Note: This story was dynamically reformatted for online reading convenience.
 
 {ASSM} Queen Mary {Esu Migabe} (MF, ROM)


WARNING: This story will contain situations and explicit language

   of an adult nature and should be read only by those of a legal age to do
so.  If you are a minor or object to stories of an adult nature, LEAVE HERE
IMMEDIATELY.  Legal age local to the author is 18+ please abide to your own
local laws.  Please note and understand the content codes for this story.

   The characters portrayed in this story are just that, characters in my
story.  Any similarities to real people are purely coincidental and
unintentional.  The characters and situations portrayed are pure fantasy;
the author is keen to state that in reality adult sexuality should remain
only in the adult world.  Please do not allow or cause this story to fall
in to the hands of minors.

   (C) Esu Migabe 2005

   Introduction

   Her mother was speaking at her again, frowning as she did so.  "I don't
understand you at all, a young lady in her prime of life and you ignore all
the suitors that I introduce you to.  You just seem to want to mix with the
riff-raff of this country."

   Elizabeth sighed at her words; she had heard them all before.  `Nobody
understands me.  What do riches in this world matter?  I prefer friends for
their own sake, not for what they can buy me.'

   Mother was continuing with her sermon.  "We have decided to send you
away for a short time.  It will be a good opportunity for you to meet some
nice young men.  We have booked you a ticket on a new liner which is making
her maiden voyage to a land overseas."

   Elizabeth looked at her in amazement.  "Am I going to be chaperoned or
will I be alone?"

   "Good heavens my girl, this is costing your Father and I a great deal of
money.  You won't need a chaperone on this trip as all the elite of British
society will be there.  They will take care of you and make sure that you
behave with the social graces that you have been taught."

   She smiled at her mother impishly, "Oh, and so where am I going?"

   Her mother smiled back, unable to resist her daughter's grin.

   "Your father and I have booked you a trip on a new luxury liner that is
making her maiden voyage to America.  You will be travelling on a new ship
called `RMS Queen Mary' which is owned by the `Cunard White Star Company'.
You are due to leave in two week's time on May 27th, which is a Wednesday.
Your Father will escort you down to the docks at Southampton and will see
you safely aboard."

   Mother continued, "We need to pack your trunk and make sure you have
enough suitable attire for the coming voyage.  We will go and visit the
dressmaker's later, once I have rested for a while."

   Elizabeth's mother stood up and with a flourish, left the room.

   Elizabeth smiled with delight.  `At last, freedom!  Time to do what I
want to for a change.  I will not be dictated to by my elders.'

   * * *

   The morning of the voyage dawned and Elizabeth had travelled down to the
docks with her father.  All too soon for him, he was cuddling his daughter
and wishing her well.  He had a soft spot for her and her unladylike ways.
He liked her impulsive streak which she often failed to control.  He knew
that it was one of his traits that he had passed onto her.

   "Take care, my little one and behave yourself.  Let your mother believe
that you have turned over a new leaf and you have become a lady.  Most of
all have some fun."

   With those parting words, he kissed her on her cheek and stood on the
quay, waiting to wave her off on her great adventure.

   The Departure

   Elizabeth stood on the deck amazed at the sight on the quayside, the
people gathered all around to wave the liner off on her inaugural passage.
Flags and ribbons fluttering in the wind, all added to the joyful
atmosphere of the occasion.  A band marched along the seafront playing a
rousing tune.  She waved to her father as the ship hooters sounded and they
finally departed from Southampton's docks.

   She looked at her watch, half past four, in four to five hours they
would be docking at Cherbourg in France, before setting off again in the
early hours of the following morning.  She smiled at the people who were
milling around her on the deck and nodded to those that smiled back.  A
young man approached her and introduced himself.

   "Good evening, my fair lady.  Let me introduce myself, I am Richard, son
of Lord Goldsworth.  May I persuade you to partake in some refreshment in
one of the fine bars aboard?"

   She giggled before introducing herself, "I am Elizabeth, daughter of
Lord and Lady Saxonby.  Yes, I would like some liquid nourishment, thank
you, kind sir."

   He took her arm and led her along the Promenade Deck to the Observation
lounge and cocktail bar.  She marvelled at the fine interior, the sparkling
ornate lights bouncing their beams via the wooden walls.

   "Which refreshment can I get you?  A fine tea or would you prefer a
stronger beverage?"

   "A small sherry would be just fine, thank you Richard."

   He guided her to the lounge and sat down next to her as the attendant
approached to serve them.

   "A small Amontillado sherry for the lady and a whisky for me," he
demanded abruptly.

   Elizabeth looked at him incredulously, deciding immediately that she
didn't like his abrasiveness.  `I have no need for people like this,' she
thought to herself before smiling sympathetically at the attendant.  `I
will drink this with him, but that will be it.  I will make my excuses and
retire to my room."

   She sat with him and made small talk while sipping her drink elegantly.

   "What brings you here?" He asked her.

   She replied, "My mother and father decided that I needed a rest from the
countryside.  The sea trip would be good for my well-being."

   "Oh, have you been unwell, then?" he replied.

   "Oh no, not me, I never get ill, this trip is for pleasure.  My mother
decided that a voyage like this would calm my erratic ways."

   She suppressed her giggle which threatened to erupt, as she remembered
the reason why she had been sent on the voyage.  She took a final sip from
her glass and made her excuses.

   "Forgive me Richard, but the festivities of the day have tired me.  I
need to retire to my cabin.  I look forward to meeting you again soon."

   She held out her hand.  He rose to his feet and kissed her hand softly
before bading her farewell.

   "I will look forward to it," was his reply.

   As she passed through the lounge, she nodded and smiled at the attendant
who had served them earlier.  He bowed towards her, acknowledging her
departure.

   * * *

   She rested in her cabin before the grand banquet which was going to be
held that night to welcome all the guests on board.  She thought about her
parent's marriage.  Yes, her parents were happy but she didn't want a life
like her mother.  She was determined that she wasn't going to run a large
household with dinner parties and everything that followed.  She would much
rather have a life that meant she could make something of herself and not
just bow and make small talk to the upper classes.  No, she wanted a life
far removed from that of her parents.

   A loud whistle from the liner disturbed her from her thoughts.  She
realised that the ship was docking in Cherbourg.  Glancing at her cabin
clock, she noticed the time, ten to nine at night.  `Had she only been on
board for four and a half hours?  It seemed such a long time ago, that she
had waved her father goodbye.' Elizabeth looked at her itinerary.  The
liner had anchored for a few hours and a grand dinner would be provided
shortly.  After that, they would be cruising throughout the night.

   A tap on the cabin door woke her from her thoughts.

   "Appetisers are now being served in the cocktail lounge.  Dinner will be
available in 45 minutes."

   "Thank you, I will be along shortly," she called out, before looking
into her trunk for the evening gown that her mother had chosen for her to
wear on her first night.  She quickly discarded it to one side and pulled
out one of her favourite ones instead.

   She put it on quickly and smoothed it down over her hips before looking
at her reflection in the full length mirror.  She quickly brushed her hair
and decided to leave it hanging loose over her shoulders.  Her mother
always liked her to pin it up but she wasn't here to lecture her tonight.

