
My Life

by Catmandu99

(Codes:  MF, rom, cons, safe, oral, solo)


==== Chapter One  -  Nat =====

“That does it!”

That statement was followed by the loud bang of a frying pan hitting the countertop.  I would have jumped if I weren’t so amused.  Hey, when the person wielding the frying pan is only a bit over 5’2” and you stand a whole foot taller...well, lets just say that I wasn’t exactly afraid for my life.  Besides, Sheila couldn’t hit the broad side of a barn when she was aiming.  Lord knew she’d taken enough swings at me throughout our lives for me to know.  I also knew that her temper had the life span of a mayfly.  

Right on cue, Sheila became quiet.  She was gripping the abused counter tight enough to turn her knuckles pale, but at least she wasn’t swinging the pots and pans again.

“Nat, you know I love you, right?”  Sheila sighed before squaring her shoulders and looking back up at me.

I nodded cautiously.  When Sheila got that look in her eyes, she was more stubborn than a Missouri mule.  Her brother Todd used to say that once Sheila got her back up about something, only a direct missive from God, handwritten in triplicate, could get her to change her mind.  Having been best friends with her brother and an unwilling witness to that iron will many times had taught me to tread lightly.

"Then please take this in the spirit in which it is intended.  Get out.  Go home.  In the immortal words of Billy Joel, 'go ahead with your own life and leave me alone'."

"No.  Now where do you want these towels?"

I knew my response would be like setting a match to gasoline, but no way was I going to be forced out the door.  The sooner Sheila realized that, the easier our afternoon would go.

"I'll tell you where you can put them."

Her reply was muttered, but I had good hearing and had been expecting it.  I hid my smile behind the stack of towels I was currently holding.  If Sheila knew how amused I was by her, I would be shown the door faster than a door-to-door salesman with a bad product.

Feigning deafness and counting on Sheila's innate politeness was my best line of defense.  I arranged my face into respectful confusion before saying anything.  

"What was that?"

When I finally looked into Sheila's face, I was treated to a look of pure frustration.

"Nat, are you trying to piss me off?  Why are you here?"  Sheila held up a hand before I could get a word out in defense.  "Nevermind.  I know why.  One of my brothers asked you to look after me, didn't they?"

After that opening salvo, I never had a chance before Sheila launched into her favorite rant.

"I knew it."  Sheila slammed down another pan. "Was it Todd who told you to come over?  Why can't my brothers just leave me alone?  They act as if I'm 12 years old.  I'm 24 and well able to live by myself without having someone watching over me every damn minute of the day!  And you!"  

I was suddenly looking at my reflection in the side of a frying pan leveled at my face.  

"It's bad enough I have 5 older overprotective brothers without adding to the numbers."

I sighed silently and figured it would be a good idea to derail her train of thought.  

"As entertaining as your paranoia is, Sheila, your brothers did not force me to be your pack mule today."  

I had volunteered.  And there was no need to let her know that each of her brothers had also asked me to keep an eye on her.  

 "Besides, they ARE older brothers and understandably worry about you.  They love you and just want to see you safe.  I feel the same way."  

Let her chew on that one.

The reply was pure Sheila.  "Great.  Another brother – just what I need."

I never got a chance before Sheila's own conscience pricked her.

"Nat, I'm sorry.  I really do appreciate all your help today.  I still belong, don't get me wrong. I just need my own space.  All the big stuff is in and now I just need to unpack.  I'll be fine, I promise.  Please go home."

Looking down into her pixie face, I knew I didn't stand a chance.  Sheila was bound and determined to do this and do it alone.  Remembering the look of pride and accomplishment on her face when we first entered the tiny apartment made up my mind for me.  No way could I take that sense of achievement away from her.  She'd get her space.  For a while.  

That thought in mind, I allowed Sheila to start maneuvering me toward the door. 

"All right already.  I'll go.  Stop manhandling me, woman. If you wanted me to leave, you should have just said so."  That earned me an outraged squeak before I wrapped my arm around her and hugged her to my side.  "Remember to lock the door behind me.  And call if you need me."

I dropped a quick kiss on the top of her head and sauntered out the door.  I resisted the urge to look back at the expression on her face over my last minute instructions.  I already knew that those bright green eyes  would be shooting sparks.  Besides, I had plans to make.  



==== Chapter Two – Sheila ====

Damn him!  Who does he think he is throwing around orders like that?  

Despite my pique, I put the chain on the lock after watching Nat walk to his car.  No way was I about to be foolhardy with my safety.  I rested my head briefly against the cool door before straightening.  I still had a lot to do.

The spark of pride hit me again as I surveyed the cluttered apartment.  It was small and disorganized and crammed with unopened boxes, but it was MINE.  No one could understand why I was so determined to do this by myself.   Mom wanted me in one of the apartment complexes my brothers lived in, Dad wanted me to buy a house in the old neighborhood, and my brothers – with the exception of Randy – couldn't understand why I wanted to move away from home in the first place. 

Then there was Nat.  Nat wasn't a part of the family strictly speaking.  He'd just been there forever.  He had been best friends with my brother Todd since they were in sixth grade and was as much a member of the family as I was.   His one redeeming trait was that he never tried to impose his will on me.  Well, not until today.

Damn him!

I ran my hands through my short hair and decided to let it go. After all, I had a lot of stuff to put away.  And fuming over Nat's heavy handed technique wouldn't get it done.  

Three hours and 7 phone calls from family later, I had started to make a dent in the pile.  I was contemplating having my cell number changed as I dragged empty boxes to the dumpster.  My preoccupation is probably why I never even saw the dog.  

It was a pratfall worthy of Buster Keaton.  I involuntarily started juggling boxes before executing a bellyflop onto the  pavement while cardboard rained down around the startled dog and myself.  The dog went nuts jumping around the boxes and barking for all he was worth while I lay on the ground and tried to remember how to breathe.  I wasn't hurt – something I checked immediately – but I had had the wind knocked out of me and was still a little stunned.  The dog jumping around me wasn't helping.

