Tales from an Unknown Corner

CHAPTER – 26: Friends and Lovers

When we arrived at Sarah’s place it was getting close to midnight. Since I didn’t know what the plans were, I took the shopping bags from the trunk. Perhaps, Dana and I would go to her hotel, as it was getting late and a chance encounter with Reina was minimal, but I knew we all needed to talk about certain things.

In the living room, Sarah took the bags and put them in a corner. After kicking her shoes off, she put on the heater, asking us if we’d like some wine. Dana followed Sarah to help with the glasses, and a few minutes later they returned. We sat on the couches, trying to relax, but there was a bit of tenseness. I wondered about what Dana and Sarah had talked about in the restaurant.

Sarah put on the stereo, and with a quick glance at Dana, she said, “I’d like to take a shower and change into something comfortable,” before she left the living room.

I turned my attention to Dana, and she responded with, “Yes, this was pre-arranged, Mitch. I needed to talk about something, and Sarah was kind enough to offer us some privacy.”

“I gathered as much.”

Taking a deep breath, Dana relaxed into the couch, then started. “I told you this afternoon, it would be better to have an open relationship. After meeting Sarah and getting to know her a little bit, I believe that’s the best course of action. However, there’s a little catch.”

“A little catch?”

“I can’t, in good conscious, let her be a second league player, if you get my drift,” she said giving me a significant look. “She’s too good for that, and it’s not fair.”

“I understand, Dana, but what about your feelings, what about us? Don’t misunderstand me, I agree with your point to a certain degree, but...”

“The thing is, Mitch, I haven’t put a claim on you, and I’m not planning to do so in the near future. We discussed that, right?”

I nodded.

“If I can’t put a claim on you, how can I say I want to share you with somebody? Sharing implies ownership, a claim.”

“That is... that is semantics, Dana,” I objected.

“Perhaps, but I want you to think about it seriously. You and I have something, an emotional bond. So, in terms of that bond, inviting Sarah into our relationship might be called sharing you, but I want to move away from that term; sharing and the implied claim. Do you understand?”

“Is that wise?”

“I don’t know, honey. I really don’t know. It just feels right. We both have to find out what we really feel about each other. I still have to figure out my feelings for you and for my boyfriend, as you have to about your women. We need time. But we can’t live in a limbo, without feelings, without love, without companionship.” With a sigh, she finished and looked in my eyes, waiting for a response.

“Dana, I understand. I know I’m of no use to any woman, without knowing what I want, who I want, why I want. You’re right on that. I... I didn’t want to turn your life upside down after we made love. And now, this! This might cause more problems. That’s why I’m reluctant.”

“We can run away from it, but that’s not the solution, Mitch. I know you might fall for Sarah, or choose Reina, but that was always in the cards. Maybe I will fall in love with my boyfriend. You can’t avoid it. We can’t avoid it. And, it’s not fair to people in our lives, like Sarah. We can’t expect them to participate and impose limits on how far they can participate.”

I knew she was right, especially on the last point; that’s why I didn’t want to open up the relationship. But then, we wouldn’t know what we felt for each other and for other people.

“Dana, what about your boyfriend? You need to talk to him also. This might sour your relationship with him.”

“I haven’t had a chance to talk to him. To tell the truth, I was trying to sort out my feelings for you and for him. The situation with Sarah made me think about quite a few things. I’m not going to postpone my talk with him.”

“Do you know how he will react?” I asked. I was concerned, because most men didn’t take kindly to things like this, as most women.

“I don’t know, but that’s not important. It’s not fair to him.”

“I understand, but—”

“I knew what I was getting myself into when I slept with you. It was my decision. You told me how it happened with Sarah, how it was your decision. You faced the consequences. It’s not different than what I did,” she replied.

“I hear what you’re saying, but I feel responsible for what’s happened between us, what’s happening between us. I didn’t want to—”

But, before I could finish what I wanted to say, she cut me off. “Mitch, we can’t evade some things. Sometimes life happens, you know.” Then, with a softer tone, she added, “Please keep something in mind, sweetie. If at any point in a relationship, you feel obligated to be with someone, don’t! It kills the love, and friendship, and everything. That applies to our relationship, as well. Do you understand what I’m saying?”

I had to ponder it a short time before I thought I understood what she was getting at.

“You’re talking about resentment? Little irritating things piling up on top of each other over time, poisoning the whole relationship, and turning the love into something ugly?”

She nodded. “That’s what happens. I lived it and I saw it happen to other people. I would hate to see what we have is turned into something ugly.”

“You gave this quite a bit of thought, didn’t you?”

“Yes. I was busy thinking about it since the talk we had in the mall. After meeting Sarah, I changed my mind. It’s different when you don’t know the person, you don’t put a face to the person. I realized I was treating her like an object, some toy for you to while away your time. I’m sorry.”

“Apology is not accepted,” I replied quickly. “Dana, you won’t do something like that. I understand you’re trying to make a point, but I don’t appreciate the way you’re doing it.”

