a change of mind.  As I waited for daybreak, I
thought about what I could do within the law.

   The next morning, Lucy pointedly told me to make breakfast while she and
our kids went to the nearby creek to wash.  I knew that any bruises that
they had would have gotten worse during the night - and knew, too, that I
didn't want to see them.  When they got back from washing up, breakfast was
ready.  All three had a little more appetite than the night before - but
not by a whole lot.  Robyn and Sandra insisted on cleaning up, which left
Lucy and me to start breaking camp.  By the time the girls were done, there
wasn't much left for us to do; we were well on the way back to the camper
by lunch time.

   Once we were back in the camper, my first destination was the nearest
hospital I could find on the road map.

   All three of them got in to see a doctor in the walk-in emergency room
at the hospital.  I was firmly told to wait outside.  As I sat there, I saw
what I thought was a cop come in and talk to the receptionist.  She pointed
at me, and he came over my direction.  When he got closer, I could see that
he was a county sheriff.  He sat down across from me and introduced himself
as Sheriff Aikins before asking me what had happened.  I told him where
we'd been and what had happened, and I could see that he wasn't happy about
it.  When I was done, he hesitated for a few moments, then told me "I'm
sorry to have to tell you this, Mister Andrews, but that chunk of forest
isn't in my jurisdiction.  Hearing what happened to your missus and
young'uns, I surely do wish it was.  But it ain't, and there's not a dang
thing I can do to help you.  What you're gonna have to do is take it up
with the local State parks people; they've got an office right here in
town, and I'll be more'n happy to give you the address."

   I couldn't be upset with him.  Well, I could - and was - but there
wasn't any point in giving him grief about something he had no control
over. Jurisdiction is jurisdiction, and what had happened to Lucy and the
others simply hadn't happened in an area that he had any authority over.

   I got the information from him, and after he'd expressed his regrets
again, he left.  I was still sitting there when first Lucy, then a couple
minutes later, the girls, came out, accompanied by a doctor.  He told me
that all of them were fine, other than the obvious, and that the bruises
would fade in a few days.  He also had a prescription for some mild
painkillers for all of them to help with any residual soreness.  He also
told me that they'd told him what had happened, and that he was sorry to
hear about it.  I thanked him for his time and thoughts, and he left us. 
Lucy and the kids were all ready to leave, so I paid off the bill and we
made our way out to the camper.  It was after office hours by that time, so
we found a spot to park near a chain restaurant and went to get some
supper. Afterwards, we spent the evening in the camper, watching TV on the
little color set we'd brought along.

   The next morning, all four of us were ready and waiting for the State
parks department office to open up.  The receptionist was initially
reluctant to let us in to see the manager, but after I pointed out that the
appearance of Lucy and the girls was a result of something that happened on
State property, she relented.

   In the managers office, the three of them carefully told him what had
happened to them, supplemented by my addition of where we'd been and why
we'd been there.

   When they were done, he looked at all of us for a couple of minutes
before saying "Mrs.  Andrews, ladies, I'm truly sorry for what happened to
you.  What you went through is something that nobody should have to
experience.  The problem is that I only have so many people available to
patrol the parks, and most of THEIR time is spent handling the high-traffic
areas.  Where you were, well, as you say, that's a pretty remote section of
the park, and I simply don't have the resources to try and track down what
is probably a bunch of drunk hunters that wandered onto State property by
accident while they were trying to figure out where the deer would be this
fall.  Please understand, you have my complete sympathy and deepest regrets
for what happened - but I simply don't see that there's anything I can do."

   I couldn't believe that I was hearing him saying that, and asked "Mister
Tomlinson, are you sure there's nothing that can be done?  The Sheriff saw
me yesterday while we were at the hospital and said he'd like to help, but
that the area is out of his jurisdiction.  Is there any way to give him
permission to investigate?"

   He shook his head and told me "No, I'm afraid that's quite impossible,
Mister Andrews.  Our state people don't work outside the park boundaries,
and we can't have outside law enforcement coming in."

   Stunned, Lucy and I tried to see if there was anything that was going to
happen, or anything anybody could do - and after a full two hours, he
finally told us "Look, folks.  I really am sorry, but there simply isn't
anything I can do - I don't have the resources, and I'm not about to let
anyone else onto State property to try and deal with this.  Why don't you
just chalk it up as a bad experience and go home?"

   As mad as it made me, I could see that what he'd just said hit Lucy even
worse.  I had to take her hand and give it a painful squeeze to keep her
from blowing up on him.  Even then, it was damn close call - and I think he
knew it.  Keeping control of myself, I thanked him for his time and the
four of us left.

   Outside, Lucy launched into a full minute of profanity as she let all of
us know what she thought of him, his office, the State, and life in
general. When she'd gotten it out of her system, she turned and looked at
me and said "Dan?  What I said in the tent?  I was wrong.  The law can't -
or won't - deal with those sons of bitches, and they have to pay for what
they did to us.  It's up to you."

   I couldn't believe what I was hearing from her, but wasn't about to
argue the point - I wanted them probably almost as much as she did.

   It was close enough to lunch time that the four of us had something to
eat before piling into the camper and heading back to where we'd parked it
before.  By the time we got there and got set up, it was getting a bit
late. I'd make my start the next morning.

   When I started out the next morning, I had only what I really needed
with me - I wasn't looking for comfort or fine dining.  Behind me, in the
camper, were Lucy and the girls; Lucy and Sandra both had their pistols
handy in case there was any trouble while I was gone.  All of them knew not
to expect me back for a couple of days.  I had one of the GPS units and a
radio so I could let them know when I was on the way back.

   It had been a while since I'd done any kind of tracking like that, so it
took me until late the next day to locate the general area.  The day after
that and I found where they'd been.  Looking carefully, I figured they must
have been there a week or so before we arrived, and took off again as we
were making our way out of the park.  I tried to figure out where they'd
gotten off to, but simply didn't have the skills.  Well, I knew someone
that COULD track them.

   Locking in the position of the base camp on the GPS unit, I headed back.
As I got close, I started trying to reach the others on the radio, and
finally got through.  I could hear the relief in Lucy's voice to know that
I was just a couple hours away.

   They were watching for me, and came out to welcome me back when I was in
sight.  Robyn and Sandra had decided that I needed something decent to eat
when I got back, and had the portable grill we carried fired up in no time
- and shortly after that, had it loaded with a steak and some rough-cubed
potatoes.  In between one or the other of them going out to check on how
the food was cooking, I had to tell the three of them how it had gone. 
That they were disappointed was an understatement - but all of them readily
accepted my assurances that it wasn't over yet, not by a LONG shot.

   By the time I was done, so was the food; I had myself wrapped around it
in short order, thanking the girls and complimenting them on it along the
way.  Both were pleased that they'd done something special to make me
happy.

   It was close to dark by the time we got back into town, but it was still
early enough for me to make the call to "Gomer" Pyles.  He wasn't in, but
the person that answered the phone said they'd get the message to him:
Boomer needs to hear from him ASAP, and my cell phone number.

   We were on our way out of the restaurant where we'd gone to eat when my
phone rang.  Lucy kept the others company while I fell behind to take the
call.  As I'd hoped, it was Gomer.

   "What's up, Boomer?" I heard him ask.

   "You got some free time, Gomer?  I got something I need some help with."

   "I'll make the time, Boomer.  What's the deal?"

   I gave him a quick rundown of what had happened, and heard silence for a
few moments before he asked "Your old lady?  And your kids?  JEE-zus.  So
what do you need ME for?  I know you can handle that kind of asshole."

   I told him what I'd done as far as trying to track them, and admitted
that I hadn't been able to figure out where they'd gone.  I heard him laugh
and say "You're good, Boomer - but you ain't ME.  I'll be on my way
tomorrow; be there late afternoon, I 'spect.  Where do we meet?"

   I gave him a rough description of the town, and said I'd see him at one
of the local landmarks.  I told him what I'd be driving, and he told me. 
With the immediate needs taken care of, the call ended.

   Back with the others, I told them that I'd heard from Gomer, and that
he'd be there the next day.  Lucy remembered, before the girls did, that
Gomer was one of the people that had "encouraged" the man that had killed
Sandra's parents to give himself up to the cops.  To say the least, she was
looking forward to meeting him.

   Sandra was getting more than a little "antsy" when I finally spotted the
pickup truck Gomer had told me he'd be driving.  He spotted me, too, and
slowly drove up before parking next to us.  I think the person that got out
of the truck was a surprise to the others: a small, lanky, redheaded guy
that looked as though he couldn't carry a bucket of fried chicken across
the street without taking a breather.  But he'd proven that he was capable
of humping the same hundred-pound-plus loads that the rest of us in the
outfit carried.

   First thing we did was look each other over before a big grin split his
face and he said "Damn, Boomer!  Looks like you're doin' right good for
yourself!" before the two of us embraced and thumped each other on the
back. That out of the way, I introduced him to Lucy and the girls - and
watched in amusement as he bypassed the hand each offered in favor of
giving them a hug, much to their surprise.  When he was done, Sandra told
him "Mister Pyles, I just wanted to thank you for coming and making sure
the man that killed my Mom and Dad got caught."

   He got a sad look on his face and told her "Just call me Gomer; its
'bout the only thing I know to answer to, any more.  Honey, no thanks are
necessary.  Me and Boomer, well, we're pals, and that's the kind of things
pals do for each other.  Besides, assholes like that NEED to be in jail. 
I'm just glad I was able to help.  You doin' okay?"

   She assured him that she was, and he told her "Well, that's all that
matters, ain't it?" before turning to tell me "Damn, Boomer!  You got you a
right nice looking bunch of women folk!" - obviously discounting the
bruises they all sported.

   Speedy had been born and raised in South Dallas; he wasn't what you
could call genteel or discrete.  But he was good troop when you needed him,
and that was what mattered.