"Buster – heel!  And be quiet!"

I didn't know where the masculine voice came from, but I could have kissed him as the dog quieted down at the man's commands.  My head was already starting to throb and I knew that along with bruises, I was going to have a lulu of a headache.  I also knew that I couldn't remain sprawled on the ground any longer.  I was finally able to breathe again and decided to face the humiliating situation head on.  

"Whoa there, honey. Easy now.  Don't move until I check you for broken bones."

I would have jumped when I felt this stranger's hands moving over my body, except that he kept his voice low and melodic and his touch impersonal.  It was soothing as hell.  He continued to talk while gently poking and prodding my body.

"That was some fall you had there.  I think you scared Buster to death."

"Buster should watch where I'm walking."  I muttered it but I wasn't really angry at the dog.  "Honestly, I wasn't paying attention to where I was going and tripped right over him.  I never said I was a victim of circumstance.  Is he okay?"

"Buster?  He's fine.  He's a tough old dog.  Besides, what male doesn't like having a beautiful woman fall all over him?"

I had to laugh at that as I could just imagine what I looked like after slaving for hours cleaning and unpacking my things.  

"Pretty laugh.  Well, it appears that all your parts are still where they should be.  Let's roll you over and see how you feel."

I was about to explain that I was okay when he gently turned me onto my back.  I think I lost my breath again.  Someone had been in a REALLY good mood the day he was created.  Inky black hair and summer sky blue eyes.  It was a combination to die for.  Good thing I was already flat on my back. 

"How do you feel, honey?  Ready to sit up?"

I nodded my head and attempted to pull it together.  I had seen plenty of good looking guys before.  Heck, my brothers were all good looking – as my friends had always been quick to point out.  Even Nat was drop dead handsome and I managed to ignore that.  No need in drooling over a new neighbor. 

Bracing my hands behind me, I started to push myself upright when I felt a hard arm come around my shoulders to brace my body.  I have to admit that it felt nice even if it was unnecessary.

"I'm okay, I promise." I pushed my hair back from my face before continuing.  "I've been taken down by bigger guys than Buster here and come out of it okay."

His eyes crinkled as he smiled.  "So you're a professional wrestler?  By the way, I'm Mark Jessup.  D-2."

I had to laugh.  "Sorry.  I'm Sheila McInnes – your new neighbor.  Just moved in to D-3.  And when I'm not tripping over dogs, I'm a legal secretary.  I have older brothers though, so I'm used to being punted around.  I was 6 when Mom made my brothers start letting me play football instead of being the football.  I've had my share of injuries."

I glanced down at my raw hands and sighed.  "Although I must admit that it's been a while."



====Chapter Three – Mark ====

So this was the new neighbor.  I'd seen the boxes and some big bruiser going in and out of the apartment across from mine when I got home this morning, but I'd been too tired to introduce myself.  My thoughts were more on lying down and dying for a few hours.  

It was hell being on 3rd shift again – even if it was a temporary affair.  With Terry gone for her honeymoon, and me being the only single lead paramedic the EMS department currently had, you can guess who was volunteered to take over Terry's shifts.  Sometimes seniority just didn't help a man out.  Seniority sure didn't help with the 3 car crash at midnight or the heart attack call around dawn.  

Had I known that my new neighbor looked like this, I would have caught my second wind and come over earlier.  Much, much earlier.  I wasn't just calling her honey as an endearment.  She looked like honey with her short gold hair and warm bronze skin.  She looked lickable.  

Of course there WAS still the big bruiser.  Husband?  Lover?  Brother, dare I hope?

A quick check of the hands she was still examining showed no rings and no light stripe of skin showing where a ring would reside.  That ruled out a husband.  Of course, bruiser could be a lover.  Only one way to find out.

"Would you like me to call your husband or boyfriend to help you back to your apartment?"  I held my breath.  It had been a damn long time since I had waited so anxiously for a woman's response.

Sheila glanced up at me with a quizzical expression.  "I think I can make it if you don't mind helping me up."

Well, that didn't answer anything.  

"So much for being subtle.  Sheila, I was gently trying to find out if you were married or otherwise engaged.  You're not cooperating with me here."  I winked at her while helping her to her feet.

Thank God she laughed instead of slapping me.

Sheila's eyes were twinkling mischievously when she replied, "You're the second person today to call me difficult.  I'm not sure if I should be insulted or complimented."

Help me Lord, she was a tease.  I REALLY liked her.  Any woman who could land flat on her face and still maintain a sense of humor was all right in my book.  

I threw my head back and laughed at her spunk while still keeping an arm around her.  I didn't know how steady she would be on her feet after her fall and, I admit it, she felt good under my arm.  Also, I wasn't about to let her go until I got an answer to my question.  

"Soooo..."

Sheila shrugged.  "No, no husband and no 'otherwise engaged'."  She glanced at me quickly before continuing, "And you?"

I grinned at her.  "Uh-uh."  I hadn't had as much sleep as I normally needed, but I was feeling pretty awake all the same.  

That's when I noticed that Sheila was standing on one leg like a flamingo.  Instantly I reverted to the professional.

"Honey, what hurts?  Your right leg?  Foot?  Ankle?"  I looked in her face for her answer.  Some people were adept at hiding their pain – even from themselves – but there were signs you could read if you knew what to look for.  I saw mild discomfort when Sheila put her leg down gingerly but nothing major.  I did notice that she kept her hand on my chest and was shifting her weight to her left leg.

I swallowed.  Hard.  So I wasn't a complete professional.

"My ankle is a bit sore, but it doesn't feel broken.  It just hurts when I put a lot of pressure on it.  I think I'll be okay.  Umm, would you mind helping me back to my apartment though?  My balance is off."

Oh yeah.

Sheila looked around at the boxes littering the ground before looking back up at me with distress in her eyes.  I could read her mind at that moment.