With a sardonic, almost contrite smile, she replied, “Thank you, sweetie, I know what you mean, but... I guess I was being hard on myself. I felt guilty after meeting Sarah. Can you understand that?”

“That, I can. You’re really serious about Sarah, aren’t you?”

“I am. It’s not just because you want her or that she wants you, and we are still at the start of a relationship. We covered those things at the mall.” Giving me a resolute look, she pointedly said, “You also need to date women your age, Mitch.”

“WHAT!” I was stunned. I had never figured Dana for somebody who would be concerned about a bit of age difference. “You’re joking, right?” I asked, almost afraid of the answer I might be getting, but... I was determined to fight the issue. I just couldn’t believe she would...

“Mitch, this is no joke. I’m older than you.”

“You make it sound as if you’re robbing the cradle. It’s just a few years. That’s not a good enough reason. You don’t even look your age. What are you talking about?”

“I’m 32, you’re 25. That’s seven years. I know it’s not a lot, but it’s pretty significant and is the opposite of the norms. Usually it’s older man and younger girls.”

“As I said. It doesn’t count! Not from my point of view.”

“You’re going to be stubborn about this, aren’t you?” she asked with an amused, but serious tone.

“I know what I see when I look at you. Does that answer your question?” I replied, with a dead serious tone.

Hearing my tone, she gave a resigned sigh. Collecting herself, she replied, “I got it. You don’t have to beat it into my head,” smiling.

“Then don’t make me,” I came back, seriously, and there wasn’t much amusement in my voice... just a tiny, little bit to lighten the atmosphere.

For a while, she was quiet, thinking something, while sipping her wine.

“We talked a bit about you and about ourselves, at the restaurant,” she opened up. “She’s a lot of woman,” she said, making me smile. I remembered Kathy’s words. Seeing my reaction, she arched an eyebrow, questioning.

“Kathy said the same thing. She mentioned you might recognize it.”

“Your sister is really something.” Returning back to the subject, she asked, “You knew about Sarah?”

“I had my suspicions before Kathy mentioned it, but she was wrong about something. Kathy said Sarah doesn’t know how much a woman she is. I think she knows it. She just chooses not to,” I replied.

“I agree. Is that why you’re afraid of picking up something with her?”

I wasn’t surprised at all with her question. I would have been surprised if she hadn’t asked that particular question.

“Yes, it’s one of the reasons.”

“You have more?”

“You were right when you said it’s not fair to invite her and then put on limits. There’s another angle; my past. You’re the only one who knows about it, and you’re aware of my murky future. I’m already feeling guilty about moving into your life without making any commitments—No! Please let me finish—I know that you have a say in the matter. But, whether it’s your choice or not, it still makes me uncomfortable to move into your life the way I did, I do. I understand what you said before, what we discussed. I love you, Dana, and as you said, we can’t live in a limbo. I... I know I can’t continue as I did in the past, without companionship, or friendship... half dead to the world. But, I am what I am, and despite the rationale, and the understanding, I still can’t help feeling some guilt about what we have between us,” I said, and waited for her reaction. She looked like she was going to respond, perhaps to reassure me, but after a moment she gave a short nod, indicating I should continue.

I’m used to my old life style. I can return to it. Maybe that’s the best, but... but, I love you, Dana. You reminded me, remind me... there are better things in life. And I want to find out... I want to find them out with you.

I’m scared... Sometimes, I’m really scared what might happen to us. I... I just don’t want you to be around... if things don’t work out. I don’t want anybody around when... if... something happens. I can’t bear the thought of...

With an effort, I pulled my thoughts from the darker places they were wandering to. I tried to recall what I wanted to tell her, and concentrated on the subject at hand.

“Back to Sarah. You know about my past, but Sarah doesn’t. She figured out some things, but she doesn’t really know anything, and if we invite her into our relationship, she has to be made aware of the situation.”

“And you don’t want to do that?” she asked. “Why, Mitch? What do you have to hide from Sarah if she gets involved with us? Or for that matter, why do you keep it a secret from Kathy?”

“Because, Kathy knows or at least has seen part of my hurt. I shut her out of my life for a long time. She said so, and even though I didn’t agree with her, I know that’s what I did to a large extent. More or less with everybody. I had this emptiness, and I didn’t know what to do about it, so I filled it with anger. Anger at myself. You know about it.”

“I remember... blaming yourself for failing to help Reina,” she replied, and waited patiently for me to continue.

“Yes. The thing is, I didn’t want to cause more pain to people around me. So, I went away, until I could learn how to deal with things. I haven’t learned it, yet. I know, being away hurt people, but I think it was better than if they saw me the way I was day in and day out. It would have hurt them worse, and I wasn’t in any condition to be able to deal with that. Maybe I was being egotistical, maybe I was lost in self-pity. I just know the extra guilt would have destroyed me.”

Collecting my thoughts, I continued. “I don’t know what I feel for Reina. Well, I know I still carry something, I just don’t know what it is.” For a moment, I felt embarrassed to talk about Reina, admitting my confusion and mixed feelings, but when her expression didn’t change, and she gave a sympathetic, and understanding nod, I got over my momentary anxiety. Partly. “But, in the meantime, I put people through hell... sort of—”

She gently cut me off. “Mitch? Are you still afraid of... putting people through hell? Is that why you’re feeling guilty, about us or other people?”

