Note: This story was dynamically reformatted for online reading convenience.
 
 April 30, 2003

   Kelly A (not so) short story by Night Hawk Archived at
</files/Authors/MikeC/James>

   Inspired by Mike C, based on characters in his novel: "James" Characters
and situations copyright by Mike C, 2002



   Chapter 17



   "You're what?" asked Todd again as he dropped into a chair.



   "I'm pregnant!" said Kelly, "you know...  with child, expecting, knocked
up!"



   "Oh God.  Are you okay?"



   "Todd...  I'm fine.  I just happen to be carrying our child.  I knew how
worried you were, so I thought I would call you as soon as I heard."



   "Where are you?"



   "I'm still at MaryAnn's office, we're just getting ready to leave."



   Todd said a silent prayer of thanks that Kelly was okay.  His stomach
had cramped up when Vanetta had said Kelly was on the phone and his scrotum
had shrunk to the size of a walnut.  "Can I break the news here Kell? 
Everybody's been real worried."



   Kelly laughed.  "Sure, but you know what this means don't you?"



   "No.  What's it mean?"



   "It means you're going to be a daddy!"



   Todd laughed too.  "Well, yeah, I think with you as the mommy, I can
handle this.  But you do know what this means don't you?"



   Kelly had to think hard.  "No, aside from having to quit smoking for a
year."



   "It means we're getting married!"



   "Todd, people don't have to get married now because they're pregnant."



   "Remember what I said at Brookhaven?" Todd asked.



   "Yeah, you said you were going to marry both of us, but you know that
isn't legal."



   "But that's where you're wrong Kell, it might only be legal where we do
get married, but I'm going to marry both of you."



   "Let's talk about this when you aren't quite so depressed," laughed
Kelly.  "Laura and I are going to head off now.  I want to stop off and see
Muriel before we go home, so we'll meet you there at 5:00."



   "I've got a better idea," said Todd, "after you see Muriel, how about we
meet at South Park.  Say at the juice bar at 5:00.  We can do a bit of
shopping, eat out and celebrate."



   Kelly confirmed with Laura, and then got back on the phone.  "Okay, we
can do that.  See you then Honey.  I love you."



   ~~~~~ // ~~~~~



   Todd hung up the phone.  Three expectant faces were looking at him.



   "I'm going to be a daddy!"



   Cara and Ami whooped, Vanetta grinned from ear to ear.  "I guess mom
knew more than she let on."



   "Why didn't she say that's what it was?" asked Todd.



   "Probably because she wasn't sure, and wanted a doctor to confirm it,"
said Vanetta.  "You don't mind if I call her and tell her do you Todd?"



   "No, go ahead...  she deserves to know."



   As Vanetta called Gloria, Todd took Cara and Ami to the dressing room.
"Let's see if we can't find something attractive for you girls to add to
your wardrobe," he said.



   An hour later and with a half dozen designer outfits each in semi dress
fashion, the girls headed off to shower and change.



   Todd invited Vanetta to come along for the celebration, even suggesting
that she bring Robert with her, but she regretfully declined saying they
already had plans that couldn't be changed.  Vanetta was not quite ready
for the inevitable meeting between Todd and Robert.



   ~~~~~ // ~~~~~



   "Will you get a load of these clothes?" whispered Cara.



   "No kidding!" said Ami.  "I'll bet this Jumper cost more than my folks
paid for me to go to the summer training camp."



   "No shit!  Look at the names inside these clothes.  I always thought I
didn't care for fashion, you know, us tough girls and all, but damn, I want
to slip on this dress."



   "Shower first Ami," said Cara with a grin.  "I'm afraid to sweat in
these!"



   "Just think cool thoughts," said Ami as she stripped and turned on the
shower.



   "Did you notice that Kelly and Laura treat this stuff like we do chalk?"



   "Yeah, and it fits too you know.  For us, chalk is just part of sport.
We're so used to it that we don't give it any thought.  I guess if you
model you become that way with clothes - it's part of the job."



   "But I've only seen Todd in T's and those thin baggy pants he wears. 
Doesn't he ever dress up?"



   "You saw him in a lot less last night," laughed Ami.  "But seriously...
he's a bit strange to start with.  So relaxed and casual, like he doesn't
have a care in the world, but when he talks to you, he can be so intense...
it's got to be something about his personality.  And by the way, those
baggy pants are scrubs.  It's what doctors and nurses wear." She gave a wry
grin.  "I should know.  I've seen enough of them this last year."



   The girls fooled around a little in the shower, but realized that Todd
would be waiting for them and they wanted time to do their hair and maybe
put on a bit of makeup.



   ~~~~~ // ~~~~~



   Todd showered and shaved and brushed his teeth till his gums hurt.



   "A father" he said looking into the mirror.  "Who would have thought?"
But his chest was bursting with pride.  "Kelly the mother." He stood there
for a moment, thinking that he had always expected that any children of his
would come after love, and marriage.  And realized that now he had the
whole package, and that he wanted it more than anything in his life.



   Since this was a special occasion, Todd slipped on a pair of dress
shorts and a high collared t-shirt (In fact, it looked like a crewman's
shirt from the USS Enterprise).  It was too warm to bother with socks, so
he slipped on a pair of moccasins and headed downstairs.



   Cara and Ami weren't quite done yet, so he sat and talked with Vanetta
for a bit.



   "What do you think Vanetta?  Think I've got what it takes to be a
father?"



   Vanetta smiled at him.  "I think you'll be a wonderful father Todd. 
I've seen the way you are with people.  You've got a big heart, and
Kelly... she's going to be a great mom.  Plus you have Laura to help out
too!  That baby is going to be so precious and sweet, and of course spoiled
rotten!"



   Todd laughed.  "Yeah, I guess the baby won't be wanting for much, just
love and attention."



   "And who better to give it to her?"



   Todd looked up.  "Why did you say her?"



   Vanetta cocked her head to the side.  "I don't know.  It just came out
like I already knew."



   "Hmm, a baby girl...  that's a thought.  But whatever it is, I'm going
to love it to pieces."



   "I can tell you one thing Todd, between your looks and Kelly's, this is
going to be one beautiful baby."



   Todd smiled and blushed.  "Well maybe from Kelly's side."



   "You know Todd...  If Kelly was inclined, I'll bet there are a lot of
Women's magazines and Parent magazines that would love to sign Kelly on
right now for an exclusive for her entire pregnancy.  Nine months minimum
till the birth, probably a few more for follow up."



   Todd looked at Vanetta silently for a few moments, thinking, and then
shook his head.  "I don't think Kelly would be interested."



   Vanetta laughed.  "Sorry Todd, you encouraged me to take Business, and I
see this as a golden opportunity to build a real nest egg for the baby. 
With you taking the pictures..."



   Todd nodded slowly.  "Yeah, and the sponsors for products would be
clambering to get a piece of it.  I'm not sure, but I think I'll mention it
to Kelly.  Since it will be for the baby in the end, she might consider
coming out of retirement."



   Vanetta gave Todd a kiss on the cheek as she got up.  "I'm going to go
home Todd, but if Kelly agrees, don't let this be handled by the New York
office.  Let me come up with a proposal.  I've been here studying under
Kelly and getting my degree at UNC.  I'll bet I could put together a
package worthy of Kelly."



   Todd smiled at her.  "I know you could Vanetta.  You've seen how Kelly
operates.  Let me ask her about it, and then if she's agreeable, we'll talk
about it on Monday when we get back."



   She left after another friendly kiss and more congratulations.



   ~~~~~ // ~~~~~



   "Argh!  The perfect haircut and I can't do anything with it!" said Ami.



   Vanetta had only left minutes before when Cara and Ami came out of the
shower dressed in stunning outfits.  Todd had whistled his approval.  "Come
here to the make-up table and let me have a go at it," he said.



   As he had done with Laura way back when, Todd took some colored mousse
and liberally applied it to Ami's hair, running his fingers through it like
a thousand combs, sculpting it by hand.  Then with the array of makeup at
his disposal he lightly applied a bit of color to Ami's eyes and cheeks,
just enough to accentuate her cheekbones and her naturally deep eyes.