   The five of us went inside the camper, and it didn't take me long to get
him briefed on where I'd been and what I'd found.  Satisfied that he had
the information he needed, he told us "It's too late to get started doing
much of anything now, but I'll be on it first light.  Likely be a while,
but I reckon you know that.  When I've got something for you, Boomer, I'll
meet you here - say, between noon and two o'clock, starting a week from
today, so you don't have to be waiting around for me.  How's that sound?"

   I assured him it was fine, and Lucy asked him "Gomer, can we pay you for
your time and trouble?"

   Gomer looked positively indignant when he told her "No, you ain't payin'
me for this.  Its summer, and I wouldn't be working much now, anyways.  And
it ain't no trouble at all to help Boomer out.  Like I said, me 'n him,
we're pals.  He's done me a few turns, and now I get do him one."

   Seeing the curiosity on everyone's face but mine, he told them "When I
first went in th' Army, I didn't have much schoolin', and because of it, I
was having a right hard time of makin' sense of all the books and
ever'thing they give us.  Boomer here, he saw the fix I was in, and helped
me out by teachin' me what was in them books.  Then, later, he got me fixed
up with these folks that helped me learn to read and write better, and
learn numbers and such.  I dropped out of school in 8th grade, but after
Boomer got me started again, I finally got my High School diploma.  I know
I don't sound like it, but I even got me some college credits, too. 
Boomer, he's one smart sumbitch, but he don't look down on nobody just
'cause they ain't as smart as him.  All he cares 'bout is whether or not
they can do a job; I could, and so he helped me get the learnin' I needed.
If he hadn't, I know I would of been put out of the Army because I couldn't
figure out the readin' part of what they was teachin us.  He done me a turn
then, and since we become pals, I'm gettin' to do him a turn now.  So
there's no need for y'all to be payin' me.  Besides" he told them with a
grin "ain't no kinda man goes to whoopin on women; I'd be right happy to
help learn 'em some manners!"

   That made all of us smile, and Lucy asked him "Is there anything we can
do for you tonight, then?  How about supper?  It's a little crowded, but
you're welcome to stay in the camper with us.  We haven't been able to find
a motel with a vacancy anywhere."

   He just laughed and answered "Now, Lucy, I don't need no fancy bed or
nothin'.  Matter of fact, me bein' a guide and such, well, if I can't see
the stars, I get to feelin' kinda cooped up.  As for supper, I'm fine; I
had somethin' to eat right before I got to town.  I'll just be drivin' out
there so's I can get an early start and sleep in my truck - won't be the
first time, and likely won't be the last.  Short as I am, I can stretch out
on the seat just fine!" - the last part getting a laugh from her.

   With that out of the way, the five of us went back outside.  Gomer let
the girls give him a kiss on the cheek before jumping (almost literally,
the cab was a ways off the ground for him) into his truck and leaving. 
Back inside the camper, Lucy looked at me with amusement and asked "How in
the hell did you wind up with him in your outfit?"

   I shrugged and said "We were in the same classes for some of the basic
equipment schools.  Like he said, I helped him with the book parts of it.
After I got to my final unit, he volunteered to join it, too - figured I
was his buddy, and wanted us to be together.  Turned out he made a pretty
damn good point man, so I helped him get finished with his education.  Now
he figures he owes me for it."

   "And the other guys?  Anyone else you helped?"

   "No, not really" - that earned me a Look - "Mostly, we were set up as
six-man teams and they didn't encourage us to talk a lot between teams
about the different missions we went on, so I didn't have a lot to do with
many other guys."

   Lucy seemed to realize that I was hedging a bit, but let it go.  Sandra
and Robyn just looked at me with admiration and love.

   The four of us went out and got something to eat and do a little
souvenirs shopping before settling in for the night.

   It was the next evening, and the girls had opted to see a movie at the
one-and-only movie theatre in town.  Lucy and I had taken a small walk to
get a little exercise and were approaching the camper when I thought I
heard something behind us.  I started to turn when I felt something hard
and heavy hit the back of my head, dropping me to the ground.  I heard a
voice say "Nothing here for you to do, asshole.  Best if you get on home
before somebody gets hurt." before the darkness closed in on me.

   When I woke up, I was looking at white acoustic tiles and florescent
lights.  My head hurt, and it felt like there was something on it.  I
blinked, and managed to survive the slow roll my stomach did without
throwing up.  Moving just my eyes, I looked around a bit and finally
figured out that I was in a hospital.  I started to move my head for a
better look, and the pain and effort of it made me groan.  Before I could
try again my vision was filled with the faces of Robyn and Sandra - both
looking relieved and frightened.  I tried to ask them where Lucy was, but
all that came out was a weak croak; Sandra reached over and got a glass
with a flexible tube sticking out of it.  Putting the end of the tube
between my lips, she held the glass as I drank deeply.  No beer ever tasted
as good as that cool water.

   With my mouth and throat moistened, I weakly asked "Where's Lucy?"

   Both girls immediately looked saddened and worried before Robyn told me
"She's in the bed next to you.  Somebody hit both of you on the back of the
head.  You've been out for a couple of days, and she's still in a coma."

   Hearing that, I felt like my heart had been ripped out of me, and I
closed my eyes in a silent prayer to whoever was in charge of the Universe
to take care of her.

   Pulling myself together, I opened my eyes and turned my head in the
direction Robyn's eyes had flickered - and saw Lucy in the bed next to
mine. There didn't seem to be any other physical damage to her, but the
sight of her blonde hair peeking out of a swathe of bandages and all the
various medical stuff hooked up to her was a sight that still haunts me.  I
had a look around and saw that we were in a room by ourselves; between the
beds was a chair with a purse I recognized as Sandra's - it was the one she
had with the holster inside so she could carry the pistol we'd gotten her.
There was another chair over by the door, situated so that whenever the
door opened, whoever was sitting in it would be out of sight of the person
coming in.

   When I looked back at them, Sandra told me "After everything that's
happened, one of us is always with you - usually both of us.  We're not
going to let anything else happen." The tone of that last sentence made it
clear to me that Sandra was fully prepared to kill anyone that tried
anything.

   Robyn spoke up next to say "Dad, I'm carrying your pistol.  When the
ambulance brought you in, the doctors gave it to me so they could treat
you, and I still have it.  I know I'm not supposed to have it with me
because you're the one with the permit from the FBI, but I'm not going to
let you and Mom get hurt again!"

   I gave both of them a smile - much as it hurt me that they would have to
be thinking like that at their young ages - and assured both of them that
they were doing fine.  I had steeled myself for what I knew would be
coming, and was just starting to get up when the door opened and a nurse
came in.  She hustled over and shooed the girls away while she proceeded to
make sure that I wasn't just faking being alive; the way I felt, I wasn't
sure, either.

   Once she'd satisfied herself that I was firmly among the living, the
nurse looked at me and told me "You've had us a little worried, Mister
Andrews.  When you came in, you had a concussion and you've been out of it
for a couple of days.  Both of these young ladies have been with you and
your wife the whole time." She gave them a look and confided to me "The
staff thinks they have guns, because whenever one of us has come in here,
each of them has kept a hand in her purse and watched us like a hawk.  But
they haven't threatened anyone and they've stayed out of our way, so we
haven't said anything."

   I tried to get up, and she quickly put her hands on my shoulders,
telling me "No, don't bother.  You're in no shape to be going anywhere -
certainly not before tomorrow, and maybe not even then."

   The ease with which she was holding me down told me that she was right.
Relaxing, I asked her "Lucy - my wife..."

   The nurse, Rita Castillo RN by her name tag, gave me a slight smile and
said "I know who you meant." She sobered then, and told me "She doesn't
have any broken bones or anything like that; whoever hit her did a little
too good of a job of knocking her out.  We're not entirely sure when she's
going to come out of it." Something in her eyes told me that I wasn't
getting the whole story, but with the girls in the room, I let it go.

   Realizing that I wasn't going to be trying any gymnastics in the
hospital, she let go of my shoulders and told me "We saw on the monitors
when you woke up.  The Sheriff told us he wanted to talk to you, so I
called him before I came in here - that's what took me so long.  He'll be
here shortly, if you think you're up to it."

   I assured her that I thought I'd manage to live through it, and she gave
me a sympathetic smile before leaving us.  When she was gone, Sandra and
Robyn let me know that they'd signed all the paperwork necessary for Lucy
and me to get treatment, the insurance for the room, and all the rest. 
They also told me that the Sheriff had talked to them, too, but since
they'd been at a movie when it happened, they simply didn't have anything
to tell him other than how they'd come back to the camper to find an
ambulance and Sheriff's deputy there - along with what had appeared to be
half the population of the town rubbernecking.

   I managed to give each of them a hug with one arm - the other had
assorted plumbing plugged into it - and a kiss before the nurse came back
in to tell me the Sheriff was there.

   I told her to send him in, and the girls went to sit down in the chairs
I'd seen - Sandra between the beds and Robyn behind the door - obviously
covering, and backing up, Sandra.

   When the Sheriff came in, he paused to look at Sandra, then Robyn, for a
few seconds before coming over to where I was.  I noticed that although the
girls didn't have their hands on the pistols I knew they had, their purses
were still open - and both of them were still keeping an eye on him.  It
left me with mixed feelings - sad that they would think it necessary, and
proud that they'd thought of it.

   "If you're feeling up to it, Mister Andrews, I'd like to know what
happened that night." he told me.

   It took me only a couple of minutes to tell him in words what was
patently obvious: I'd been caught with my knickers down around my ankles.

   He considered what I'd told him for a couple of minutes before saying
"What with all that happened to your womenfolk, and now you and your
missus, I can't say that I'm any too happy about having you around here. 
But I don't reckon you came here looking for trouble, either.  I know
you're gonna want to stay while your wife's in the hospital, and I don't
have any objections to that.  But I'd sure appreciate it if you and your
family was to leave soon as you could, too."