I pondered how to answer her. Yes, I was scared of what might happen. To a large extent that was what frightened me. I wasn’t sure what would happen, but... I just didn’t have any answers; only questions... and more questions. I wanted answers... an answer... something... anything! Unfortunately, all I had was questions.

“I–I think so. I don’t know, Dana. I... I really don’t know. I know that I love you. It’s been a long time since I... I felt like this. I want you as a lover, as a friend, as a companion. But, things happened too quickly. It’s too much of a...”

“Change?” she asked softly, while I was searching for words.

I nodded. “I still remember what you said at the hotel, Dana. We all have to make our own decisions, and we can’t always protect the people we love. I understand that, and I’m trying to get used to the idea. It’s just—”

“Mitch! It’s all right. I mean it. We have the time, and we’ll talk about it. Don’t rush into it, OK? We have the time,” she said, giving me a soft look. “Let’s get back to Sarah and Kathy,” she prompted, directing us back to the subject.

“Kathy... well... she saw parts of what happened that summer, and how I changed. I think she blames Reina, from what little she had seen and figured out. Now, she probably thinks I’m getting over it, that the past is finally dead. I don’t know how she’ll react to what’s going on. I don’t know what I’m going to do. If I ever decide to talk with Reina, I don’t know how that will go, and how Kathy will react. And you know the other one. You warned me about it...”

“If Reina gets hurt, things go bad, you’ll destroy yourself with guilt, and you worry about Kathy and others who care about you,” she said softy.

“That sums it up. I used Kathy as an example, but add yourself and Sarah to the list.”

“I don’t have to add myself to the list, Mitch. Sarah might be another matter,” Dana responded.

“Why do you say that?”

“I don’t think you’ll destroy yourself, even if things go bad. When we talked, I thought that was a possibility. But, you opened your heart, Mitch. You can still love. I’ve felt it, and you know it. There are those that love you. You’ll survive, because you know how to love. That’s what I believe now,” she said with conviction.

“Probably. I... I don’t know. It’s sometimes difficult. Do you understand?”

“I know, honey, but you’re doing a better job of it. You may not believe that, but from outside it’s easier to see. Trust me on that, will you?” she said. After a pause, she continued. “I know Sarah and Kathy are very close. Do you think she will share your past with Kathy?”

I took a moment to think about what I’d come to know about Sarah.

“Hard to say. I think Sarah will keep it a secret. As much as Kathy is protective of Sarah, Sarah is the same way. She just doesn’t show it outwardly as much. I think... I think she enjoys the attention from Kathy... and perhaps, she feeds her protective instincts. I suspect Sarah isn’t doing that because... because she needs to, but... more to... to keep Kathy busy... I think. It’s... it’s really a strange relationship if you think about it,” I said, while going over my impressions of what I had seen of both girls, and the older memories when Sarah was a frequent visitor, almost a semi-permanent fixture in our home.

Dana let out a bright laugh, surprising me with her reaction. I wasn’t trying to be funny at all.

Seeing my befuddled expression, she said, “You’re very endearing, you know that?”

“Endearing? In what way?”

“I don’t know much about Kathy and Sarah, but from what I’ve seen of them I agree with your description. I was observing them carefully, and their interaction is subtle. When you gave your description the little things made sense. I’m pretty sure you’re correct. You’re good, Mitch. Getting better and better, but you don’t realize how good you are. That’s what’s endearing.”

“It must have been one of my rare occasions,” I retorted, with a wry grin.

“We’ll discuss that later,” Dana replied with a disapproving tone. “Based on what you said, I don’t see any reason why you shouldn’t talk with Sarah, about the past and Reina.”

“I... I don’t know exactly why. I just don’t want to burden people.”

“Mitch, if a loved one offers help, or wants to listen to your troubles, it’s not a burden. You don’t ask for help frequently, do you? Always the independent, the self sufficient one?”

I didn’t even think about it. I knew she was right. I had always been independent, relying on my own resources. More so in recent years.

Before I could respond, she added, “In hind sight, I’m surprised you accepted my help at the airport. Now, I can see how it could have turned out. You could have walked away.”

“I guess... I don’t know. What happened in the airport seems... so far away... light years away, now. I know I felt lost and directionless. For the first time in my life, I was lost. I think you saw or felt that.”

“Partly, yes. You don’t know it, but I watched you for at least ten minutes before deciding to approach you. I just waited and waited to see when you’ll make a move, or collapse, or... When that didn’t happen, I made up my mind. With what I had seen in the plane and later in the crew lounge, I knew something had happened, something bad. It wasn’t difficult to connect the dots. I don’t want to sound dramatic, but it was scary. I couldn’t see any sign of life, the way you were standing there.”

We were quite for a minute or so. Taking a sip from my glass, I turned the subject to Sarah. “What did you two talk about? There seems to be an agenda.”