   Ami looked in the mirror with total surprise.  "God, I look older,
mature.  You're a miracle worker Todd!"



   Todd laughed.  "No, Kelly's the miracle worker.  I just dabble with this
stuff, and sometimes I get it right."



   "My turn!" said Cara.



   Todd willingly obliged, and ten minutes later the trio was set to go. 
"I'm sure you girls are going to draw some attention at the mall and the
restaurant," he said.



   "I don't mind a bit of attention," said Cara, "but I'm staying faithful
to Ami."



   "I'm glad that you girls seem to have found something special," said
Todd, "but how are you going to handle this relationship when you go home?"



   "Spoilsport" said Ami as Todd closed the studio door.  "I want this to
last forever."



   Cara looked dejected.  "Todd's right Ami.  We've still got so many
credits to get before we can graduate, we might be stuck living at home for
another year."



   As they got into the Tracker, Todd asked how they had managed to compete
and train and still keep up with their schoolwork.



   "We've had tutors with us every time we traveled" said Ami.  "And most
of our work has been done on a part time attendance basis, the rest through
correspondence."



   "Yeah," said Cara, "to allow athletes to compete and travel, the schools
have what's called a 'Gifted Athlete Program.' It's self-paced with tutor
monitoring.  We also bring our notes with us or get assignments by email.
The school year is divided into 24 units per subject, and we take a test
for each unit!" Cara stopped talking - too much trivial information.



   "Well, why can't you continue doing that?" asked Todd with a smile.



   "We need to get another few hundred hours of classroom time in order to
graduate," said Cara.  "We're way ahead of the regular classes cause we get
to focus on the work.  Plus, both Ami and I have enough practical hours to
qualify to coach recreational gymnastics.  All we have to do is write the
exams and get certified."



   "Well then, why don't you get certified and then after you get the
mandatory class room hours in, you'll be free to travel.  I'm sure you
girls can be discreet for a little while at home."



   "Not the way Ami groans and moans," laughed Cara.  "But you're right
Todd.  We waited this long, we can keep up appearances for a while longer."



   "And don't forget that my new student is going to have to make several
trips back here to show me her growing experience and to develop her film.
You can always fly up for a weekend or a week if you like until you're
ready to make a move towards higher education.  If your marks remain good,
I'm sure that you'll be able to get away for more weeks."



   "I just want to be a photographer like you Todd," said Ami.



   "I know Sweetheart and I think you've got an eye for it, but I'd still
want you to take a bankable course at the same time while you apprentice.
How about when you graduate you sign up for the UNC visual arts program? 
You can do like Laura and Vanetta and take most classes on line and
practice your photography at the same time."



   "Well," said Cara, "It will take 6 months to get certified as level one
coaches, so if we start that right away, we'll be all set for the start of
the new competition season in February..."



   "Yeah, that's right!" said Ami.  "If we get started now with the theory,
we should be all set and just in time."



   "And if I sign up for the paramedic program, and you're still serious
about sports photography we should be in great shape come next spring!"
said Cara.



   "Oh, I'm serious," said Ami.  "It just depends on Todd.  If he's willing
to take me on as an apprentice!"



   "We've still got a few weeks to see what you want to do," said Todd. 
"Remember we have a shoot of our own to finish.  But the money from that is
good, so you should be able to get an off campus apartment, if that's what
you want, next spring, but you'll be welcome back for lots of visits in
between."



   "Yeah," said Cara with a sigh.  "Ami will have something important to do
with you, what can I do?"



   Todd smiled.  "Didn't you say you wanted to go into sports
physiotherapy? Ami will be getting paid when she comes down to help me out,
and I'm sure that Kelly will be able to use a hand keeping in shape as she
goes through her pregnancy."



   "Really?  You mean that?"



   "Let's talk it over with Kelly tonight," said Todd.  "I'm sure we can
come up with something that will let you have your freedom to live your
life and the money to do it with."



   Cara squealed with delight.



   ~~~~~ // ~~~~~



   Kelly pulled into Lakeview Lodge after having stopped to pick up flowers
for Muriel.



   "I hope you don't mind Laura.  I don't get to see Muriel as often as I
would like, and outside of Todd, she's been the closest thing to family
that I have had in years."



   "Kelly, quit worrying about my feelings.  I'll get around just fine. 
Remember?  I used to visit these places all the time when Dad made us sing
for them.  I know how to mingle with the residents.  You have a good
visit."



   Kelly kissed Laura passionately.  "You are the greatest Honey."



   Sheila was working at her station and lit up with a smile when Kelly
walked up.



   "I'm so glad you came," said Sheila.  "We don't know what to do with
her. I was nearly going to call you and ask you if you could stop by."



   "Why?  What's happened?" Kelly asked with a worried look.



   "It's nothing to be worried about," said Sheila, "It's just that
Muriel's been knitting up a storm!  She claims you're going to make her a
Great-Grandmother!  She's even got some of the other residents knitting
everything from booties to blankets!"



   Kelly laughed.  "Last time she was worried about me marrying somebody I
love.  But I'll be damned if I can figure out how she knew before I knew."



   "Knew what?" asked Sheila.



   "Kelly is pregnant," said Laura.



   "Oh God, I'm sorry Laura.  My manners seem to have left with my senses.
Sheila, this is Laura Williams, a very close friend of mine.  And Laura,
this is Sheila."



   "Williams?" asked Sheila, "One of the Williams Sisters who sing at the
hospitals and nursing homes at Christmas?"



   Laura blushed.  "Guilty as charged.  Does that mean I have to wait in
the car?"



   Sheila laughed.  "No!  You might not remember this place in daylight,
but you and your sisters have been here a few times.  The last time was
about three years ago."



   "I'll leave you two to chat," said Kelly.  "I've got to get these
flowers to Muriel."



   "Wait a second young lady," said Sheila.  "This is true?  You are having
a baby?"



   "Just found out about an hour ago," said Kelly.



   "Well congratulations!" said Sheila.  "Be prepared though for a large
box of hand knitted goods coming your way!"



   Kelly smiled and walked down the hall.



   ~~~~~ // ~~~~~



   "Grandma?"



   "Kelly!  Come in here and sit next to me."



   Kelly held forth the flowers she had picked up on the way.  A large
bouquet of mixed flowers, bright and sweet smelling.



   "Now you didn't have to do that baby girl.  A woman in your condition
should be getting flowers not giving them away."



   "Grandma, how did you know?"



   "Oh sweetheart, sometimes being old isn't so bad." Muriel dropped her
voice to a whisper.  "I know some of the nurses think I'm batty, but I know
things.  My Johnny comes to me late at night and talks to me.  He tells me
all sorts of things.  He told me that you're going to get married too, not
to the man you were dating but to the one who you've loved all along."



   Kelly's eyes filled with tears.



   "There, there baby...  It's okay for you to be happy," said Muriel
hugging Kelly close to her bosom.  "I know it wasn't easy for you when you
were a little girl, but this man is going to love you forever.  He's going
to treat you like a queen.  And he better too 'cause otherwise he'll have
to answer to me!"



   Kelly couldn't help but laugh.  But she didn't doubt for a minute that
Muriel's husband talked to her at night.



   "Now put those flowers in a vase and let me show you what I'm making for
your new baby."



   Kelly put the flowers in the vase and placed them on the bedside table.
When she sat down again, Muriel unfolded a small blanket made of the
whitest wool with the finest stitch Kelly had ever seen.



   "I'm not as fast as I used to be," said Muriel, "but I know I've got
time to finish it, and I've got some of my friends here making booties and
such.  This is a Christening blanket.  You use it when you take the baby to
that place by the lake where you discovered what love is."



   Kelly's mouth dropped open.



   "Now dear, tell me all about the man you're going to marry."