   She smiled to herself.  `You'll do,' and then opened her cabin door and
made her way along to the cocktail lounge.

   * * *

   As she stood in the doorway, the attendant who had served her earlier
came over.  "This way, madam," he said as he escorted her to one of the
tables.  "What can I get you to drink?  A fine wine or would you prefer a
fruit juice?"

   "Oh, an orange juice please," she replied as she sat down.  "Certainly,
madam," replied the attendant before he walked towards the bar.

   "Is this chair taken?" A voice asked.  She looked up at the stranger;
his smiling face looked back at her.

   "No, I am unescorted tonight.  Please, sit down," she replied.

   The attendant returned with her drink and placed it on the table in
front of her.

   "Anything else I can get you, madam?"

   She looked over at her new companion, "could I get you a drink?"

   "A glass of fine ale, thank you," he replied.

   He sat down next to her, introducing himself as he did so.  "My name is
David, how do you do?" She smiled back, "Very well thank you.  I'm
Elizabeth," before she extended her hand, which he kissed lightly.

   `At least he hasn't the airs and graces of Richard,' she thought to
herself.  `He seems a lot more down to earth, much friendlier.' The
attendant returned to their table with the ale.

   "Anything else I can get you, madam?"

   "No, thank you," she replied.

   A gong sounded and a voice rang out throughout the lounge.  "Ladies and
Gentlemen, dinner is now served." David stood up from his seat and ushered
her along the deck and down into the dining room.

   Elizabeth gasped with delight when she entered the room.  She saw a
giant map of the Atlantic Ocean on one of the walls.

   "The sea looks so big, I never realised it before."

   "Yes, it does," David replied.  "But if you look closer, you can see
where the liner is, and how much further we have to go."

   "Oh, how clever." Elizabeth smiled.

   "Could I have the pleasure of dining with you tonight?" David asked her.


   "Thank you.  The pleasure is mine."

   David pulled out a chair for her as they took their seats at one of the
smaller dining tables.  They sat talking to each other as they waited for
the courses to be served.  She found his company enjoyable and started
telling him more about herself as the banquet progressed.  He laughed at
her tales and started telling her a few of his own.

   She found herself telling David about Richard and his abrasive attitude
to the workers on board.

   "I wouldn't speak to anyone in that way, but the attendant didn't even
seem to notice though."

   "Oh, the attendant is probably well trained not to rise to the bait. 
They selected the crew very carefully for this voyage," replied David.

   "Well, I still thought he was very rude."

   David nodded, "Yes, I'm afraid some people are nowadays."

   As she sipped her coffee at the end of the meal, she looked at David and
smiled at him.  She was surprised how quickly the time had passed, `it must
be because of David,' she thought to herself.  `I haven't had such an
enjoyable evening for a long time.'

   They left the dining room, arm in arm, and walked to her cabin.  As they
reached the door, a man stepped out of the shadows and spoke to her.

   "Have you enjoyed your meal tonight?  I am sorry that I could not escort
you myself, but as you know, I was otherwise engaged."

   Elizabeth glanced at David, pleased that he was by her side.

   "Very much thank you.  Please let me introduce you to my new companion,
David.  This is Richard.  He was kind enough to buy me a drink just after
we departed from Southampton."

   David nodded towards Richard, "Pleased to meet you."

   Richard replied, "I'm grateful to you for looking after Elizabeth
tonight.  Tomorrow though, she will be dining with me."

   Elizabeth looked at Richard in amazement and found herself saying, "No
Richard, you are wrong.  I have already made my arrangements for dining
tomorrow."

   "Well, change them," Richard replied curtly.

   She felt herself getting annoyed at Richard's rudeness.

   "No, thank you but as I just said, my arrangements have already been
made, Sir."

   David noticed the sharpness in her voice and took her arm.  He looked at
Richard, "You heard Elizabeth, now leave her alone.  Say goodnight to the
lady."

   Richard grunted his farewell and walked off moodily along the deck.

   Elizabeth smiled at David, "Thank you, do you see what I mean about
him?"

   David nodded.  "Yes, a thoroughly unpleasant chap.  Would you like me to
see you safely to your cabin?"

   She smiled as she replied, "Yes, please.  I do feel a bit shaken."

   David opened the cabin door for her and escorted her inside.  She sat
down in one of the chairs beckoning David to sit in the other.  She still
felt shaken by the rudeness and abruptness that Richard had shown towards
her.

   "I knew he was unpleasant, but he is even worse than I imagined." She
stated.

   "I know, now are you feeling alright or would you like a small brandy to
calm yourself?" David enquired.

   "Oh, I'll be fine in a minute, thank you." She replied.

   She looked and smiled at David, grateful that he had been there in her
hour of need.  The situation would have been a lot more difficult if she
had been alone.

   "In that case, I will take my leave.  I'll see you tomorrow at some
point?"

   He rose from his seat and kissed her lightly on her forehead, " Bye
Elizabeth, take care." He closed the cabin door quietly behind him.  She
quickly rose from her seat, removed her clothes and made her preparations
for bed.

   The liner's whistle's sounded; the adventure to New York had begun.  It
has been a long day, she thought to herself.  She laid her head on her
pillow and thought through the events of her day.  She wondered about the
two men she had met and knew which one she preferred.  She hoped that
Richard was not going to cause her any trouble; he seemed such a pompous
one.  David, on the other hand, seemed a lot friendlier.  A much more
likeable man.

   She felt tired but her sexual feelings were aroused.  Her fingers
stroked along her body.  As she stroked her bosom, she felt her nipples
harden.  Soft strokes along them aroused her feelings even more.  She
sighed and moved her hands along and down her body.  Caressing and touching
herself.  Wondering how David would touch her.  How would she feel?  Would
he arouse her?  Her fingers stroking her stomach and then her inner thighs.
Feeling her tender spot before succumbing to her desires.

   Her thoughts drifting...  Imagining.

   A yawn.  Soon she was fast asleep.  Deep inside her dreams.

   The Exploration

   The next morning she rose from her slumber early, excited thoughts
running through her mind.  She sung to herself as she pulled out a skirt
and blouse from her trunk.  She washed herself quickly and hurriedly
dressed before leaving her cabin.  She made her way up to the Promenade
deck, smiling and nodding at people who acknowledged her presence.

   She recalled her thoughts from the night before and sighed.  `Was that
the reason why she had been sent on this voyage?  Was her Mother trying to
find her an eligible suitor?' She wasn't sure if that was what her Mother
had been planning.  Elizabeth sighed, `Well, it won't work.  I am not
looking for a husband yet.'

   "Elizabeth," she heard someone calling her.

   She looked around and saw Richard walking towards her.  She sighed as he
approached, and then rebuked herself, `I was a bit hasty towards him last
night, I shouldn't have been so rude with him.' He smiled at her, "I
apologise for my behaviour last night, I shouldn't have startled you.  Can
I accompany you to dinner tonight or tomorrow to make up for my tardiness?"

   She smiled at him, still unsure about his motives, "Apology accepted,
Richard.  I am sorry but I won't be able to accept your invitation tonight.
I have a prior engagement."

   Richard nodded at her.

   "Perhaps we can meet up for a drink later in the bar then."