   He looked over at Sandra, then Robyn, before telling me "Now, I don't
know that those young ladies are carrying, and what with you and your wife
laying here in hospital beds, I'm not going to look too close.  This is
Colorado, and we don't worry too much about folks having guns.  When you
came in here, I got the information about you from your dog tags" - I wore
them when traveling, figuring they'd do what they were meant to if I was
hurt - "and got in touch with the Army.  What I got back wasn't as much as
I'd expected, and when I asked, they just told me that was all I needed to
know.  I didn't reckon it was, and asked a couple of folks I know if they
couldn't help me out.  They did, and I learned you were some kind of
Special Forces type.  I figure if those girls are carrying, its only after
you learned 'em to shoot - and I 'spect I can trust a Special Forces fella
to teach 'em right.  Looks to me like all they're doing is watching out for
kin, and I got no problem with that - as long as that's all they're doing.
We understand each other, Mister Andrews?"

   I told him we did, and he finished up by saying "We got no idea who did
this to you, or where they got off to - there wasn't witness one.  Now, I'm
not the trusting fella I was when I was younger, and I'm thinking it likely
has something to do with what happened out there on State property.  But I
got no proof, one way or the other.  This is a pretty quiet town, most of
the time, and that's why I told you I'd appreciate you folks moving along
when you can.  I got nothing against any of you, understand; I just don't
want no more trouble."

   He accepted it with good grace when I assured him that none of us wanted
any trouble, either - and that we WOULD be leaving as soon as we could.

   The Sheriff stood up and smiled at Sandra and Robyn before wishing me a
speedy recovery and leaving us.

   He wasn't gone five seconds before the nurse was back in to check and
make sure he hadn't caused some kind of relapse.  Once she'd satisfied
herself of that, she left us again.

   With some privacy again, I called the girls over and got a couple of
things organized before telling the two of them it was okay for them to go
out and get something to eat besides the hospital's cafeteria food.

   They'd been gone perhaps twenty minutes when the doctor came in to check
me over.  As he did, he pulled the sheet back from me a little and saw my
.45 that Robyn had left behind.  He looked at me in surprise, and I told
him "Doc, my family has been beaten up out in the toolies, and now somebody
has clubbed me and my wife over the head and put us in the hospital.  You
can see I'm wearing dog tags.  Now you think about all that, and take a
look at me, and decide for yourself if you've got any problem with me
making sure nothing else happens."

   He looked at the scars that I had from my time in the Army, and answered
"Mister Andrews, I already know about your time in the military; the
Sheriff told me.  And I heard about what happened to your wife and kids. 
Hell, the whole damn staff has heard about it.  You keep that thing out of
sight, like it is now, and nobody will say anything to you about it, I
promise.  Most of us won't like it - this is a hospital, after all - but
all of us will understand."

   That said, he finished his examination of me, not paying the slightest
attention when I moved the pistol to keep it out of his way.  When he was
done, he told me that other than having someone thumping me on the head, I
was in fine shape.  Then came the hard part.

   "What about my wife, Doc?"

   He considered it for a moment, then told me "I don't know if she got hit
harder than you did, or it just affected her more, but she's hurt worse
than you are.  From your signs and an EEG, we knew you'd come out of it
fairly soon.  Her, we're not as sure." He saw the expression on my face and
quickly explained "It's not that we're not sure she WILL come out of it,
its more a question of when.  Brain trauma like she received still isn't as
much of a science as we'd like - but we're getting there.  This is a small
hospital, so we don't have all the fancy equipment, but what we DO have
tells us that she'd going to come out of it - eventually.  It may be a
couple of days - unlikely, I'd say - or as long as a couple of weeks; I
don't think it will take that long, though.  After she wakes up, we'll keep
her here for a couple days to make sure she's stable before we release her.
Even then, it would make me happy if you'd stick around for a week or so,
in case she has any problems.  After that, you're free to go home.  But I'd
still suggest that you let her take it easy for a while; about the time she
gets tired of being taken care of, she should be ready to pick up where she
left off." - the last part with a smile, which took a tremendous burden off
of me.  If he was comfortable enough that he was willing to make even a
small joke like that, I knew things would probably turn out okay.

   I knew he could hear the gratitude in my voice when I told him "Thanks,
Doc."

   He patted me on the shoulder and said "Just get better and get out of
here - you're making me work too hard!" with a smile, before standing up
and leaving.  He didn't know it yet, but the hospital was going to be
getting some of that fancy equipment he'd said they lacked.

   Sandra and Robyn got back later than I'd expected, but then they told me
what had taken them so long: they'd moved the camper from where it was (the
property owner had been understanding, thankfully) to an out-of-the-way
spot on the hospital's parking lot.  There had been a little objection at
first, but Robyn had told them what the situation was, and that had helped.
What sealed the deal, apparently, was Sandra's polite comment that if they
really had any objections, she'd be happy to get some lawyers involved.

   By the time they told me all of that, I was ready to give them a
simplified version of what the doctor had told me.  By the time I finished,
they weren't as worried as they'd been before.  Both knew that I'd never
lied to them in any fashion, so hearing me tell them that Lucy would be
recovering helped tremendously.  Still, they let me know in no uncertain
terms that one or the other of them WOULD be in the room with us whenever
we were asleep.  The way I felt, I knew that I wasn't in any shape to deal
with anyone by myself if I had to come out of a sound sleep, and didn't
argue the point with them.

   It was a couple of long, long days before I was able to check out of the
hospital.  Even then, I had Sandra keeping an eye on me as I made my way to
the camper while Robyn stayed with Lucy.  Inside, I found that one or both
of them had laid in a supply of nutritious, easily prepared foods to help
my recovery.  That night, Robyn stayed with me in the camper while Sandra
kept watch over Lucy.

   The next day I spent with Lucy, holding her hand and quietly talking to
her and telling her how much I loved her.  I didn't know if she could hear
me, or not - and frankly didn't care.  The only time I let go of her hand
was when it was necessary for the hospital staff to do something; and
seeing me there, they seemed to take extra care to try and not have to
disturb me.

   I was sitting there with Lucy a couple of days after the early deadline
Gomer had given us when the door to the room opened up and he came in.  I
looked at him, surprised, and he just told me "I heard what happened when I
went to meet you.  I got over here as soon as I could.  She gonna be okay?"

   I told him she was, and what the doctor had told me.  He looked
satisfied hearing that, and looked at the two of us for a few moments
before telling me "I purely am sorry to have to do this, Boomer, but
there's somethin' I gotta tell ya."

   We went over to a corner away from Lucy and he told me "You don't need
to be worryin' yourself about not bein' able to follow them fellas.  They
damn near lost ME a time or two - but I was able to track 'em back to where
they come from.  Boomer, there's a good fifty of 'em, or so.  I got close
as I could without bein' caught" - which was probably inside their camp, I
figured, knowing how good he was - "and they're some kinda White Power
survivalist bunch.  They got some property right next to the park, with
buildings and such - and what I reckon are a coupla bunkers, too.  They was
over in the park doin' some kinda 'exercise' when your missus and young'uns
showed up.  The ones that caught 'em, well, they thought they was gonna get
to have some fun, seein' as how they ain't got but a few women in their
group, but their boss, he put the kibosh on that.  He was some pissed when
they got back to their base, too.  Day after I found 'em, they had a big
meeting and he told everybody that unless they wanted all the niggers and
Jews comin' after 'em, they'd best be leavin' folks alone when they went
out." His tone of voice told me what he thought of that last part; South
Dallas is a predominantly Black area, and he'd grown up with more Black
friends than otherwise.  That, and serving with Muddy had made him pretty
intolerant of racists of any stripe.

   He went on to tell me "They got guns out the wazoo, too.  Not just
civilian stuff, but a few military pieces, too.  I watched 'em on their
firing range, and it looked to me like they've done modified some of their
civilian stuff to full auto.  For a buncha dumbass rednecks, they got their
shit pretty tight.  If it was just you and me, I wouldn't want to be takin'
'em on - I'd want a couple of the other fellas, too.  I reckon Speedy'd
help if you asked, and ain't no doubt Muddy would."

   That last part was delivered with a grin - he had been part of the
mission where Muddy had gotten hurt, and knew full well the problems I'd
had with Muddy trying to pay me back.

   He tried to hand me the GPS receiver I'd given him, saying "This here's
a right handy little toy, Boomer.  Kinda wish we'd of had 'em when we was
working for Uncle Sugar."

   I told him to hang on to it and he smiled, figuring that I wanted him to
have it for a mission, before putting it away again.

   I thought about it for a few moments before asking him "You need to get
back any time soon?"

   He just laughed softly and answered "Not so's you'd notice.  We got us a
mission?"

   "I expect so", I told him.  "But not until Lucy's awake, anyway.  And I
want to think about it some, first, too.  You need anything?  Some chow, a
place to sack out?"

   "A decent meal'd be nice; them rations I got fill ya up okay, but ain't
much on flavor." Hearing that, I figured he'd taken along some kind of
survival bars - given a choice between them and eating packing foam, I'd
have had a hard time picking one.  He finished up by saying "I kinda like
to clean up a bit.  Like I said, sleepin' in my truck is fine by me."

   "There's a bathroom right over there if you want.  When you're ready, go
on out to the camper and the girls with either fix you something, or if
you'll let them, take you somewhere and eat with you." Digging out my
wallet, I pulled out a couple of fifty dollar bills and tried to give them
to him; he wouldn't take them and said "Ain't no need for that, Boomer.  I
got money."

   "I don't doubt it", I answered.  "But if I'm going to be calling a
mission, then its up to me to pay the bills, right?" One of the things that
our team had joked about constantly was that since the government was
paying the bills, we went on the missions they called for us.  Now I was
telling him that the reverse held true, too.  There wasn't much he could
say to that, and he reluctantly accepted the money.  Now if only the others
would be as easy, I thought to myself.

   Telling me he'd be back in a while, he left then; some time later, Robyn
stopped in to see how things were going.  I quickly told her about Gomer
being back, and what I'd said to him about getting fed.  She just looked at
me as if I'd lost my mind, and said matter-of-factly "Of course we will."
before leaving again.

