Author's Notes:

'A Shepherd Afield' is a continuation of 'A Shepherd in France' which continued the story of 'The Shepherd of Ashburn Court'. Minimal effort is made in this tale to explain the backstory so please read the other stories first.

All characters engaging in sexual relationships or activities are 18 years old or older.

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Chapter 17

It was Sunday morning, just the day after he'd returned from beautiful Costa Rica but Ben's vacation already felt like a lifetime ago. The weather at home was cold and wet so staying inside was the game plan today.

News of his court summons had reached his circle of friends and they'd come to see him.

Trish and Rochelle were there because they'd been with him when he received the summons. Trish had called Hannah the night before to fill her in so she'd come over. Rochelle had spoken with Catherine but she had an appointment she couldn't break in the morning so would be coming over later.

Ben sat on his living room couch fidgeting with his finger brace as he waited for Hannah to finish reading. Tina was quietly cuddled up against his right side and Lucy was cuddled up against his left, also silent. Truthfully it was only their calm confidence in him that was keeping his nerves from completely fraying. He was badly shaken by the reappearance of Wendy in his life after all this time.

Trish was fuming as she paced behind the couch. She'd had her moment to vent her outrage and was probably just recharging her batteries for another go.

Hannah was sitting across from Ben reading the document he'd been served at the airport the day before. Her expression kept jumping between anger and incredulity. Finally she looked up at Ben.

"The woman is certifiable if she thinks this will fly in a court of law! She can file for the divorce but she has no grounds to go after your money! She abandoned you! It's been, what, ten years?"

"Twelve," Rochelle corrected.

"Fucking FUCK! Twelve fucking years she's been gone and NOW she's back?!?" Trish exploded.

"Trish!" Ben called out to get her to calm down. He turned to the beauty tucked under his left arm and gave her a quick kiss on the temple. "Lucy, could I ask you to make us some tea please? And maybe a plate of those cookies Karen made?" he asked and she slipped off the couch with a smile to go into the kitchen. He caught Tina fidgeting as she wanted to help but he just gave her a hug and a kiss on the temple as well. "Stay put!" he growled quietly for only her ears and felt her settle in.

His daughters Karen and Penny were sitting on the love seat watching the drama unfold. They had plans to have lunch at his place with the McKellan twins then they were all going bowling afterwards but for now they listened. The night before Ben had filled them in on who Wendy was and what was happening. They were both a little worried it would disrupt their new life with Ben and their new family but he assured them everything would be ok.

"Trish, please come here. Please calm down." He pulled her down to sit in Lucy's spot and gave her a squeeze. He felt her trembling settle a little and she let a breath out in a huff. Then he turned back to Hannah.

"I don't know how she is going to justify it. I did some research and her lawyer's name pops up all over the Internet. He's a real dirtbag, known for his sleazy tactics, but he seems to be a successful lawyer," he sighed. He'd immediately contacted his lawyer the night before and sent him a scan of the document.

"The court date is a month away. Is there any way for you to reach out to Wendy directly to see if this can be resolved without the lawyers," Rochelle asked.

"Ben needs to let his lawyer deal with this and stay as far away from that bitch as he can!" Trish piped up.

"What did Gabriella say?" Hannah asked.

Ben looked at her, pleased to hear Hannah speaking of Gabriella in a positive way. "I haven't told her."

"WHAT?" gasped four women, including Tina this time. Penny and Karen just watched, wide eyed.

"She has enough on her plate right now. I don't want her worrying about me," he grumbled.

"Ben, more than any of us, she was there for you after Wendy abandoned you. She deserves to know!" Hannah blurted.

Lucy returned with a tray of mugs, a tea service, and the plate of cookies. She set it down on the coffee table and poured for everyone.

Once everyone had a mug in their hands, sipping their tea, and a cookie Ben addressed them.

"I'm going to be flying to Australia to deliver a prototype. I was going to stop in Milan on the way there to spend a couple of days with Gabriella. I thought I'd tell her then."

"Ben, you should tell her now," Tina said gently.

"But she's trying so hard to save that company! I don't want to distract her with this news. It's a month away!" Ben exclaimed.

Tina just looked up at him with her lovely brown eyes and Ben crumbled. "OK, fine. I'll call her later." Tina continued to look into his eyes. Ben sighed and Trish snorted in amusement as she looked around Ben at Tina.

He sighed. "Lucy, would you please bring me my ce-" She was already standing before him with his cell phone held out to him.

Trish barked a laugh and he had to grin as he took the phone from her hand.

He dialed Gabriella's number. It rang four times before she picked up.

"Ben!" Her voice was so full of happiness he glanced at the others and they waited.

"Hi Gabriella! How's it going?"

"Ahhh, so busy! We're back on track though! Thanks to you! Your name has leant the company a great deal of respect with our suppliers!" she gushed.

"My name? Never mind, we can talk about that when I visit you," he said and heard her squeal in excitement. He grinned. "Listen, can I put you on hands free? I have a few people here with me. Tina, Lucy, Karen, Penny, Trish, Rochelle, and Hannah."

"What's happened? Where's Catherine?" she said, immediately picking up his tension.

"Catherine will be over later. Hands free?"

"Sure."

"OK, you're on the speaker.

"Ben, what's happened," she asked, serious once more.

"When Trish, Rochelle and I arrived at the airport yesterday I was served with a court summons." Ben took a breath and let it out. "Wendy is suing me for divorce and she wants ten million in the settlement."

"Wendy?!? Oh my god, Ben! Are you ok?" Gabriella gasped.

His heart immediately ached wishing she was here for him to take into his arms. The concern in her voice choked him up. He cleared his throat which was threatening to close up.

"Yes, I'm doing ok," he finally managed, voice rough with emotion.

"I- I can be on a plane-" she began.

"NO! No, it's fine! The case won't be for a month. There's plenty of time. You have important things to do there. I will come visit, we can talk then. I just wanted to let you know."

Hannah leaned forward. She'd noted Gabriella's immediate worry about Ben's peace of mind and the last vestige of her unease with Gabriella fell away.

"Gabriella? This is Hannah."

"Hi Hannah!"

"I wanted to let you know that I've read the court summons and there is no legal ground to anything in it aside from the dissolution of the marriage. I think that is something they both want." She looked at Ben and he nodded. "I think it would be better to leave this to the lawyers and avoid any contact prior to the actual court date. What do you think?"

"I completely agree. Thank you for looking into this Hannah! Ben, please step back from this and let the lawyers deal with it. There is a danger she or her lawyer will try to manipulate you emotionally."

"Understood. Thanks Gabriella," Ben said quietly, still wishing she was here to hold.

There were some muffled voices on the cell then Gabriella came back. "Sorry, I have to get back to the meeting. Ben, as soon as you know please let me know when you'll be visiting. I love you!"

"I love you too Gabriella. Bye."

He disconnected the call and forced a smile onto his face and looked around at his guests.

He saw they weren't buying his smile so he let it drop.

"If you miss her that much you should tell her," Hannah said.

"And risk having her give up her dream? No. I won't do that. I'll visit her and that's that!" He scowled and got reluctant nods from the others.

Hannah glanced at her watch then stood and nodded to Trish. "We have to go if we are going to make it to that movie with our boys."

Trish reached up and turned Ben's face in her direction. She tilted her face up and he kissed her. After, she pushed herself up to her feet and joined Hannah. Ben got up and followed them to the front door as Rochelle joined them.

"I have to go too. I have some arrangements to make for setting up my new restaurant in California," she said with a look of excitement on her face. Ben gave her a hug and she slipped on her jacket and slipped out the door first.

Ben hugged Trish next and as she put on her coat he pulled Hannah against him for a warm hug. He felt her body relax against his and she was blushing with a smile as she pulled on her coat. "When will we be able to have a group therapy session? Beth is keen on participating as well."

"Tuesday night is open. Wednesday night I have to pick up Rain Palomo. Depending on what the milling shop tells me on Monday I might be on my way to Europe on Thursday or Friday," he explained.

"Let's say Tuesday then! 8PM?" Hannah said with a smile. "I'll let Beth know." Ben nodded and saw the two ladies out the door. As they departed he saw the McKellan twins coming up his steps so he stood back and let them in.