“There isn’t an agenda. She wants you as a partner. I know that, but I don’t think she realizes why she wants you. She said it was lust, a physical attraction, and that you were a skilled bed partner... You’re right about one thing. She’s a lot of woman, and she might fall in love with you. Something’s holding her back. I’m not sure if she’s holding back because of our relationship, or because she wants to keep it casual.”

“You don’t have any problems with that?”

“I have, because I feel something for you. I just can’t hold it against her. This is the strangest thing I’ve ever felt. I just can’t. She mentioned borrowing you. We talked about it in those terms, but it just isn’t right.”

“Then why did you invite her in?”

“Sweetie, we’ve already discussed it.”

“Yes, we did, but you also said I don’t have to jump her bones. You talk as if I should.”

“Do I? Perhaps. It’s difficult to put it in words... Mitch, I’m not doing this because I feel I should, or because I feel obliged to, thinking it would make you happy, or because it’s the right way to do it. That will quickly sour our relationship.”

“I do hope that’s not the reason. Not after what you said about how relationships could be poisoned by things.”

“Good, so we agree on that. And we’re not in a committed relationship yet, Mitch. You also need the time... to adjust. We both know it. Please trust me, honey, I understand, OK? Otherwise I wouldn’t be here,” she said, gently. When I nodded for her to continue, she was quiet, as if trying to collect her thoughts. “At the mall, you admitted to having some... residual lust,” she said, with a soft smile. “Tell me honestly. Do you want her?”

That wasn’t an easy question. To a degree I wanted her, especially after that experience we had. But, I wanted to give her more than that casual, friendly fun. I just didn’t know why? I didn’t know what I felt for her, why I felt for her, except that I loved... I loved something in her.

When I didn’t answer, Dana asked, “It’s not such a difficult question, is it?”

“It is, Dana.”

“OK! Then answer this question. Do you want me?” she asked.

“Yes, I want you,” I replied without any hesitation.

“How much do you want me?”

“A lot.”

“Do you want Sarah?” she asked again.

“I... What are you trying to do?”

“I’m not trying to do anything. You’re able to answer one question, and not the other, why is that?” she asked.

“I don’t know, Dana. I know you’re trying to make a point or say something, but I don’t get it.”

With a sigh, she said, “You’ll get my point, if you give an answer, without thinking or worrying about what I think or feel about your answer. Now, can you please try to answer the question, without any reservations?”

“I... I want her,” I replied softly, with resignation, feeling guilty with my answer, but she deserved the truth.

She stood up and walked to me, then sitting down on the armrest of the couch, she leaned and kissed me. Looking in my eyes, she asked, “Why don’t you take her? She wants you to do just that.”

“It doesn’t feel right. I don’t want to use her. I want to give her more than that,” I replied, without even thinking about my answer.

“Like you did... with me?” she asked.

As she was asking that question, she gave such a warm smile that it almost felt like sun was shining on my face. I was surprised by her question and her smile, but then, I realized, she was making a point. I thought back to our first time. That was how it had started with Dana. It was supposed to be a happy making, a gift, but... it turned into something else.

When my eyes met hers, she leaned and kissed me affectionately. “I know, Mitch. You can’t help yourself. With some women, you’d want to give more. I guess that’s the way you are. I’m glad you’re like that.”

“I don’t even know why I feel like that. How can you?”

“Because, I felt it that morning. I tried to ignore it, but I couldn’t. I thought it was because of the hurt we both had had in our lives, that we had a sort of a common bond. I think, it wasn’t... only that. Call it intuition or a sense of... something... but I believe, it was more than that.”

“I see... And you still want me to be with her. Why is that?”

“Because, I think you have enough heart for both of us. That’s why I’m not jealous. And you made me think about something else. I want to learn how much of a heart I have,” she said pointedly.

“I think you have a big enough heart not to worry about something like that. What you’re trying to do is proof enough,” I replied.

“Thank you, honey,” she said. Then, she kissed me gently, before she continued. “So, you understand how much I’ve thought about this, and how my feelings have changed about the whole thing. Do we agree on inviting her into our relationship?”

I pulled her for a long kiss, before agreeing with her.

After the kiss, she sat up, and said, “We need to talk to her, because she doesn’t know much about what we discussed, and what I wanted to talk about with you. She hopes to borrow you. If she wants to keep it casual, that’s her choice, but I won’t hold either of you to that. I don’t think she or you have to hold yourselves back. Mitch, I don’t want to repeat it again, but I feel very strongly about this. Do you understand? I meant what I said. Instead of making our lives rich and happy, things will start to sour.”

“I understand, Dana. There are always doubts at the back of our minds about the motivations of people, and talking, communicating, is the only way to get past the doubts.”

“As long as we do that, we will solve the problems. You’re going to talk to her about Reina, aren’t you?”

With a sigh, I said, “I can’t keep that a secret from her. After what you said, it doesn’t make sense. On the other hand, it does for me. Maybe it’s my old self talking... I’m wondering why I talked with you about all that stuff, why I would burden you with it.”