Smiling, I attempted to reassure her.  "I'll come back for the boxes after I get you back to your apartment.  I assume they were just going in the trash?"

Sheila nodded, obviously relieved, but before she could say anything we were interrupted.

"I'll get the boxes, dearie.  Mark, you just get that poor girl off her ankle."

I glanced over at where Mrs. Leone, the landlady, was standing next to Buster.  She didn't stay still long though, bending down to start stacking boxes.

"Mama, you're the best.  Are you sure you don't want me to come back and help you pick these up?"

Sheila was also talking.  "Mrs. Leone, you don't have to do that."

At this chorus, she looked up from her task and tut-tutted at Sheila.  "You call me Mama.  Everyone calls me Mama.  Besides, I saw my Buster trip you."  She shot a fond glance at the mutt in question.  "I ran inside to grab the phone and left him out here.  I should have known something was going to happen.  My horoscope said it would be a troublesome day."

Mama made a shooing motion with her hands.  "Now, Mark you get that girl back to her place before that ankle swells any more.  Make sure you elevate it.  And put some ice on it, you hear. Now go!"

I leaned over to kiss Mama on the top of her head.  "Mama, who's the paramedic around here?"

Mama just laughed and smacked me on the back.  "It's still good advice, smarty pants.  Now go."

I glanced down at Sheila, who was looking very amused.  "Can you walk, or do you want me to carry you?"  I knew which answer I preferred.

Sheila took a tentative step forward and almost lost her balance when her weak ankle threatened to give out.

"I guess that answers that.  Hold tight," I said as I swung her up in my arms.  

As a veteran paramedic, I had carried women before plenty of times.  As a man, I had lifted a few of the fair persuasion in the pursuit of seduction.  None had settled in so perfectly in my grasp or felt so right once there.  This was going to be interesting.


==== Chapter Four – Nat ====

I could not believe what I was seeing as I stepped from my car.  Some Neanderthal was manhandling MY Sheila.  She didn't know she was mine, but that was a mere technicality.  

Sheila had been mine since she was just a little 7 year old girl following me and her brothers around, begging us to play with her.  She was mine from the time she was 10, when she broke her arm falling out of our treehouse and I had to carry her 3 blocks home.  She belonged to me when she was 16 and cried on my shoulder because her boyfriend had broken up with her.  She had always been mine and always would be.  Now that she was ready for me to tell her, I find her in some other man's arms.  

I could have killed.

Marching over to the cozy couple, I demanded an explanation. "Just what the hell is going on here, Sheila?  Who is this guy and why is he carrying you?"

I shot a venomous look at Neanderthal Man receiving a surprised look in return.  Sheila, however, wasn't quite as accommodating.

"Nat!  What are you doing back here?  I thought you went home."

Keeping my eye on Neanderthal Man, I gave Sheila the obvious answer.  "I came back."

That wasn't good enough for Sheila.  I would have been surprised if it had been.

"No kidding, Nat.  I figured that out all by myself.  The question is WHY are you back?  Is something wrong?  Is it Todd?  Or Mom and Dad?"

Sheila was starting to panic herself and for that I was sorry.  I didn't mean to worry her.  I just wanted her out of this other man's arms.  I took a deep breath.

"Sheila, calm down.  Everyone is fine.  I just came back to see if I could take you to dinner.  I figured you wouldn't feel like cooking after working on the apartment all day."

Sheila went limp until my next words registered.

"I thought I would find you passed out with exertion.  Not cavorting with the neighbors.  Guess you're not as tuckered out as I thought."

It was an asinine thing to say.  I knew it, but I couldn't seem to stop the words from coming from my lips.  Jealousy is a hard taskmaster.  I had suffered through Sheila's boyfriends for years because I knew that she wasn't ready for me.  Now she was ready and I wasn't going to tolerate any interference.  Whoever Neanderthal Man was, he would just have to go away and find another woman.  This one was spoken for.  

Of course, first I would have to apologize to Sheila.  

"What the hell is that supposed to mean, Nat?  I was taking some boxes out to the trash when I tripped and fell, twisting my ankle.  Mark here is my new neighbor, a paramedic, and has been kind enough to offer to help me back to my apartment since I can't walk.  And for your information, Nathaniel Lewis Davis, I will cavort with anyone I damn well feel like!"

I knew I was in trouble after I said it.  Sheila trotting out my full name only confirmed it.  My mother was the only other person to use my full name and my lips twitched as Sheila played that card.  She was angry, righteously so, and beautiful in her anger.  

"Did you know that you're beautiful when you're angry?"  I smiled as Sheila snapped her mouth shut.  Her eyes promised retribution.

She turned to Neanderthal Mark effectively dismissing me.  Good try, Sheila, but it will take a lot more than that to get rid of me.

"Mark, will you take me up to my apartment, please?"

Mark was looking back and forth between Sheila and myself with not a little amusement.  He chuckled before pushing off with a quick "Sure".  I could see the challenge in his eyes.  So be it.

I trailed behind the pair more than a little peeved at the obvious enjoyment Mark took from carrying Sheila.  Sheila, for her part, refused to look at me.  

Walking into the apartment, I pushed past Mark in order to clear some books and clothes off the couch so that he could lay Sheila down.  No way was I allowing this stranger into Sheila's bedroom.  That was reserved strictly for me.  Now that Sheila was out of Mark's arms, I finally looked past my jealousy to see the pain in Sheila's eyes.  My irritation melted as my concern jumped to the forefront.  No matter what my emotions were, I hated to see Sheila hurting.

Dropping to my knees beside the couch, I reached out a hand to push her hair back from her eyes.

"How does your ankle feel?  Do I need to take you to the hospital?"

Mark had been probing Sheila’s ankle since laying her down and was the one who answered.  

“She’ll be fine.  Her ankle isn’t broken or sprained.  It’s swelled a bit, but nothing to be concerned about.  A little time with the ankle elevated and some aspirin for the pain and you’ll be good as new in the morning.”