Identical brilliant smiles beamed at him from the two gorgeous redheads. Today they were wearing their hair loose and it cascaded down to mid-back. They slipped their coats off and hung them on the hooks by the front door. They turned to face him.

"Good afternoon Ben!"

"Lisa. Lori. Dazzlingly beautiful as ever," he said with a smile and they glowed under his praise.

"It's good you're here. I have a friend coming to live with Karen and Penny in the house next to yours. Her name is Rain Palomo and she's from California. She's going to need warm clothes to see her through our winter. I don't think she's even seen snow so she won't know how to dress for it. Are you two available this week to take her shopping for a winter wardrobe?"

Lori moved closer until she was gently resting her tits against his chest. "Are you going to come shopping with us?"

Ben felt himself react to the beauty's soft body.

"Uh, no. Not this time. I'll get you a preloaded debit card to pay for the purchases," he said and swallowed as Lisa joined her sister to rub her tits against him as well.

"Will you have time for us this week, Ben?" she asked looking up at him through her long lashes.

His body wanted them RIGHT NOW but he knew that couldn't happen. The only potentially open night was tomorrow.

"We could go dancing again." Lisa suggested.

"At Club Eon! They're connected to the Eon hotel. We could get a room for afterwards." Lori sucked in a breath as she felt his cock which was pressing against her thigh surge at the idea.

"Tomorrow night," he growled deep in his chest and their eyes widened with excitement.

He slid his fingers into their thick, soft hair and took a grip as he pressed his body against theirs. It was a little awkward with the splint on one finger but he made due. He felt them begin to tremble so he kissed Lori, his mouth demanding on hers and she moaned into his kiss. He pulled back from her and her eyes were closed as she tried to catch her breath. He kissed Lisa, aggressively sucking on her bold tongue. Her face was flushed when he pulled back.

He ran his fingers through their hair to loosen the waves he'd gripped and they leaned into the caress.

"Tomorrow night," he said again, voice rough with need. They nodded to him and bit their lips. He gestured for them to precede him into the living room and turned to spot four sets of eyes peeking at them from the doorway. Three sets ducked back but Tina was on crutches so she couldn't move as quickly.

Ben's face flushed in embarrassment and frustration. He moved towards the awkwardly moving woman, scooped her up in his arms and let the crutches fall with a loud thump. As the others watched he carried her away down the hallway to the bedroom and she watched him with wide, shining eyes. Closing the door behind them he gently laid her down on the bed and looked down at her with heat in his eyes. She burst into a grin as he began to strip for her.

He moved slowly and deliberately, sliding his clothes off to expose his body to her gradually as he moved around the bed. He disguised picking up a packet of lube from his end table with a dramatic yanking down of his shirt off of his shoulders. She was really enjoying the show, watching him excitedly, as he walked back around the bed to her while undoing his pants. When he shimmied them down his hips she sighed quietly as he was tenting his boxers. He inched the boxers down while she bit her lip. Finally he was standing naked before her and she reached for him.

Ben moved closer to the bed and she reached out to hold his thick shaft. A tremor ran through her frame as she wrapped her small hand around his throbbing cock.

"Oh Ben, it is so hot and so hard."

He quickly unbuttoned her top and exposed her tits. He leaned down to kiss her and gently squeezed her tits in his hands.

"Mmmm!" Tina moaned.

He unzipped her skirt and gently tugged it down careful of her cast. Then he slipped her panties down as well. She was glistening with wetness and he grinned at her shy embarrassment. He kissed his way randomly along the insides of both of her thighs making her gasp and coo until he boldly ran his tongue over her wet pussy.

"Ben! Oh Ben!" she cried out.

He fucked her with his tongue until she was dripping wet. He quickly opened the lube packet and spread the slick stuff over the top of his hard cock and rubbed it over the top few inches. He wouldn't be going very deep as it was uncomfortable for Tina at the time. He carefully lifted Tina's legs and pulled her down to the bottom of the bed. He rested her legs against his chest as he slowly pushed the head of his cock against her wet lips.

When the head forced its way inside her Tina's eyes rolled back and her mouth dropped open. It felt pretty awesome to Ben as well.

He began to slowly pump himself in and out of her body as he ran his thumb in circles over her clit. She was so incredibly tight in this position he didn't think he would last much longer.

Tina was whispering to herself in Korean and he thought that was so sweet. He increased his speed but refrained from going too deep. It felt like an incredible tease for him but he was getting close.

"Ben! I- I am going to cum!" she gasped.

He looked down at her in surprise. She was normally so quiet when they made love. He wondered at the change but not for long as her orgasm struck. Her body's clamping down on him was just the trigger he needed to push himself over the top. He crested through his own orgasm and he felt Tina pulling his hand away from her clit. They rested and he pulled himself from Tina whose eyes were closed. She had a beautiful smile on her lips. He gently lifted her up and rested her further up on the bed. She was nodding off so he pulled the blanket over her and she slipped into slumber.

Ben was still stiff but there wasn't anything he could do about it now. He went into the bathroom and cleaned himself off. He tucked his erection into his pants when he got dressed once more. He let himself out of the bedroom and noticed Tina's crutches leaning against the wall outside the room. He carried them in quietly and left them next to the bed for Tina when she woke. He left and walked back to the kitchen as he was hungry.

Lucy smiled at him as he entered.

"Where are the others?" he asked.

"I convinced them to grab a lunch at the bowling alley so they left shortly after you carried Tina away," she said with a grin. "Karen was looking pretty flustered. I think you're going to have to approve of a boyfriend for her pretty soon!"

Her eyes caught sight of Ben's bulge and she stepped over to him slowly and pressed her big soft tits against his chest as she looked up into his eyes. Her hands found his bulge and she rubbed it up and down.

"Is this reserved for someone?" she breathed as she felt his cock getting stiffer. "How you behave with the McKellan twins is so hot! If you wanted to treat me that way, I wouldn't mi-"

Ben silenced her words with his mouth as he took her face between his hands and kissed her deeply. She squeaked then moaned as his tongue caressed hers. He broke the kiss and she gasped. Her head was spinning and she licked her lips. He unzipped his pants as he looked into her eyes fiercely.

"Take me in your mouth."

Lucy immediately sunk to her knees before him and reached into his fly to pull out his thick cock. She gasped at its heat and rested it against her cheek.

She ran her tongue along the underside and moaned when she felt him throb in response. Looking up she saw Ben watching her. She kissed the shaft and made her way up towards the thick head. She felt him tremble and a feeling of power rushed through her body.

She took the head into her mouth and ran her tongue all around it. Ben moaned and she felt that thrill again. She dipped forward and took half of his length into her hot mouth.

"Fuck!" Ben gasped.

She pulled back then sucked him into her mouth, once more to the half way point.

"Oh Geezus!"

Back to the head then down to the base driving his cock deep into her throat.

"FUCK! OH GOD, LUCY!" Ben cried out.

She pumped his cock into her throat three more times and each time Ben's body shook with the intensity of the sensations.

He pulled himself from her mouth before she could take him in her throat a fourth time and effortlessly lifted her body up to rest on the marble island. He pulled her yoga pants and panties down her legs as she gasped at his rough handling.

Pushing her legs up to expose her to him he stroked her pussy with his tongue and she gasped as he lashed and fucked her with his wet appendage. She clung to his head as she felt herself getting closer and closer to a delicious release.

Suddenly he flipped her onto her stomach with her ass hanging over the edge of the counter. He dropped his pants and underwear, stepping clear of them. Slapping the thick head of his cock against her wet flesh he gave her no time to prepare before driving himself into her. She howled with her hands over her mouth to stifle the noise.

Lucy was in heaven. He was fucking her so hard and each time his pelvis slammed into her ass her mound hit the surface of the counter. Her pleasure was racing up at her and she was losing control. Ben squeezed her ass as he hammered his cock into her and she lost the ability to talk as the sensations were flooding her mind. Ben reached forward and squeezed her heavy tits in his big hands as he picked up the pace, driving his cock deep faster and faster. She felt like she was leaving her body.