   "Yes," Elizabeth smiled at him politely.

   "Sorry, got to rush, see you later."

   She watched in amazement as he quickly disappeared, leapfrogging the
railing before running back along the deck.

   `He must be in a hurry,' she thought to herself.

   She strolled along a bit further, before deciding to relax for a while
on the Sun Deck.  She made her way up the stairs and sat down in one of the
deck chairs.  She lazed back into it and as she felt the sunshine beam down
on her face, closed her eyes.  Her thoughts started to drift again.

   "Hello." A voice jolted her back into reality.  She opened her eyes
slowly to see David gazing down at her.  She smiled back at him.

   "Hello David, it's nice to see you."

   "It's good to see you as well," he replied.

   She glanced at her watch.  "Goodness, is that the time?  I have been out
in the sun for far too long.  Would you like to accompany me to the bar? 
David."

   "Yes, certainly, Elizabeth, then I can return the drink which you so
kindly got for me yesterday."

   She rose from her deck chair and they walked down the stairs back to the
Promenade deck.  As they entered the bar, Elizabeth was surprised to see
how lively it was.

   "It's only late morning," she whispered to David, "Do these people party
all day?"

   "It seems that way," David replied, "But remember, it is a celebratory
voyage as well."

   An attendant approached to serve them.  She smiled at him and asked for
a small white wine, David requested an ale.  While the attendant was
serving their drinks, Elizabeth studied David's face.  He was certainly
good looking and she was attracted to his personality.  He made her relax
and she certainly didn't do that with most of the men that her mother
thought were possible suitors.

   She sipped her drink slowly as she started to tell David more about her
life at home.  David smiled in sympathy as she recounted tales of her
mother's efforts to make her more ladylike.  He laughed when she told him
of her attempts to act like one; she always failed, unable to reach the
heights her mother desired.

   "Would you like another glass of wine?" David enquired.

   "Yes please, after all as you said earlier, we are here to enjoy
ourselves," Elizabeth smiled.

   David smiled back at her, "That's the idea," he said as he placed his
arm around her and hugged her.

   A loud roar of laughter erupted from the other side of the room. 
Elizabeth looked over and was amazed to see the raunchy antics of a couple
dancing together.  They were touching each other intimately.  Elizabeth
laughed, before commenting to David, "Perhaps my mother had the wrong idea
about this trip, if anything, it's making me more daring than I was."

   They finished their drinks and David asked her if she wanted another. 
She giggled, "I think that I have had more than enough for a while, thank
you," before asking mischievously "Would you like to join me for my
afternoon nap?"

   David looked at her and grinned, "Yes, it would be good to relax my eyes
for a while."

   They rose from their chairs and departed from the bar.  Laughing and
talking, they made their way back to her cabin.  She opened the door and he
escorted her inside, closing the door behind him.

   She held him tightly as he smiled at her before pulling her into a
loving embrace.  His fingers traced along her face, stroking and touching,
before kissing her passionately.  She responded eagerly as she felt her
heartbeats quicken.

   He led her to her bed, and started to unbutton her blouse.  She
responded by taking off his shirt.  He slipped off her bra, before
unbuttoning her skirt.  She reached for his waist and slowly unbuttoned his
trousers, letting them fall to the floor.  Her fingers stroked along his
legs, touching him, feeling him.  He lifted her up and laid her down
gently.

   She gasped with pleasure as she felt his lips on her tender nipples. 
His tongue stroked down and along her body, kissing and caressing her.  She
shivered in anticipation of his lovemaking.  `Will it be as good as I have
imagined?'

   She felt her desire building.  Her heart beating faster.  Her breathes
increasing,

   She felt his hardness press against her lips.  Pulsing and pushing
inside her.

   Feeling him deep.

   Deeper.

   "Ohhhhhhh," she gasped...

   His thrusting, faster and harder, sent sensations throughout her body.

   She was delirious as his passion gripped her and swam through her.

   He held her tight as he gave a final push.

   Both exhausted, they lay together, smiling, as their bodies recovered.

   Elizabeth spoke first, "That was something I have never experienced
before," she smiled, "it was really good."

   "I'm glad you enjoyed it, it was good for me as well."

   They lay together for a few more minutes before Elizabeth smiled.  "I
think my afternoon naps have just improved for the better."

   David laughed before looking at his watch, "Dinner will be ready soon,
perhaps we should prepare for it.  Would you like me to help you get
ready?"

   She smiled, "Of course.  You can choose my gown if you like."

   David smiled.  "Oh, that's your choice; I'll just help to put it on you.
Do up the buttons."

   They both laughed, sharing their private joke.

   Elizabeth quickly pulled out one of her gowns, "Do you like this one?"

   He smiled, "Yes, of course."

   "That's the one it will be then.  Let me just refresh myself and then
I'll put it on."

   After washing herself, she slipped into the gown, "David, can you just
do up those small buttons on my back?" She giggled.

   "Certainly, my lady."

   Once she was ready, they departed from her cabin and made their way
along to the dining room.

   * * *

   As David escorted her back to her cabin after the meal, she felt sure
that someone was watching her.  She dismissed her thoughts, scolding
herself for being so silly.

   They entered her cabin and David smiled at her before he kissed her
passionately.  She responded to his touch, caressing his shoulders and
stroking his back.  Smiling, she stood in front of him, turned around and
asked him to undo the buttons which he had fastened earlier.  Afterwards,
she let the gown slip off her into a heap on the floor.

   David gazed at her.  Her sylph-like body aroused him beyond his wildest
expectations.  He quickly removed his clothes before he knelt down in front
of her and started to kiss her ankles.  He kissed her up to the top of her
legs, over her pants and up her body.  His lips touched hers again in
another passionate embrace.

   His fingers reached around her and undid the clasps on her bra. 
Massaging and stroking her back, before she felt him removing her pants. 
She moaned, her passion acknowledging his touch in her most intimate
places. She stroked and kissed his nipples, as her fingers ran along his
spine.  He felt her response and touched her lips lightly, before laying
her down on the bed.

   Her legs widened, before she wrapped one around his.  She felt his
manhood brushing against her lips.  Her moisture flowed when she felt him
stiffen, her muscles stretching to greet him.

   His fingers reached down and stroked her slowly, feeling her moisture
which he gathered on his fingers and spread along her.  His fingers gently
touched her clitoris sending spasms of erotic pleasure through her body.

   She moaned with pleasure, "Now!"

   David hearing her, started to enter her gently.  Her muscles tightened
around him as he did.  He waited, before touching her clitoris again.  She
relaxed and he pushed further inside her.  This time, she did not stiffen
but rose up to him, taking him fully.

   His passion took hold of him as he felt her deep rhythmic sensations;
her passion took over as she felt his responses.  Their bodies locked
together as their climaxes erupted together.

   As their passions subsided, they lay together in each others arms. 
David held her gently while she fell asleep.  He looked at her and saw the
smile on her lips.  He quietly left her cabin.

   The Secrets

   Elizabeth woke up late, still dreaming of the events from the day
before. She hugged herself tightly as she remembered their passionate
love-making.  She rose slowly as her thoughts turned to her mother.  `Oh
no, my mother.  What will she say if she finds out?  She has always
preached about keeping myself until my wedding night.' Disjointed thoughts
tumbled through her mind.  `Would my future husband be able to tell that
I'm not a virgin any more?  Is there any way they could find out?'