The last was said with a grin toward Sheila.  I would have bristled, but had to admit that it appeared this guy knew what he was talking about.  

Mark stood up and headed toward the front door, calling over his shoulder, “I have an ice pack at my place that will help that swelling.  Be right back.”

I glanced down at Sheila.  I wanted to gauge her reaction when I asked about Mark.

“So that’s your neighbor, huh?  He appears...friendly.”

Sheila just sighed tiredly.  “Mark’s nice.  Nat, why are you really here?  Are you checking up on me again?  I’ve already told you that I don’t need you to worry for me ‘cause I’m all right.”

I echoed Sheila’s sigh and decided to give her a small portion of the truth.

“Sheila, I’m not checking up on you.  I just wanted to spend a little time with you and maybe take you out to dinner.  Is that so bad?  Despite what you think, I am not one of your brothers and I have no desire to be.”

Sheila’s eyes widened a bit at that declaration, but I don’t think she understood exactly what I was saying.  That was okay.  All things in their time.  I had been patient for years, and while I was finding myself singularly impatient NOW, I knew the value of waiting for the right time.  Timing was, after all, everything.


====Chapter Five – Sheila ====

Nat could not have picked a worse time to show up.  There I was in a gorgeous guy's arms feeling the tingles of a strong attraction running up and down my body when Nat appeared.  There was no justice in this world.  

I closed my eyes in order to give myself a minute to think.  I WAS happy to see Nat.  I loved him.  He was a member of the family and a really good friend, all in one 6 foot package.  As a teenager, I had even had a crush on him.  I never let him know it, of course.  Nat was 6 years older than me and even as a teenager, I knew it was a futile girlish dream.

He had always been there though, allowing me to cry on his shoulder.  He had even rescued me from becoming a victim of my own teenage recklessness by pulling an overly amorous boyfriend off of me just before "No" became rape.  But above and beyond all of that, Nat was really good company.  Well, he was when he wasn’t acting like an ass.

I had no idea what had gotten into Nat lately.  He was more tense the past few weeks and almost seemed to be waiting for something.  It put my nerves on edge.  This whole scene with Mark, for example, was confusing.  It almost seemed as if Nat was jealous of Mark.  Why that would be was beyond me.  

I sighed again and decided that I wasn't meant to understand some things, such as the male mind.  It also wasn’t doing any good staying angry with Nat.  He didn’t mean to be overprotective and, for the most part, he WAS better than my family.  That didn’t mean that he couldn’t rile me faster than most though.  Ah well, Nat was Nat, and always would be.  For that I was grateful.

I opened my eyes to find Nat staring down into my face with a concerned expression in his eyes.  He was stroking my arm in an unconsciously gentle manner.  It was obvious that he wasn’t really aware of what he was doing; let alone what it was doing to me.  My stomach flipped and tingles seemed to follow his fingers down my arm.  Oh boy.

Nat finally seemed to realize that I was staring at him.  His eyes cleared and he smiled. 

“So, what do you think about dinner?  I’d be happy to run pick something up so that you can stay off of your ankle.”

I tried joking in order to get my mind off of what Nat’s touch was doing to my body.  “Ah, I’ve always wanted a manservant.”

“Manservant?  And here I thought I was just being a nice guy by getting an ice pack.  Ah, to be so used by the fairer sex,” Mark said walking back into the living room.

I couldn’t help smiling.  In addition to his liquid smooth voice and gentle hands, Mark appeared to be a really fun guy.

“Actually, Nat here was just offering to play waiter and fetch dinner.  I was just about to accept.  Would you like to join us for dinner?”

Mark grimaced slightly before answering.  “As much as I would love to say yes,” he shot a quick look at Nat, “I’m afraid that I can’t.  While I was at my place, I got a call from the department.  I’m afraid I have to go in a bit early tonight.  One of the guys has to leave because of a sick kid.  Perhaps I could take a rain check.  Maybe take you out to dinner tomorrow night and welcome you to the neighborhood properly.”

Nat’s hand stilled on my arm and he suddenly seemed very tense.

“I’d like that.”

Mark leaned over and gave a soft kiss to my injured ankle before placing the ice pack on it.  He straightened with a twinkle in his eyes.

“I’ve always found that a kiss to the boo-boo helps with healing.  Nice to meet you, Nat.  Sheila?  I’ll see you tomorrow around 6.”

Mark had barely gotten out the door before Nat looked down at me.  “You are not going out with him, Sheila.”

“Nat, my head is already throbbing.  I do not need you going all big brother on me.  Mark is a nice guy and if I want to go out with him, then I will!”

Nat clamped his hand around the arm he was previously stroking before leaning in nose to nose.  

“No, you won’t.  I won’t allow it.”

My eyes widened and I could feel my temper starting to rise.  I didn’t understand what had gotten into Nat recently, but no way was I going to allow him to boss me around like that.

“You won’t ALLOW it?  How dare you, Nat!  I don't care what you say anymore, this is my life.”  I was building up a good head of steam when Nat leaned over and planted his lips on mine, stopping my tirade mid-stream.

My blood was still on the verge of boiling, but now it was for an entirely different reason.  Nat was angry and he let me know it.  His lips attacked mine.  He plucked and strummed and demanded entrance.  There was nothing gentle or exploratory or brotherly in his kiss.  He was the conqueror demanding his prize.

I was stunned by the rush of feeling Nat’s kiss brought out in me.  My stomach tightened almost painfully and my nerve endings jumped.  My moan was entirely involuntary.   Just that quickly, the kiss changed.  Instead of demanding, it became coaxing.  Asking, instead of insisting on a response.  My fingers tightened on the fabric of the couch.  I was beguiled by the softness of Nat’s lips.  His tongue traced the bow of my lips before dipping inside for quick licks.  