   A couple of minutes later Gomer came in, telling me that he'd seen Robyn
outside the hospital and she'd told him to come to the camper whenever he
was ready to eat.  Taking a change of clothes with him, he went into the
bathroom.  When he came out a good fifteen minutes later, he looked
refreshed and happy.  Telling me he'd be back when he had something in his
belly, he left again.

   It was a good two hours before he came back into the room.  I moved my
chair from Lucy's bedside over to where the other was, and the two of us
sat down.  After a few minutes, he quietly said "Those'r some right nice
young ladies you raised up there, Boomer."

   I looked over at him, and he went on "When I was talkin' to Robyn
outside - before I got cleaned up, that is - I know I musta been some
stinky.  But she didn't make no faces or do anything that made me reckon I
smelled any different than some fancy perfume.  Then when when I went out
see about some chow, the other'n, Sandra, she asked me if she could fix
something for me.  I told her I didn't want to be botherin' her, and that
I'd just find me a hamburger place or somesuch.  Her and Robyn just said
that sounded like a good idea to them, too, and asked if I'd mind if they
joined me.  You know me, Boomer, and you know I ain't turned down the
comp'ny of a pretty girl since I was knee high; but I was still some
nervous 'bout havin' them around, them bein' your young'uns and all.  I
mean, you always was the smart 'un of us, and I can see that you all are
doin' right good for yourselves.  But the whole time we was together, they
just kept talkin' to me like I was a friend they hadn't seen for a while. I
felt kinda like a cow at a dinner party at first, but after I was with them
young'uns a while, I done forgot all about it.  They was just so friendly
and all that, I quit worryin 'bout it.  I know I sound like some ignorant
redneck mosta the time, but I could see that it didn't matter to either of
'em - you 'n me, we're pals, so that made me THEIR pal, too, sorta.  When
we found a place to eat, they wouldn't let me pay for it - said I was doin'
them a turn for findin' those fellas, so they was doin' one for me.  I
tried to argue it with 'em, but they wasn't givin' in.  They was polite
enough 'bout it, but they was set on havin' their way, too.  I finally give
in, and we had us a nice time."

   He laughed and said "I was some hungry, and boy was I s'prised when they
kept right up with me.  Lookin' at 'em, you wouldn't figure they'd eat
enough to feed a kitten, but I was some impressed, let me tell you!"

   I laughed too, and told him "Damned if I know how they do it, either,
Gomer.  Sure as hell wish I did, though!"

   He looked at me and said "Anyways, I just wanted you to know, they's
some good kids.  Even lookin kinda beat up like they do, they're still
pretty as could be; and they're as friendly and polite and ever'thing as a
body could ask.  You got ever' right to be proud of 'em, and I'm glad I was
able to be with 'em like that."

   Later, I'd tell them what he'd said, knowing that it would embarrass
them - but also make them proud that one of my friends thought well enough
of them to tell me what he did.  I just told Gomer "I am proud of them,
Gomer - real proud."

   We sat there quietly for a while longer before Gomer asked me "With me
not havin' much to do, it be okay with you if I was to keep comp'ny with
Lucy and whichever of the girls was here nights?"

   "I sure would appreciate it, Gomer.  And I know whichever one of them is
here would appreciate the company."

   Satisfied, he nodded, and lapsed into silence again.  A few hours later,
Sandra showed up, letting me know that she'd be staying with Lucy that
night.  I told her that Gomer would be keeping her company, and her
pleasure at hearing that was clear on her face.  Leaving the two of them, I
went out to the camper, where Robyn was waiting with some stew she'd made
for us.  After we'd eaten, the two of us sat next to each other just
holding hands as we watched the TV until bedtime.

   Three days after Gomer got back, I was sitting in Lucy's room holding
her hand.  I'd just finished telling her how much I loved her when I heard
her say "I love you, too, Dan - but why does my head hurt so bad, and where
the hell am I?"

   I was still in a little shock when two nurses rushed in and started
checking her out - pupils, reflexes, and all the rest.  As they worked, I
told Lucy about what had happened to us - she couldn't remember a bit of
it. I could see that she was bothered by having effectively lost a couple
weeks of her life in a coma in a hospital bed, but having wakened had put
an end to it.  When the nurses were done, they solemnly told us that as far
as they could tell,, she was fine - but that the doctor would be in the
next day to make sure.

   Talking to her after the nurses left, it didn't take us long to figure
out that the last thing she remembered was watching Gomer leave in his
truck.  Using the phone by Lucy's bed, I called my cell phone which the
girls were keeping in the camper.  When Robyn answered, I told her that
Lucy was awake - and promptly had to pull the phone away from my ear when
she screamed her happiness.  When she could talk again, Robyn told me that
she and Sandra would be right there.

   "Right there" apparently translated into the transit time for two young
women traveling in excess of Mach 3; I'd barely had time to sit next to
Lucy again when both of them burst through the door - and then made a
crying beeline for Lucy.  I got out of the way so each of them could latch
on to a different side of her as the three of them cried.  And cried some
more.  And continued crying until all three had the hiccups, which
embarrassed them enough to bring an end to it - and a nurse, wondering what
the strange signals were on the equipment still monitoring Lucy.

   After a while, a nurse came in and told us that Lucy needed to get some
rest.  From the expressions on everyone else's face, I knew they thought it
sounded as goofy as I did: Lucy had just come out of a two week coma, and
she needed rest?  But the nurse was a nurse, and none of the rest of us
was, so we did as she told us.  Robyn promised to sit quietly in the chair,
and was allowed to stay; Sandra and I went back to the camper.

   Late that afternoon, I smuggled in a fast food cheeseburger fixed the
way I knew Lucy liked them; the smile on her face at seeing it made the
grief I got from the nurses when they saw her eating it all worthwhile.

   The kids and I were still with her a few hours later when Gomer showed
up; his surprise and pleasure at seeing Lucy awake were obvious.  The girls
told Lucy how he'd been keeping them company at nights, so there was
nothing to do but for Lucy to get him to lean over and accept a kiss on the
cheek from her - embarrassing him mightily.  When the time came, Sandra
left with me, leaving Robyn and Gomer to keep Lucy safe.

   The next day, the doctor confirmed that Lucy was doing as well as could
be expected.  He also told us that because of how long she'd been in the
coma, it was going to take a while before she would be able to get up and
move around: being laid up like that, her body had simply gotten used to
doing less work to keep her blood moving and all that, and it was going to
take a while for her to get her strength back.

   Out in the hallway, Nurse Castillo, the one that had taken care of me
when I first woke up, told me "You've no doubt discovered that every motel
within a couple hundred miles is booked solid.  Its tourist season, and
there won't be anything available until mid-September, at the earliest."

   I expressed my agreement, and she told me "I know you're going to want
to stay here for your wife.  My sister-in-law has a place a little ways
outside of town.  She sometimes takes in boarders.  Her husband died in the
Gulf War, and the benefits she gets don't always cover her expenses.  If
you want, I can call her and see if she's willing to take you in - if she
is, that's ALL it will be: you.  It real quiet out at her place, and she
doesn't want many people hanging around her home.  Do you want me to call
and see if she'll put you up?"

   If we were going to go after the assholes that had hurt Lucy and the
girls, then me and Lucy, I wanted Sandra and Robyn well out of striking
range.  This sounded like a perfectly reasonable way to help make that
happen.  I told her that I was interested, and would appreciate any help
she could give me.  She gave me a strange smile and said "I think you'll be
helping her as much as she helps you", leaving me wondering what she meant.

   A little while later, she found me and told me that her sister-in-law
had agreed to take me in, but that I shouldn't show up before late the next
afternoon so she'd have time to get a room ready for me.  She also told me
what the cost would be; fifty dollars a night - far below what a motel room
would have cost, if I'd been able to find one.  I quickly agreed to the
time and price; Nurse Castillo told me "I think you'll be glad you
accepted." and left.

   My next challenge was to get Robyn and Sandra to agree to leaving while
Lucy was still in the hospital - no small task.  I went and talked it over
with Lucy, and she didn't have any problem with it.  So I called out to the
camper and got the girls to come in.  When I presented them with my plan,
both immediately objected, of course - but eventually settled down and
accepted it when faced with my and Lucy's united front.  The next challenge
was to figure a way of getting the girls home safely.  I finally settled on
calling the man that had installed the alarm system on our house and asking
him if he knew anyone that could drive the camper back with the girls.  He
immediately said he'd do it, and there was a little back-and-forth before
he'd let me pay him even a modest amount for his time and trouble, as well
as covering his expenses.  Once we'd settled that, though, the arrangements
went quickly - he would pick up a rental car that I'd pay for, and drive it
to us so that I'd still have transportation after he left with the camper.
When that call ended, I immediately made arrangements for a rental car -
actually a small SUV.  Not knowing where I'd have to be driving, it seemed
like a good idea to have something that could handle going off-road if
necessary.

   That night, Gomer kept watch over Lucy alone; both of the girls wanted
to spend the night with me before they left for home the next day.

   Early the next afternoon saw me waving goodbye to the girls as the
camper headed down the highway.  There was a lump in my throat as I watched
them fade into the distance, but after I lost sight of them, I started
working on seeing to it that some folks got a little payback.

   When I pulled up in front of the house where I was to be a boarder, I
was more than a little surprised by it.  A sprawling split-level home, it
was colored and decorated in the earth tones favored in the southwest.  As
I got out of my vehicle, I saw a woman come out the front door.  When I got
closer, I could see that she was perhaps thirty years old, Hispanic, and
possessed a simply beauty that I knew would stay with her well into old
age. Her hair was past her shoulders, unbound, and a rich, luxurious black.
Medium framed, she was neither under- nor over-weight; she appeared to be
fairly average in all her appearance.  Her voice was a pleasant contralto
when she told me "Your timing is perfect.  You've arrived just in time for
supper."

   I introduced myself, and she did, too: "I am Rose Villanueva.  Rita is
my sister-in-law, I...  was married to her brother.  This was his ranch,
and now it is mine."