“Mitch, I was just a stranger. We weren’t involved in any way. The involvement came later. I doubt you would have talked about it if we had known each other. You keep things to yourself, trying to protect the people you love. I understand that. But, it’s time to invite the people you love and care about, into your life and share, is it not?”

“I know you’re right about that. I just want to wait until I make a decision about Reina. If I decide not to go after her, or if I find out I’m not in love with her, there’s no need to dig up the past, and burden people, is there?”

“Honey, listen to yourself. You make a decision that affects people who love you or care about you, because you care about them. But, you don’t give a chance to them or allow them to make a decision. Does it remind you something?”

My face fell at that. I remembered all too well what she was referring to: the morning when I hurt her in the park. Here I was, repeating the same mistake!

Before I could say anything, she laughed softly. “You should see your face. You’re such a contradiction, at times... moving from one extreme to another. You were ready to condemn yourself, weren’t you?” she quipped.

Without waiting for an answer she sealed her lips to mine, making my head spin. After the kiss, she caressed my cheek, and said, “It’s difficult to break old habits. You will learn to find a balance. If you let us, we’ll help you. You know, that’s another side of you that I love. I know you feel strongly about certain things, and are passionate about them. It’s both good and bad. I don’t want that part of you ever change. But, you have to learn to make some allowances for yourself.”

“You mean, starting with you and Sarah?”

“Yes. Do you see, now? You need other people, friends, lovers... You need us. That’s another reason why I’m not worried about future, and why I’m comfortable inviting Sarah,” she said. After a momentary pause, she added, “Because, I also learn things about myself. I hope Sarah learns things about herself.”

Her last remark came off as a small surprise, as her tone was full of affection and concern; concern for Sarah.

“You really like her?” I asked.

She gave another laugh... tinted with something I couldn’t decipher...

“Yes. We wouldn’t be here, if I didn’t like her, and...”

“And?”

Putting on a serious but soft expression, she gazed into my eyes. She seemed to mull something her mind.

“She’s charming... very warm, kind, and loving. It’s too early to say anything, and I didn’t really want to get into this... but, she’s very attractive as well,” she said pointedly, keeping her eyes locked in mine.

I didn’t need to ask what she was talking about, because her look and words said it all.

When I didn’t respond, she asked. “Did I surprise you?”

“Yes, but... I take it you’re surprised with yourself?”

“I am. This might complicate things. That’s why I didn’t want to tell you. I’ve never... before... and I doubt Sarah has either. I’m not sure I want to... investigate some things. I just know I want to get to know her. Because of who she is, or who I believe she is.”

“I see.... I don’t think it’s a complication, Dana. I’m not judgmental about such things. You know that, don’t you?”

“I didn’t expect you to be, but it’s good to know.”

“Good. So we are clear on that issue. The other point is, it’s none of my business. It’s something for the two of you, and I don’t have problems with whatever you girls decide. I’m not telling you this because I want to see both of you in... No. This is something I can’t get into. That could cause a lot of problems... complicate things very much. You know, I love you very much, and Sarah is an old friend, but this is really something I can’t get into in any way. Whatever I might say or do could come across as something else. You know what I mean?”

In a way, that’s what I thought and believed in. I was surprised by Dana’s admission, and for a moment my mind went over the possibilities; especially knowing that Sarah might be open to experimentation with another woman. It might be better if they ended up in such a relationship, besides being good friends. But, it was none of my business, in the first place, and secondly, it was my dick talking and wanting to see them in that kind of a relationship. The reality of the matter was something I could hardly ignore. And, I didn’t want to be the cause of any problems in an already delicate relationship, which might get very complicated very quickly. I hoped they might find some happiness and love between them, which might help us all overcome the hurdles, and I knew that didn’t necessarily mean that they should be physically involved to find love, affection, and friendship between them.

She kissed me softly. “I understand, honey. Thank you. We’ll see what time brings. But now, I think it’s time I talk to Sarah.”

With that she stood up, asking me where her bedroom was located. While Dana headed to Sarah’s bedroom, I went to the kitchen to pick up the wine bottle from the fridge to get a refill for myself. While sipping my wine, I listened to the stereo, trying to relax, waiting for the girls to show up. After 20 minutes of waiting, I started to get worried. If they were having a girl to girl talk that could take some time, but I didn’t know what would take this long. I checked my watch and it was almost one o’clock. Another ten minutes passed, and I decided to check on the girls. Taking the wine bottle and my glass, I went to Sarah’s bedroom.

* * * * *

Knocking on the door, I waited for an answer. Dana opened the door and invited me in. Sarah was on the bed, dressed in her bathrobe, sipping her wine quietly, but I saw the dried tear marks. She tried a smile, but it was strained, and that worried me.

Trying to break the tension, I asked, “Have you ladies settled my fate, yet?”

“Umm... Well, yes. Sort of,” Dana answered. With a mischievous smile on her lips, she looked at Sarah. “We were trading some ideas about how to proceed,” she replied cryptically, arousing my curiosity with her tone, but Sarah was still being quiet.