"MmmBen! Fuh! Mmm! Ben! Fuck! MmmnnnGOD! Fuck! OhFuck!" She crashed through her first set of orgasms and still his pounding continued. She was beginning to white out as the bliss was becoming too much.

He leaned over her body bringing his face down next to hers. His hips were still driving his cock into her but now he was grinding her down against the countertop as well. Her pleasure spiked and she screamed soundlessly as her body felt like it was coming apart.

Ben growled deeply as his orgasm finally took him and he held himself deep inside her, luxuriating in the heat wrapped around his slowly shrinking cock. He felt her trembling under him.

When he pulled himself from her body she was only able to make a weak squeaking noise. He grabbed some paper towels and wiped himself as best he could. He gently dabbed her clean but she was still too sensitive. He gently lifted her into his arms. He carried her down the hall and got her inside the bedroom and onto the bed. He kissed her and she tried to respond but she was too far gone. He pulled the sheet over her as well and closed the door on the way out. He rinsed off in the guest bathroom then made his way into the kitchen to clean up the mess they'd made. Tina would be pleased with how clean he left the counters and floor.

That done Ben made himself lunch as he was ravenous. He made himself some sandwiches from the roast beef he found in the fridge and ate them in less time than it took to make them. Hunger appeased he looked at the clock and frowned. Catherine should have come over by now. He decided to go over to her place to see what was up. He jotted down a note for Tina and Lucy on the pad stuck to the fridge.

He pulled on his jacket and slipped his boots on. Then he locked up behind himself and walked over to Catherine's place. He rang the bell and waited. Almost thirty seconds later the door opened and there was Catherine, her eyes were red from crying and she had a wad of tissues clutched in her hand.

She stepped back and he stepped in, closing the door behind himself. He pulled off his jacket and stepped out of his boots and when he turned back Catherine crushed herself against his chest, clinging to him as she wept. He wrapped his arms around her and let her cry.

When the tears finally began to taper off he guided her into her living room and sat next to her on the couch. He snagged the box of tissues and let her take some fresh ones.

"What happened?" he asked gently.

"She- she... broke up... with me," Catherine hiccupped.

"Who- oh! Chanel?" Ben's mind made the leap to the only woman he knew Catherine had seen romantically... aside from Gabriella.

Catherine's bottom lip began to tremble once more as she nodded dabbing her eyes with a tissue.

"Maybe if you started at the beginning?"

She collected herself and nodded once more. "Gabriella and I flew on that wonderful jet to Milan and arrived in the morning hours. We were expecting to be met by the CEO but he was already in custody by the time we arrived. One of the financial controllers met us instead and took us directly to the office. It all exploded into a mess from that point. Gabriella was so apologetic to me as she had to do what she could to save the company and that meant no time for me. She gave me the key to the apartment the fashion house held for visitors and I told her I understood and would keep myself entertained in the lovely city."

Ben smiled at her as she paused to blow her nose and gather her thoughts.

"I decided to send Chanel a teasing email telling her I was in Milan and why wasn't she here too. I got a response from her almost immediately saying she was on her way to the airport and would be there at 3PM. I told her I would meet her there." She smiled as she remembered the day.

Catherine stood in the busy terminal watching the arriving passengers until she saw Chanel's beautiful face above the other shorter passengers. She, like Catherine, was close to 6' barefoot and while Chanel refused to wear high heels her current ankle boots gave her an additional inch and a half. Tall, svelte and exquisitely beautiful, Chanel had been destined for the runways of Paris until she'd broken away from her mother's dreams to follow her own. She made detective working for the police in Paris. Catherine's face lit up with joy as Chanel caught sight of her as well. Chanel's smile sent a burst of happiness through the blond and she rushed forward to pull the other woman into her arms. Then her lips were on Chanel's, their tongues met and everything else disappeared.

When she eventually pulled back from the kiss Chanel was gasping for breath. "Oh my god Catherine, I've missed you."

"I've missed you too," she replied leaning her forehead against her lover's. "Let's get you back to the apartment to drop off your bag and we'll go from there," she said with a mischievous smile.

They found a cab and Catherine gave the driver the address. Chanel perked up. "Via Monte Napoleone? That's a very posh shopping district!" she exclaimed.

"The apartment is rented out by the Fashion House Gabriella is working with. We have it for the next few days. I'll text Gabriella and ask if she wants to meet for dinner," Catherine said, tapping out a quick message to her friend. They rode on in silence just enjoying each other's touch until Catherine's phone pinged. She read the message and frowned. "It looks like Gabriella won't be joining us for dinner or staying at the apartment after all. She's going to stay at a suite in the office as she's still working with the finance people of the two companies she came here to be the CEO for."

Chanel leaned back and looked at Catherine in surprise. "Gabriella is moving to Milan? How does the big man feel about that?"

Catherine had a sad smile on her face. "Ben is doing his best to keep smiling. He wouldn't do anything to jeopardize Gabriella's dreams so he's said that he will visit her as often as he can... but I can tell he's hurting."

"He is not the only one hurting from the absence of a loved one," Chanel said quietly but Catherine heard it.

Her eyes flew wide and she looked deeply into Chanel's dark eyes, full of need. "You... love me?" she asked softly.

Pearly white teeth bit a deep, wine red lower lip as Chanel nodded.

Catherine smiled as tears ran down her cheeks. "I love you too," she whispered to her lover.

They held hands, bodies trembling, eager to get to the apartment. The scenery was lovely but they really only wanted to be alone.

The taxi finally pulled up to the address and Chanel paid the driver cash and they got her bag from the trunk. Catherine opened the front door and they climbed the stairs to the top floor. They found the apartment and let themselves in. Chanel slipped off her boots and Catherine kicked off her pumps before they noticed her suitcase was in the foyer but Gabriella's was not. The staff had already picked it up for her since her change in plans. Hand in hand they walked through the apartment admiring the décor until they found the bedroom. Catherine threw back the bedspread.

Chanel's hands were in Catherine's soft white blond hair and their mouths came together in a deep, soul affirming kiss. Catherine moaned and wrapped her arms around the other woman, moving one hand up to grip the brunette's shorter hair and the other down to squeeze her firm ass muscles. Chanel's tongue became more aggressive when she felt the hand on her ass.

They pulled back from the kiss and held each other's eyes for a moment before they began frantically pulling off their clothes in a race to strip down before the other.

Chanel once more had the advantage as she was wearing jeans and a t-shirt under her short leather jacket. These items hit the floor as Catherine was struggling to reach the zipper on her dress. Chanel took her shoulders and spun her to face the bed. She unclasped and unzipped the dress, letting it fall to her feet.

Before Catherine could prepare Chanel pushed her forward onto the mattress and crawled up her body to press her down to the bed. She ground her mound into the blonde's ass causing the woman to moan.

Chanel popped the clasp on Cat's bra and began pushing the straps down her arms until Catherine took over. She undid her own bra and pressed her tits against the blonde's back. She moved her hands under them to cup Cat's lovely tits which fit her so well.

"Oh fuck Chanel!" Cat gasped as the woman squeezed her breasts and ground against her ass. Her face flushed with desire and she grabbed and tugged at the sheets.

Grinning, Chanel slid a hand down Catherine's firm stomach to the top of her silky panties.

"Ah! Oh god! Chanel!" the blonde whimpered.

The brunette in question lowered her head and nibbled on the pretty ear poking through the white locks as her fingers slid under the panties to run over the tender flesh underneath. She felt Catherine's body jolt and tremble under her. One finger slipped into the woman as her palm ground against Cat's stiff clit.

"FUCK! Oh fuck! Chanel! OH! OH GOD!" Catherine cried out. She was so wet!

Chanel stroked the earlobe with the tip of her tongue as she tugged and squeezed a nipple and pumped her finger in and out of the wet channel as she rubbed and ground against her clit. She also ground her own pussy against Catherine's ass which felt so good! She kept this up as she felt the woman writhing under her deliciously. She could tell Catherine was getting close.

"Ah! AH! Ah! AHH! OHFUCKOHFUCKOHFUCKOHFUCKOHFUCKOHFUCK! FFFUUUCCKKKK!!" Catherine screamed as her body trembled under the multi-point attack from the brunette. It was too much and she came hard.