   ~~~~~ // ~~~~~



   An hour later Kelly walked with Muriel to the day room.  Kelly really
wanted to stay longer, but knew that Todd and the girls were waiting for
them at South Park.



   Muriel had joked about trading in her walker for something with an
engine and maybe a helmet, but said the nurses had threatened to put speed
bumps in the hallways.



   Kelly laughed.  She felt so good being with Muriel.  Of course she had
wanted Todd to be the first to hear the news, but telling Muriel was like
telling her family.



   Muriel led her to a corner where a group of six women were busy at work
with needles and hooks and all kinds of contraptions.  Laura was seated
with them and was holding a crochet hook, being coached by one of the
seniors.  Spotting Kelly, Laura smiled.



   Muriel introduced the women to Kelly and Kelly introduced Laura to
Muriel.



   Muriel looked at Laura and then smiled.  "You take good care of my
granddaughter Laura.  She doesn't always take such good care of herself."



   "I promise I'll take care of her," said Laura.



   Muriel sat down and made everyone show what they had been working on. 
Laura beamed and nudged Kelly to pay particular attention to one woman.



   Her name was Greta, and though she was old and looking through a
magnifying loop that hung suspended with string from her neck, she was
working with a crochet hook not much thicker than a needle.  She had about
a one-inch wide section of single thread baby wool that when she lifted it
was about three feet long.



   "Greta's making the receiving blanket for the baby," said Muriel.  "Her
fingers are still nimble enough to do the tight weave."



   Greta just smiled and her fingers kept moving.



   There was a box of booties, socks, bonnets and other items already made.
One of the women was working with four needles at one time, while another
was working with what looked like a hoop needle.  Kelly thanked each one of
the women individually and then returned to Muriel's side.



   "I've got to go Grandma," Kelly said with misty eyes, "but I promise
I'll be back soon."



   "That's all right baby, I know you've got a lot of things to do."



   Kelly gave her a kiss and waved goodbye to the rest at the table.  Laura
laughingly gave up her attempt to crochet, thanked the woman for trying to
teach her and after once again promising Muriel to take care of Kelly, the
two of them headed out.



   They stopped at the front desk where Sheila was sitting with a smug look
on her face.  "Told you so!  Good thing you are pregnant or I might have
had a riot on my hands!"



   "I wish there was something I could do for them," Kelly said.  "Is there
anything they need that I could get for them Sheila?"



   "They don't want for much Kelly.  The management here makes sure they
are treated well and with respect.  It's a lot better here than a lot of
the nursing homes."



   "That's true Kelly," said Laura, "I remember crying when I was younger
at some of the places I went with my sisters.  People strapped into
wheelchairs, not enough staff for all the residents..."



   "But, there must be something I can do," said Kelly.



   Sheila smiled.  "Well...  If you really wanted to do something
special..."



   "Yes?" Kelly asked.



   "You could arrange for a reunion of the Williams Sisters for an
afternoon performance."



   Kelly turned and looked at Laura with pleading eyes.  "Honey?"



   Laura rolled her own eyes and said, "I'll talk to my sisters and see
what they say."



   "Would a shopping spree help convince them?" Kelly asked.



   "Oh Kelly, you don't have to do that.  Hell, if you even suggested this
to my father he would just use his powers of persuasion to get my sisters
to cooperate."



   "I know," said Kelly.  "Your dad is a sweet man, but I'd want to do
something for the girls.  I don't want them doing it because your father
told them to."



   Laura smiled at Sheila.  "Leave it with us Sheila.  I'll talk to them
when we get back after the weekend and then Kelly can set up a time with
you."



   As they pulled out of the parking lot, Kelly looked at the clock on the
dash.  "I guess we better move it," she said.  "Todd and the girls will be
wondering what happened to us."



   ~~~~~ // ~~~~~



   Todd, with Cara and Ami in tow, arrived at South Park just after 5:00.
It had been slow going with the rush hour traffic on a Friday afternoon. 
Normally Todd wouldn't have even ventured out on a Friday night in
Charlotte, but he wanted the ring sizes.



   Sitting with a tall frosty glass of freshly squeezed mixed berry juice,
he explained to Cara and Ami his plan to get the ring sizes, and how they
could help.  Both girls were delighted to take part in his little
conspiracy.



   "I'll be the one who gets impatient," said Ami, "and then Cara can say
we'll go to the bookstore.  Kelly won't want us walking around alone, so
she and Laura will probably go with us."



   Todd laughed.  He enjoyed the energy the girls had and their enthusiasm.
"Okay, but I'll only need ten minutes so don't get too involved cause we'll
want to eat right afterwards okay?"



   "Where are we going to eat?" asked Cara.



   "Well, since we do want to do some shopping, we might as well eat here,"
said Todd.  "There's a decent steak house here, and we'll want to do a bit
of shopping, but more importantly, we've got to get packed and get to bed
on time cause tomorrow morning we leave early to see the Wheel."



   "That's a long drive," said Cara.  "I better bring my book along."



   "Isn't it going to be crowded in the Tracker?" asked Ami.



   "We won't be taking the Tracker," said Todd.  "We'll be taking my
Hummer."



   "For real?" asked Cara.  "You've got a Hummer?"



   "Yep," said Todd, "and she gives the nicest ride ever."



   "Where will we be staying once we get there?" asked Ami.



   "I don't know," said Todd scratching his head.  "We totally forgot all
about calling JulieAnn today with all the excitement."



   "And speaking of the excitement," said Cara, "there's Kelly now."



   ~~~~~ // ~~~~~



   Todd rushed up to greet Kelly, lifting her off her feet as he swung her
around.



   "Hey Momma!" he said as he kissed her.  "You never looked so good."



   "You're looking pretty good right now too," Kelly said to him, noticing
his clean-shaven face.



   Todd gently put her down, "I guess I can't do much of that anymore," he
said with a sigh.



   "Jesus Todd," Kelly laughed.  "I'm not an invalid, just pregnant!"



   Todd put an arm around Laura and gave her a big kiss.  "It's all your
fault you know," he whispered in her ear.



   Laura smiled back at him.  "I am willing to take full responsibility for
my part in bringing you two together," she replied.



   Todd said, "You better.  Now you've made us a family unit.  All three
and a half of us."



   Kelly smiled as Todd slipped his other arm over her shoulder, and he
escorted them to the table Cara and Ami were saving for them.  Kelly and
Laura both decided on a pineapple coconut drink and Cara and Ami
volunteered to fetch them.



   When they returned, Kelly and Laura told them about their trip to
Lakeview.  Cara and Ami were totally captivated with the story of how
Muriel had known Kelly was pregnant.  Todd took the information in stride.
When Kelly said that Muriel had named the location for the christening,
Todd smiled.



   "And Sheila said there was nothing you could give to the Lodge?" Todd
asked.



   "Nope.  She said that all the residents really want is some young
visitors," Kelly said smiling at Laura.



   After hearing the whole story, Todd grinned and said, "The Williams
Sisters eh?"



   Laura blushed again.



   "And I offered to give her sisters a shopping spree to help convince
them," said Kelly, "but Laura thinks they might take it the wrong way. 
They've always done this for free."



   Todd leaned back in his chair thinking.  "Laura," he finally said, "you
said that prior to your trip to Chuck's, you had never left the Carolinas.
Is that the same for your sisters?"



   Laura chuckled.  "I love my mom and dad, but four girls was just too
much for them.  They had planned on me and Cathy, but the third pregnancy
was a pleasant surprise for them.  Then it turned out to be twins, and
they've had to work hard to make ends meet.  There wasn't a lot left over."



   "Well," said Kelly, "at least all four of you girls knew you were loved.
That's more important than anything else isn't it Todd."



   Todd nodded and said, "and when we were taking the cruise to Brookhaven
you said you had never seen the home of the rat."



   Laura looked at him strangely for a moment and then remembered what
Vanetta had told her.  "Nope, none of us."



   "How about giving your folks a nice long weekend and we all go for a
five day tour of the Magic Mushroom?"



   Laura laughed.  "They would all freak!"



   Todd looked at Kelly, who smiled back at him.  "Okay.  If your folks
agree, then we'll all fly to Orlando for a visit of the Disenfranchised
Kingdom."



   Laura beamed with delight.  Cara and Ami looked at Todd expectantly.



   "Yes girls, you too."



   Both Cara and Ami squealed with delight.



   Kelly was consulting her day planner.  "We could fit that in the second
weekend after the Grand Opening," she said, "I hate to be a wet blanket
Todd, but we have to get the CrossTrain pictures done as well, and Laura
has to be in New York for the last two weeks in August."



   Todd looked at Cara and Ami.  "Can we do it ladies?"



   "We'll make it happen!" they said.



   "Speaking of the Grand Opening Kell, with all the surprising news today,
we didn't call JulieAnn to see about a place to stay.  I've got a feeling
it's going to be a crowded place this weekend and we're arriving late to
begin with."



   "This should only take a minute Sweetheart," Kelly said as she pulled
out her cell.



   ~~~~~ // ~~~~~



   "Hi, JulieAnn?  It's Kelly."