I suspected she was setting me up, and hoping that it might help Sarah to relax, I went along with Dana.

“Trading ideas? Uh–oh! I’m scared to ask what those ideas are,” I replied with a mock fright on my face.

With a knowing grin, she retorted, “There are so many fascinating things we could do with you.”

Keeping to my role, I raised my glass with shaking hands to my lips and took a long sip, while giving Sarah a pleading look, urging her to come to my help. A faint smile formed on her lips, and she turned to Dana to hear what was coming next.

“For a while we were torn between hanging you by your thumbs, or another appendage. But, neither seemed to suit our needs, if you get what I mean,” she said. “We had just about settled on tying you to the bed and taking turns to tickle your vital organs with a feather, to see who could make you shoot the farthest. Winner gets you tonight, the looser gets whatever is left over in the morning.”

She smiled evilly at me, and turned to Sarah, with an expectant look.

Collecting herself, Sarah said, “Or we could tie a tourniquet around your cock, and take turns blowing your cock and licking your balls.” With a teasing smile, she concluded, “Until something gave way.”

I took a few steps back as if really scared, and looked at the door, making a move to escape the room, but Dana quickly side stepped, blocking my only way out. Then, she took a step towards me, and I stepped back, shaking with fear.

“Or we could wrap your prick in a steaming wash cloth... and tie an ice bag to your scrotum,” she said.

“And switch them back and forth,” Sarah chimed in with a chuckle, getting into the spirit.

For several minutes, they continued to outdo each other, coming up with wacky ideas to torture me, without giving me a chance to respond, while Sarah seemed to relax more and more. Eventually they seemed to run out of ideas, and I tried to break in.

“Do I get a vote?”

Dana snorted. “Of course, not! You’re in the High Court of the Sisterhood.”

Giving Sarah an empathic look, she pointedly said, “You might try appealing to Sister Sarah for leniency, and explain any extenuating circumstances, while I visit the bathroom.” She turned to leave the bedroom.

“You should talk some sense to your girlfriend, Mitch. She must have lost her mind,” Sarah objected.

Dana stopped and turned back to us. With an apologetic smile, she said, “I tried, Mitch, but I can’t get through. You know her better than I do.” Then, she left the room.

Sarah was quiet, and a bit surprised at Dana’s reaction. She gave me a confused look, and waited patiently. I filled her glass, and started to question her gently. As I suspected, Sarah wanted to have a casual relationship with me, and some of her concerns were what I expected them to be, such as her friendship with Kathy, and Kathy’s possible reaction. What really surprised me was, she thought that Dana was offering more to please me. Dana had explained we were not in a committed relationship, yet (something Sarah had suspected), but in Sarah’s eyes, this was a serious relationship; she was aware of the beginnings of something and the presence of a bond between Dana and I. She didn’t want to come between us and cause problems. It was hard to miss how strongly she felt about making a move for another woman’s man. Thus, she wanted to keep whatever relationship she might have with me casual to prevent possible problems. She genuinely liked Dana, and she didn’t want to hurt her. She also mentioned she wasn’t looking for a permanent relationship. She had told me that before, but I could sense there was more to it than what she was telling me. For the moment, though, I let it go.

I tried to explain my relationship with Dana, how we felt about it, and about each other. That of course, required me to tell her a little bit about my past. I didn’t have to go into details, but I made a point of having certain feelings for Reina. I explained I needed to figure out the nature of my feelings, and come to a decision about my past. Sarah knew that I had talked about my past with Dana, and it didn’t take her long to realize the implications. After all, she still remembered my reaction to her comments about Reina in the kitchen last night. Finally, she could see the true nature of my relationship with Dana, the uncertainties and the mutual understanding between us, and she realized Dana was sincere in her explanations, and reasons, and the invitation she extended to Sarah.

For several minutes, she sat quietly, at a loss for words, trying to come to terms with what I told her. She looked a bit overwhelmed if not astounded by what Dana was trying to do. I waited patiently, until she looked up at me.

“She’s...” she started, but she was unable to finish what she wanted to say.

“Yes, she is,” I said, with an understanding nod.

I pulled her into my arms, and she came willingly, without hesitation.

“So, you understand, now?” I asked softly, kissing the top of her head.

“Yes, I do,” she replied, in a near whisper.

I tightened my arms around her, and gently ran my hand on her back, trying to comfort her. After a short while, she managed to pull herself together, and looked up. Leaning in, I kissed her, and she gave herself to the kiss, and seemed to let go of her apprehension.

After the kiss, she said, “Let’s find her.”

Releasing her, I stood up, and helped her to her feet, and together we went to the living room. Dana was sitting on the big couch, listening to music. I took a seat in an armchair, and Sarah sat next to Dana, facing her. Putting her glass on the table, Dana turned on the couch to sit facing Sarah.

“I owe you an apology. I should have known you were sincere,” Sarah said.

With a reassuring smile, Dana replied, “You don’t need to apologize, Sarah. I know you were trying to prevent problems. I can’t hold that against you.”

“Thank you,” Sarah replied, with a faint smile. “I still feel uncomfortable with the arrangement though. And I suspect you know why?”