When Cat's cries became whimpers Chanel eased herself off onto the mattress beside the panting blonde. Cat weakly turned her head to look at her lover and smiled. Her smile faltered when she saw the sadness in the brunette's eyes.

"What's wrong?" she asked but Chanel just shook her head and looked away.

"Chanel, please speak to me. Tell me what's wrong."

"I- I missed you terribly," Chanel whispered.

"I missed you too!"

Chanel's eyes flared with emotion but she pressed her face into the bed to hide it.

"What- what was that?" Catherine gasped. She'd just caught the edge of what looked like anger in that glance.

Chanel gave her head a shake but refused to lift her face from the mattress.

Catherine quickly got up on her knees and flipped Chanel over onto her back, surprising a squeak from the other woman. Cat straddled the brunette's svelte body, took her face between her hands and held Chanel's dark eyes with her blue ones.

"Speak to me. Are you mad at me?" she asked carefully.

Chanel tried to look away in shame. "No... I am jealous."

Cat blinked. "Jealous?"

Grimacing with the pain of feeling such negative but powerful emotions she could not shake, Chanel squirmed under Catherine's body. "I- I am alone. You are surrounded by love but I only want you."

"You're jealous of me?" Cat whispered, looking down at her lover.

"NO! I am jealous of THEM!" Chanel shouted and began to cry as she closed her eyes tight.

Catherine didn't know what to do. She stretched out over Chanel's body and hugged her until the woman wrapped her arms around her in return. She held her lover until the tears finally slowed then stopped.

"I am sorry," Chanel whispered, deeply ashamed of her jealousy.

"Shhh. There is nothing to apologize for. I wish there was something I could say or do to take this pain away."

"Move to Paris! Live with me!" Chanel blurted and Cat looked at her in surprise.

"I- I can't. My girls... they lost their father less than a year ago. I couldn't leave them," Cat said, her voice sticking in her throat as she watched the desperation and despair in Chanel's eyes.

"I thought of moving to the states but I've spent my whole life fighting to get where I am now. I dream of one day becoming Chief Inspector. I'm on track. And Paris is my home," Chanel said quietly.

Tears ran down Catherine's cheeks. They were in a no win situation. Separated by a vast distance and embedded in their own lives neither could see a solution. They just knew they loved each other.

Chanel gently took her face in her hands and kissed her tenderly. When she pulled back she touched her forehead to the blonde's. "Let's enjoy the time we have. We can talk about the other... later."

Catherine nodded then slipped down to take Chanel's wonderful nipples between her lips. The brunette arched her back with a gasp as the sensitive flesh stiffened in response to the caress of Cat's tongue and lips. She slid her fingers through the silky white strands.

"Catherine! Oh fuck! Your lips are so..."

Loving blue eyes looked up at her as she kissed her way down Chanel's tight stomach muscles. She felt herself becoming wet in anticipation of Catherine's kisses. When the woman's mouth finally reached her tender spot Chanel cried out in bliss.

"OOOOHHHH CATHERINE! My sweet, sweet Catherine! OH FUCK!"

Tongue stroking and dipping deeply into her wetness Catherine was enjoying bringing pleasure to her lover. When Chanel's hands pulled her face tighter against her trembling pussy and gasped loudly Cat smiled and sucked and licked more aggressively until she heard Chanel's cries of ecstasy. The brunette's muscles tightened and she shook through a colossal release.

"AAAAAAAAHHHHHH!! FUCKFUCKFUCKFUCKFUCK! AAAAAAAAAHHHHHH!!"

Spent, Chanel's body slumped to the mattress and she panted as her eyes closed.

Cat surprised her by moving up to kiss her deeply. She could taste herself on the blonde's tongue. Her body went through one more surge as the pure sexiness of the kiss flared her body's tingling response. Her arms went around the woman and they held each other tight.

As they rested, enjoying the feel of each other's bodies Chanel's stomach took that moment to remind all those in listening distance that it was empty and did not approve.

Catherine giggled at the embarrassed expression that flitted across her lover's face. "I think we'd better feed that beast," she teased.

They slipped their clothes back on and made their way back out to street level to look for a restaurant.

They found a wonderful little restaurant in a small side street and enjoyed an intimate dinner for two. Afterwards they went for a long walk winding up back at their apartment where they sensually explored each other's bodies until they both fell into a deep sleep.

The following day Catherine heard from Gabriella that things weren't going well and she was expecting she'd have to stay in Milan for longer than intended. They made plans to meet for lunch.

Noon found Catherine and Chanel sitting side by side at a table in a restaurant with a lovely view of the Duomo di Milano and its plaza. They'd ordered and were enjoying some white wine when Gabriella walked over to their table. Catherine leapt to her feet and gave her best friend a warm hug.

Chanel could see the woman taking strength from the embrace and this brought a smile to her lips. She stood and hugged the lovely brunette as well. She was surprised by how very nice it was to feel those full breasts pressed against her.

Gabriella took no notice of Chanel's slight blush and had a happy smile when they all took their seats once more. She actually seemed to have relaxed a little.

"May I pour you some wine?" Chanel asked.

"Yes please but I'll have to restrict it to just the one glass. I have several meetings lined up this afternoon and I need to be sharp," Gabriella responded. "I'm sorry to say I won't have much time to enjoy lunch."

Catherine reached across the table to hold Gabriella's hand. "Are you ok? Is there anything I can do?"

Gabriella smiled. "Can you convince those bastards to give back the money they embezzled?"

"Given some time alone with them, I might." Chanel said with a wicked smile.

"Oh I wish I had the authority to order that!" Gabriella gasped then chuckled. "If you don't mind we should order our meals. I missed breakfast and I don't want to pass out during my meetings. Do you know what you want?" She received nods. She caught the eye of the waiter and let Catherine and Chanel order first. She ordered the same meal Cat was having.

"What's your plan for the day?" Gabriella asked.

Cat looked at Chanel and tilted her head. "Window shopping? Visit the Cathedral? Dinner and dancing tonight?" Chanel gave her a wide smile and nodded. "Will you be able to join us later?" Cat asked Gabriella.

"Unfortunately no. Tonight I'll be going over the books with the financial controllers from both companies to see what we can sell off to salvage the merger deal."

Catherine pouted but Gabriella saw the compassion in her eyes.

"Are you going to take the CEO position? Is it still an option?" Cat asked.

"They're still offering it but there's just too much to do to ensure the companies survive before I'll consider taking on that role." Gabriella insisted.

They talked about Chanel's return to her job after her mandated medical leave. She'd spent some time being desk bound but was back to her detective work.

Lunch arrived and they enjoyed their meals with some small talk. Gabriella glanced at her watch and realized she had to run. Catherine insisted she would cover the lunch then she and Chanel both gave Gabriella hugs and kisses on the cheek and she was off.

"Your friend is very sweet!" Chanel said with a smile.

Catherine smiled and nodded, feeling a twinge of sadness at the idea of Gabriella living in Milan. She glanced at Chanel and saw her pain reflected there. They looked out at the cathedral so they could avoid the reality of their situation just a little longer.

They saw the sights, had a lovely dinner then found a high energy dance club to lose themselves in the music. While the men in the club tried futilely to entice them out onto the floor they only danced with each other.

Back in the apartment their lovemaking was hard, raw, and a little desperate. Exhaustion took them under, bodies entwined.

When Catherine awoke the next morning she was alone. Chanel had gone back to Paris, leaving behind a note which said she could not bear the pain of saying goodbye to Catherine again. It said that life had dealt them both an unfair hand and she begged Catherine not to come looking for her.

Gabriella called Catherine in the afternoon then rushed over when she heard the anguish in her voice. She stayed with her friend that night and put her on the jet for home the next morning.

There had been no further word from Chanel. Their love affair was over.

Catherine had fresh tears in her eyes when she finished.

"I'm so sorry Catherine. I wish there was something I could do or say to take the pain away. Have- have you considered moving-"

She closed her eyes and shook her head firmly. "I can't live that far away from my daughters. I won't live that far away from you! I may be in love with Chanel but I also love you Ben! I need you!"

Ben tried to keep his relief from his face but she saw it and leapt onto his lap to kiss him. She crushed herself against his chest and thrust her tongue deeply into his mouth. He sucked on it and ran his hands down to her ass to give it a firm squeeze.