Nat pulled back with a series of moist butterfly kisses to my lips and cheeks.  He was breathing hard and his eyes glittered with intent.   I was still in shock and, yes dammit, I was aroused.  I had never gotten turned on so fast by just a kiss in my life.

Apparently deciding there was nothing to say, Nat started a series of licks up the nape of my neck as his hands insinuated themselves inside of my shirt.  He started lightly scraping his fingernails up my skin and directly over top of my nipples.  Just that quickly, I lost it.  My nipples have always been sensitive, and the sensation of Nat sucking on my neck while his fingertips plucked and scratched over my nipples moved me to flashpoint.  

I never felt Nat slide my shorts down my legs.  I was too busy trying to breathe through the electricity that was arcing through my body.  I did notice when his tongue started running up and down the lips of my pussy.  Nat continued to squeeze and pull on my nipples as he let his teeth gently catch hold of my clit and pull.  Letting go of my tits, Nat used both hands to hold open my pussy.  He stared for a moment before taking a long slow lick – as if from an ice cream cone.  My back reared off the couch when he blew a stream of cool air over my moist inner skin.  

Evidently enjoying my response, Nat continued to take long licks punctuated with a breeze of air.  He started swirling his tongue around and over my clit at the top of each lick.  I was nearly incoherent with the pleasure of it.  As I started to thrust my hips at him, he began to corkscrew two fingers into my pussy.   There was no rhyme or reason to this madness.  Nat was fucking his fingers into me on a schedule only he knew.  His licks matched no rhythm.  I was squirming now, as hot as I had ever been.  I felt a finger begin to worm it's way into my ass just as Nat clamped his lips over my clit and started to suck strongly.  

I screamed as lights flashed inside of my head and my body exploded with sensation.  Nat never stopped and soon I was awash in wave after wave of electricity.  It was way too much to process.  My last thought as I slid into darkness was a plaintive cry that it would be Nat who could do this to my body.


====Chapter Six – Mark ====

I didn't know what was going on between Nat and Sheila, but I planned on finding out tonight at dinner.  I knew Nat had been trying to warn me away from Sheila.  His body language practically screamed MINE.  Luckily, I didn't give a rat's ass what Nat's body was trying to tell me.  I didn't believe in poaching, but Sheila didn't act as if there was anything romantic between her and Nat.  That made it an open race as far as I was concerned.  

It had been a very long time since any woman had interested me the way Sheila did.  She had a way of cocking her head to the side while staring into a person's eyes that made you feel as if she could see to the bottom of your soul.  It also didn't hurt that she had the legs of a 40's pinup model.  

Sheila was wearing a summer dress when I picked her up.  I had told her to dress casually since I wanted to take her down to the marina for a walk on the boardwalk before sunset.  I was never one for dinner-and-a-movie on a date.  When I went out with a woman, it was because I enjoyed her company and wanted to talk to her.  It's hard to talk to a woman in the middle of a feature film.  

Sheila seemed a bit preoccupied when I picked her up, but quickly got into the conversation.  She was warm, funny and had a sharp wit that turned me on.  I was also glad to see that her ankle appeared to be good as new.

I decided to pounce while we were sitting on an old park bench watching a dog and his kid play in the surf.

"What's the connection with Nat?  I don't see any family resemblance."

Sheila laughed, as I had intended.  "Nat?  He's a friend of the family.  He's been best friends with my brother Todd since they were 10 or 11.  He offered to be my - how did he put it? - oh yeah, my pack mule yesterday since none of my brothers could be there to help me move in.”

I cut my eyes to Sheila at the mention of brothers again.

“I’m not sure I like the way you say that.  Just how many brothers do you have?  And are any of them likely to beat me up for drooling over their sister?”

Sheila slanted a frankly sensuous look from the corner of her eyes before replying.

“Depends on where you’re drooling.”  She laughed before continuing.  “I have 5 brothers.  All older.  All overprotective.  Are you scared?”

Ah, a challenge. I could very easily fall for this woman and her teasing sensuality.

“Five?!”  I faked a gulp before lowering my voice.  “They’re not here right now waiting to protect your honor, are they?”

Sheila played along by looking around theatrically.  “God I hope not.  I’d sure hate to miss having my honor besmirched.”

What did I say?  A sharp wit that turned me on.

“All right.  Tell me about these brothers who are going to make a Hot Pocket out of my body.”

Sheila grinned and started ticking names and statistics off on her fingers.

"Randy is 32 years old and a captain in the Army.  He's stationed in Korea for the next 2 months. Todd is 30 years old and an engineer.  Ronnie is 28 and just started with the local sheriff's office.  David and Michael are twins - 26 and in their final year of medical residency.  David wants to be a pediatrician and Michael likes the ER"

"Whew.  That's some list.  Thank goodness there's not a wrestler in the bunch.  And you say that Nat is a friend of one of your brothers?"  I was interested in learning about Sheila's family, but I had an agenda.

"Yeah.  Nat and Todd own an engineering firm here in town.  It's small, but doing remarkably well."  Sheila's pride in her brother's firm was obvious.  

"Sooo..." I glanced at Sheila to check her reaction, "How long has Nat been a spurned lover?"

Sheila's jaw dropped and I saw her eyes widen before she started to choke.  I knew it was just surprise that gave her such a strong reaction, so I only patted her on the back until she could breathe again.  I wasn't about to let her get away without answering me though.  For some reason, it was important.

Sheila remained quiet for a moment after she caught her breath.  She kept her eyes averted and suddenly I knew that I wasn't going to like her answer.

"Whatever do you mean, Mark?  Nat and I aren't lovers."  She finally looked up at me and her voice gained strength.  "We never have been and probably never will be.  He's just a friend of the family."

My mind swirled around the way Sheila had said that.  I believed her when she said that her and Nat had never been lovers.  There was too much conviction in her voice for her to have been lying.  That didn't mean that I believed the part about Nat just being a friend of the family.  I had seen the look in his eye when he looked at Sheila and I knew what a possessive man looked like.  Nat had all the characteristics of a man staking his claim.  Perhaps Sheila didn't know it, but I certainly did.