Taking Sarah’s hands in hers, Dana gave an affectionate smile. “Honey, I know. He doesn’t make it easy, but that’s him. I understand that. That’s why I love him.”

Sarah was quiet, thinking over what Dana said. “I was hoping to borrow him from time to time. Just a friendly get together. I didn’t expect this and I’ve never been in this situation,” she said.

“Sarah, I like you. Very much. I haven’t been in this situation, either. If you were in love with him, would you be jealous of what I had with Mitch?”

“I don’t know. I’m not jealous of you. You’re kind, generous and very understanding. But then, I’m not in love with him.”

“But you feel something for him, don’t you? He’s not just a friend or a lover?”

“Umm... kind of. I mean... a bit of an attachment. But, I don’t want it to progress further. I wouldn’t want to compete with you or hurt you, Dana. That’s not who I am,” Sarah said, with a very serious tone, but there was also an almost pleading note, as if she was trying to make Dana understand something, perhaps how strongly she felt about not wanting to come between the two of us.

“I understand, sweetie. I really do, but you don’t have to hold back your feelings or wants. I think he can give us both what we want. He certainly feels that way.”

“I know, but that scares me. In the short time we’ve met, I’ve come to like you, more and more.”

“The feeling is mutual, Sarah.”

Releasing Sarah’s hands, Dana moved them to cup Sarah’s face, giving her a soft look. When Sarah didn’t tense up, Dana leaned in to give her a gentle, friendly kiss on her lips, before she pulled back and smiled. At first Sarah was surprised, dazed, but then her face lit up with a smile. Taking hold of Dana’s hand, she kissed her palm before gathering her in an embrace, hugging her.

When they broke up, Sarah was looking at Dana with great warmth. “You’re amazing, Dana, and a beautiful woman.”

“You are, too, honey. I’m glad I met you.”

Cupping Dana’s face, Sarah returned Dana’s kiss. When the kiss was over, they reached for their glasses and toasted each other, before taking a sip. When they sat back, they remembered they weren’t alone. I raised my glass to salute them, offering a toast for friendship and love, to which the girls joined. We sipped our wine in comfortable silence, listening to the music, thinking about the new relationship we have embarked upon. Dana broke the silence, reminding us it was getting late. I checked my watch to see it was past one o’clock. Both of the girls had to wake up early, especially Sarah, since she had an early morning class.

Putting her glass on the table Dana stood up. “Sarah, could you call a cab for me?”

Her question surprised both Sarah and me, because she didn’t use ‘us’ instead of ‘me’. Sarah and I stood up as well. I was pondering Dana’s words.

Seeing the questioning look from Sarah, Dana replied, “It’s a bit complicated with my colleagues at the hotel.”

Even though the risk of a chance encounter with Reina was small, she wasn’t going to take it. I couldn’t let her assume the position of somebody trying to hide something. It was my problem, and what’s more, I didn’t want to plan my life around Reina, or have the people I cared about plan their lives around her.

“I’m sorry, Dana, but I can’t allow you the role you’re assigning yourself,” I said to Dana. Turning to Sarah, I continued with, “The girl I told you about is Dana’s colleague, and she’s staying at the hotel. As you can guess, she’s trying to protect me, and possible complications in the future.”

“That’s only part of the truth. I don’t want to hurt her. After what you told me about her, I can’t do that to her. I work with her,” Dana objected.

“I apologize, Dana. I didn’t mean it like that. I stand corrected.”

Sarah got into the conversation. “I see... But that’s not really a problem. Dana, I thought we would all be together. You and Mitch could take the big couch,” she said, pointing to it. “It folds open to a big bed that I use when I have guests.”

“Thank you, dear, but that’s not necessary. I’m pretty tired. This had been a long day and an emotional night,” Dana replied.

“Dana, please. I know you missed him. We may not know each other well, but after all we talked about, I hope you understand that I can’t let you go to the hotel by yourself. Not when your man is here.”

When Dana looked like she was going to object, Sarah continued. “I know Mitch missed you as well. I would really like you two stay here. I hope you won’t take offense, but to put it bluntly, he wore me out.” She flashed an embarrassed smile.

Sarah’s candid talk lightened the atmosphere considerably. “He did, eh?” Laughing, she responded with, “You aren’t alone, Sarah. He did the same to me. I guess it’s official, he’s a stud.”

“That he is. So, you’re staying?” she asked.

“Yes, honey. Since we are being frank, can I make a suggestion?”

“Of course.”

“Why don’t we all get a good night’s sleep? I was serious when I said I was tired. We can all sleep in your bed. I think there’s enough room for all of us. As you probably discovered, he’s very nice to cuddle with. I wouldn’t think of depriving you from a good cuddle.”

Sarah’s mouth dropped open, surprised at Dana’s suggestion, and she wasn’t the only one.

“I hope my suggestion wasn’t offensive,” Dana said, when Sarah didn’t respond.