   "Hi Kelly," said Jules.  "I hope you aren't calling to cancel out.  We'd
really like to have you guys here when Celeste unveils her Wheel."



   "We wouldn't dream of missing it," said Kelly, "but we got a bit tangled
up with something important and I never got a chance to call and see what
motels would be available for us to stay at."



   "Wow.  The motels are totally booked now," said Jules.  "I guess we just
never thought of you guys staying at a motel.  How many beds do you need?"



   Kelly laughed.  "It's not how many beds JulieAnn, it's how many bodies
are coming."



   Jules laughed.  "Just the three of you?"



   Kelly was tempted to say five and a half, but said, "We're bringing Cara
and Ami with us as well."



   "Just hang on a sec Kelly," and as Kelly waited she could hear Jules
talking to somebody else before she came back on the line.  "Anybody not
comfortable in a boat?"



   Kelly asked Cara and Ami if they minded sleeping in a boat.  When both
heads shook no, Kelly said that would be fine.



   "Well it just so happens that we have a custom built yacht available to
us for a while, and it has state rooms.  Will two bedrooms suffice?"



   "That would be more than enough," said Kelly.



   "Then we'll be pleased to have you stay on the yacht," said Jules. 
"Don't worry about anything else.  Just bring yourselves down as early as
you can."



   "Thanks JulieAnn.  We really appreciate this," said Kelly.



   "We're happy to do it for you guys," said Jules.



   After Kelly hung up, Laura got out her phone and called home.



   ~~~~~ // ~~~~~



   "Hi Mom," said Laura.  "How are things at home?"



   As Laura's mom brought her up to date on the comings and goings of the
Williams clan, Cara and Ami had been in a huddle.  Finally Ami asked Kelly
if maybe they could do something for the seniors.



   "Before we left camp, Cara and I had worked out a really great dance
routine all based on gymnastic moves.  Maybe we could perform it for them?"



   Kelly beamed.  "That would be wonderful.  I'm sure that the residents
would love to see you two dance."



   "We better get practicing those moves again," said Ami to Cara.



   "Mom, I've got a rather unusual request.  Is Cathy there?  I'd rather
ask her myself."



   Laura found herself on hold for a few minutes as her mother called Cathy
to the phone.



   "Kat?  Hey, how are you enjoying having the bedroom to yourself?"



   Laura laughed as she listened to her sister go on about the joys of
independence.



   "Listen Kat, I doubt you'll remember the place, but you know how dad
hauled us around every Christmas to sing at the hospitals and nursing
homes? Well, there's one place...  I didn't even recognize it, but they
sure remember us.  We've been asked to do an afternoon performance.  Since
you're the oldest living at home now, I thought I would swing this by you
and if you're agreeable, I figure you could talk to Sam and Jen."



   Cathy thought about it for all of a second.  "Yeah, sure Laura.  I
always thought it was kind of strange we only did it for a few weeks out of
the year.  Leave the twins to me.  I'm sure I can convince them."



   They talked for a few minutes longer and then Cathy, after obtaining a
promise from Laura to fill her in on all the details of modeling and
university life, handed the phone back to their mother.



   "Mom...  I didn't want to say anything to Cathy without getting your
consent, but Kelly and Todd want to take her and the twins to Florida to
Disney World."



   There seemed to be a long pause, and then Mrs.  Williams asked to speak
to Kelly.



   Kelly took the phone from Laura.  "Hello Mrs.  Williams.  How are you
and Mr.  Williams doing?"



   "Meg, Kelly, call me Meg." There was a deep sigh.  "We're doing fine
Kelly," she said, but her voice seemed to catch in a sob.



   "Meg, are you sure you're all right?" asked Kelly.



   "Yes Kelly, it's just...  well, with four girls and a limited income...
Harry and I had always hoped and planned on taking the girls, but every
time we thought we could afford it, something else came up that we needed
the money for.  This is just such an unexpected kindness..."



   "Not at all Meg," Kelly insisted.  "Laura happened to mention that she
had never been, and we had cruised by within sight of the place, but we
were in a bit of a hurry to take care of another project.  We promised
Laura we would take her, and Todd thought you and Harry might like a few
days on your own."



   "Thank you Kelly, and please thank Mr.  Ayres for us as well."



   "It will be our pleasure," said Kelly.  "Think of it as a bit of a
repayment for having raised such a wonderful daughter as Laura."



   "God bless you Kelly," said Mrs.  Williams as she said goodbye.



   Laura talked to her mother for a few more minutes and then said she had
to get packed for a trip to South Carolina in the morning and she still had
to pick up a few things.



   "I love you Laura.  Take good care of yourself and have fun."



   "I will mom, I love you too."



   ~~~~~ // ~~~~~



   Laura turned to Kelly and said, "that was easier than I thought, and I
didn't have to promise a thing.  Kat said she could never understand why we
only did it at Christmas time."



   "Why do you call her Kat?" asked Kelly.



   "You know the trouble toddlers have with certain sounds like L's and
R's,"



   Kelly looked perplexed.



   "Take my word for it Honey," said Laura.  "You'll find out soon enough.
I saw and heard it myself when Sam and Jen were growing up.  It's got to do
with learning how to curl the tongue.  Anyway, I was nearly three and I
couldn't say "Cathy," it sort of sounded like Catty according to mom, and
it must have stuck with me cause that's what I've called her all my life."



   "I think I better start doing some reading," said Kelly, "but right now
I am famished.  Where do you want to eat Todd?"



   Laura grinned at Kelly.  "Later, darling, right now I want food!"



   Todd snorted, Kelly turned red, and Cara looked at Ami.



   "Tell you later," Ami said to her, then a look of comprehension appeared
on Cara's face.  She giggled, and that started Ami giggling as well.  They
both looked at Todd, and it was his turn to blush.



   "Right," said Todd, trying to divert them, "You want to do some
shopping, so we may as well eat here at the steakhouse.  But first, I want
to look in that jewelry store on the way.  I want to get rings for my
brides-to-be."



   Todd knew going into a jewelry store to pick out rings would be awkward
since he knew that Kelly would know he would want to get them something
special.  After looking for 20 minutes at the various diamonds on display,
he said to Kelly and Laura, "This isn't exactly what I had in mind.  But
until we can get to Amsterdam, let's just call this a promise ring okay? 
That's what they call them isn't it?"



   Laura was looking at the one-carat diamond on her hand.  "A promise
ring? Yeah, that's what they call the ring before the engagement ring, but
I don't think that people have this size in mind when promising their love
for each other."



   "My darling fiancé's are worth it," said Todd.



   They finally chose a style both girls liked.  A single solitaire
bracketed by two smaller stones.



   The sales girl was brimming with excitement.  Todd could read commission
dollar signs in her eyes.  But for him, it was just a five thousand dollar
decoy.  By next week, their real rings would arrive.



   "This one fits me fine," said Kelly.  "I guess I'm lucky to have a
standard size finger."