   Her thoughts returned to her night of passion.  `That was so good; I
don't care what mother thinks.  I enjoyed it, I have grown up.  I can now
live my life as I wish, hopefully with a man like David by my side."

   She suddenly noticed that the liner seemed to be moving slowly and left
her cabin to enquire why.  Her question was soon answered when she stepped
out onto the deck and saw the thick, dense fog surrounding it.

   Looking around, she noticed Richard standing at the end of corridor. 
She smiled and waved to him cheerfully.  To her surprise, he just nodded at
her and then turned and sprinted off around the corner.  She wondered, `Was
he watching me?  I always see him just lately.' Dismissing her thoughts as
absurd, she returned to her cabin.

   * * *

   Mid-morning, Elizabeth visited the library and looked through the
display of the latest magazines on the large table in the centre of the
room.  `The fog will probably clear later.  In the meantime, I'll catch up
with the news.' She selected one of the journals and went to sit down on
one of the comfortable chairs.  She read the latest society gossip, looked
at the fashion pages, and then studied the articles.

   "Have you got time for that drink now?" A voice enquired.  She looked up
to see Richard standing in front of her.  She nodded and rose from her
chair as he took her arm and led her out of the library.

   They walked along the deck and into the noisy cocktail lounge. 
Elizabeth still couldn't believe how busy the place was; it never seemed to
matter whether it was night or day.

   "What would you like to drink today?"

   "It's a bit early in the day for wine," she replied, "so I think I would
like a natural juice, orange would be just fine."

   "Are you sure?  Time here doesn't matter.  The days and nights all roll
into one.  Can't I tempt you into something stronger?"

   "No thank you.  I have to call my mother later and I will need to be
fully aware of her questioning."

   Richard smiled.  "My mother is also that way inclined."

   He called over an attendant, "An orange juice for the lady and a whisky
for myself."

   "Certainly Sir," the attendant replied.

   Richard lounged back in his chair and looked at Elizabeth.

   "How are you enjoying the cruise?"

   "It's wonderful.  I'm having a lovely time." She replied.

   The attendant served their drinks, "Will that be all, Sir?"

   Richard replied, "Yes," without taking his eyes off of Elizabeth.

   "Tell me about your family.  Your father is a Lord like mine isn't he?
You told me that when we first met."

   Elizabeth replied.  "Yes, I'm sorry, but I have not heard of your
father. Where does he come from?"

   "The east side of the country, Cambridge, near to the fens.  And you,
your good self?"

   "Oh, l live just outside London, in Windsor."

   Richard nodded before he carried on.

   "We have a large family residence in Grantchester, a few miles from the
centre of Cambridge.  My father is elderly now and I am the sole inheritor
of the estate."

   Elizabeth nodded as he continued.

   "The main hall in the residence is huge; I am looking forward to the
banquets that I will be hosting there soon."

   He continued to talk about himself as her thoughts started to wander. 
She decided he was a bore, talking incessantly about himself and his life.
`I should have followed my initial instincts,' she thought to herself.

   Elizabeth sipped her drink slowly, nodding politely at certain intervals
and agreeing with him, when he paused for breath.

   She finally drained her glass and made her excuses to leave.

   "Stay, have another," he urged her.

   She shook her head.  "Sorry, but duty calls, I must telephone my
mother."

   Elizabeth smiled politely.  "Thank you for the drink.  I'll see you
later."

   Richard replied, "Yes, I will look forward to it.  Good bye for now."

   * * *

   Elizabeth sat in her cabin and looked at the telephone.  Would it really
work?  She felt a long way from home and she didn't really believe that a
telephone could connect her with her parents over all those miles.  She had
promised her mother that she would call her at some point and today seemed
a good enough day as any, to make that call.  She checked her watch.  `Late
afternoon in England.  I'll make it and see if it works.'

   She lifted the receiver and after a few seconds was connected to one of
the ship's telephone operator's.

   "Good morning, which number do you require?"

   Elizabeth replied, "England, Windsor, 294, please."

   The operator replied, "One moment please."

   The phone made a number of clicks before it started to ring.  Shortly
afterwards, the ringing stopped and a voice answered, "Windsor 294, the
Saxonby residence.  How can I help you?"

   She replied, "Hello Mary, it's Elizabeth here.  May I speak to my mother
please, if she is available?"

   While Elizabeth was waiting for her mother to come to the phone, she
marvelled at this latest piece of technology.  She was hundreds of miles
away from home, in the middle of the sea, but still able to speak to her
parent's as if they were in the same room.

   "Hello, Elizabeth and how are you?  I trust you are behaving yourself."
The line crackled.

   Elizabeth smiled to herself before replying, "Of course, Mother.  I am
fine and yourself?"

   "Oh, life is much the same here.  Nothing unusual, except of course, we
are missing you.  Have you met any eligible suitors that I would approve of
yet?  Lady Goldsmith was asking me the same question earlier."

   Elizabeth was bemused by her questioning.  `Nothing ever changes, she
still wants me to settle down.'

   "Oh, Mother, is that all you ever think and talk about?"

   "I only want the best for you, Elizabeth.  You should know that."

   "Yes, Mother.  Is Father at home?"

   "He's away today, watching the horse racing, I think he said."

   "Oh, as usual then.  I had better go Mother, see you soon.  Give my
regards to my father please, when he returns."

   "Of course, Elizabeth, see you soon.  Take care."

   Elizabeth replaced the receiver and decided that she had got off lightly
from her questioning.  She knew that Richard would charm her mother totally
and gave an involuntary shudder.  She wasn't sure what she would think of
David, though.  He hadn't told her much about his background.  Not enough
to impress her mother anyway.

   * * *

   Later in the afternoon, as she sat on the Sun Deck waiting for David to
join her, a sudden commotion broke out.  Someone ran along the deck,
fiercely pursued by three of the liner's crew.  The man stumbled and fell.
One of the crew held the man down while another pulled his arms back and
handcuffed him around his wrists.  He was then pulled to his feet and led
away.  She wondered where they were taking him.

   At that moment, David appeared.  Her heart started to beat faster, as he
approached her.

   "What was that all about?" he asked.  She explained to him what she had
just seen.

   "Ah, it sounds like a stowaway was caught," he said.

   "Yes, where would they take him?  What would they do with him?"

   "There will be somewhere on the liner to put him.  Maybe they will make
him work for the rest of the journey and then when we reach America, he
will be handed over to the police."

   Elizabeth nodded.

   David pulled his deck chair close to hers before he settled down into
it.

   "How are you today, Elizabeth?  Feeling tired after yesterday?" He
grinned at her.

   She smiled at back at him.  "No.  Why?  Are you?"

   She laughed.

   He reached out with his fingers and gently stroked her hair before he
leant forward and kissed her lightly.

   "It's good to see you," he whispered in her ear.

   They continued to lounge in their deck chairs.

   "Are you hungry?" Would you like to go for something to eat?" David
asked.

   "It will be dinner in two hours." She replied.