   Looking her in the eyes, I told her "Rita told me that your husband was
killed in the Gulf War.  I'm an Army veteran, myself, so I want to offer
you my sympathies for your loss; and my thanks for helping me."

   She hesitated a moment, then said "From a veteran, yes, I will accept
your sympathies.  As for helping you, Rita told me of what happened to your
wife and children, and even yourself.  She told me that she thinks you are
a good person, and deserve the help.  She has a good sense about people,
that one, so I said I would do it.  Now, come inside and wash up for
supper."

   Smiling, I managed to draw a small laugh from her by answering "Yes,
Mother."

   When she turned around, I saw that her hair went down to the middle of
her back; farther up, I saw that she had a nicely curved ass.  As she
walked ahead of me, I couldn't help noticing that her buttocks clenched,
but didn't jiggle as she walked; obviously, she managed to keep herself in
good shape.

   After she'd shown me a bathroom where I could wash my hands, the two of
us sat down on opposite sides of a small table.  On it were a number of
dishes, most of which I recognized as Mexican food.  She saw me looking at
all of it and said "As you see, I am Latina, and I tend to cook the foods
that I grew up with.  Because you are my guest, I have not included as much
spice as I usually do - but please don't be afraid to tell me if it is
still too much.  I have learned that what is good to me is sometimes too
much for others.  Also, if there is something you find you do not care for,
don't feel obliged to eat it - some of these dishes are acquired tastes for
most Caucasians."

   I smiled at her and answered "I think you'll find that I'm not too
particular about what I eat, as long as the flavor is there.  As for how
spicy it is, I'll let you know when supper is finished."

   With that, the two of us started putting food on our plates.  As I'd
expected, the foods that I hadn't recognized were something different - but
flavorful, and I enjoyed them.  While we ate, we chatted a bit as we got to
know a little bit about each other.  By the time the meal was over, I'd
realized that what I was seeing of her was a shell; that the real Rose was
inside where no one could see her.  I surprised her by helping clean up
afterwards.  While she made coffee, I brought a bag with my clothes inside.
When I was back at the table, she brought coffee for us.

   As we sat there sipping it, she gave me a wry grin and said "I have to
admit that I was surprised when you took a second helping of the menudo -
it is one of the things that most gringos don't care for very much."

   "It tasted good, so I had more of it.  And I have to admit that I was
surprised at how mild the food was.  After you warned me, I thought that it
was going to be spicier than that."

   She laughed, and said "Okay, so you aren't the usual gringo that comes
to Colorado, and I have learned something.  Tell me, Mister Andrews, what
was it you did in the Army?"

   I told her what unit I had been in, and saw her face freeze.  I quickly
asked "Have I said something wrong?"

   She gave a little shake and answered "No, Mister Andrews.  It's just
that that is the outfit that my husband was trying to get into when he was
sent off to fight.  While he was over there, he was told that he had been
accepted for the additional training, and he was very happy.  Three days
later, he was dead."

   I told her how sorry I was, and she replied "No, do not be sorry, Mister
Andrews.  What you did - it was my husband's goal.  He told me what kind of
people became soldiers such as that, and he was very proud that he was
being given the chance.  That you were such a soldier - and one of the
first, when it was even more special - it tells me that Rita was right.  My
husband told me a little - very little, in fact - about what kinds of
things such men were sent to do.  Did you do such things, too?"

   "Please, Mrs.  Villanueva - call me Dan if you will.  Yes, I think that
I did the kinds of things your husband told you.  I can't talk about what I
did exactly, but I'm sure you can understand why."

   "And you should call me Rose...  Dan.  Yes, I can understand why you
can't tell anyone what you did.  Even what my husband did, I wasn't
supposed to talk to others about it.  Not that it was so secret as what I
think you did, but simply for the sake of safety for him and the others."

   "How long were you married?"

   She smiled sadly and answered "A little over two years only.  We grew up
in the same town, a little north of here, and knew each other our whole
lives.  He asked me to marry him when we graduated high school, but we
waited until he was finished with his training before we actually had the
wedding.  It was not so easy for us, being so young, but we were very
happy. And you?  How long have you been married?  And what about your
children?"

   I told her how Lucy and I had met, and little of what had happened in
the intervening years.  I could see that she knew I was leaving things out,
but wasn't worried about them.  When I was done, she asked "I remember
about the company you mentioned, TechnoDynamics.  I thought that your name
was familiar, but I couldn't remember why.  So you are the one that did
that?  I remember my husband telling me about it, and saying that you had
been one of the soldiers he wanted to become.  I know that you have not
told me about everything that has happened to you and your family - but
that is okay, I think.  I am sure that you have good reasons not to talk
about it."

   She got up and refilled our coffee cups before telling me "It is going
to be a nice evening.  I like to sit outside when it is like this.  Would
you like to join me?"

   I said that I would, and she led the way out onto a small deck at the
back of the house that left us with a spectacular view of the mountains. 
She didn't say anything else to me, and I was perfectly willing to just sit
there and enjoy night, so the rest of the evening passed quietly.  When it
was late, she stood up and told me "Your room is the first door on the
right at the top of the stairs.  The second door is a bathroom, where you
will find towels and the other things you will need.  I usually wake up
about five o'clock, and have breakfast about seven.  If you wish to join
me, I would welcome your company; if you prefer to eat somewhere else, I
will not be offended.  If there is nothing else, I will see you in the
morning, Dan."

   "I'll be fine, Rose.  Thank you for the excellent supper, and pleasant
evening.  Good night."

   She gave me a brief smile and went inside.  I stayed out another half an
hour then went to bed myself.

   The next morning, I followed my nose down to breakfast - eggs, bacon,
chorizos, toast, the works.  And what tasted like fresh ground coffee to
wash it all down.  Halfway through, she laughed and said "It amuses me to
watch you eat.  Your manners are impeccable, but it is clear that you enjoy
what you're eating - and it has been a long time since I've cooked for
anyone besides myself."

   I answered "Its good, and I'm hungry - that's always a good combination.
And I know that when I have to cook, it always seems to taste better when
there is someone to share it with", with a smile.

   Surprised, she asked "You cook?"

   I laughed and told her "Well, that's what I call it.  Other people might
say different.  But I haven't poisoned anyone, so I guess I do okay.  I
can't do anything like we had for supper last night, but I do fairly well
with the things I know."

   She laughed at my description of my cooking skills, and said "You
impress me, Dan.  Not many men are willing to admit that they can cook with
anything than a charcoal grill or an open fire.  I think you are probably a
better cook than you are willing to confess."

   I just helped myself to another egg and a chorizo, and smiled.

   I helped clear the table before she told me "Go on, Dan.  Your wife is
in the hospital and you belong with her.  I can take of the rest of this,
easily."

   I was in my vehicle and about to leave when she came out to tell me
"Supper will be at six o'clock tonight; and I promise you that it will be
better than last night!"

   I thanked her, and waved before heading in to town.

   Lucy knew that I was staying someplace, so when I got in to see her, I
didn't hesitate to let her know where it was, and who was hosting me - much
to her amusement.  Then I told her what had happened, and she told me that
it sounded like Rose was keeping something locked away inside to her, too.

   I stayed with Lucy most of the day, going out only when she was going
through her physical therapy - which consisted primarily of getting her
onto a table that could be tilted, allowing them to gradually get her
system used to not being horizontal all the time again.  It proved to be
somewhat tiring for her, so they didn't do it very many times that day.

   When I got back to Rose's house that evening, she was waiting for me,
even though it was still a good half hour before supper.  She offered me a
bottle of local beer and told me to relax for a few minutes before supper.
The beer was damn good, and the smells of the food had me ready to eat by
the time she told me it was ready.

   Some of the foods were the same as the night before, but there were a
few new dishes, too.  Things were definitely more spicy, and she watched in
amusement as I started sweating and sniffling as I ate.  Only once did she
ask me "Too hot?", and accepted my answer of "Only a little - but it's too
good to stop eating, and I'll get used to it."

   After supper, she tolerated my help with the dishes, then made coffee
for us.  It promised to be another nice night, and the two of us went out
onto the deck again.  It was another quiet evening for both of us, with me
going to bed just a few minutes after she did.

   The next day was a close copy of the first, with the exception that Lucy
got a little closer to vertical before tiring.  Supper at Rose's was
spaghetti, instead of Mexican food.

   The third day wasn't much different, and supper was pork steak.

   The fourth day saw Lucy get to thirty degrees from horizontal, earning
her a big kiss from me.  Supper at Rose's was tamales.  The night was a
little windy, so we stayed inside and talked.  At one point, she told me
"I'm grateful that you don't find it necessary to talk all the time, Dan -
particularly when we are outside.  One of the things I love about this
place is the quiet - you are thoughtful enough not to ruin that for me, and
I appreciate it."

   "But I enjoy the quiet and peace, too, Rose.  This IS a special place,
and I like having the time and peace to think about things when we're out
on the deck."

   She gave me a half-smile and said "I think that your wife is a very
lucky woman to have a man like you.  You are much like my Miguel."

   I figured that Miguel had been her husband's name, and simply told her
"Thank you."

   She waved it off, and we went on to a different topic.

   It was something after four o'clock in the morning when I woke up, and
wondered why.  A few moments later, I heard something, and figured that
that must have been what it was.  I couldn't tell what the noise was,
though, even when it happened a third time.  I got out of bed and put my
pants on, then drew my pistol.  Opening the door to my bedroom, I eased my
way out into the hall.  I heard the noise again, but wasn't sure where it
was coming from.  Wondering if it might be someone coming after me again, I
was getting ready to ease my way down the stairs when I heard one of the
doors behind me open.  I managed to quash the reflex to whip around and aim
my pistol at it in favor of simply looking over my shoulder - and seeing
Rose standing in the doorway to what was obviously her bedroom.  Wearing a
gown that covered her completely, she quietly asked me "What is it?"

   "I was hearing some noises, but I couldn't tell what they were, so I was
going to find out." I answered.