   "Oh no," said Todd.  "We've got to make sure these rings are sized
perfectly for you." Turning to the sales girl he said, "You wouldn't mind
measuring their fingers and having these sized to fit would you?"



   The girl brought out a large loop containing every ring size in 1/4 size
increments.  Kelly turned out to be a 6 1/2 while Laura measured out at 7
1/4.  Seeing that both Kelly and Laura had been sized, Cara cued Ami and
both of them started pleading with Kelly and Laura to help them pick up a
couple of movies they wanted to buy but were not legally old enough to
purchase.



   Todd smiled and told them to go ahead.  He would finish the paperwork
and pay for the rings and catch up to them in a few minutes.



   Once they were out of the store, Todd turned to the sales girl.  The
look on her face showed she knew she had just lost her big sale of the
night, but Todd smiled at her.  "You're right.  I only wanted their sizes,
but don't worry.  I don't want the rings, but I will take two sets of 1/2
carat diamond earrings on 14-karat posts."



   The smile reappeared on the girl's face.



   ~~~~~ // ~~~~~



   "So why didn't you want us to go celebrate with Todd and Kelly?" Robert
asked Vanetta.



   Robert had picked her up at home shortly after 5:00 and they had gone to
listen to a new band playing at their favorite pub.



   "Todd didn't know about you till just the other day after we met Laura
at the library," Vanetta said.  "Kelly knew about us, but Todd didn't."



   Robert took her hands and looked her in the eyes.  "You think he might
disapprove?  Because I'm not Jamaican?"



   Vanetta laughed.  "Todd?  A racist?" she laughed again.  "No, not Todd.
He's worse than color blind.  He doesn't even see gender.  If you don't
mention it, I doubt he'd even notice.  He's just different."



   "What kind of different?" Robert asked.



   "Well...He doesn't have any real friends.  He'd fit in better with the
original flower children than with today's society.  He's totally open and
says what's on his mind.  He's strong but never shows it.  He walks away
from things that piss him off.  He really believes in the utopian future of
Star Trek and wants the whole world to change to that now.  If he owns a
suit and tie, I've never seen it."



   "So far I don't see what the problem is Netta."



   "He's intense Bobby, sometimes a bit much for people to take.  He's very
emotional.  He puts on a good front, but he's really sensitive.  Last
September...  he cried for a week, and he didn't leave the studio for a
month after that."



   Robert thought for a minute.  "Well, yeah Netta, I think a lot of people
cried that day.  Those were innocent people who were killed."



   "See...  that's my point exactly!" she exclaimed.  "Maybe this will
finally help to explain.  Todd didn't just cry for the people that were
killed Bobby, he was crying for the world!  He couldn't deal with all the
anger and the violence.  Kelly thought he was going to totally lose it. 
Did you ever see the original 'Planet of the Apes,' the one with Charlton
Heston?"



   Robert nodded.



   "Remember the final scene where Heston realized he was on Earth and his
reaction?  About man having gone too far?"



   Robert nodded again.



   "That's Todd."



   "But we are going to the picnic right?  What difference would it make if
I had met him earlier?" Robert asked.



   "Oh, my dear Bobby...  Todd is really a great person, but I figured to
introduce him to you in small doses.  Kind of like an immunization shot!"



   "Didn't Laura meet him cold turkey?  Without being prepared?  She sure
looks happy."



   "Ah, now that's a different story," Vanetta said.  "She was originally
supposed to be just a client, and then Todd's strictly focused on his
camera, the consummate professional.  I don't know what happened that day,
but mom believes that it was destiny.  According to mom, Todd and Kelly
could never have gone farther with their relationship if not for Laura. 
And from what I've seen, I think she's right."



   "What about the new girls?  Cara and Ami.  They didn't get immunized."



   Vanetta laughed.  "Oh Robert.  They're girls.  Understand?  Aside from
being models, and a lot younger, he's not socializing with them.  He's the
one immune to models!"



   "So you're suggesting limited exposures of Todd to get acclimated to
him. I must say Vanetta, he sounds fascinating."



   "But I didn't want you to get scared off either Bobby.  Todd and Kelly
mean a lot to me.  And you mean a lot to me.  I love you!  I want everybody
to get along.  I'm sure you'll like him, and I know that they will like
you, but I've seen a lot of people try to get to know Todd in one go, and
they never return.  I just want you to be yourself around them and let them
open up at their own pace."



   ~~~~~ // ~~~~~



   Todd caught up with the girls in the video store.  He had two sets of
diamond earrings in his pocket and a smile on his face.  He had called
Johan from the store and told him the sizes for Kelly and Laura, and was
promised shipment of the rings by the end of the following week.



   Cara and Ami had Kelly tied up with music DVDs.  Laura was looking
through a rack of discontinued videos and had a big smile on her face and a
video clutched in her hand.  Seeing Todd, Cara and Ami picked two R-rated
music concerts on DVD that they passed on to Laura so she could purchase
them.  Todd walked Kelly outside and they sat on one of the benches.



   Todd told Kelly about Vanetta's suggestion of Kelly coming out of
retirement and the reasons for it.  "She said that if you consider it, she
wants to try and put together a package deal for you."



   "Damn," said Kelly.  "I sure could use a cigarette right about now." She
sighed.  "MaryAnn said that if I kept it down to just a couple a day it
wouldn't hurt the baby.  She knows my other condition and doesn't want me
to get stressed out.  She said that before the big media scare tactics
started in the 70's to justify increases in the cost of cigarettes, that
women smoked all through pregnancy and there is no evidence that our
generation suffered from it.  But I'm going to try to keep it to a bare
minimum."



   "But what about Vanetta's idea?" Todd prompted.



   Kelly leaned her head back and thought on it for a minute.  "Well," she
finally said, "I'm still at the same weight and size, so that won't be a
problem.  It might be kind of fun posing for you again for something as big
as this, and it sure would be a great scrapbook for our baby to look back
on when he or she is older."



   "You're saying yes?" Todd asked.



   "I'm saying let Vanetta put together a formal proposal along with who
wants to get in on the ride and which magazine wants an exclusive.  If I
like what I see, yeah, I'll go for it."



   Todd smiled.



   Cara and Ami rushed out of the video store grinning from ear to ear. 
Laura brought up the rear.



   "You won't believe what Laura bought us," said Ami.



   "It's the 1982 movie 'Personal Best' starring Mariel Hemingway!  We've
heard other gymnasts talk about it, but we never thought we'd get to see
it, and Laura found a brand new copy in the discontinued section."



   Laura smiled.  "I saw the movie a few years ago when I was babysitting
for a couple that had a satellite dish.  It's a movie about two female
athletes who fall a lot."



   "Yeah," said Cara snickering, "for each other!"



   Todd laughed.  "Just remember that tonight it's early to bed!  We've got
a long drive tomorrow."



   Cara and Ami walked ahead of Todd, Kelly and Laura, drawing admiring
glances from the males in the mall.  Getting a table at the licensed
restaurant proved to be no problem and soon the five of them were dining on
prime rib and baked potatoes topped with sour cream and chives.  Todd
managed, with a healthy tip, to get a bottle of wine to the table without
the waiter questioning the age of Cara and Ami.  Their makeup made them
look a bit older, and the clothes suggested big money, but it was still
pretty clear he thought that they were both underage.