   "Yes, but if we eat now, we can miss the dinner tonight and I can have
you all to myself." He smiled at her.

   Her heart started to beat wildly as she realised he wanted her, just as
much as she wanted him.

   * * *

   They entered the Verandah Grill and Elizabeth gasped in awe as she saw
the paintings which were displayed on the walls.  Pantomime and theatre
scenes framed with columns of silver and gold.

   "Oh, what beautiful pictures." She murmured to David.  He agreed with
her, "They are all painted by the same artist as well."

   They sat at a table by one of the walls and waited to be served.  Almost
immediately, the wine waiter came over with a selection of wines.  David
selected a deep red one which the waiter poured for them.  Elizabeth smiled
as she took a sip from her glass.  "Oh, that's really nice." The waiter
nodded to her before another waiter came over with the menu.

   Elizabeth chose a dish of chicken while David opted for the steak.  They
enjoyed their quiet dinner together, sharing intimacies before departing
for Elizabeth's cabin.

   * * *

   Once inside, David cupped her face with his hands and gently kissed her.
His fingers ran along her body sensually and provocatively as he started to
remove her clothes.  She unbuttoned his shirt, kissing his nipples in turn.
Her hands reached down to his waist before removing his trousers.

   She shivered with pleasure when he kissed her ankles.  His tongue licked
and stroked her up along her legs before showering them with small,
delicate kisses.  His mouth caressing as he tasted her inner thighs.  She
sighed with pleasure when she felt his hot breath on her womanhood, moaning
deeply when he kissed it.

   His tongue caressed her soft lips, probing gently as he licked along
them.  She was experiencing deep erotic sensations that she had never known
before.  Her inner muscles tightened and relaxed frantically as she felt
his tongue touch her more intimately that she had ever been touched before.

   He sucked her lips gently before his tongue tasted her opening.  She
groaned as she felt the heat rise up inside her.  She had never experienced
feelings like this before.  She felt his tongue deeper and deeper inside
her till she could stand it no more.  Her body seemed to freeze for an
instant before exploding into her deep orgasmic climax.

   "Ohhh, my love." She groaned breathlessly.

   He rolled her over and lay underneath her.  She felt his hard penis
pushing against her entrance.  She kissed him passionately before guiding
him in.  Her muscles pulsated around him, sending spasms and deep erotic
sensations along his length.

   He moaned as his thrusting became faster and harder.  He was no longer
in control of his own body as his desire and passion peaked.

   They recovered in each others arms before Elizabeth fell asleep.  David
gently detached himself from her before giving her a light kiss and
departing to his cabin.

   The Realisation

   Elizabeth woke early.  She rose from her bed singing to herself.  She
felt so good, `I'm in love.' She made her way to the bathroom where she
washed and dressed before going down to the restaurant for breakfast.

   As she entered the room, a steward rushed up to seat her.  "A gentleman
requests the pleasure of your company this morning; would you like to eat
with him?" She looked over to where the steward was pointing and saw David,
smiling at her.  "Of course," she said to the steward who promptly escorted
her to David's table.  He rose to greet her.

   "I'm pleased that you could join me."

   David smiled at her.  She returned his smile, as the waiter served her
with a juice and a selection of fruit.

   "Do you like to swim?"

   She thanked the steward before replying to David.

   "Yes," she laughed, "but in a pool, not in that great expanse of water
outside the liner."

   He grinned at her as he replied, "silly, I meant in the pool on board,
as well you know.  Would you like to join me when I go swimming after
breakfast then?"

   "Yes, please," Elizabeth replied.

   After finishing their breakfast, they went back to their cabins to
retrieve their swimming garments.  Elizabeth then put her robe on over her
costume, picked up a towel and a new dress before making her way down the
stairs to the swimming pool.  David was already waiting for her at the
entrance.  He took her arm as they entered the room.

   She stopped in the entrance and gazed in amazement at the
mother-of-pearl ceiling.  As she walked along the balcony and down the
steps to the pool, she paused again to look at the fine shimmer it emitted
throughout the room.

   "This liner is so beautiful, David."

   "I totally agree with you, Elizabeth.  This is becoming an amazing
voyage."

   They sought out the dressing boxes to leave their attire in before
returning to the water's edge.

   At the poolside, Elizabeth gracefully lowered herself into the water
while David jumped in off the side.  They swam together, splashed and
teased each other for a time, before another couple came down to the pool.

   "Hello.  Is the water warm?" the lady asked.

   "Yes," Elizabeth replied.  "It's wonderful."

   David and she swam for a few more lengths before getting out of the
pool.

   "Do you wish to use the Turkish bath now or do you just want to get
changed?" David asked her.

   Elizabeth smiled, "I think I will save that experience for another day.
I am feeling slightly exhausted now."

   They showered separately before entering their individual dressing boxes
to put on their more formal attire.

   * * *

   "Well, Elizabeth, that was a nice morning.  I am sorry but I must leave
you now.  I have a few things to arrange."

   Elizabeth smiled, "I am feeling tired anyway.  I think I would like a
short rest before I do anything else."

   David nodded, "I will see you later.  Take care for now.  Goodbye."

   She smiled as he kissed her lightly, "Goodbye.  You take care as well."

   Elizabeth went back to her cabin, slipped out of her dress and lay down
on her bed, resting her eyes.

   * * *

   She woke up with a start.  Someone was shouting, creating a commotion,
out in the corridor.  "Elizabeth.  Elizabeth, let me in." Her cabin door
handle rattled franticly.  She recognised Richard's voice immediately.

   She quickly pulled on her dressing gown and opened the door.

   "What's the matter, Richard?"

   She gasped in amazement at the sight of him.  His flushed face was
dripping with sweat.  She noticed his tired, bloodshot eyes just staring at
her.

   "Are you ill?" She enquired.

   "N... N... No, I just need to get out of the way for a while.  They
won't think of looking for me here," he stuttered.

   "Who, Richard?  Who is after you?"

   "Another guest.  I won too much of his money at a poker game last night.
Today, he wants it back."

   She smiled at him with sympathy.  "That's bad.  He shouldn't have
gambled with it if he can't afford to lose it."

   Suddenly Richard reached out and grasped her firmly.  He forced his
mouth down onto hers, kissing her fiercely.  His hands moved to the opening
of her gown and he slipped it off her shoulders, before attempting to tear
her brassiere off of her.  She panicked, unable to believe what he was
attempting to do.  Remembering her lessons, she quickly raised her knee and
thumped it against his testicles.  She felt his grip loosen.  Her hand rose
up and she slapped him around his face, before running to the door and out
into the corridor.

   "You bitch!" His voice rang out.

   In her hurry to escape from him, she clattered into a lady walking along
the hall with her escort.  Elizabeth mumbled her apologies before the
gentleman, noticing her dishevelled state, asked her, "What's the matter?
What has happened?  Are you all right?"

   She sobbed, "No.  He attacked me.  It could have been even worse."

   The gentleman removed his jacket which he passed to her.  Elizabeth,
suddenly realising she was naked apart from her torn brassiere and pants
accepted it gratefully.  She slipped it on.

   The lady put a protective arm around her and led her along the deck to
the protection of her own cabin, while the gentleman called over a steward
to accompany him into Elizabeth's.