I gave Sheila a disbelieving look, but let her change the subject when she asked about dinner.

"Yes, ma'am.  I never try to starve a beautiful woman.  How do you feel about seafood?  There's a great tiny place just up the street that serves the most fabulous hush puppies you've ever eaten."

Just like that things reverted to normal. Sheila smiled and easily took my hand when I reached for it.  I could sense her preoccupation several times during dinner though and I thought I had a good idea of its root.  

By the time I got Sheila back to her door, it was getting a bit late.  We'd stayed at the restaurant for a couple of hours just talking.  We diverged on our opinions just enough to keep the conversation lively.

I waited until Sheila had the key in her lock before speaking.

"I had a great time with you tonight.  You're going to be a really great friend, Sheila.  I'm very glad that you moved in across the hall."

Having said that, I tipped up her chin and proceeded to kiss her the way I had wanted to since seeing her sprawled on the ground with boxes all around her.  

Her lips were moist and silky and felt like heaven to me.  I tried to keep it soft, just gently laving the seam of her lip until she gasped.  Even then I didn't take total advantage, but gently inserted my tongue just a bit inside her mouth before pulling back to suck lightly on her bottom lip and then running my tongue along her lip.  Each dip went a little further into her mouth until Sheila was completely open to me.  Her hands clutched my biceps, clenching every so often.  By the time I pulled back, Sheila's lips were slightly swollen and she had a dazed look in her eyes.

I carried that look with me as I gently maneuvered her to just inside her apartment, dropping the keys onto an entry table.  I gave myself one last press against her lips before leaving.  Her response was a balm to my bruised male ego.


====Chapter Seven – Sheila ====

Wow.

The man could definitely kiss.  I hadn't felt sparks like that since, well last night.  

Mentally I groaned.  Last night.  No matter how many times I went over it in my head, I was still in disbelief that Nat would go down on me that way.  Nat?  Good ol' Nat, honorary brother number 6 who had never looked at me as more than a sister in his life?  

I dropped my head against the wall in my tiny entry and closed my eyes.  Mark had really thrown me asking if Nat was a spurned lover.  Lately, nothing made sense anymore and quite honestly I was tired of being thrown off balance.

Sighing tiredly, I bent down to unstrap my sandals and kick them under the hall table before turning, intent on taking a shower.  

The sight of my brother Todd sitting on my couch burst that thought and had me stopping in my tracks.  I should have expected this when I gave Mom a key for "emergencies".  That didn't mean I liked it.  From the look on Todd's face, I was going to like the coming conversation even less.  Just great.

"Who the hell was that?  And where's Nat?"

Todd didn't disappoint me.  I dropped into my recliner before looking Todd in the eyes.

"What are you doing here Todd?  And what do you mean 'where's Nat'?  Why would I know?"

Todd leaned forward and studied me before answering.

"Sheila, let's take this from the top.  First of all, who was the guy with his tongue down your throat just now?  Secondly, Nat has been a distracted SOB all day.  When he left the office, I thought he was coming over here to work things out."

I answered distractedly while my mind played over Todd's comments about Nat and I working things out.  "That was Mark, my new neighbor.  We went out for dinner.  Why would you think that Nat's mood would have anything to do with me?"

Todd barked a laugh while looking at me disbelieving.  

"You're kidding, right?  You've been the reason for Nat's moods for over 10 years.  I thought he was finally going to work things out with you.  That is, until I saw some other guy playing tonsil hockey with my baby sister.  What's going on Sheila?"

I couldn't believe my ears. "What on Earth are you talking about, Todd?  There's nothing to work out between Nat and myself." 

Todd leaned back against the couch before eyeing me appraisingly.  

"Sheila, you cannot be this oblivious."

At my blank look, Todd ran his fingers through his hair and muttered, "Maybe you can."

I was starting to get ticked off with all this abuse.  Todd must have noticed because he continued fairly quickly, pinning me with his glance.

"Sheila, Nat has been saying for years – since you were 14, in fact – that you belonged to him.  Whenever one of us would ask about it, Nat would only say that he was waiting for you to be old enough.  When you finally decided to find your own place, we all thought that now would be the time.  Nat has been wanting you for years and it seemed that his patience finally ran out.  Quite frankly, I'm surprised he's waited this long.  I kept hoping that you would finally see what was right in front of your face and put Nat out of his misery."

To say I was in shock was an understatement.  Having Nat eat me out was nothing compared to the idea that he had been wanting me since I was 14.  14!  Where was I during all of this?  I had had a crush on him when I was 17.  He was a mature man of 23 though and only looked on me as a baby sister.  Or so I thought.  I wasn't sure I could handle having a teenage obsession become attainable.

Todd laid a hand on my arm and continued more gently.

"Sheila, how could you have not known this?  Nat's never really made any secret of his feelings.  And what did you do to him yesterday?  I know he was helping you move in yesterday.  I heard him making the arrangements to clear his calendar.  I also know that he was at the end of his rope with waiting.  Then today, he's snapping at everyone, including your darling brother, and can't seem to concentrate.  He would get this goofy grin on his face while staring into space and then the thunderclouds would come."

I couldn't help myself.  Despite being 24 and not exactly innocent, I could NOT discuss my sex life with one of my brothers.  I did, however, blush.  That was all the answer Todd was looking for.  

Todd gave me a knowing look before standing.  Removing a key from his wallet, he laid it on the table.  I just stared at it as if it were a snake poised to strike.  Todd captured my dazed attention again by the simple act of lifting my chin with his hand.  He was more serious than I had ever seen him before.  

"Sheila, that is the key to the beach house the company owns.  I have a feeling that's where Nat went.  He always goes there when he's upset or has a lot on his mind.  Says the sound of the water helps him think.  You just need to decide if he is what you want.  If not, you still need to talk to him and tell him that.  But I should warn you that I think you'll be making a big mistake if you don't take a chance.  No one will love you better than Nat.  And I'm saying that as your big brother, not his best friend.  I've seen the way you look at him when you think no one is watching.  You lean on him in ways that you've never leaned on your family.  Think about it, okay honey?"