   ~~~~~ // ~~~~~



   After supper, the girls browsed around the mall for another hour,
leaving Todd to wander at his own pace.  To him it seemed like a futile
exercise.  With the exception of underwear for the girls, they had enough
clothes at the studio, and enough coming in from New York on a regular
basis, to keep them well supplied.  Shoes he could understand as well, but
anything else, well...  what was the Internet for if not shopping?



   Finally Cara and Ami seemed to tire of it as well much to the amusement
of Kelly and Laura.



   "Kell, why don't you go home and get packed.  I'm going to run the
Tracker back to the studio and pick up the Hummer so we can just drive off
tomorrow morning," Todd said.



   "Okay Honey," she said giving him a kiss.  "See you in about an hour?"



   "Sooner if the traffic isn't too bad," he said.



   Laura gave him a kiss as well and the four girls headed for Kelly's
Elantra.



   Traffic was good leaving the city, and Todd soon reached the studio.  He
backed the midnight blue Hummer out of the bay he reserved for his baby and
since they would be gone for a few days, parked the Tracker inside.



   After making sure everything was locked down he picked up the tube
carrying the enlargement of Anna that Chuck had requested and a few others
Todd and Ami had printed up that morning.  He was about to leave the studio
when he remembered the FedEx package that had arrived from Ray's T-shirts
and Collectibles.  Swinging the package under his arm he locked the side
door of the studio and stepped into the Hummer.  His camera case was
already inside.



   Todd could feel the power of the massive motor under the hood as it
purred.  Just like a giant jungle cat, ready to pounce if he touched the
gas.  He eased the big truck out of the parking lot and headed to the gas
station down the block where TKO had an account.  He had both tanks topped
up and even though he kept the vehicle in pristine condition, had the oil
checked along with the other fluids and the tires.



   Satisfied that he was all set for the trip, Todd dropped the truck into
gear and cruised to Kelly's.



   ~~~~~ // ~~~~~



   The girls arrived home long before Todd had even left the studio.  Laura
went to the bathroom to change her tampon, while the others peeled off
their day clothes.  Other than panties, they roamed the house nude.  Laura
was the only one wearing a bra, and with a sigh, she released the clasp and
let her breasts spring free, then rubbing the light red elastic marks, made
her way to the bedroom.  She was very happy to find her period was nearly
finished, and as she said to Kelly, "You were right about the vitamins. 
This has been my easiest period ever, and I should be finished by tomorrow
at the latest."



   Kelly, who had been distracted by the sight of Laura rubbing her
breasts, looked up with a smile.



   "Told you so Sweetheart," said Kelly.



   "But I don't understand how come you didn't notice yourself that you
were late Kell?" said Laura.



   "I stress out easy," said Kelly.  "As regular as I usually am, when I'm
under pressure, it screws my entire schedule."



   "Have you felt a lot of pressure lately Kell?  You sure didn't look like
it."



   Kelly looked at Laura and smiled.  "I've enjoyed myself so much Baby...
but there was still the business to take care of, things that had to be
done and be done on time.  In this business you are only as good as your
last job."



   "I think I understand," said Laura.  She was about to continue when two
giggling girls entered the room.



   "Would you tell this brazen hussy to keep her hands off me so I can
pack?" laughed Ami.



   "Oh yeah, right," said Cara.  "She wants to pack everything, all the new
clothes and then some."



   Kelly laughed.  She and Todd were very used to packing for the road. 
"Okay ladies, all you need is some underwear, maybe three comfortable
outfits, two sets of easy walking shoes and your toothbrushes.  Anything we
forget we just pick up along the way."



   "And my camera," said Ami.  "This weekend should give me lots of
practice."



   "Yes, most certainly your camera," said Kelly.



   After the girls left the room again, Kelly went to closet and pulled out
a huge box of specialty cosmetics.



   "What are you looking for Hon?" asked Laura.



   "A couple of years ago, one of our clients sent us a big supply of skin
softening body lotions and creams.  If I remember, one was specially
formulated to prevent stretch marks in expectant women."



   "Better than olive oil?" Laura laughed remembering that night at
Brookhaven.



   Kelly laughed as well.  "Yes, even better than olive oil."



   Kelly continued to scrounge around the case until she found the box she
was looking for and extracted a bottle.  "We handled the campaign for this
company to get distributors for it in North America.  It's an old European
company with a five or six generation family history behind it.  Now you
can find this in every specialty body shop and most massage parlors."



   "Then I guess we better try it out.  You don't want to lose that
beautiful girlish figure you have," said Laura.



   "Did I hear massage?" asked Cara.  She and Ami had returned having
finished their packing.



   "Yes," said Laura.  "I was about to rub Kelly with this special lotion
to prevent stretch marks."



   "Oh, can I help?" asked Cara.  "I'm really good at massages.  Gymnasts
are forever pulling muscles, and I used to help out the coaches.  I guess
that's why I'm going into sports physiotherapy after I finish the last of
my high school mandatory hours.  I like it when I can make people feel
better after an injury."



   "Well, I'm not exactly injured," said Kelly looking at Laura.



   Laura shrugged as if to say why not.



   "Okay," said Kelly, "I'll let you help and we'll see how it goes."



   "Great!" said Cara.  "I've only worked on body parts and shoulders that
were covered, but hey...  we're all girls right?"



   Laura went to the closet and pulled out a fresh sheet to spread over the
bed.  Kelly slipped out of her panties and laid down on her stomach.  Cara
quickly clambered over and spread her legs so she was kneeling just above
Kelly's butt.  Laura smiled with amusement and after shaking the bottle,
filled Cara's hands with a huge amount of the aerated cream.



   Years of lifting and pulling and gripping had provided Cara with very
strong hands, and she started off by working the cream into Kelly's
shoulders.



   "I don't think I'll get stretch marks up there," said Kelly.



   "You can never be too careful," said Cara.  "Best to do the entire body
so that any weight applied to any part of your body doesn't transfer to an
area that is tight."



   Kelly thought on this for a minute as Cara dug her hands into the
muscles of her back.  "She's right Laura.  What good is it if my stomach is
pliant but not the rest of me?  Maybe Vanetta is right.  Maybe I should
consider doing a one-year project and get companies like the manufacturers
of this stuff to underwrite all the ads."



   Before Laura could answer, Kelly was moaning.  Cara was applying just
the right amount of pressure to her back muscles to make them relax.  She
could feel the stiffness start to leave and combined with the scented cream
it put her into a state of relaxation.



   Laura was about to step back when Ami took her arm.  "We can start on
her legs and arms Laura.  I'll show you how to do it."



   Filling their hands with the soft cream, Ami and Laura started stroking
downward on Kelly's legs.  Ami explained how to knead the muscles gently.
Kelly just moaned and spread her legs farther.



   Cara was working on Kelly's neck and shoulder blades as Ami and Laura
continued to manipulate more cream into Kelly's legs.  Cara's butt was
raised invitingly above Kelly's and on an upward move, Ami gently gave
Cara's crotch a grab.  Laura, smiling at Ami, slipped one of her slippery
hands between Kelly's cheeks, gently pressing on that little rosebud
opening.  Kelly responded both in sound and motion.  Though she was
spread-eagled on the bed, her arms draped over the sides, she managed to
raise her butt a bit to give more access.



   Laura gave Kelly's bum a loving playful slap.  "Hey you...  this is
supposed to be good for you, not arousing!"



   Cara slid down further and worked on Kelly's lower back and buttocks. 
"Now I'm definitely going to have to show you some exercises to keep your
lower spine limber," she said as she worked not only the cream but also her
fingers into the firm flesh.



   Ami and Laura had changed positions and each had taken an arm and were
pulling and kneading the flesh in their hands.



   "Mmm, I love the smell of coconut," mumbled Kelly.



   "Well, you'll enjoy it more on your back," said Cara.  "Time to roll
over!"



   Kelly rolled over, her limbs askew on the bed.



   Laura went right to work on the front of Kelly's legs, noting with
satisfaction the partially opened wet labia.  Cara and Ami had taken an arm
apiece, and were slowly moving closer to Kelly's shoulders and chest.  Both
had noticed Kelly's nipples standing puckered, at attention.



   Laura moved higher and higher until she was rubbing the top of Kelly's
thighs just barely a finger's width away from sliding them right into the
inviting cunt.  Abruptly removing her hands, she filled them with more
cream and took a breast in each, slowly rubbing Kelly's small breasts,
feeling the hardness of the nipples underneath.