   The lady sat her down before bringing her a small glass of brandy and a
blanket to wrap herself in.  Elizabeth slipped out of the jacket and
wrapped herself in the offered blanket.

   "Here, drink this; it will calm your nerves.  Allow me to introduce
myself, I'm Victoria."

   She gave Elizabeth a handkerchief to wipe away her tears.

   "Now, do you want to tell me what happened, or can I call on someone
else to comfort you?"

   Elizabeth accepted her kindness gratefully.

   "I'm Elizabeth.  This is my first voyage overseas without my parents."
She sniffed before continuing.  "Oh, can you find David for me?  He is a
good friend of mine."

   "David?  Do you know his surname?  There must be a few David's on
board."

   Elizabeth sighed, "No, I only know him as David.  He comes from England.
Kent, I seem to remember he said."

   She described him a bit more before Victoria clapped her hands to her
mouth, "I know who you mean, yes, he always introduces himself as David, to
stop the hangers-on.  I will send for him."

   She lifted the telephone receiver and spoke into it quietly before
replacing it back into its socket.

   "That's done.  Someone is looking for him.  He will be along shortly."

   At that moment Victoria's escort returned.  She introduced him to
Elizabeth.

   "Elizabeth, this is Robert, my husband."

   "I'm very pleased to meet you, Robert.  Thank you so much for helping me
in my hour of need."

   "They have him in custody in the hold.  It seems you had a lucky
escape," he said, looking at Elizabeth.  "It turns out he is a cad, always
on the lookout for the rich ladies, hoping to impress them and worm his way
into their affections.  All he wanted was your virtue and money.  He
thought that you were the answer to all of his problems."

   "He was always hanging around.  Whenever I was alone, he always seemed
to be watching me.  But at times, he would disappear rather quickly,"
Elizabeth replied.

   There was a knock at the door.  David rushed in.  His face etched with
worry.

   "Elizabeth, my darling, are you all right?"

   He took her into his arms and held her close.  Her heart leapt with the
knowledge that he cared about her.

   Robert waited until their embrace was over before continuing.

   "He is a stowaway, a fraud.  He hadn't paid for his ticket and was never
likely to get one but he still wanted to take a full part in life aboard.
The sheer audacity of the chap."

   "So, that was why he kept disappearing," murmured Elizabeth.  "He didn't
want to be discovered.  I have never heard of his Father, Lord Goldsworth,
either.  Have you?"

   "The name means nothing to me," David replied.  "Where is his home?"

   "Near Cambridge, he said."

   David nodded before he kissed her gently.  "Are you able to return to
your cabin, or would you like to come to mine?"

   She looked at him and smiled through her tears.  "Yours, please, I'm not
sure that I can go back to mine at present."

   David wanted to protect her.  He wanted her to feel safe and not suffer
any more anguish.

   "Tell me what you need from yours, and I will fetch it.  Stay with me
for the rest of the evening and tonight.  Let me comfort you."

   Victoria and Robert exchanged glances.  Victoria spoke, "Is that a good
idea?  I am sure that if we need to, we could find Elizabeth some
alternative accommodation."

   "No that's fine," Elizabeth smiled.  "David is a good friend; I know
that he will help me."

   David replied, "Yes, you can be sure that I will take good care of her.
Thank you both for your help."

   Elizabeth nodded at the couple, "Thank you for everything.  I have taken
up enough of your time.  Enjoy the rest of your cruise."

   They smiled at her before Victoria replied, "You know us, now.  If there
is anything you need, just let us know.  Take care."

   Elizabeth replied, "Thank you.  Goodbye for now."

   "Goodbye."

   David put a protective arm around her as he guided her out of the cabin
and towards his.

   * * *

   When David sat her down in one of his chairs, he felt her shiver.

   "Are you still cold?"

   "No, just realising how lucky I have been."

   "Would you like some tea or would you prefer something stronger?"

   "Tea would be good, thank you.  I had a brandy earlier."

   He returned with a cup of hot tea which she sipped gratefully.  She was
still shaken but felt safe with David for company.  She yawned.  Suddenly
she felt very tired.

   "Come on, Elizabeth, you have had a frightening time.  Why not get some
rest?"

   She nodded her head, "Perhaps you are right."

   "Let's get you rested."

   "Thank you."

   * * *

   David let her sleep in his bed while he comforted her, stroking her head
tenderly throughout the night.  When she suffered flashbacks, he was there,
caring for her.  Finally, when he saw her slip into a deep contented sleep,
he retired to his chair.

   * * *

   The awakening

   Elizabeth woke early the next morning.  She looked around at her
surroundings and was bewildered for a moment, before she suddenly recalled
the events of the day before.  Then she noticed David still sleeping in the
chair.  `My love.  Thank you so much for taking care of me.'

   She rose from his bed and kissed him lightly on his forehead.  He woke
immediately.

   "Elizabeth, how are you feeling?  I hope you slept well after your nasty
experience."

   She smiled.  "Better than I could have hoped for.  Thank you so much."

   "Good.  I'm pleased to hear it.  I have some news for you.  One of my
friends back in England has been checking out Richard's story.  I'm afraid
Robert was totally right about him.  He is a fraud.  There is no Lord
Goldsworth.  No house owned under that name in Grantchester either."

   Elizabeth gasped, "So, who is he then?"

   "Oh, just some low-life commoner that believes he can swindle anyone he
meets.  He was very interested in you, though.  He thought you were naïve
and he would be able to impress you with his stories."

   Elizabeth retorted, "I hope he's locked away and not able to do it again
for a long time."

   "Oh he will be, my love.  The police will be waiting for him in
Southampton on the return leg of this voyage.  Until then, he's locked in
the cells down below."

   She sighed with relief.

   "I took the liberty of entering your cabin last night and returned here
with some of your clothes." David said.  "I have laid them out for you in
the bathroom."

   "Thank you, David.  I am most grateful."

   Elizabeth entered his bathroom and washed herself before putting on one
of her lightweight summer dresses.

   * * *

   "Let's take a stroll along the deck before breakfast," David suggested.
"It's a nice, warm morning outside.  We must be nearing America."

   "That sounds good," replied Elizabeth, "then we'll have some breakfast
in the dining room.  We could look at the map on the wall and see how much
longer we will be able to enjoy each others company."

   She sighed to herself as she thought about their future together.  `I
hope that's not going to be the end of our liaison.  Surely we will
continue to remain good friends once the cruise is over.  Could I even dare
to dream of more than that?'

   David took her arm and escorted her out of his cabin.

   "What are your plans in New York?" he asked.

   "I'm staying with some friends of my parents in Staten Island for a few
days and will then be returning to England.  What about yours?"

   "I will be working in the city for the week," he replied, smiling at
her.

   Elizabeth was about to ask him if they could meet up for an evening when
a steward called out to them.

   "Sir David, Madam Elizabeth."

   He rushed up to them.

   "The Captain has heard about what happened, your unfortunate incident,
Madam.  He sends an invitation for both of you to dine at his table
tonight."

   Elizabeth looked at David and nodded her head.

   "Tell the Captain that we are very pleased to accept his kind
invitation," David replied.