When she pulled back from the kiss her blue eyes were full of need. She desperately wanted him physically but she also needed to connect to him emotionally, to renew and affirm their bond.

Ben pulled his shirt up and off and Catherine immediately ran her hands over his chest. She leaned in and kissed his nipples until she had to move back to lift her arms as Ben tugged her blouse off. He popped the clasp on her bra and slipped it off over her arms.

Catherine's face was flushed with her need and Ben took another deep kiss as he leaned her back on the cushions. He undid her slacks and pulled them off as he lifted her ass from the couch. Before she could prepare he ducked down and ran his tongue roughly over the soft flesh of her pussy.

"FUCK! Oh Ben! Ben!" she squealed. She was very wet.

He tugged his own pants and boxers down then slipped two fingers deep into her body as his tongue danced over her clit.

"FFFFFAAAAAAHHHHH!" Cat screamed.

Ben ran his slippery fingers over the thick head of his cock then slapped it against her wet lower lips.

"YES! Give it to me Ben! I need you!" she cried out.

He pushed forward and the heavy flesh drove into Cat's body deeper and deeper. Her eyes opened wide and her mouth dropped open as he stretched her open to accept him inside. When their bodies met he was as deep as he could go and he could feel Cat's body pulsing and squeezing as she tried to get accustomed to him.

Ben kissed her mouth tenderly and she moaned at his sensual touch. "I love you Catherine. I don't want to lose you," he whispered to her.

Her eyes widened then happy tears pooled in her thick lashes as she smiled with her love showing all over her face. "Oh Ben, I love you so much! You're never going to lose me!"

He kissed her again as he slowly pulled his cock out to just the tip. She whimpered into the kiss then gasped as he drove himself back into her body. He began to pump himself into her pussy in long hard strokes.

"Oh Ben! Oh Ben! Oh Ben! Oh Ben! Oh Ben!" She gasped out his name with each stroke.

He slowly increased his pace and felt himself getting closer to his release. He felt Catherine's body begin to jerk and tremble as she approached her own climax. She clung to him tightly and wrapped her legs around his ass as he began to rapidly slap their pelvises together.

"YES! YES! LIKE THAT! YES! OH GOD BEN, I'M GOING TO CUM! I- I- CUMMINGGGGG!!" she cried out.

Ben ground himself against Catherine as she gasped, moaned, and shook through her release. He came in surges, ropes of hot cum firing into her depths and Catherine moaned at the pure sensual pleasure of feeling his heat filling her.

When his body finally relaxed he kissed her temple and she smiled tenderly.

"I love you so much Ben. Thank you!" she whispered.

"What are you thanking me for?" he asked, with a small grin.

She traced his strong jawline with a finger. "For loving me so strongly you'd think of my happiness even at the risk of your own. Please know my happiness needs you to make it complete."

Ben kissed Catherine's sensual mouth and felt his heart swelling with love for this beautiful lady in his arms.

Ben moved to lie beside Catherine and caught her yawning widely, being emotionally drained from her ordeal with Chanel. He glanced out the window and it was only late afternoon but Catherine was slipping into sleep. He scooped her up in his arms and carried her upstairs. She purred in his arms as he got her into her bedroom and under the sheets.

"Could you stay with me until I fall asleep?" she asked plaintively.

"Of course!" He gave her a tender kiss and she sighed happily. He got under the sheets and she snuggled up against him. He felt her relaxing and it didn't take long before she slipped into a deep sleep. Ben closed his eyes and allowed himself to drift. It was so nice to rest here with Catherine. She loved and needed him and for some reason he really needed to know that. He wasn't sure why it seemed so critical at the moment but he snuggled a little closer to her as he slipped under.

Chapter 18

Ben was sitting on a lawn chair in his driveway, the warm buzz of scotch disconnecting him from feeling... anything. He watched the court as he'd done for countless days. Kids playing in the park, riding their bikes around the circular court, and the parents moving about their business in their active, fulfilling lives.

All of this was separate from Ben who remained a silent sentinel. He sipped from a flask each time he became aware that he'd begun to feel.

He'd lost hope a long time ago. She'd never returned. Now, he was just a living corpse. No one noticed him anymore. As it should be.

Ben's breath caught in his throat as his eyes picked up the gleam of sunlight on a windshield. Someone was driving up the court! He watched the older model BMW sedan coming around the circle. He struggled to breathe and felt his heart pounding in his chest as he recognized the car which drove out of the restaurant parking lot with his wife so many years before. The car slowed to a stop at the end of his driveway.

The driver got out and looked over the hood at him. Derek LaRue. Tall, slim, with no expression on his bland face. Wearing a grey suit and shiny black leather shoes, he walked around the car to open the passenger door.

Ben cried out when he saw Wendy's happy smile. Her eyes were twinkling as they did when she was truly happy.

Except that happiness wasn't for Ben.

She was looking at Derek who hadn't stopped looking at Ben and showed no sign of even being aware of Wendy.

She stepped from the car and took Derek's hand, keeping her eyes on the man as they began to walk closer to Ben.

He wanted to leap up from his chair to take her in his arms but the scotch had numbed him too much. He had no control over his body. He could only sit and watch them approach.

Wendy looked lovely, like the day he'd married her. Ben's heart was breaking all over again.

The couple stood before Ben but still Wendy wouldn't look at him. Then she spoke.

"Derek, I want to leave. Let's go. There's nothing for me here," she said, her voice dripping with sweetness.

The man finally took notice of her and turned his impassive look in her direction.

"One moment my love," Derek spoke, his voice like sandpaper against glass. He turned his dull eyes towards Ben. He reached into his suit jacket and pulled out a five foot long pin. "You don't need this anymore," he said as he stabbed Ben in the chest and drove the pin through his heart until the point stabbed into the ground behind him.

Wendy's laughter filled Ben's ears and the pain went on and on.

He heard car doors closing and he struggled to get to his feet but he was literally pinned to the ground.

Her laughter echoing oddly as the car started up and pulled away, continuing around the court to head back down the road. She was almost gone and he had to stop her, he had to tell her not to go, he had to-

"NOOO!!" Ben woke screaming.

"BEN! Shhh. It was just a dream! Just a dream. Shhh," Catherine said to calm him as he sat up panting and wide eyed.

"Wha- Catherine?"

"Yes, Ben. You just had a bad dream." She eased him back down to the mattress as he tried to catch his breath. "Do you remember what it was about?"

He didn't want to think about it so he just shook his head as he looked away. He saw the clock on the end table and it was almost 7AM. He couldn't get over how long he'd slept. He'd missed dinner. His note hadn't said anything about sleeping overnight as he expected to come home after his visit.

"How are you feeling?" he asked.

She slowly stretched her entire body in satisfied bliss like a cat. "I haven't slept that good in... a very long time. Thank you Ben," she said with a smile. She caught sight of the clock. "Oh my god! I have to get moving!"

She leaned over Ben's face and gave him a tender kiss. Then she spun off the bed and dashed for the bathroom.

Ben threw back the sheets and rubbed at his scalp. That dream had taken a lot out of him. He looked around for his clothes and realized they were still in the living room. He went to the bathroom door.

"My clothes are downstairs. Are any of your girls home this week?" he said through the door.

"No, you're safe to make a naked dash," Cat's amused voice said through the door.

"I'll let myself out. You have a good day! If you start feeling blue you give me a call, alright?"

"I love you Ben!" she called out.

"I love you too Catherine!"

He smiled and made his way downstairs to the living room and sure enough there they were. He slipped on his clothes and glanced out the windows. The sheers were drawn, thankfully, but he could see Ashley Beaumont standing on her front steps. Someone was standing on the path in front of her shaking something at her. He couldn't really make out what it was but he had his boots on and was out the door before that person could hit her with whatever he was shaking.

He marched across the lawn and turned up Ashley's driveway as she caught sight of him. He saw her immediate relief then nervousness flash across her face in quick order. The man standing on her path still had his back to Ben but he looked like a large heavyset fellow.

"Good morning Ashley," Ben said loudly to catch the attention of the man who was still shaking... a book, he saw.

