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  "You look tired," she finally replied. "And hungry."

  He grabbed his bags from the porch as she held the door for him. "I am both, very much so." Once inside he found Jenny sitting on the steps, chin on her hands, elbows on her knees. She was wearing a nice red and white dress with white stockings and black shoes. He hoped they had not been waiting for him long. It was a little late for dinner time for a young girl. They were probably very hungry as well. That would have to be the first order of business, after a change of shirt for him. "Where is Susan? Still getting ready?"

  "Um," she answered cautiously, "actually, no. She left about an hour ago for the football game. It's Friday night, after all." It was disappointing to not have the whole family together. His back straightened as he struggled to weigh his reply before opening his mouth. But Chelsea spoke again, "She's a cheerleader now, remember? She wanted to be here when you got home, but didn't know when that would be. She waited as long as she could."

  Nick smelled the lie. Like a deceptive thorned flower its scent was sweet, and he inhaled it deeply. He knew Susan did not care for him much. She was a teenager, after all. His absence just made things worse. He must forgive her, and hope that one day she could forgive him.

  Nick spent the evening trying his best to not think about work. But it wasn't easy. His job was what he had been eating, drinking, and sleeping for most of his time this last couple years. Since his recruitment. He felt more like he had been drafted into an army, and positioned on the other side of the world. But tonight would be different, he told himself. By the time they returned home from dinner Jenny was comfortable talking to him and holding his hand. She sat beside him when the three of them reclined on the couch to watch a movie, eventually falling asleep with her head on his arm. He cherished the time together with his wife and youngest, despite the emotional chasm that still needed to be crossed.

  Once they put Jenny to bed Chelsea took her place, cuddling on the sofa as they waited for Susan's return. Nick was informed that Susan had a date after the game and would not be home until around midnight.

  "Why tonight?" he asked his wife. "Couldn't she give at least a little of her time to the family when I'm home?"

  "Dear," Chelsea replied patiently, "your daughter is almost eighteen years old and has never been on a date. She's a beautiful, lovable young woman now, but has been turning down offers until she was ready. It's not her fault that when she finally gets asked out the boy she really likes that you decide to come back home."

  Nick let it sink in. He knew she was right, he should not blame Susan for not being there. But it hurt just the same. His expression showed his stubbornness, causing his wife to lash out for the first time since his arrival.

  "We all love you, Nick. Even Susan. But the world will not come crashing to a halt every time you decide to grace us with your presence. You didn't even tell me you were coming home until late last night. A few days’ notice and everyone would have changed their plans. Try not to be so demanding. You are not in the position for it."

  "What?" Nick jerked back at the sting of his wife's words. He did not know which had struck him hardest, the lack of respect or the truthfulness of what she had said. He sat in shock until his wife softened her expression, causing him to calm down enough to stay silent.

  "Forgive me," Chelsea said gently. "I know you are trying. I do. But please understand that this is not easy for us either. We are trying just as hard. I just ask that you are patient."

  Nick took a deep breath and exhaled slowly. It helped. "You are right. I'm sorry. Let me get another beer. Can I get you anything?"

  She hesitated briefly. Another margarita would probably help, but she wanted to keep her wits about her tonight as much as she could. She had high hopes for progress in their relationship, but needed to take things slow.

  "No thanks. I've had enough for this evening," she answered.

  Nick had two more beers as they watched some mindless television. Fatigue caught up with him and he fell asleep, until his cell phone buzzed on the end table long enough to get his attention.

  13 - The Woods Have Eyes

  The hunting lodge was way up in the Blue Ridge Mountains near Purcellville Virginia. It had an old log cabin appeal using cedar log siding that had gone a little too long without staining. The gravel driveway was nearly a half mile long, and the closest neighbors were well beyond earshot. It was quite a private setting.

  There were thick woods in all directions, and a small lake in the backyard that was easily visible from the driveway. A single fishing pier jutted into the smooth surface of the water with an old row boat and a fishing kayak tied up. Off to one side of the water there was a sandy beach section with a volleyball net. The moon lit up the surface of the water to reflect the swiftly moving clouds. Trees all swayed back and forth in the breeze with a hypnotic rhythm.

  Tish and Aaron entered the lodge hand in hand as Hunter was just beginning a speech. The living room was spacious and included a fireplace. All the furniture had the rustic hunting cabin look. The room flowed into the kitchen and dining area, both modestly adorned. Based on the sloping ground on the sides of the house Tish guessed that there was a walkout basement in the back, and the main floor probably contained a couple bedrooms down the visible hallway. The bathroom stood ready at the end of the hall, door open and toilet obvious for those in search of it.

  A few people turned toward them as they entered, some nodding or waving their greeting. Jeff Corbin was standing in the kitchen with an angry look. Lindsay stood with her back to him making it obvious they were fighting, again. The warmest greeting came from Jamal and Missy. Both were smiling at seeing the new couple enter and waved enthusiastically. Beyond them Tish was surprised to see Will Brobson. He looked deflated and out of place.