   "I will let him know of your acceptance." The steward nodded before
departing.

   They carried on with their stroll along the Promenade deck when
Elizabeth noticed a poster outside the ballroom.  They wandered over to
read it.  `Tea Dance.  This afternoon at three o'clock.'

   "David, I would like to take part in that." She exclaimed, "I have never
been to one.  Have you?"

   "One or two in my past, but they are not something I frequent a lot."
David smiled at her.  "But here's your chance.  Elizabeth, would you give
me the pleasure of your company at the tea dance this afternoon?"

   She smiled back at him.  "Thank you, kind Sir; I accept your invitation
with delight."

   * * *

   After their late breakfast, they went back to Elizabeth's cabin to
choose her outfit for the dance that afternoon.  She didn't really want to
enter it, but she knew she must.  `I'm not going to run away from
everything in life that scares me,' she thought to herself.  Her body
slightly shook as she retrieved the key from her bag.  David, sensing her
nervousness, stepped in front of her and unlocked the door.  He entered her
cabin, checking that all was well, before encouraging her inside.

   "Come on, Elizabeth.  I thought you said you wanted to choose your
clothes for the dance."

   David settled back on her bed as she walked to her wardrobe.  She sorted
through the hangers before making up her mind.  She picked out a shorter
knee-length flared dress to wear.

   "What do you think of this one, David?"

   "Yes, I like it," he replied.

   "That's the one that I will wear then."

   Elizabeth went to kiss David, but as she did so, she suddenly froze and
shivered as memories came flooding back into her mind.  She stopped.  David
looked at her and sensed her fear.

   "Do you want to remain here or shall we return to my cabin?" he asked
her tenderly.

   "I'm fine.  I need to get over that irrational fear and I won't if I
keep running away from it."

   She kissed him slowly.  David responded carefully, kissing her gently
until he felt her body relax.  His arms encircled her body as he pulled her
closer.

   "Oh Elizabeth, my love.  Never in a million years would I hurt you.  I
hope you realise that by now."

   She smiled.  "I know that.  You have behaved like a gentleman from the
first time I met you."

   He settled her down on her bed before sitting beside her.

   "Any time I'm going too fast for you, just tell me and I'll stop."

   "That won't be necessary, David.  You are a totally different man from
that animal."

   David's fingers stroked her body tenderly as they lay together, relaxing
in each others arms before the dance later that day.

   * * *

   They entered the ballroom, arm in arm for the tea dance.  Stewards
surrounded the tables all carrying teapots.  As they sat down at one of the
empty tables, a steward came over and asked "Which type of tea would you
prefer, China, Indian or one of the more selective brews?"

   "China tea sounds good enough for me," she answered.

   "I would like some Indian please," David said.

   Elizabeth and David studied the menu.

   "David, would you like some sandwiches?"

   He smiled at her.  "Yes, beef ones, please."

   "Oh and some cucumber sandwiches as well, please," Elizabeth said to the
steward.

   "Certainly, Sir, madam."

   The steward bowed his head before departing to fetch their requests.

   After finishing their sandwiches and one of the small cakes which the
steward had bought on his return, Elizabeth watched as the dancers swirled
on the raised, parquet floor.  When the band started to play a rousing
rumba tune, David asked her, "Shall we dance?"

   Elizabeth smiled.  "Yes, please."

   David led her out onto the dance floor, and to Elizabeth's amazement,
danced perfectly, matching her steps with his.

   "How did you learn to dance like that?  I have never danced with anyone
that knows the moves like you do," she said in amazement.

   "My mother always said a man should dance properly, so she made me have
lessons for a few years."

   After a few more dances, David led her off the floor.

   "Did you enjoy that?" he asked her.

   "Yes, of course I did.  I'm still amazed at how well you dance; you
nearly put me to shame." She smiled at him.

   "Never, Elizabeth."

   They went back to David's cabin, resting together before the captain's
dinner.

   * * *

   She felt his body against hers as he pulled her closer to him.  As his
lips stroked against hers, before kissing her slowly, she felt her desire
for him rise in her body.  She reached out to him and started to unbutton
his shirt.  "Elizabeth, are you sure this is want you want?  I don't want
to hurt you."

   "I have never been surer of anything in my life, David."

   She stroked his chest with her fingertips, caressing his nipples, before
kissing them.  She removed his shirt completely before struggling with the
belt on his trousers.  She groaned with frustration at her clumsiness. 
David chuckled before helping her undo it.

   She removed his trousers, sliding them down his legs.  Her fingertips
tracing slowly back up along them.  Caressing his inner thighs, she reached
down and kissed him softly on his penis.

   Her tongue tasted him.  Her desire increased.  Her breaths got faster.
Her passion rose.  She groaned with pleasure.

   "Ohhh, David."

   * * *

   Afterwards, David looked at her and she knew then that he could sense
how happy she felt.

   "Elizabeth, my love, there is something I have to tell you about me. 
I'm not sure that you are going to like it, though."

   She wondered for a minute what awful tale he was going to tell her.  `Is
he going to admit to being a criminal, as well?  No, he couldn't be.' Then
she remembered that look from Victoria when she had described him.  `She
had known who he was.  Perhaps he was a celebrity of some sort.' She hadn't
seen many stage shows or films, so she wouldn't know.

   "Tell me, David, what can be so bad?"

   "Well, I am not quite whom I seem."

   "Come on, David.  Tell me." She gave an impatient sigh.

   "Err...  My parents are quite wealthy, the Duke and Duchess actually. 
Luckily for me, they are still quite young so I am not going to inherit the
title yet..."

   He paused, waiting for her reaction.

   Elizabeth stuttered.  "But... but, you're a normal guy.  You don't act
like a Marquess."

   David laughed.  "And how is a Marquess expected to act?"

   She giggled.  "I'm not sure.  I've not met that many."

   He smiled back at her, "Don't let it change anything, Elizabeth.  Please
keep treating me the same as you have been."

   "Of course, but you do realise that my mother is going to want to meet
you, when she finds out about you."

   "I think my mother will be having exactly the same thoughts." He
chuckled before kissing her softly.

   * * *

   The arrival

   Elizabeth entered the Dining Room apprehensively that evening.  It was
such an honour to be invited to the Captain's table and she hoped that she
wouldn't do anything silly like knocking her wine over because of her
nervousness.

   "Don't worry, you'll be fine.  Enjoy the occasion." David whispered to
her as he felt her body tremble slightly.

   She smiled at him before whispering back, "I hope so, David."

   The Captain saw her enter and strode over to her with his hand
outstretched.  He shook her hand before asking, "Madam, how are you?  I
hope that you are enjoying your trip and have recovered from your
unpleasant experience."

   "I have recovered very well," Elizabeth replied.  "David has made sure
of that." She looked at David and smiled at him.  David touched her hand
softly.  Her nervousness evaporated as she felt his touch.

   "Good," the Captain answered, nodding at both of them.  "It's a pleasure
to have you both dine at my table tonight.  It promises to be a fine meal."

   "Yes, we are looking forward to it." David replied.

   The gong sounded.

   "Ladies and Gentlemen.  Dinner is now served." A voice rang out
seemingly from nowhere.