   Kelly's legs bent at the knees and closed.  She was approaching a climax
and tried to rub her own legs together to take her over the top.  Cara and
Ami had joined Laura's hands on Kelly's upper torso and as Laura lowered
her hands to massage Kelly's belly, their hands took Laura's place on
Kelly's breasts.  Both Cara and Ami were kneeling on the bed, but were
using only one hand each on Kelly, their other hands occupied with groping
each other as they leaned over Kelly and shared a deep soulful kiss.



   Laura was intent now and also kneeling, but between Kelly's legs working
her hands closer and closer to the light pubic patch.  The scent of female
arousal filled the air.  Laura bent down closer lowering her mouth to
Kelly's lower lips, as Cara and Ami were pulling each other closer over top
of Kelly mashing their mouths together.



   FLASH!



   ~~~~~ // ~~~~~



   In the doorway stood a grinning Todd.  "Sorry ladies but I couldn't
resist.  Not to worry though, no one's face was showing."



   "Oh my God!" said Ami.  She grabbed Cara's hand as they raced out of the
bedroom.



   "Oh no...  don't stop Laura," Kelly pleaded.



   With a smile, Laura went back to the job she had started and just as
Todd was taking the flash unit off of the camera he had given Ami to use,
he could hear Kelly moan and scream as her orgasm overtook her.  He
repacked the camera and returned the case to the bags of luggage that they
would be taking in the morning.



   He had arrived five minutes earlier, surprised to find no one around. 
Seeing Kelly's bedroom door open and the sound of passion from within, he
had quickly assembled the Pentax and attached the flash.  Maybe it had been
Ami with her candid shots that inspired the thought in his head.  He had
thought it was only Kelly and Laura in the bedroom and was more than a bit
amazed to see four females on the bed, one prostrate and three kneeling. 
He watched for a couple of minutes as the passion increased, and found
himself extremely aroused.  His cock made a dent in his pants and he wanted
to join in on the fun.  He knew that Cara and Ami would probably make a
beeline for their bedroom, and seriously hoped he wouldn't embarrass them
too much.  It was after all one thing to see them nude, but quite another
to see them in the throes of passion.



   He closed the door behind him as he reentered the bedroom.  His clothes
came off quickly as he made his way to the bed.  Kelly was still lying on
her back, her wet hot cunt covered in both her own juices and saliva looked
so appealing and inviting.  He stopped just long enough to give Laura a big
juicy kiss, tasting Kelly on her lips, and then mounted the bed and for the
first time in a long time, used the standard missionary position, letting
his stiff cock get guided into that hot tunnel by Laura's helping hand.



   Kelly, still peaked from her first orgasm came almost immediately as
Todd started to pump steadily into her.  With long, slow, deep strokes he
measured his pace to bring Kelly over the edge another time before feeling
his own cum boiling inside him, felt a hand grasp his scrotum and a tongue
on his ass.  He grunted as he fired burst after burst into Kelly's womb.



   Finally, he could take it no longer and with shaking arms managed to
roll off Kelly, lying next to her, panting.



   Laura licked his cock clean, but it was obvious that he would need a bit
of time to recover.  Silently she padded out of the room returning a few
minutes later with bottles of ice-cold Evian.



   ~~~~~ // ~~~~~



   The three of them, Kelly, Laura and Todd sat on the bed.  Kelly lit the
first cigarette since seeing MaryAnn that afternoon.



   "Two a day," she said.  "You can't expect me not to want to smoke after
something that intense!"



   Todd and Laura laughed.  "That was pretty intense from what I saw," said
Todd.  "What started that?"



   Laura explained that Kelly had started looking for the body lotion that
helped prevent stretch marks, and then Cara, who was from all appearances
one hell of a masseuse, had volunteered to take care of Kelly.  She
explained why Cara had said to really prevent any stretching that she
should do all of her major skin areas and how things had led from there to
what Todd had seen.



   "Makes sense to me," said Todd.



   "Oh Honey, if this is the way I'm going to be treated for the entire
pregnancy, I'll keep a journal so the magazine can use parts of it for
copy."



   "So you've considered it?  Modeling again?" Todd asked.



   "Why not?" asked Kelly.  "I'm in good shape, I haven't lost my looks,
and there are enough people in the business that remember me.  Maybe we
should make this a package deal.  I'll be pregnant, you take the pictures,
and Laura can transcribe my notes and write the sidebars!"



   "A real family affair," said Todd chuckling.



   "Ah, Todd," said Laura.  "I just realized something..."



   "What's that Sweetheart?"



   "Well...  With Kell pregnant..."



   "Yes?"



   "I guess you are now officially a mother fucker!"



   Kelly and Todd howled with laughter.



   ~~~~~ // ~~~~~



   "Something must be really funny," said Ami lifting her face from Cara's
crotch.



   "We'll find out later," said Cara.  "Just don't stop right now."



   Ami and Cara had run to their bedroom after Todd had caught them
molesting each other and Kelly.  Slamming their bedroom door they had
ripped off their panties and within seconds were in a loving embrace, legs
intertwined humping each other to their first orgasm.  When the immediate
need had been taken care of, Cara had gone down on Ami and quickly brought
her to a second squealing climax.  Still full of energy, Ami wasted no time
in reciprocating.



   "We're going to have to get to sleep pretty soon," said Cara after she
had regained her breath and the two of them lay cuddled.



   "Yeah, I know," said Ami, "but I'm hungry!  Besides, we can probably nap
on the drive down."



   "And I'm so sweaty now, I really need a shower," said Cara.



   "Okay, shower first, then we eat.  I'm famished!"



   "And here I thought I was filling enough for you," pouted Cara.



   "Tasty and satisfyingly delicious," said Ami, "but I think I understand
now what they mean when they say you can't live on love!"



   Laughing, both girls grabbed their towels and headed for the bathroom.
They wore nothing but the satisfied grins on their faces and took nothing
with them other than the towels.



   ~~~~~ // ~~~~~



   "Why does sex always make me hungry?" Todd asked.



   "Probably because you burn off so many calories when you fuck!" said
Laura.



   "When I what?" said Todd.  "I thought we made love.  Does your mother
know you talk like that?"



   Laura laughed.  "Baby, we often make love, but what you did tonight was
pure and simple fucking!"



   Kelly laughed as well.  After she had finished her cigarette, she had
sucked Todd's semi flaccid cock into her mouth, bathing it with her tongue,
until he started to swell to full size again.



   Laura had gotten on her hands and knees allowing Todd to drive his hard
cock into her from behind while Kelly crawled underneath her sucking on her
nipples and using one of her hands to strum Laura's clit.  Todd was stiff,
but his previous climax had been very intense and it took him a while to
build up to the point where he was ready to unload again.  This gave Laura
plenty of time to cum three times herself, each successive one more
powerful than the one previous.



   "I need a shower," said Laura.  "I smell like sex!"



   "Mmm, and how delicious you smell," said Kelly.



   "I know dear," responded Laura, "but we have to hit the road in the
morning."



   Kelly examined the bottle of massage cream.  "It says I have to leave
this on for an hour."



   "Okay," said Todd, "so we eat first."