   A moment later, she looked embarrassed and told me "I'm sorry.  That was
probably me.  Sometimes I have dreams and make noises."

   I considered it for a second and realized that I hadn't heard anything
since she'd appeared in the hall.  I relaxed, and told her "Its okay. 
Don't worry about it."

   It was then that she saw the pistol in my hand, and asked "You...  you
were going to see what the noise was with that?"

   It was my turn to be embarrassed as I explained "I didn't know what it
was, so I thought I should find out.  I thought maybe it was the people
that hurt my wife and kids coming for me again.  If it was, I didn't want
them coming up here and maybe hurting you, so I was going to go
downstairs."

   "You were going to do that?" she asked, moving closer to me.  "You would
go down there, knowing it might be them, so they would not come up here and
hurt me?"

   Embarrassed even more, I answered "Um, well, yeah.  I guess it sounds
kind of dramatic, now, doesn't it?"

   She moved to stand in front of me, and saw the scars on my body in the
moonlight leaking through the windows.  Hesitantly, she reached out and put
her fingertips on one and asked "Why would you do that?  Risk yourself to
protect me?" before pulling her hand back again and looking into my eyes.

   I held her gaze as I answered "Because it would be the right thing to
do. I am a guest in your home, and if there is trouble because of me, its
MY responsibility to do what I can to keep you from getting hurt because of
it."

   She quietly told me "My Miguel, he said things like that, too.  That it
was the duty of the strong to protect the weak."

   "He was right", I replied.  She reached toward me again, her fingertips
touching another scar before she whispered "You have been hurt putting
yourself between the bad and cruel ones, and the weak.  I used to help Rita
study for her nursing, and I know that these must have caused great pain.
But I can see that when you were well again, you went out to fight again -
and again, and again.  Dios mio!"

   With that last exclamation, she moved against me and began crying into
my chest.  I put an arm around her and held her for a moment before
deciding that I likely wasn't going to need the .45 any time soon.  After
carefully lowering the hammer, setting the safety, and putting it back in
the holster, I put my other arm around her and tried to comfort her. 
Softly stroking her back, I tried to reassure and comfort her as she
continued sobbing.  Finally, not knowing what else to do with her, I softly
kissed the top of her head, which was right under my chin.

   Before I had time to do anything else, she tilted her head back and
reached up to pull my head down for a kiss - full on the lips, and as
passionate as it could be.

   With her body pressed against me the way it was, I simply couldn't help
but begin to respond to her.  She felt my manhood rising and began pressing
herself against it, accelerating the process, as she went about showering
my face with small kisses.

   "Rose..." I started, but she interrupted me to say "You remind me so
much of my Miguel - strong and quiet, but also brave and honorable. 
Please, Dan - make love with me."

   Taking her hands in mine, I pulled them away from where she was holding
my head and replied "But I'm not Miguel, Rose."

   Looking into my eyes, she said "I know that.  But to me, the difference
is in name only.  Please, I beg you - make love with me."

   "If you're sure..."

   "I am!" she declared before turning and leading me into my room.

   When both of us were standing next to the bed, she turned to face me
again; without saying a word, she unhesitatingly opened her robe and let it
drop to the floor, revealing that she wasn't wearing a thing under it. 
Unashamed, she stood and let me look at her - smooth tawny skin, rounded
breasts high and firm on her chest and capped with large dark nipples. 
Further down, her belly was flat except for the slight swelling that almost
all women have.  Her thighs were smooth and trim, the area between them
covered with a small patch of thick dark hair.

   When I looked into her face again, she could see that I was pleased with
what I saw; she smiled at me and quickly moved to lie in my bed - watching
me as I unclipped my holstered pistol and set it aside before taking my
pants off, and revealing that I was as naked underneath as she'd been.

   Her eyes fastened on my mostly-erect penis, and I heard her breath catch
in her throat.  She looked up at me in invitation and said "It has been a
very long time since I have been with a man - my Miguel, before he went off
to war.  I ask you to be patient and gentle with me - but do not be afraid
to love me."

   I moved to lie next to her, but she guided me on top of her instead,
spreading her legs to make room for me - and when she did, I caught the
faint, musky aroma of her arousal.  I lowered my head to kiss her, and the
passion she offered me in return amazed me.  She let me move down her body
so that I could briefly suck and chew on her hard and erect nipples before
gently pulling me back up so she could kiss me again.  Reaching between us,
she took my penis in her hand and began stroking me as we continued to
kiss. With her tongue dancing with mine, her touch on me soon had me fully
erect.  When she was satisfied that I was as ready as she obviously was,
she bent her knees to tilt herself up toward me and spread her thighs. 
Sliding the head of my erection between her labia a few times, she wetted
it with her abundant oils before positioning me at her opening.

   Looking into my eyes, she said "I want you, and I need you.  Make love
with me."

   My eyes still locked on hers, I pressed myself against her tight, wet
opening.  I didn't think it was going to happen, then I suddenly popped
though the incredibly tight ring of her entrance accompanied by a soft moan
from her.  Because of how small she was inside, I was able to press myself
into her slowly.  As I did, her eyes closed and she released a sound of
pleasure before lifting her hips in welcome.

   Several times, I stopped and backed out of her a little to make sure I
stayed wetted with her woman's lubrication - but ultimately, I was inside
her completely, my pubic hair merged with hers.  I heard her mutter "Me
olvid� de c�mo es bueno se siente!" It had been a while since I'd used my
Spanish much, but I knew she was saying it felt good to have me in her.

   Lowering my head, I began softly kissing her throat and shoulders as I
eased myself out of her a little way, then back in again accompanied by
another soft moan from her.  Then I did it again, with the same results;
and again, and again...

   In just a couple of minutes, I was slowly but steadily making love with
her as she lifted her hips in welcome to each of my penetrations.  A few
minutes later, we were kissing deeply and passionately when she suddenly
pulled her lips away from mine - quickly followed by her vagina clenching
around me as she gasped her way through an orgasm.  When it was over for
her, I heard her say "Dios mio!" before pulling my head back down for
another kiss - one that picked up where the other had left off.

   Several minutes later, she had another climax - even stronger.  The
increase in her wetness from it made it easier for me to move in her, and I
sped up my movements in her - something that resulted in her quickly
finding a third release.

   I was getting close to finding my own pleasure when she cried out and
tightened around me with her fourth orgasm; the feeling of her spasming
vagina clenching around me was enough to push me over the edge and I
pressed myself deep inside her as I tried to fill her with my jism.  She
must have been able to feel it, because her eyes flew open and the
sensation of her vagina around my penis intensified.  I could vaguely feel
her fingernails in my back, but they were only a minor distraction while I
was emptying myself into her.

   When I had spent myself in her, I let my head drop so I could again
start kissing her shoulder.  She shivered in response, then wrapped her
arms around me and held me close.

   After my penis had shrunk a bit, I carefully pulled pulled my hips back
to ease it out of her and moved to lie on my side next to her.  I put my
hand on the hip opposite, and she responded by putting her hands on my
forearm before saying "I...  I had forgotten what it could feel like, to
make love that way.  It was wonderful."

   I softly kissed her ear before telling her "I'm glad you enjoyed it."

   "Oh, I enjoyed it very much, thank you!" she declared with a soft laugh.

   A moment later, she surprised the hell out of me by starting to cry
softly.

   Propping myself up on my elbow, I looked down at her and asked "What is
it?  Why are you crying?"

   She looked away from me before answering "You must think that I am a
terrible person, now."

   Well and truly confused, I inquired "Why would I think a thing like
that?"

   "Because of what we have just done."

   "We made love.  Why would I think you're a terrible person because we
made love?"

   "Because you are a married man, and now I am the whore that slept with
you out of loneliness and desperation."

   Baffled, I asked "Why would I think you were desperate?  You told me
yourself that you haven't made love since Miguel left, and that was a long
time ago.  You told me that you thought the difference between me and
Miguel was in name only; I am honored that you would think to compare me to
a man that I know you loved so deeply."

   She turned her head back toward me, and I went on "You are lonely?  Why
is that a bad reason to find happiness and pleasure with someone? 
Particularly when the person you find that happiness with is someone that
you think well of?  And that person thinks well of you, too, and even loves
you?"

   She lay silent for a few moments before asking "You...  love me?"

   "Didn't I just show that to you?" I asked in reply.

   "I gave myself to you, like a common whore", she said.

   "No.  You asked me to make love with you - and that is what we did.  We
made love".

   "How can you make LOVE to a woman who is not your wife?" she demanded.

   "When you had Miguel, you loved him.  Did you stop loving your parents,
or your brothers and sisters?"

   "No, of course not!"

   "Then why can I not love a woman who is not my wife?"

   "And what would your wife think of this, you making love with another
woman?"

   She saw me smile before I answered "I have a very understanding wife."

   "Yes, I have read in the magazines about you gringos, and your
'understandings' with your wives."

   I checked the time and saw that it was getting close to the time that
Lucy would be waking up.  They served breakfast early at the hospital, and
she liked to be awake well beforehand - as she explained it to me - so she
could fully appreciate how disgusting it was.  I'd sampled the food at her
insistence once, and found it generally pretty bland; not surprising, I
suppose, considering that it was for the patients, after all.

   Getting my cell phone, I asked Rose "I'm going to call my wife.  If she
tells you that she doesn't mind that we were together, will you accept it,
and let me talk to you about it?"

   The expression on her face told me what she thought the chances of Lucy
approving were, but she gestured for me to go ahead.  I called the
hospital, and was put through to Lucy's room.  Gomer answered the phone,
then handed it to her when I asked if she was awake yet.  I moved so that
Rose could hear both sides of the conversation, and we heard "Hello?  Dan?
What are you doing calling this early?"

   "Lucy, Rose is listening while we talk.  Do you mind if I make love with
her?"

   The look I got from Rose told me what she thought of me just coming out
and asking like that, but she still heard Lucy laugh and answer "No, of
course not!"

   Amazed, Rose asked "How can you say that?"