  "I wasn't expecting Will to be here," Tish whispered to Aaron.

  "Oh, I told Hunter to invite him. I thought you two were friends?" Aaron whispered back.

  "We are. It's just..." Tish was cut off as Hunter shouted over the noise of the small group.

  "Okay everybody. This is my dad's place. We can only use it if we act responsibly and clean up after ourselves." A couple guys snickered. "Hey, I'm serious about this," Hunter said. "Put your trash in the trash can, and your bottles in the recycling. And go easy on the alcohol. If there is a bunch missing my dad will go ape shit. Let's not have that. There is a bunch of beer in the fridge and these two bottles of liquor," he announced as he placed two clear bottles on the counter. "If you drink any liquor, you don't drive. That's the deal. A couple beers is maximum for drivers. This is not a sleepover, so nobody gets shit-faced and passes out here tonight. I'll just call your parents to pick you up."

  "What?" one of the boys said in mock surprise? "What kind of party is this?"

  "It's a party that is going to be fun all the way to the end. Don't screw it up for the rest of us." Hunter was waiting for mutual agreement before continuing. "Okay. So, we got a bottle of vodka and a bottle of tequila here. There's juice and soda in the fridge, too. And a shit load of bag snacks on the table over there. We're here to have a good time with our girlfriends. Let's treat them good, and hope that they do the same in return." Hunter smiled at Susan and the group all started laughing.

  "Oh, I almost forgot. Absolutely no smoking in the house, of any kind. There is an ashtray on the deck. Use it. If you wander away from the house you need to beware. There are wild animals in the woods. Don't go farther than someone can see you. Can everybody follow these rules tonight?" There was some mumbling, but no one spoke against Hunter out loud.

  Then Aaron spoke up, "We appreciate you hosting this party, Hunter. I think following these easy rules is the least that we can do in appreciation. Especially considering the free food and drink. Right guys?" Some agreed and others gave him a look like they didn't think he even belonged at this party.

  "Thanks, Aaron," Hunter responded. "Alright, who wants a beer?" A cheer rang out and beers went flying out of the fridge. Both liq
uor bottles found hands quickly, and one girl started singing a song that went, "Tequila makes my clothes come off."

  It looked like about twenty teenagers came out for the party. Susan stood by Hunter's side as he divvied out the drinks and answered questions. Aaron scooped up two cans of beer with one hand and led Tish away from the noisy kitchen area with the other. They darted down the hall and found the first bedroom empty. He slung her inside quickly and shut the door.

  "Hey," Tish protested as she spun around in the rustic bedroom. All the furniture was made from logs, or at least gave the appearance of it. A red flannel plaid blanket covered the full size bed. The dim light fixture mounted in the middle of the ceiling cast blurs of yellow in all directions and shadows from the bulky log work around the room. "You're moving a little fast aren't you?"

  Aaron pulled the tab on the first beer to release the sound of carbonation, then handed it to her. "Sorry about that," he replied coy. "I guess I was a little more forceful than I meant to be. I just wanted to get some quiet time with you and make sure you're okay with everything. You know, about me hiding things from you." Popping the top on his own beer he took a long swig as Tish watched. "Aren't you going to drink your beer?"

  Tish timidly took a sip while Aaron smiled. "You don't drink beer, do you?" he asked.

  "I have," she defended herself. "Well, I've had some beer recently. But I don't think I've ever drank one all by myself before."

  Aaron sat down on the bed and patted the spot beside him. "I can help you finish it if you want."

  "Thanks," she answered as she took a seat beside him. "I'll try to drink it all myself. This beer actually tastes better than the ones that my dad keeps in the fridge." She took a longer drink then, draining a few ounces before stopping for a breath.

  "What kind of beer does your dad drink?"

  "I don't really remember what brand, but I remember mom saying something about an IPA."

  "Oh, yeah," Aaron answered, after finishing his beer and placing the can on the night stand. "Those are really bitter. This kind of beer is much easier to drink." He scooted closer to her and placed a soft kiss on her cheek as he slid one arm around her back. "Hopefully, tonight will include many firsts for you."

  As he leaned in for another kiss Tish pulled away suddenly. "Slow down sailor! I've not ready to have sex yet!"

  Aaron smiled and apologized. She then realized he wasn't expecting sex tonight after all. "I shouldn't have said it that way, I guess. I meant first party, first beer, and hopefully first time making out with a guy. I won't push you too fast. I promise. I've just been thinking about you a lot, and really looking forward to tonight."

  She leaned back in and kissed him softly on the cheek. "Me, too," she whispered. "But, can you tell me something?"

  He started pressing his lips against her cheek, then moving down towards her neck. "Sure," he replied while continuing towards her collar bone.

  "What is included in making out?" This made Aaron stop his progress. "I just want to make sure we're on the same page."

  "Well, it mostly includes a lot of kissing. And, maybe some touching. But only as far as you are comfortable. When you're ready we can touch more skin, but nothing too intimate." He went back to kissing her gently, and made his way to her soft lips.

  She was melting to his touch already. "I liked it when you touched my back in the car. I mean, when your hand was on my skin."