With that parting shot, Todd gave me a kiss to the forehead and walked out.  For my part, I was frozen to the chair still staring at the beach house key.  

It was too much to process all at once.  Surely Todd had to be mistaken.  

'But what if he's not?' came the little voice in the back of my head.  It was a question I wasn't sure I was ready to answer.  

I was tired and the arguments going around and around in my head didn't seem to be helping one bit.  Deciding to pull a Scarlett O'Hara and worry about it tomorrow, I headed for the shower.

Big mistake.  The force of the water beating against my skin brought it to tingling awareness.  No matter how many times I tried to drain my mind of all thought, I kept remembering the way Nat touched me.  

There was no point in trying to stem the tide.  With a moan, I let my soapy hand start to pluck at my nipples as years of memories and long forgotten fantasies resurfaced.  Nat had always been so gentle with me.  My emotions and, last night, my body.  I kept the image of his sandy head between my thighs in my mind's eye as I leaned against the shower wall while continuing to manipulate my nipples.  

Just remembering the look in his eyes as he stared down at my naked body, had my pussy contracting.  Leaving one hand to continue to pull and twist my nipples, I let the other slide down my body to my aching pussy.  Holding my lips open, I allowed the spray of the shower to beat against my clit.  I was ravenous and knew that slow and steady were not what I needed right now. 

I let the fantasy take over.  It was no longer my finger working it's way into my clenching pussy, but Nat's.  After two long strokes with my finger, I started to work a second one in.  My pussy was dripping and the sensations radiating from my fingers felt incredible.  With a long moan, I started plunging my fingers in and out, using my thumb to brush lightly against my clit every time my fingers pulled back.  That coupled with the images of Nat rolling my nipples between his fingers while sucking my clit put me over the edge.  I came with a howl as needles of water continued to stimulate my skin.  

It took a couple of minutes leaning against the shower wall before I found the strength to quickly wash my hair and rinse off.  

Standing in the shower, I had come to a decision.  I was still confused, but I was not a coward.  

I threw on a pair of shorts and an old top before running a brush through my hair and heading for the front door.  Grabbing the key from the coffee table, I wondered if I was too late.


==== Chapter Eight – Nat ====

There was something about the lap of water on the shore that was soothing when a man's nerves were stretched taut.  Todd and I had bought the house while still dreaming of opening our own company.  The idea was that it would be a good investment to have for visiting clients as well as being a nice place for us when we wanted a change of scenery.  The house had been a mess when we first bought it, and it had taken a lot of elbow grease to fix it up.  

It was an investment I had never regretted.  As well as having a better atmosphere than a hotel for visiting clients, it had also become my refuge.  Anytime something was stuck in my head, I could come down here to the beach and let the ebb and flow of the waves work their magic on me.  Generally I would come back much more calm and usually with whatever problem worked out.  

Somehow I didn't think that would be the case this time.  That's why I was still up at midnight drinking a brandy.  

Despite the talk to myself about patience, I knew I had rushed things with Sheila last night.  My patience had run out.  Seeing her in another man's arms was the straw that broke the camel's back.  I was tired of waiting.  I was tired of watching Sheila date other men when I knew they weren't good enough for her.  I was tired of not being the one to kiss her lips and touch her body.

So I finally took what I wanted.  And ruined it all.  

When Sheila finally came to, she refused to look me in the eyes and couldn't seem to get me out of her apartment fast enough.  Claiming she was tired and that her ankle hurt was her excuse for asking me to leave.  

I poured myself my 3rd brandy in the past hour.  I would have a hell of a hangover in the morning if I kept this up, but I was finding it hard to care.  

When I turned around, Sheila was standing in the doorway.  Her hair was damp and her clothes were rumpled, but she still took my breath away.  

I was not going to get my hopes up that her showing up here meant unconditional surrender.  I was feeling no pain, but I wasn't that drunk yet.  I did allow myself the luxury of drinking in the sight of her as the silence stretched on. Sheila had come to me. Let her explain why.

Sheila glanced at the drink in my hand and then at the half-full bottle behind me.  Smartly, she didn't comment on it, but instead chose another topic.

"Todd said I would probably find you here."  Sheila took a deep breath and I could see her gathering herself.  "Nat, what happened last night?"

I snorted as I dropped back into the leather chair that had been housing my frame all night.  

"I believe it's called an orgasm, Sheila.  It looked like it was a damn good one too."  I speared her with a look before continuing, "And I was the one who gave it to you.  Don't forget it." 

I was being an ass again, but dammit, I was hurt.  I had known Sheila since she was 4 years old and had never hurt her.  But last night she chose to act like I had raped her and couldn't wait to get rid of me. 

The look that passed over Sheila's face almost made me regret my flippancy.  She didn't stay down for long though.

"Dammit Nat!  That's not what I meant."  Sheila ran a hand through her hair and paced over to the French doors that faced the ocean.  Keeping her back to me, she started speaking in a low intense tone.

"Nat, what happened between us last night surprised me.  You have never, in all the years I've known you, made any sort of move on me.  Then, last night, you give me the best orgasm of my life.  Tonight, Todd tells me you've wanted me since we were kids."  Twirling around suddenly, Sheila stalked over to where I was sitting.

"Forgive me if I'm just a bit overwhelmed and confused by this whole thing.  Suddenly the guy who has been my brother's best friend is staring at my naked body and making me think thoughts that I'm not sure will be reciprocated."

Sheila stood directly in front of my chair with her arms crossed over her chest and a fierce expression on her face.  It was like being stared down upon by an Amazon princess.  I was suddenly harder than I had been last night.  

Staring at Sheila, I decided to lay my cards on the table.