   David took Elizabeth's hand and guided her to her place at the long
table at the end of the room.  As she sat down, the wine waiter was
hovering at her side.

   "Red or White wine, madam?"

   "Red, please." Elizabeth replied, smiling at him.  He filled her glass
deftly before moving on along the table.  She picked up the menu card from
the table and studied it before choosing her meal.

   "David, have you seen the menu card tonight?  The picture on the other
side is wonderful."

   David looked at it before smiling back at her.

   "It seems that you are feeling less awkward now.  Is that right?"

   "Yes.  Thank you." She smiled.  "It's been an amazing day."

   Elizabeth wondered about her mother and how she would react to her news.
Perhaps it would be better to say nothing to her when she phoned her the
next time.  Thoughts of her unbelievable journey continued to run through
her mind.

   The conversation around the table changed into a more general one as the
guests started to talk.

   "Sir, are you on target to get the record, the `Blue Riband' one?" She
heard someone ask the Captain.

   She whispered to David.  "What's the `Blue Riband' record?"

   "It's a honour for crossing the Atlantic in the fastest time."

   The Captain replied.  "No, not this time, the heavy fog we ran into
delayed us a bit." She heard her table companions give their commiserations
as she added hers.

   David's voice broke into her thoughts.  "So, Elizabeth.  Would you like
to visit my home and meet my parents?"

   She smiled at him happily before nodding her head.  They continued to
eat their meal joining in the conversations that were continuing around the
table.

   After the coffee, the Captain rose from the table and made his
farewells.

   Elizabeth looked at David as she stifled a yawn.  "I'm feeling rather
tired as well.  It has been a busy day today.  Would you mind awfully if we
went back to the cabin?"

   "Of course not," David replied, "mine or yours?"

   "Yours please, many of my belongings are there anyway."

   David rose from his chair before helping Elizabeth from hers.  Together
they bade their farewells to the other guests and left the room.

   * * *

   Elizabeth entered David's cabin and slipped off her shoes as she sat
down.  She felt tired after the long day she had just shared with David.  A
sudden thought entered her mind.  `Mmm that would be a relaxing end to
their busy day.'

   "David?  Would you like to share my shower?"

   She saw David smile as he followed her into the bathroom.

   She kissed him as she reached and unbuttoned his shirt, slowly caressing
his chest as she slipped it off him.  Her fingers reached down and
unbuttoned his trousers.  She smiled as they fell to the floor.

   After she removed her clothes, she reached into the shower and turned on
the water, adjusting the spray and the temperature before turning and
smiling at him again.

   She stepped into it, pulling David in behind her.  She noticed when he
reached for the lotion and felt his soft caresses when he gently rubbed it
into her skin.  She giggled when he scooped up some bubbles and tickled her
neck.  Then she sighed with pleasure as she felt his gentle touches
massaging her body.

   Her nipples started to tingle when his fingers bathed her breasts,
feeling his sensuous touch.  She felt them harden as he sprayed the water
on her to rinse them.

   She felt his hands stroking her.  His soft, gentle touches around her
waist, sending ripples of pleasure through her body.  His touch.  Her body.
Together.

   She moaned with pleasure.  David looked at her and kissed her
passionately before continuing his soapy massage.

   She groaned when he reached down and soaped her inner thighs.  His
fingers brushed against her inner lips sporadically.  Those touches sent
her further into her ecstasy as she felt the pulsations deeper inside her.

   Her breaths became faster.  She moaned.  She felt her body tighten. 
Faster and faster.  She groaned with pleasure as her body hit its climatic
peak.

   She fell back into David's arms.

   As her breathing slowly returned to normal, she turned to him and kissed
him passionately.  She looked at him with a twinkle in her eye,

   "Now it's your turn."

   She reached for the lotion and tipped some in the palm of her hand. 
Rubbing her palms together she spread it equally before reaching for
David's chest.  Her hands deftly massaged the lotion into his skin.  Her
soft tender touches as she reached his nipples before trailing her fingers
down along his body.

   Her fingers stroked against his thighs before she moved inside them. 
She made him spread his legs further so she could reach his testicles.  She
wanted him to feel the pleasures that he had just given her.  She felt his
twitches as she stroked along them up towards her ultimate goal.

   She kissed his body as she continued to massage him.  Her tongue licking
him further and lower along his body.  She kissed the tip of his member and
heard his sharp intake of breath.  Smiling to herself, she continued and
started to taste him.  Her tongue swirled around him before taking him
deeper into her mouth.  Feeling his hardness as her tongue quivered under
his shaft.

   She felt his muscles stiffening as her hands stroked his buttocks.  His
thrusts pushed him deeper into her mouth.  She tasted.  She wanted more. 
She sucked.

   She heard him yell.  All at once, she could taste his fluid.  She
swallowed the seemingly never-ending liquid that was flowing from him. 
Drinking him.  Tasting him like never before.

   Time stood still for a moment before she heard David's whisper.  "Come
on, I think its time for bed."

   He reached up and turned off the shower before lifting her into his arms
and carrying her to the bed.

   * * *

   She woke late the next morning.  David and she were still entwined in
each others arms.  She ran her fingers along his cheek before kissing him.
She heard him sigh as his arms tightened around her.

   "Are you awake?"

   She chuckled.  "Do you realise what the time is?  It appears that we
have overslept."

   David looked at her and smiled.

   "I don't suppose this is surprising, after all it was a very long day
yesterday.  I'm not sure what time it was when we finally made it to bed."

   "We need to get up, I would like to see the coast of America as we
approach it," she exclaimed excitedly.

   He smiled at her enthusiasm.

   She kissed him softly before rising from the bed and going into the
bathroom.

   David dressed and waited patiently for her to emerge before they went
onto the Promenade deck and into the cocktail lounge to watch the coast
approach.

   "I understand a new pier has been built to accommodate the arrival,"
David told her.

   "Oh that's good because she is an amazing liner.  It has been a
wonderful cruise."

   "I'm glad you have enjoyed it." David replied as he hugged her.

   "Oh look David, is that land over there?"

   David looked in the direction she was pointing.

   "Yes, I believe it is."

   * * *

   When the liner sailed into New York, an amazing experience was waiting
for them.  The newly built Pier 90 was crowded with people waving their
banners and streamers.  The hooters sounded.  People were cheering and
hugging each other.

   Elizabeth checked her watch.  The time was 4:20pm.  The journey had
taken five days and just over five hours.  In that time, Elizabeth had
found her lover for the rest of her days.  The suitor that her mother would
welcome with open arms.

   Elizabeth smiled.

   * * *

   (c)Esu Migabe 2005

   Foot Notes

   I hope you have enjoyed reading this story as much as I enjoyed writing
it.  As always, feedback is appreciated, since it is my only payment for my
work.  Please address comments to esu_migabe@hotmail.com

   I would also like to express my thanks to my editors who gave me the
enthusiasm to keep this story flowing.  Thank you Russell and Stasya for
all your kind words.

   This story is copyrighted by the author and as such may not be
published, posted or archived on any newsgroup, website, or server, other
than ASSM and ASSTR, without the EXPRESS PERMISSION of the author.  Any
reader may archive a copy of this story, provided the warnings and
copyright information is attached in full.

   *****************************************************************