   "Because if you're willing to make love with him, then I know that you
must see some of the same things in him that I do.  And if he's willing to
make love with you, I know what kind of person you must be - because he's
my husband, and I know what kind of person HE is.  I know that whatever
else happens between you and him, it is ME that he loves more than anything
else.  You're welcome to borrow him for a little while, and I don't doubt
for a moment that you'll be a happier person because of it - but that's ALL
you'll be doing: borrowing him."

   I heard Rose ask "How do I know that you are really his wife?"

   Lucy described a couple of my scars, and Rose looked at me as she did,
verifying Lucy's descriptions.  Then Lucy described another part of my
anatomy, and Rose saw that that was correct, as well.

   "Really, Rose" I heard Lucy tell her.  "I'm fine with you making love
with him, whether you have or will, no matter how often or how many times.
I think if you'll talk to him, you'll understand better how I can say that.
Okay?"

   Rose gestured that she'd heard enough, and I sat up to tell Lucy that
I'd see her later.  She told me she loved me and wished me well with a
small laugh.  I told her I loved her, too, and that ended the call.

   Rose was looking at me in curiosity when I turned back to her.  I asked
her "Will you let me talk to you, now?"

   She nodded, a bit uncertainly, and I laid down next to her and put my
hand on her hip again.  She put her hands on my arm as she had before, and
I began to talk to her.

   "Rose, think about when we were making love.  Do you think that I did
things to make it easier for you, and to please you and make you happy?"

   She considered it for a second, and answered "Yes" with a faint blush.

   "You told me that I am an honorable man.  Did you really think that?"

   "Yes", she answered with certainty.

   "You still think I am honorable?"

   "Yes, I do."

   "Do you believe me when I say that I am honored that you would think of
me as you do Miguel?"

   She nodded, and I went on "In the hallway, before - you said that the
difference between me and Miguel was in name only.  You remember?"

   "I do", she verified.

   "Then if you think that I am honorable, and you think that I am so much
like Miguel, and you think that I made love with you in a way that was easy
and pleasurable for you and made you happy, don't you think that I could
also love you?  And that what we did together WAS making love?"

   Her eyes got big at that, and I went on "Rose, from the first time that
we met and had supper downstairs, I could see that there was something
about you - that there was some kind of emptiness in your life.  A little
while ago, I learned what that emptiness is - that your heart and arms have
been empty since you lost Miguel.  If you could see what you loved in HIM
in me, don't you think that I could also see what Miguel loved in YOU?  And
love you, in return?  Can you accept that I would be willing to make love
with you, and try to ease the emptiness of your heart, because of that
love?"

   Her eyes began to tear up again, and I told her "You gave yourself to
the part of me that is like Miguel.  And it was that same part of me that
made me want to comfort you, and please you, and share my love with you."

   With that, she began to cry again - not in the sudden release of need
she'd shown in the hallway, or the shame or embarrassment of earlier, but
in acceptance that she didn't HAVE to need love and she SHOULDN'T be shamed
or embarrassed at having accepted love that was offered to her.

   I rolled over onto my back, and she let me gently pull her over so that
I could an arm around her and hold her as her hot tears fell onto my chest.
After a while, she stopped crying; and with a small, embarrassed laugh, she
used her hand to clear the puddle of her tears that had collected on my
chest before laying her head on it.

   "Your wife - Lucy?  - is a very lucky woman to have a man like you, I
think." she told me.

   "Yes, Lucy", I confirmed.  " And I'm a very lucky man to have a wife
like her, I know" I replied.

   "I still don't understand how she can share you with other women,
though."

   "Did Miguel know that you loved him?"

   "Of course!"

   "Did he know how much?"

   "I'm sure he did."

   "If Miguel had been able to meet me, do you think he would have liked
me?"

   Without hesitation, she told me "I know he would.The things you say and
believe - they are so much like Miguel.  I think you and he, you would have
become very good friends."

   "You have shared yourself with me, and we have loved each other.  Do you
love Miguel any less?"

   "No!"

   "Don't you think he would understand and approve what happened between
us?  That since he is gone, not able to be with you, you accepted the love
of another man without loving him any less?"

   She thought about that for a bit before answering "Yes, he would.  More
than anything, he loved me and wanted me to be happy."

   "Then if he were alive and not able to comfort you himself, do you think
that he would be so unhappy if you found happiness with me instead, until
he was able to be with you again?  Knowing that it was him that you loved
more than anything?"

   She considered that, and finally answered "If it were done so that it
did not offend his pride, no, I don't think so."

   "Now think about this: Lucy knows that I love her more than anything
else in the world.  She knows me, and she knows WHY I love her - because of
the things I see inside her, just as you loved Miguel for the things you
saw in him.  Because she knows those things about me, she knows what kind
of person I am, and what kinds of things I look for in people.  So trusts
my judgement - because I judged her in such a way that I love her, which
she knows.  When I meet other people, she trusts that I will judge them the
same way I judged her - and for the same reasons.  Because she knows why I
love her, and trusts my judgement, she knows that if I find another person
that I can love, it will be because there are the same things in them as
there are in her.  So when I meet another person that I can love, Lucy
knows that she will like them, just as you know that Miguel would like me
because of how we are the same."

   I felt her nodding, and went on "Lucy knows that I'm not like most men -
I won't be with a woman just to have sex; if I am with a woman - like I was
with you - then it is because I love that woman.  Except that Lucy already
knows that any love I feel for another woman is going to be less than what
I have for her - so she knows that she doesn't have to be afraid of losing
me.  Now, if she knows that she is not going to lose me for another woman,
and she knows that that woman is someone she is going to like - because she
knows I love that woman for the same reasons as I love her, but not as much
- then why should she be afraid to let me make love with that woman? 
Whether it is before or after it happens, she knows and trusts that I will
talk to her about it - proving to her that I am not being dishonest about
it, or trying to deceive her; I am being completely honest with her."

   "And if she should meet another man?  Would you be as loving and
trusting as her?"

   "I have been", I answered, simply.

   It took a few seconds for it to sink in, the Rose sat up and looked down
at me demanding "Really?  You have shared your wife with another man?  How?
Why?"

   "Yes, I've done that.  He is the husband of a woman that Lucy and I met.
She was having some problems, a little bit like you were, and it was LUCY
that told her if she wanted, she could make love with me.  Later, Lucy was
with the woman's husband.  I didn't mind that she was with him - I met him,
and I like him, just as you say Miguel would like me.  I know and trust
that Lucy loves me more than she does him - and she has shown me that many,
many times.  Rose, Lucy already KNOWS that she is going to like you when
she meets you - because I love you, just as I love her.  She KNOWS that you
and she are going to be friends - good friends, just as Miguel and I would
have been.  The love and trust Lucy and I have for each other - it's so
strong and so great that she is willing to treat you as her very best
friend, before she has even met you.  You told me that Miguel would
understand and approve what happened with us.  The only difference is that
Lucy is alive, and is able to TELL you that she approves."

   She sat there, stunned, for quite some time before suddenly exclaiming
"Jes� Cristo!  The love, the trust you have with each other!"

   Looking at me in something like awe, she said "The love and the kindness
you showed me, they were so much - and you have even more for her.  Yes,
she is a very lucky woman!"

   It took a little gentle nudging to get her to lied down next to me
again, and get her to let me put my arm around her.  Her head was on my
shoulder and she was idly playing with my chest hairs while thinking about
what she'd learned about me and Lucy.  After a bit, I asked her "So now you
don't think you're so terrible?"

   She tilted her head back to look up at me and smile before answering
"No, I don't think I'm so terrible, now.  I know that I am loved by a good
man."

   I grinned and asked "You are?  Is it anyone I know?" - and got a playful
slap on the chest for a reply before she snuggled into my side.

   We stayed like that for quite a while before Rose raised her head up and
asked "Aren't you hungry?  Don't you want some breakfast?"

   "If I have a choice between breakfast and staying like this with you,
I'd rather stay here."

   She gave me a smile and said "Next time, maybe a choice.  Today, you
should have some breakfast; so that when you go and visit your wonderful
wife, you will remember to thank her for me."

   "And why am I giving her your thanks?"

   "For letting me borrow you, you silly man" she answered before kissing
me on the cheek.  "Now it is time to get out of bed and clean up."

   "Can I clean up with you?" I asked.

   She seemed surprised at the idea, but gave me mischievous grin and
answered "Yes, you may - but you will have to hurry because I am going
now", she finished as she got out of bed and headed for the bedroom door. I
was about three seconds behind her, and enjoyed watching her walking ahead
of me.  She turned to look at me and realized what part of her anatomy I
was watching - and smiled broadly in acceptance.

   It took a little longer for her to start breakfast than she expected,
due primarily to my unhelpful assistance as the two of us washed.  When she
wanted to clean my semen out of herself, I was careful to be doing
something else and not notice.

   By the time I was dressed and downstairs, she had already gotten a good
start on fixing me something to eat.  The view she provided me while I ate
was more than a little distracting - with her dressed only in her robe, I'd
delighted in molesting and fondling her as she'd brought my food and
coffee; she didn't bother closing her robe before she sat down, and I was
treated to the sight of her breasts and nipples peeking out at me as she
sipped a cup of coffee across from me.

   When I was done eating, she told me "Don't worry about the dishes; I'll
take care of them.  If you don't hurry, you are going to be late."

   I got up and went upstairs to brush my teeth; when I got back
downstairs, she was waiting for me and walked with me to the front door. 
She let me pull her into a kiss; when it was over, she looked into my face
and said "Thank you, Dan.  I feel more alive this morning than I have in a
very long time.  Go now, to your wife who is so kind to me, and I will see
you for supper tonight."

   I gave her another brief kiss, and then it was out the door.

   When I got to the hospital - only a few minutes later than usual - I
headed straight for Lucy.  The two of us kissed, and when I pulled back
afterwards she was grinning at me.  I raised an eyebrow in question, and
she told me "That's not your usual shampoo I smell.  So either you didn't
shower by yourself this morning, or you've switched brands.  I'm trusting
you made Rose happy?"