"Sheila, I've wanted you since you hit puberty.  I've been in love with you for at least that long.  But you know what, maybe talking isn't what you need to convince you.  Let's see if actions will work."

Saying that, I gave Sheila no chance to anticipate my actions.  I laid my drink on the table beside the chair before standing up and stepping forward enough to put Sheila off balance.  With a hand behind her back, I tripped her onto the couch and followed her down.  When my body was resting on top of hers, I started to lick the sensitive spot behind her ear while my hands immediately went to her breasts.  I had noticed the night before how sensitive her tits were and I loved the weight of them in my hands.

I lingered for a few moments as my lips captured hers and started to nibble.  My objective though was to get Sheila naked as fast as I could and feast on her body.  Perhaps that would give her an idea of what I felt for her.  

I slid onto my knees on the floor next to the sofa.  It only took a moment to lift the shirt over Sheila's head and slide her shorts and panties down her legs.  I let my eyes slide over her skin followed closely by my hands.  Sheila had beautiful soft skin that just begged for a man's touch.  MY touch.  

Leaning down, I batted one nipple with my tongue while tugging and plucking on the other one.  Sheila's arched back, and her loud moan, told me more clearly than anything how she felt about what I was doing.  I started alternating between her breasts, licking and sucking and raking my teeth lightly over her nipples until they were standing up begging for my touch.  I'd suck one tit into my mouth and suck strongly while I used my fingers to pull on the other one.  

Once Sheila started squirming beneath my hands, I began to trail my fingertips down her stomach.  Lightly I circled the rim of her belly button before dipped my baby finger inside.  Sheila's stomach muscles rippled and her hands suddenly clenched in my hair as my fingers made brushing contact with her pussy.

I was surprised with just how soaked Sheila was.  The neat triangle of hair on her pussy was already wet with her desire.  I tickled her clit with a fingernail before slowly sliding my finger into her hole.  Sheila gasped and started to buck her hips against my hand hard.  Finally releasing Sheila's nipple from my mouth, I watched her face and began to talk to her.

"How does that feel, Sheila?  Do you like the feel of my hand buried inside of you?  You are so wet for me.  I love how hot you are.  Cum for me, Sheila.  Only me.  Let me feel your pussy clench on my fingers.  Show me how you feel for me."

I barely got the last word out of my mouth before I could feel Sheila's pussy walls contract on my fingers.  She arched her back and started humping my hand faster than I could keep up.  She was indescribably beautiful to me at the moment that she accepted her pleasure from me.  

Sheila was still lightly humping my hand when she finally opened her eyes and looked at me.  I was stunned to see how bright her eyes were.  She wasn't crying, but she looked awfully close.  I felt a flash of fear that everything was going to crumble around me.

"Oh my God, Nat.  I love you too.  Please make love to me."

I wasn't about to waste any time after hearing Sheila finally ask me to make love to her.  Luckily, Sheila wasn't willing to waste any time either.  She had hooked her fingers into the waistband of my pants and was tugging them down as I practically ripped my shirt off.  

It was a mere minute later that I was rolling on a condom.  Positioning myself between Sheila's thighs, I captured her face so that I could look into her eyes as I slowly buried myself in her.  I felt the obstruction a half second too late.  By the time I realized what had happened, I was already in Sheila to the hilt and the glimpse of pain I saw in her eyes had passed.  I couldn't have stopped anyway.  Sheila felt too tight and too wet around my dick for me to slow down, let alone stop.

I grit my teeth against the incredible pleasure as I pulled back from Sheila's clinging pussy.  Taking a deep breath, I pushed back in.  I was not going to last.  Sheila felt too wonderful around my cock.  Her pussy was still gently rippling from her last orgasm and I had waited entirely too long for this moment.  It didn't help that Sheila was giving me a taste of my own medicine and was now talking to me.

"Nat, I love you.  I do love you.  I think I've been waiting for you this entire time, but just didn't know it.  You feel so amazing inside of me.  As if you belong.  I can feel you so deep inside."

I leaned down and placed my lips over hers to stop the trip of words that were taking me over the edge.  It was like closing the barn door after the horse had already escaped.  Her words had already had the desired effect on me and I couldn't help but begin to speed up my thrusts.

All I could hope to do was take her with me.  

Leaning back, I grabbed Sheila's legs and hooked them over my shoulders.  The deepened penetration soon had Sheila gasping with every downstroke.  I could feel the cum boiling up inside of me and knew I was at the end of my rope.  Reaching around Sheila's legs, I started flicking her clit with my thumb.  On the second stroke, Sheila started spasming around my cock.  That was all it took to take me over the edge.  I slammed into Sheila's pussy as my dick started shooting cum.  

I was out of breath as I eased Sheila's legs off my shoulders and slumped down beside her.  I also had to hear it one more time.

"Tell me again."

I watched her smile bloom.  "I love you, Nat."

It was what I had been wanting to hear for years.  I could still hear a bit of hesitancy in her voice though and could guess at the cause.  My Sheila was very big on her independence.  

Gripping her face between my hands, I dropped a quick kiss onto her lips before looking into her eyes. 

"I love you too.  Sheila, I'm not going to take your independence away from you.  I don't want to take over your life.  Just be a part of it.  Will you let me be a part of your life?  Let me share your life and love and bed?"

Sheila stared into my eyes, gauging my sincerity.  Her nod and quick yes relieved my fear.  With a mischievous look in her eyes, Sheila started to quote lines from a song I had heard her play before.

"They will tell you you can't sleep alone in a strange place.  Then they'll tell you you can't sleep with somebody else.  But sooner or later you sleep in your own space.  Either way it's okay, you wake up with yourself."

I laughed and dove in for another quick kiss.  

"And now you wake up with me.  Don't forget to tell that Mark next door."

Sheila got an odd look on her face before saying, "I think he already knows."

I barely heard her as I pulled her to her feet and started shepherding her toward the bedroom.  There was still a lot of night left.


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