   ~~~~~ // ~~~~~



   As they passed by the bathroom, they could hear the running water of the
shower.  Kelly stuck her head in and said, "Leave some hot water for the
rest of us!"



   Ami and Cara both laughed.  They really enjoyed their showers together.



   Laura told Kelly to relax and proceeded to gather all the fixings for
omelets.  Kelly told her about her "Taco Pete" salsa sauce secret for a
quick Spanish omelet, and Laura was just beating the eggs when Cara and Ami
arrived in the kitchen wearing nothing but smiles.



   Todd had pulled on a pair of shorts out of respect for the younger
girls.



   "Why don't you and Todd shower now?" said Kelly.  "I can take over here
and get these two nymphs fed.  If you don't take too long, I'll get yours
started right afterwards."



   "Oh Kell, you know it's more fun with the three of us," Laura said with
a playful pout.



   "I know Sweetheart, but I still need to leave this on a bit longer to
get the full benefit.  Besides, Todd's had a hard day, and I don't think
he'll be up for any more fun and games tonight."



   "Okay, come on soft one," said Laura taking Todd by the hand.  "We'll
only be a few minutes."



   Cara and Ami wolfed down the delicious omelets, took their second dose
of vitamins for the day, and sat back with bottled water.



   "God Ami," said Cara.  "I can't even close my legs right now I'm so
sensitive.  You are so good girl!"



   Ami blushed as Kelly smiled.



   "Unless you really get lucky and find a considerate lover of the other
gender," Kelly said, "only a woman knows what a woman needs."



   "And are you and Laura that lucky?" asked Ami.



   "You mean with Todd?" Kelly asked absently, not realizing that Laura and
Todd were coming into the room.  "Definitely!  Todd can lick pussy better
than any guy I've ever known.  And he screws better too."



   "Seconded!" shouted Laura.



   "Thanks for the vote of confidence," said Todd giving Kelly a hug.



   It was Kelly's turn to blush.



   "We're off to bed," said Cara.



   "To sleep," added Ami.



   Kelly gave them both a tender kiss on their cheeks, thanking them for
their help.  "Especially you Cara.  Ami might be the next great
photographer, but girl, if physiotherapy doesn't cut it for you, you could
make a fortune as a personal masseuse!"



   Both girls giggled as they ran off to bed.



   Todd, Laura and Kelly ate quietly, just exchanging loving glances at
each other.



   Laura washed the dishes while Kelly had a quick shower, and the three of
them ended up in the living room with a glass of wine.



   "Damn," said Todd.  "I keep forgetting about the package."



   "Which package is that dear?" Kelly asked.



   "The one from Ray that arrived via FedEx today." He got up and retrieved
it from the back door.



   Kelly and Laura watched as Todd opened it.  Inside was a shiny black
satin windbreaker with the words "Starfleet Command" embroidered in gold on
the left hand breast with a matching embroidered Trek logo right
underneath. Covering most of the back was the official Federation logo in
heavy embroidery.



   "Try it on Babe," said Laura.



   It fit like a glove, and Todd beamed.  The side pockets were partially
made of corduroy like elastic material in a rich black finish as was the
collar to which Ray had added Captain's pips.



   Kelly looked in the box looking for a letter and asked Todd what the
pieces of cardboard were that was still inside.



   Todd looked puzzled until he emptied the box on the table.  "It's an
advertising cut out," he said.  "I'll be damned.  I'll bet that nobody has
one of these yet.  It's of the new, or rather the first Enterprise." As he
started to assemble it, Kelly saw the envelope that had fallen out with the
pieces.  She opened it, laughed and then read it out loud for the other two
to hear.



   "My dear friends,

   How can I begin to thank you for the wonderful picture you sent to me.

   I had it framed and it now hangs behind my cash register.  Some of the
regulars

   recognize Kelly and Laura from their impromptu modeling session in my
store while others

   remember them from other places on the island.  All of them want it! 
Well, almost all of them.

   The owner of a souvenir photo place here, 'Reliving History,' came in
and said that he

   wouldn't ever step foot in my store again as long as there was an Ayres
portrait hanging

   there."



   Todd and Laura howled with laughter.



   "It seems that 'Stan the Man' is holding a grudge," said Laura.



   "Wait," said Kelly, "there's more."



   "That doesn't worry me though.  Personally I think he's a P'tag!  Since
I hung the picture,

   customer traffic has increased in the store and sales are brisk and
getting better.  I hope

   the jacket fits Todd, I'm going on memory here!  Al said you would be
coming back to

   Brookhaven soon and I have ordered something special for the ladies. 
Please come by

   when you return so I may present it to them.  I've also included a
display cutout of the new

   Enterprise.  I thought you might enjoy it.

   Thanks again for all the business both personal and what you have
generated for me.

   Both Kelly and Laura are stunning beauties.

   Your friend,

   Ray"



   Todd sat down.  "Now that's the kind of man I like to do business with,"
he said.  "Would you girls mind posing sometime next week for a picture for
him wearing the Starfleet issue underwear?  Something he can hang in the
Trek section?"



   "Gee Todd, Laura and I command big bucks for posing," Kelly said with a
smile.



   Laura laughed.  "But for friends it's different, right?"



   "Always Sweetheart, as long as it's just for his store.  Who knows? 
Maybe the regional sales rep from Paramount might see it and give us a
call."



   Todd had finished assembling the cutout.  "What do you think Laura,
would your dad like this?"



   "Are you serious?" she asked.  "He'd love it.  But why would you give it
away?"



   "Honey, you've seen my place.  There's not much clutter.  I'm mostly on
the road or working.  Besides, it was your dad who taught you all about
Star Trek, and I owe him so much for you."



   Laura could hardly wait to bring Todd home to meet her parents.  "Will
you give it to him Todd?" she asked.



   Todd looked into her eyes, and slowly nodded.  "Although I can't profess
my love for you in front of them, I would be proud to meet the people who
made you who you are."



   Kelly smiled.  Laura had brought a lot of changes into their lives.  She
didn't think she'd see the day that Todd would be willing to visit with
anyone's parents.



   "Well guys," Kelly said.  "We better hit the hay too if we want to
arrive tomorrow bright-eyed and bushy tailed!"



   Fifteen minutes later the only sounds to be heard in the house were the
gentle breaths of five very content bodies.



   ~~~~~ // ~~~~~



   The alarm went off at 7:00, and five rested bodies piled the bags into
the back of the Hummer right after a light snack.  Todd promised them they
would stop along the way for a more substantial breakfast.



   With the house locked, Cara and Ami climbed into the truck.  Laura took
a look around and then climbed in as well, but Kelly and Todd just walked
to the middle of the street.  It was an old joke with them, but one that
the other three were not privy to.



   Laura, Cara and Ami waited a few minutes and then Ami stuck her head out
the window.  "Come on guys.  You said we had to hit the road!"



   Todd looked at Kelly, smiled and both of them dropped to their hands and
knees and started pounding on the road.  Inside the truck the laughter was
loud enough to wake the neighbors.



   Kelly and Todd got into the truck, and as Todd maneuvered his way to the
freeway, Kelly asked how long it would take before the rings were sized.



   Todd tried to hide his smile.  "Don't worry about it girls, they'll be
done before the week is out!"



   ~~~~~ // ~~~~~

   To be continued...



   A special note of thanks: A writer's life is a pretty lonely one.  While
the world goes on for everyone else, we work the late hours in a world of
our own design.  Sometimes it gets frustrating, especially when the real
world wants to intrude. I don't have a fan club or an egroup or a mailing
list.  I don't even have my own spot on the ASSTR web site!  That probably
explains why Kelly is only read by a very select audience, and will never
be nominated for any awards.  <G> This chapter marks a milestone of sorts
for me...  With Chapter 17, I passed the 200 thousand word mark!  (206,200
for those who like the details!) I am curious about a few things however.
It seems most of my regular audience are educated males in their 40's.  I
have often wondered if any women read Kelly. I've had mail from as far
north as Norway, to as far south as New Zealand, but all from men.

   Anyway, curiosity aside, I had planned on ending the Kelly series around
chapter 20 if I could find enough material after the Grand Opening of
Mueller's Wheel in the James series. I have been very lucky to have found
not one, but TWO very loyal readers who do not want me to end Kelly after
the opening.  They have inspired me, along with feeding me plot ideas, that
I will continue with this series for the foreseeable future.  And they make
great proofreaders as well! A salute to "Captain" Mike (Go ARMY!) and a
G'day Mate to Ian.  You guys make this all worthwhile! I also have the best
damn editor of erotic stories in Steve, who makes sure that quote marks
always appear where they belong!  Thanks Steve!

   And to "the Man", the one who brought me out of retirement, (just one
chapter my ass!<G>), MikeC who inspired me with his James series.  He
renewed my faith in intelligent erotic stories and his James series spawned
Kelly.  You are my best friend.  I owe you big time!

   To all who read this, peace and happiness.

   Night Hawk (NH@nighthawk.sytes.net)
   Archived at </files/Authors/MikeC/James>