   I grinned back and answered "She is."

   "Still?  I guess you must have, then!" Lucy teased.

   "Before I forget, she wanted me to make sure and thank you for her.  So
'thank you' from Rose."

   Lucy smiled and said "Whatever was bothering her, its better now, of
course."

   "Its better", I confirmed.

   "Good.  Rita told me a little bit about her - on top of what you did. 
So long without the husband she loved so much...  I can only imagine. 
Well, I want you to tell her something for ME."

   "What's that?"

   "I want you to tell her that thanks aren't necessary, and she's welcome
to borrow you as much as she wants until I get out of here.  When that
happens, we'll negotiate!" she told me, with a grin.

   I laughed and said "I'll tell her."

   With that out of the way, the rest of the day went pretty much as
expected.  When I got back to Rose's that night, I found her sitting on the
front steps of her house, apparently waiting for me.

   As I got close to her, I could see how happy she was to see me again;
when we got inside, she didn't delay in pulling my head down and kissing
me. Feeling a little feisty, I squatted a bit and put my arms around her -
then picked her up off the floor and kissed her right back.  She laughed,
and exclaimed "Oy!  Loco gringo!" before kissing me again.

   When I set her back down, I told her what Lucy had said I should - and
her eyes sparkled in delight as she told me "That is for later, I think. 
For now, it is time for supper."

   When we got to the table, I didn't see any food.  I looked at her, and
she just smiled and told me "Sit.  I'll bring it to you." before
disappearing into the kitchen.

   I did as I was told, and she reappeared a few moments later with a
pretty good-sized steak and a baked potato that she set in front of me
before going back into the kitchen.  When she came back, she had another
plate with a smaller steak and potato on it, along with a small basket of
obviously fresh-baked homemade rolls.  She told me "Lucy said this morning
that she is fine with us making love, and she doesn't care how many times -
so I want to be sure that you have the strength and energy to make love
with me as much as I want", the last part with a lusty grin.

   I grinned back at her and answered "Then it's a good thing YOU are
having steak, too!" - making her eyes widen in surprise.

   We talked as we ate, and she asked me how Lucy was doing; I knew that
she was asking for no other reason than simply because she cared.  When
supper was over, I helped with the dishes, and she patiently tolerated my
patting her on the butt and leaning over to nibble on her neck and
shoulders as she washed while I dried.  The flashing in her dark eyes let
me know that I was going to have my hands full, later.

   When everything was put away, she got each of us a bottle of beer from
the refrigerator and the two of us went out and sat on the deck - next to
each other, holding hands as we sat quietly under the stars.

   When it was time for bed, she got up and gave my hand a little tug to
let me know to come with her.  I stood, and she led us inside and up the
stairs - then back to where her bedroom was.  Inside, she had me stand so
she could slowly undress me, then undressed herself.  Moving to stand in
front of me, she looked up and told me "What happened with us this morning,
it went too quickly.  I have been thinking about you all day, and tonight I
want us to take our time, and go slowly."

   I smiled my reply, and that was enough for her.  She led us over to her
bed and pulled the covers down before guiding me to lie down, and then
lying next to me.  We looked at each other, and she said "This morning, you
gave me much pleasure in a small time.  I...  I want to find out how much
more there can be.  Manuel and me, we were still young when we married, and
we did not know very much about how to pleasure each other.  While I have
you, I want to learn, if you will teach me."

   "Rose, you already know the important part."

   She looked at me in curiosity, and I told her "The important part of
making love with another person is to love them first.  If you have that,
then the rest is easy."

   She gave me a happy smile, and I moved to kiss her - softly and gently,
something that surprised and pleased her.

   I kissed her again, and as I did, I put my hand on her belly.  I felt
her take it and start to move it up toward her breast.  I broke our kiss to
remind her "You said you wanted us to go slowly." She nodded and released
my hand.  I started to kiss her again, and put my hand back on her belly -
then began slowly caressing her, enjoying the feel of her velvety skin
under my fingertips as our kisses grew more intimate and loving.

   I deliberately avoided touching her breasts - but that isn't to say that
I didn't get close to touching them.  I would slide my hand up her body,
and just before my hand would contact her breast, I would veer off and
caress her side - just at the very edge of where her breast melded into her
body.  I would caress her throat and shoulders, then trace my fingers down
her body - between her breasts, but not touching either one.  I would
softly stroke the insides of her thighs, letting my fingertips move higher
and higher - and then follow the crease of her leg, never touching her
mons, or even feeling her pubic hair.  After a couple minutes of that, she
began to whimper and try to move her body to get me to touch whatever it
was I was avoiding, but she couldn't make it happen.

   After one of our kisses ended, she said "Dios mio!  Your hand - it is
all over me, but you touch nothing; and still I feel like I am on fire! 
Please, Dan - have mercy on me!"

   With that, I let my hand move to cover her breast, and heard her moan in
pleasure and relief at the contact.  I found her nipple already erect, a
large hard pebble sticking out of the puckered surface of her areola.  Her
moans intensified as I gently squeezed her breast, the warm, spongy mass of
it responding to my touch.  Not wanting to play favorites, I traced a path
to the other, and found it as warm and pliable as the first, the peak of it
as proudly at attention as its mate.

   The next time our lips separated, I began kissing more of her - her
shoulder, throat, and neck.  I slowly eased my torso over her so that I
could do the same to the other side, listening as she panted in increasing
arousal before I began kissing my way lower on her body.  When my lips
reached her breasts and took one of her nipples into my mouth, she gasped
her pleasure even as she was parting her thighs in response to my soft
touch.  As my lips and tongue played with their new toys, my hand was
gently investigating her mons and the area between her thighs.  The small,
dark bush she'd revealed to me that morning proved to be composed of short,
soft hairs, thick and luxurious.  I let my fingers delight in the richness
of her pubic growth for a couple of minutes before extending my touch a
little farther and lower on her body.

   Between her velvety thighs, her labia were somewhat long, and thick; the
area between them was hot and damp with her obvious arousal.  Laying my
middle finger along her cleft, I slowly curled it, drawing my fingertip
between her vaginal lips - dipping ever so slightly into her channel.  When
I did, she gasped and lifted her hips, welcoming my intimate touch. 
Continuing to draw my fingertip upwards, I found her clitoris - the size of
a single peanut, it was erect and sensitive to my touch.

   As I moved my mouth from one breast to the other and back again, I kept
my hand busy further down.  Carefully and gently, I used my fingers to
plumb the depths of her and found her hot and wet inside.  Eagerly, she
accepted first one finger, then a second, into her feminine embrace.  While
I slowly plundered her treasure, the palm of my hand applied a soft
rhythmic pressure to the sensitive knob of flesh at the apex of her
channel. With each passing second, the combination of my mouth on her
breasts and my hand between her thighs increased her arousal.  Her hands
were in my hair and she was softly muttering expressions of pleasure and
endearments in Spanish when she surprised me by having a small orgasm.

   Her already-tight vagina clamped down on my fingers, making it difficult
for me to move them in her as her body spasmed; I continued pressing
against her clitoris with my palm in time with the contractions I could
feel in her body as she groaned in pleasure and release.  When she relaxed
from around my fingers, I gently pulled them free of her - and while she
was still distracted, eagerly cleaned her tangy, tasty juices from them. 
That done, I eased the rest of my body over her, holding myself on my
elbows over her body with my legs between hers.

   Her eyes opened, and she saw me looking down at her and the delight on
her face was plain as could be when she told me "Never before has that
happened to me without making love."

   "But Rose - we are making love", I answered.  "And we've only gotten
started; there is still more for us to do."

   Hearing that seemed to amaze her, and I could hear the anticipation in
her voice as she asked "More?"

   I grinned and said "Let me show you" before softly kissing her lips -
then proceeding to blaze a trail down her body with my lips.  I didn't
hurry in the slightest, but once past her breasts, I slowed even more: I
don't think there was a square inch of her belly and abdomen where I didn't
leave a damp kiss, or nibble with my lips.  By the time my lips were
brushing against her pubic thatch, she was writhing and moaning in
pleasure. As I followed the crease of her thigh, she realized where I was
headed and what I planned to do.  She looked down at me uncertainly, but
didn't object.

   I finally had a clear view of her womanhood - her labia dark with her
arousal, long and thick as my fingers had said, the area between shiny with
her oils.  At the top, her clitoris had mostly disappeared back under its
hood - but I could still see it peeking out at me.  Looking up at her, I
could see the concern on her face and softly told her "A beautiful Latina
flower, blooming just for me".  She looked much less worried when she heard
that, but I could tell that she was still nervous about what she knew I was
going to do.  Rather than prolong it, I simply lowered my head and dipped
my tongue between her vaginal lips before drawing it upwards and collecting
a full sample of her oils.  As they'd been on my fingers, her juices were
tangy - deliciously, pleasantly so.  I didn't bother saying anything to
her; I just did it again - and felt her relax when she realized that I
liked what I was doing to her.

   I don't know how long it took for me to bring her two more orgasms, each
stronger than the one before - but I am certain that I enjoyed every moment
of it.

   I'd brought her close to the edge and let her slide back again a couple
of times when she told me "Dios!  Please, have mercy on me!", her
frustrated arousal clear in her voice.

   I did - after a fashion.  As I slowly twirled her clitoris with the tip
of my tongue, I carefully wetted a finger with her oils, and then eased it
inside her.  It didn't take me long to find a spot at the top of her vagina
and behind her pubic bone that I'd been hoping to find.  When I started
rubbing it with the end of my finger, I thought she was going to get
whiplash from the way her head started tossing.  It was only a few moments
"work" to find a combination of what I was doing with my mouth and my
finger that pleased her the most; with that knowledge, I was able to bring
her to an even higher peak and hold her there for several seconds before a
furious tongue-lashing of her clitoris and firm pressure against the spot
in her vagina brought her the relief she'd asked for.

   It also almost got my neck and finger broken