Finally the man turned and Ben could see his face, flushed from arguing. He was probably in his forties and had a large frame like Ben's but his carried mostly fat. His features seemed squeezed towards the center of his face by the surrounding fat. Small eyes, small upturned nose, pinched mouth and... jowls.

He stared at Ben then recognition flared and he looked down his nose at Ben. "The immoral degenerate makes an appearance!"

"Excuse me?" Ben blinked.

"Come to take your perverted pleasures from the whore?" the fat man sneered, gesturing to Ashley over his shoulder.

Ben looked around the man to Ashley. "Do you know this pitiful inbreed?"

Ashley's eyes flew wide and her eyebrows rose to her hairline as she clapped a hand over her mouth to stifle the shocked, but delighted, gasp that burst forth.

The man's face went deep red and he took a step closer to Ben. "You are the filth that desecrates all that is virtuous and good in the world!" A little spittle flew from his tight, angry lips.

Ben suddenly saw his collar and realized he was facing a man of the cloth. He sighed and glanced at Ashley. He knew she was trying to find a church she was comfortable in. Obviously this one wasn't a winner.

"And you are a sad little man. Small in intellect, small in spirit, and worst of all, small in heart. Likely you collect other small minded followers so you can pretend not to be lonely. You will find no comfort here. Be gone," Ben said, gesturing down the driveway to the beat up Chrysler K car with the fake wood paneling.

Livid, the man swung his bible at Ben's head. Ben was expecting it and just leaned back to avoid the swing. And the second. On the third swing he plucked the book from the man's hands. The preacher flinched back fully expecting to be beaten in return. When the blows didn't come he looked cautiously at Ben.

"This is a bible. Not a weapon. The words inside should be used for spreading love not hate. You're a poor excuse for a man of God." He saw the man's eyes flare with hate. "Now, before you do something colossally stupid you should know that your actions are being caught by the camera I installed by Ashley's front door. I've already got you trying to hit me with a bible. Would you like me to release that movie online, linked to your name? Or should I just send it to the police?"

The man's little eyes shot to the camera above the door and he looked back with doubt on his face. "If you leave and never return that footage will remain in a safe place. Show your face again or disturb Ashley or her children and all bets are off. Is that understood?" Ben growled.

Looking like he was holding something vile in his mouth he nodded. Ben handed the bible back but didn't let go when he took it.

"Read the passages about love. You might learn something useful," Ben said as he released the book. The preacher stiffly marched down the driveway until he reached his car. He yanked the door open with a squeak then dropped himself inside. He drove away without looking back.

"I'm sorry about that Ben," Ashley said quietly.

"Not your fault. There are a lot of people just like him out there. It's just sad when they hide behind the collar," he said.

"Would you like to come in for some breakfast?" she asked hopefully.

"Thanks but I should be getting home. Take care," he said turning to leave.

"Didn't you want to get the video of the attack?" she asked.

Ben looked back with a grin. "The camera doesn't record. It just shows on the monitor inside." He held up a finger over his lips and winked.

Her smile widened into a broad grin as she shook her head at Ben's retreating back.

He let himself in his front door and Penny zipped out of the hallway sliding on her socks. She squeaked with glee and rushed over to get a hug. Karen rushed out of the kitchen and got a hug too.

"Getting ready for school?" he asked and got nods.

"We missed you at dinner last night," Karen said with a pout.

"Sorry about that. Catherine was pretty upset. We talked for a long time and fell asleep. I just woke up. I missed dinner. Did I miss breakfast?" Ben asked.

"No, Karen is just making it now," Penny smiled. She headed back to her bedroom to finish getting dressed.

They entered the kitchen and Karen rushed back to the stove where Lucy had taken over. Lucy handed the spatula back to the blonde and moved around the island to get a kiss and hug from Ben.

Lucy left the kitchen to finish getting ready as he went to Tina and gave her a kiss.

"How is Catherine?" Tina asked quietly for Ben's ears.

Ben glanced at her but Tina just had a concerned look on her face. "She was pretty upset about breaking up with Chanel. They love each other but the distance was too much. Catherine won't leave her girls and Chanel's whole life is in Paris. It's a bad situation." He looked over a Karen but she was humming happily to herself as she prepared the meals for everyone.

He sat next to Tina and took her hand. "I'd intended to come home last night but I fell asleep and we didn't wake up until close to 7AM." He didn't share the fact of his nightmare with her.

"You needed the sleep," she said with a coy smile on her face.

Karen glanced over to see Tina's expression and something like longing flitted across her face. Time to change the subject. "When are you seeing the doctor?" he asked.

"Tomorrow at 2pm. Will you be able to take me?"

"Yes, that should not be a problem." Ben placed his big hands on Tina's baby bump and they both smiled. "I'm going to be out tonight. Overnight apparently but I'll be back in the morning. The twins need to get back in time for their daycare shifts.

"Papa!" Christopher screeched from Lucy's hip.

"Look who's finally awake!" Lucy smiled as she handed the boy to Ben who immediately pretended to gobble up his stomach, sending the boy into a fit of giggles.

Lucy poured herself a coffee and made some herbal tea for Tina. She placed them on the table and looked at Ben.

"Me and my boy will have apple juice, please," he said making a silly face at Christopher who watched him with delight.

Tina's smile was also one of delight and Lucy's heart swelled for her new family. She rushed over and got two juice boxes from the fridge and returned.

Ben pretended to be unable to figure out how to get the straw into the box and Christopher showed him how to do it. Ben grinned at Tina. Smart lad.

Penny arrived just as Karen began serving the plates.

Soon they were all enjoying their meals. Conversation revolved around plans for the day. Tina was the only one who didn't have a full itinerary and looked a little blue so Ben told her he would take her out to lunch, any place she desired, when he got back from the milling shop. That brought a smile to her face.

Ben helped clean up then began the frenzy to get ready and out the door for their lift to school. Ben and Tina just stood back and watched with amusement as the others rushed to and fro. Then the ladies were out of the house.

"I'm worried about Karen. She seems a little lonely," Ben said to Tina.

"She wants a boyfriend," Tina replied and Ben nodded with a sigh.

"I'm going to speak with Jayden today when I check on the progress of the house. I promise not to get involved!" he stated as her eyebrows went up. "I've been really good and my finger is feeling so much better. All the tingles are gone and I have sensation right down to the tip."

"Good!" Tina said with a smile.

He gave her another kiss and scooped up Christopher who was playing with his toys on the floor.

"DayDay!" the boy cheered.

"Yes! Kiss your Mama!" Ben said, holding Christopher sideways. The child kissed Tina's cheek and she kissed his then Ben carried him to the front door. He and Christopher put on their shoes and jackets then Ben carried him over to the daycare.

Daphne was speaking with a woman and smiled when she spotted him. The woman turned and Ben saw it was Dawn Liston, the woman whose husband came at him with a tire iron due to her sex dream about Ben.

"Hi Daphne! Dawn," he said with a nod to the woman.

Dawn's face turned a lovely shade of pink as she looked at him. "Hello Ben."

"Everything ok with Mike?" Ben asked, holding her eyes. He didn't want to have another incident with the man.

"Mmmhmm," she nodded then quickly turned her head to say goodbye to Daphne and made her way outside.

Daphne was grinning at Ben. "Tease."

"What? I just wanted to avoid another confrontation."

The woman just smiled and nodded as she took the squirming boy from Ben's arms. She set him down and he raced away into the back. Squealing laughter was heard from the playroom.

Moments later Lisa and Lori poked their heads out to see if Ben was there and squealed a little themselves when they spotted him. They were wearing soft sweaters and slacks to tone down their svelte curves for the daycare environment. It didn't diminish in the least their beauty which always stunned him whenever they entered the room. They rushed out to give him a hug. Daphne rolled her eyes with a smile and went back into the playroom.

Once the twins settled down a little he smiled down into their happy expressions. He could feel them trembling with excitement. "Looking forward to going dancing?" he asked.

"Yes!" they said in unison.

"What time do I pick you up?"

"9:30PM" Lori said. "It takes about half an hour to get there."

"We booked a room for afterwards," Lisa chimed in and bit her lip.