“Oh, no. I... I wasn’t expecting something like that,” Sarah answered. Then she took a quick step to hug Dana, saying, “It’s a great idea, Dana. I don’t know what to say, except thank you.”

Returning her hug, Dana ran her fingers through Sarah’s hair. “Nothing to thank me for, honey. We should thank Mitch, since he’s going to provide the cuddle service,” she quipped.

Laughing, Sarah retorted, “I don’t think, he’ll complain.”

The girls broke their embrace and turned to me, waiting for my reaction.

“If I said, ‘no,’ I don’t think I would make it out alive, would I?” I teased them.

“You’re half way to your grave, Buster. If you keep that attitude,” Sarah came back.

“And I wouldn’t protect you, Mitch,” Dana followed in Sarah’s footsteps.

“I apologize. I honestly do. I don’t know what I did to deserve either of you, but both of you?” I said, with a sincere tone, as I stepped in to gather both girls in my arms.

“Thank you Dana, for your love and what you’ve shared with me,” I said to her, and kissed her.

“Thank you, dear Sarah, for your friendship and everything else you’ve shared with me,” I said to her, before kissing her.

Releasing them from my embrace I took a look at both. For a short moment, it felt like I was having a dream. I was having difficulty to comprehend what had just happened. I guess, the girls must have been feeling something similar, but they were more collected than me. Finally, though, I saw both of them smiling at me, and then it sunk in, that I had two beautiful, loving women, who have decided to share themselves with me, making me a part of their lives. Even though each of us was aware the future was very uncertain, somehow we felt that we had something here, and now. Sarah turned to Dana, and hugged her. Pulling back, she gazed at her, before she inched her face to hers. When Dana didn’t pull back she kissed her on the lips. A soft, gentle kiss, expressing her feelings. After they broke the kiss, their eyes locked for a several seconds. Cupping Sarah’s face in her hands, Dana returned the gesture, and kissed Sarah. However, it was a long, passionate, sensual kiss, and I wondered if Dana was giving one of her soul kisses. As they continued, I knew it was.

Their lips parted, but both had their eyes closed, their faces inches apart, and from the looks of it, they were shaken by the experience, small tremors running through their bodies. They had a moment of embarrassment when they opened their eyes, and looked at each other, but it quickly gave way to mutual smiles. As if on cue they both moved to hug each other, again. Then, in unison, they moved to hook their arms to mine, and we all walked to Sarah’s bedroom.

When I suggested a quick shower, Sarah took out two big towels giving them to Dana and me, and she went to the bathroom to do her ablutions. A few minutes later, she returned. By then, I had a towel wrapped around me, and Dana was just taking off her panties. Sarah took off her bathrobe, revealing her naked body; I suspect to put Dana at ease.

“I... I like to sleep in the nude,” she said, waiting for Dana to respond.

“I think we all prefer to sleep in the nude, honey,” Dana replied with a reassuring smile.

The girls were glancing at each other, in appreciation, and I left for the bathroom to give them some privacy. Dana arrived when I was in the shower, and after she brushed her teeth, she joined me. Seeing her naked in the shower, I realized how much I have missed her, and gathered her in my arms. With her tits pressed and squashed against my chest, I was starting to get hard. Dana gave a quizzical look, before she disengaged from my arms. Then she knelt down to take my cock in her hand, but I stopped her, pulling her up.

“I just missed you, Dana. I want to hold you in my arms. I’m... I’m kinda tired, and this has been...”

“Emotional... eventful... night?” she finished for me.

I nodded, and she smiled in understanding.

“Do you want to?” I asked.

She shook her head in the negative, before saying, “I’m exhausted. I’ve missed you, too, but I’m not in any shape to do anything.”

Then, she moved in to my arms, and wrapped her arms around my back, and we held each other, enjoying the feel of our bodies against each other, finding some comfort from the emotional roller coaster we had experienced. For a few minutes, we kissed and caressed each other, before we got to washing each other. After drying ourselves, we returned to the bedroom.

Sarah was sitting up, with a pillow at her back, and the sheet and blankets on her stomach, her tits on display. Seeing me semi-hard, she raised an eyebrow, but then she saw how tired Dana was looking, and gave an understanding smile. Dana stopped at Sarah’s side and leaned to kiss her, while gently cupping one of Sarah’s tits, as Sarah did the same to her.

“If you want him don’t hesitate, honey,” Dana told her after the kiss.

“I’m worn out. I set the alarm a bit early. Maybe in the morning, if you don’t mind?” Sarah replied.

“Oh, a morning quickie. Perfect idea, dear,” Dana replied. “Best way to start the day.”

Then she walked to the other side of the bed and got in. I kissed Sarah as well, cupping her breast, and got in the bed, between the two girls. After giving Dana a short kiss, I laid on my back, and Dana snuggled to my side. Sarah got up to put the night light in the wall socket, and turned off the bedside lamp. Getting into the bed, she snuggled to my other side. It took me a while to fall asleep, but eventually I felt the day’s toll, and succumbed to the effects of the emotional roller coaster ride, the alcohol, and the comforting embrace of the two beautiful girls that had my body trapped between them.

* * * * *