  "Me, too. Let's do more of that." Aaron pushed slightly forward while pressing his lips against hers, encouraging her to recline onto the bed. And she did so willingly. Tish was so desperately engrossed in the lip lock she had forgotten to breathe. As she gasped for air Aaron's mouth dropped to her neck, then to her collarbone. She could feel his right hand touching the exposed skin of her belly. It was thrilling. She was enjoying it much more than she thought she would. Tish hated to stop, but she was getting dizzy from the lack of oxygen.

  "Oh my God!" she gasped, attempting to sit up.

  "Oh shit!" he replied, lifting off her chest. "I'm sorry, Tish. What did I do wrong? I'm very sorry."

  Tish took a moment to catch her breath before answering. "No. It's okay. Really. I'm sorry. It's not your fault. I think I forgot to breathe."

  "Oh," he sounded relieved. "I thought maybe I was going too fast."

  "Well, you were going fast alright. But I was right there with you. I just got out of breath is all." She tried to slow her breathing so as not to look like an idiot. She was new to this, but now she was getting embarrassed, hoping he wouldn't think she was too childish for him. "Do you mind if we go outside to get some air?"

  Aaron stood and offered his hand to her. "That's fine. It's kind of stuffy in here. I think that's what the problem was."

  "Thanks," she said quietly, pressing her forehead to his. "I'm sorry. I'm not very good at this yet."

  "Don't worry about it," he answered sincerely. "Besides, I may have been blocking your airway. With my mouth."

  "Yes you were! Oh my God! What a passionate kisser you are." Then Aaron blushed for the first time that evening.

  He guided Tish out of the bedroom through the small group jeering in the living room. Aaron did his best to let them know nothing had happened, but Tish's modesty made it a difficult sell. A stiff breeze slapped them as they opened the sliding glass door from the kitchen to the deck. The temperature must have dropped ten degrees in the last thirty minutes. A boy and a girl were leaning against each other for warmth on the deck, both holding a cigarette. They nodded, trying to look cool the way that teenage smokers usually think they are. Tish held her breath and darted around them for the steps to the backyard, guiding her boyfriend to the lounge chairs by the lake.

  The scene was so peaceful. The noise of the party barely filtered this far from the house. Only the rising wind distracted from the setting, slipping an eerie finger across the hairs of their arms. Aaron took a seat on one of the chairs with his back to the woods, then spread his legs to give her room to sit in front. She leaned against him and welcomed the heat from his body and his arms and legs closed tight around her. Kissing her neck and nibbling on her ear Aaron whispered whatever sensual things he could think of as she giggled. This was what Tish had always dreamed about. This moment, just like this. A man to love and protect her, and give her all his attention. She found herself very happy all of the sudden. No longer was she short of breath, even when she twisted so her lips could lock with his.

  When they did take a break Tish realized that Aaron was caressing her bare belly with his thumb. She was a little too self-conscious of her figure to be comfortable with the belly touching just yet. Tish pulled one arm across her midsection to limit his reach. Aaron acted like he didn't notice and kept his thumb moving slowly. She soon found herself enjoying his touch. There was a lull in the conversation that lasted unnaturally long so Tish tried to think of something funny to say.

  "Do you still want to be a superhero?"

  "What?" he laughed.

  "When we were young you always wanted to be a superhero. Will that be your college major?"

  Aaron shook his head, "I don't think you can choose that as a major at most schools. And I hear the liability insurance makes the class fees crazy high. No, I can't afford that. In fact, I probably won't even go to college."

  "I'm sorry," Tish whispered. "I didn't mean to bring up a downer. I thought maybe you were going to say you plan to be a cop, or a firefighter. You know, like a real life superhero kind of job."

  Aaron thought about it for a few moments. "I don't know. I thought about it. But it sounds like too much training and paperwork before I can reach hero status. I think maybe..." Tish prevented him from continuing by pulling his mouth down on hers once again. Her hand grabbed him by the back of the head to prevent him from pulling away, as if he would. When she felt him pulling her tight against him she finally pulled away and gasped for air. His hands were moving rapidly across her clothes. It felt surprisingly good, but too much of an invasion at this point. Wide e
yed Tish looked down at her body, then back up at him.

  "Sorry," he said, slowly withdrawing his hand. "You got me pretty excited." At that moment he shifted in his seat. Embarrassment and pride washed over her.

  "Are you okay?" Tish asked playfully.

  "Yeah, I'm fine," he replied. "But it's hard to keep control when I have the most beautiful girl in the world in my arms. And I...." Aaron stopped short as Tish sat up quickly with a worried expression as she turned toward the woods. "What's wrong?"

  "I thought I saw something. Out of the corner of my eye. Then I definitely saw something moving when I turned to look. I have a very weird feeling like there is something in the woods watching us."

  Aaron pushed her to the edge of the seat and guided her to a standing position, as he also rose. He studied the tree line for movement but found none. But something caused him to tense up. Fear washed over his face. "We should go back inside," he said. Tish nodded.