They tilted their faces up and closed their eyes making him grin. He kissed Lisa and she trembled when their lips parted. Lori gasped when his mouth took hers. He kept the kisses short as they were in the entrance of the daycare and someone might enter or one of the kids might come looking for the twins.

He stepped back and they smiled as their eyes opened. "Until tonight," he said and their faces lit up with brilliant smiles.

Ben stepped outside into the cold air which snapped him out of the warm tingling he was feeling. He saw Dominic driving up to the house next door and walked over to greet him. He looked back at the house and saw the second story was on, the roof was in place and they'd gotten the windows in as well. The exterior insulation was in place and they'd begun the stonework on the outer façade. He was really pleased with how quickly this house was coming together.

"You're back!" Dominic boomed happily.

Ben grinned at the man's exuberance. He really was larger than life. He shook his hand.

"How are the grand kids?" he asked and the big man's face lit up.

"Wonderful! We got to babysit this weekend and it was so much fun! Speaking of babies though, how is Tina?"

"She's great!" Ben grinned. He turned to look at the house. "I see you've made great progress on the house!"

"Yup! It's a sweet home! The inspectors have been by and everything passed. We'll be finishing up the interior walls and trim work this week and it will be ready for painting next week. Move in date, the following weekend."

Ben looked at the man with a huge smile. "That's amazing!"

"You have a lot of really nice big rooms to furnish!" Dominic said.

"Yeah, I'll get started on that now that I know when the stuff will be going in. The girls are going to be very excited about that." He looked around at the other workers arriving and waved to a few. "How has Jayden been?"

"I have to thank you for sending him my way. He's really fitting in with the team well and he really seems to enjoy the work. Hard worker too! He's an excellent drywall installer!"

"That's great to hear!" Ben said, a feeling of relief sinking in.

"He's been asking when you would be back. Said he needed to talk to you. I'm hoping he's not going to ask you how to tell me he's leaving." Dominic said honestly.

Ben raised his eyebrows then spotted the young man in question. The eyebrows stayed up as he saw the shiner.

"Who gave you that?" Ben asked him and Jayden ducked his head with embarrassment.

"The brother of one of the girls I dated... before," he said quietly. "I went to the houses of the girls I... dated and apologized. A few had brothers that decided a beating was in order. After the first one," he pointed to his eye, "I started bringing along some friends," he pointed to the crew walking past, "who waited for me on the sidewalk and kept an eye out for angry family members. I took the slaps from the girls if they needed it."

Ben looked at the young man standing before him, seriously impressed. "What brought this on?"

"You said I had to ask myself what kind of man I had been and to be honest. I thought a lot about that. When I was honest with myself I could see how self centered and callous I'd been. I knew I couldn't take back what I'd done but I could apologize. I could see it made a difference for them. I also learned that slaps from angry women hurt. The guys I had with me started rating the slaps after we left."

"How many..."

"Five. Just five but that was enough," the young man said looking ashamed.

Ben nodded.

"I was hoping that if I could be a better man... I might be good enough to date Karen," he said looking hopefully at Ben.

"Let's go inside where it's warmer so we can talk," Ben said.

They made their way into the house and Ben was very happy with the open layout of the living room, dining area and kitchen. They went into the living room by the huge picture window.

Before they began Jayden lifted his pant leg and Ben saw the ankle monitor was gone.

"How?" Ben asked.

"Mr. Selleni went with me to my interview with the judge last week and said some really nice things about me and how integral I'd become to his team. He really impressed the judge."

"You must have done a little of that as well or he wouldn't have trusted you." Ben admitted.

"Well, you did say they weren't the enemy."

Ben paused to look at the young man, surprised. That felt good!

He collected himself then looked back at the nervous expression on Jayden's face. "Karen is a special woman. What she's been through... no one should have been treated like that. She's just now learning she has value, her place in the world, and how she's good at something real. Her culinary skills are very good and I want her to expand upon them by going to school to learn more. She's really excited about that." Jayden was beginning to look a little deflated. He was starting to hear a 'no' in Ben's words.

"She's also lonely. I think it would be very healthy if she were to have a boyfriend in her life right now. Someone who could show her what it is to have someone who truly appreciates her as a person. Someone to be proud of her accomplishments to help build her confidence in herself. She's going to need patience and to be patient herself, even if that means her boyfriend controls the pace. She doesn't know what it means to be treated as a person. Dating, flirting, first kisses, holding hands, taking the time to build a relationship. Then and only then should sex be introduced. She needs to learn these things. Do you think you can be that kind of boyfriend?"

Jayden was vibrating with excitement. "Yes, sir."

Ben gave him one more critical look. "Then I'm ok with you dating my daughter."

Jayden's smile was brilliant. "Thank you! I won't let you down. And I won't let her down!" he finished when he saw Ben's eyebrow go up.

Ben nodded with a smile. "I'm still learning what it means to be Karen's dad. Being her boyfriend will have its own challenges. Please know you can talk to me about anything."

"Thank you." Jayden actually looked like he was about to hug Ben but settled with shaking his hand.

"I'll let you get back to it then. Dominic said you wanted to speak to me about something. Was that it?" Ben received a nod so he patted Jayden shoulder as he turned to go. As Ben was leaving the room he heard cheering behind him and glanced back to see some of the crew coming in to congratulate Jayden.

He smiled and continued out to see Dominic. He filled him in and saw the big man sag with relief. That made Ben feel even better about his decision. They said their goodbyes as Dominic went inside.

Ben looked down the street and saw Luis Hernandez pulling into his driveway. When he last spoke with the man there had been some issue with the wedding of his son so Ben wasn't sure when he should do the renovations on Tina's house. He wanted to be able to finish the updates to the bathrooms and the kitchen before the newlyweds moved in. He walked down the block and knocked on the man's door.

Jaclyn Hernandez opened the door and a wide smile burst onto her face. "Mr. Shepherd! How nice of you to visit! Please come in!" She was a short woman with a happy round face and a plump body. Curly black hair reached her shoulders and she wore an abundance of gold. He'd never been able to get her to call him Ben.

She led him into the living room where Luis was just getting up from his chair. He was grimacing in pain.

"What happened?" Ben asked in concern.

The older man just waved it off and shook Ben's hand. "Just a sore back from moving some things at Bianca's parent's home." Ben recognized the name of their son's fiancé.

Juan was just a little taller than his wife and had the stocky build of someone used to heavy labor. Greying hair and square jawed he still looked very fit. He owned a chain of autobody shops and liked to get his own hands dirty working on the more challenging jobs. Seeing Ben's eyebrows go up he smiled. "Books. So many boxes of books. Terrible things for the back!" Everyone took seats, Juan back in his chair and Ben next to Jaclyn on the couch facing the chair.

"What can I do for you Ben?" Luis asked.

"I was just following up on our last conversation. You mentioned there was an issue with the wedding?" he asked gently.

Luis and Jaclyn shared a sad look. "There was a tragedy in Bianca's family. Her father suddenly passed away. Rita has no other family in the States and her friends moved to a retirement home two streets west of here but far from her home. She's all alone. Bianca is still living at home and leaving now is not a good idea," Juan said.

"How does Ramon get along with Rita?" Ben asked.

"Very well! The woman is very sweet and quiet. Her husband was the loud and commanding one in the family." Jaclyn said.

"Have they considered a mother-in-law suite in the house?" Ben suggested.

"Rita's house is too small for the three of them especially if they start a family," Juan explained.

"No, I mean in the new house. There is a lovely room at the back of the house that's currently set up as an office. It could easily he redone as a bedroom. It already has a private three piece washroom with a toilet, sink and shower. I could replace some of the built-ins with wardrobes for clothes.

The couple blinked at him.

"Bad idea?"

"No! No, it is a very good idea! We did not think of it! We were keeping the house as a surprise but this solves everything! Would it be alright if I called Rita to ask?" Jaclyn asked excitedly.

"Of course! I'll need a week to do the renovations on the place. When was the wedding going to be again?"

"November the twenty-third." Luis said.

"That's do-able. I will talk with my contractor friends to see if they are willing to make a little extra money," Ben said with a grin.

Luis looked uncomfortable. "You have been too generous Ben. I feel like I should-"

"Please. Let me do this. To be able to keep our little neighborhood filled with good people brings me a tremendous sense of satisfaction! The idea of more kids coming to the street makes me especially happy!" Ben said and the couple grinned at him.

"They will pay rent!" Luis said with a firm voice.

"And I will be very fair. I don't need to make a profit from these homes. As long as the tenants are taking care of the home and the rent covers the utilities and property taxes. I'm good," he replied. "As a young couple they need to save as much as they can. Especially if they plan on starting a family."

"You are such a good man, Mr. Shepherd!" Jaclyn gushed and leaned over to hug Ben on the couch.

"Woman, you are embarrassing the man!" Luis exclaimed but his eyes held only amusement and love for his wife.

She sat up from the couch with a broad smile and a blush as she rushed away to make the phone call.

"How many homes do you own in the neighborhood now?" Luis asked.

Ben thought about it. "Five? First mine, then Trish's, Tina's, Ashley Beaumont's, then Barry Walker's place."

The older man nodded thoughtfully. "I'm surprised you didn't buy the White's home."

"I put in a bid but the bidding war got crazy. I hope she got a good price for it. I haven't seen the new owner yet," Ben said.

Luis smiled. "You haven't seen them because every winning bid failed to arrange their financing. Three failed deals so far. The home remains unsold."

"Really? Huh. Give me a second." Ben tapped out a quick note to Joanne to see if she was still entertaining offers. He indicated his offer of 1.15 million was still on the table. He hit send and looked back at Luis.

The man struggled to get out of his chair. Ben moved forward to pull him to the edge.

"Ah. May I suggest a soak in a hot tub?"

"That sounds lovely but we do not have one." Luis said with a smile and a small shrug which tweaked his back.

"I do and I insist you come use it to heal your strained muscles," Ben said with a smile. Luis looked like he wanted to say no but his back really was bothering him. He finally nodded with a grateful smile.

Jaclyn returned with a huge grin on her face. "You have made many people very happy today Mr. Shepherd. Ramon and Bianca are overjoyed with your offer and Rita gladly accepts. The wedding will proceed and we will have a special blessing to her father during the ceremony!"

Ben grinned happily. "That sounds lovely!

"They would like to come see the home if that is alright with you?" she asked.

Ben unhooked the key and handed it to Jaclyn. "I'll come back for it later. Luis and I will be heading to my place so he can soak his muscles in my hot tub. Of course you are welcome to join us."

Jaclyn burst into a fit of giggles. "No, I could never get into a hot tub with others!"

Luis leered at his wife and said something that made her shriek and burst into laughter. She swatted at her husband and headed back to the kitchen. "I expect to see my husband back in full working condition Mr. Shepherd," she said smiling over her shoulder.

"Will do!"

Luis retrieved a pair of swim trunks and followed Ben back to his place. He greeted Tina and Ben explained they were going to soak their muscles in the hot tub and handed Luis a guest robe.

He pointed Luis to the guest bathroom in the hall and Ben got his trunks on in his bedroom. Pulling his robe over his shoulders he grabbed a couple of towels from the linen closet and led Luis to the deck off the kitchen. While the air outside was chilly the water was nice and hot and soon the two men were easing their bodies into the steamy waters.

"Ah, this is wonderful! I must get one of these for my deck!" Luis sighed as he felt the knots in his back relaxing. He slowly stretched his muscles and they were definitely loosening.

"Ramon's house has one. Seems like a good reason to visit," Ben said with a smile. Luis nodded thoughtfully.

The two men settled back and enjoyed the heat. Luis brought him up to speed on the plans for the wedding and how Rita and Jaclyn had struck it off so well. "Unfortunately I cannot say the same about me and Bianca's father, Rafael. I will not speak ill of the dead but I will say we did not see eye to eye on many things. I am sorry his parting brought pain to his wife and daughter but it might have also relieved them of... other pain." Luis was holding Ben's eye as he said this and Ben nodded grimly.

After they'd soaked for a while the timer on Ben's phone chimed and he looked over at the man. "That's our signal to get out. How are your muscles feeling?"

Luis smiled. "So much better!"

They climbed out and dried off with the towels and put on their robes which had been on the heating rack. They went back inside and Ben said he could use the shower to rinse off if he wanted. He also pointed out that the shower stall was similar to what he intended to upgrade Ramon and Bianca's house with.

Ben quickly rinsed off in the master bathroom and got dressed again. He checked the time and saw he just had enough to go over to the milling shop and get back to take Tina to lunch. He met Luis coming out of the bathroom and accepted his towel and robe. He put them in the basket in the laundry room in the hall then walked the man to the door. They could see a car in the driveway of Tina's place so the tour was going on. Luis shook his hand and hustled away to join his family in looking at the new place.

He closed the front door and went into the living room where Tina was typing on her tablet. She shut down the app as he sat next to her.

"A less trusting man would be suspicious and jealous right about now," Ben said looking down into Tina's mischievous smile.

"I am glad you are not that kind of man," she said sweetly. Ben couldn't stop himself from smiling.

"Why don't you come with me when I go to the milling shop? It won't take me more than fifteen minutes then we can go directly to wherever you'd like to go for lunch. Where are we going by the way?"

"I'd like to go to the mall," she said.

"The mall? There's a restaurant you want to try there?" he said with raised eyebrows.

She shook her head with a smile. "There is a Korean take out booth in the food court. You can get what you like from one of the other booths. We can eat in the food court and watch the people go by."

Ben grinned. He liked that idea, a lot. He nodded.

"Are you ready to go?" he asked and the doorbell rang. "Hang on a second."

He got up from the couch and made his way to the front door. When it opened a petite, dark haired young woman with large teary eyes stepped in and hugged him tightly. She began to cry. Ben looked down in surprise then looked over her head at Ramon who was smiling lovingly at his fiancé's emotional display. Standing next to him was another brunette, older but equally petite with shorter hair that only reached the top of her shoulders. She also had happy tears in her eyes. This must be Rita. Behind them, smiling at Ben's expression, were Juan and Jaclyn.

"Come in from the cold, please!" Ben said and gently moved himself backwards, the crying woman moving with him as he guided her with a gentle hand on her back.

Finally Bianca got control of herself and pulled back from Ben's chest. Large eyes looked up at him and he smiled gently at her. Her bottom lip was trembling. Ben looked to Ramon for assistance and he came to collect his fiancé.

They all went into the living room and Ben introduced Tina to the group. Eyes widened when they saw her baby bump and the cast on her leg. Bianca and Rita suddenly froze and glanced at Ben.

Tina picked up their unease immediately. "A reporter trying to get a story on Ben attacked me at the grocery store. He knocked me down over a display and I broke my ankle. Luckily the baby was not hurt in the attack," she said and the two women immediately relaxed once more. Ben shared a look with Luis.

Ramon was taller than his father and slimmer. Luis had explained to Ben that he was studying to be a lawyer and working as a paralegal at a small firm downtown. He came forward and shook Ben's hand.

"I cannot begin to tell you how grateful I am for your generosity. It is a rare thing in the world today and it could not have come at a better time. I had lost all hope of ever finding a place we could afford to live. Then Rafael was taken from us and all our plans had to be put on hold. This house will not only give us room for us but for Rita as well."

"And children!" Jaclyn added.

"Mom!" Ramon groaned. "Please let us get married first!"

The parents chuckled at this. Ben smiled. "As I said to your father, I'm happy to be able to bring and keep good people in our neighborhood." That earned him smiles.

"The house is currently furnished." Ramon said.

Ben winced. "Yeah, probably not to your style. That's how Tina's mother-in-law decorated it. You are welcome to keep anything you want and the rest can be taken away to a charity we use."

Bianca looked like she was going to cry again and Ramon gave her a squeeze as he could see this was distressing their benefactor.

Ben tore his eyes away from her large teary eyes to look at Ramon. "I'll talk to my contractors and see when we can schedule in the renovations. I'll need to pass some ideas of what you'd like to see in Rita's room. I also plan on upgrading the kitchen and bathrooms. If you want to see what I'm talking about you can take a look at my kitchen and the guest washroom in the hall," he said pointing to the two rooms.

Bianca and her mother walked off in the direction of the kitchen while the others followed Juan to the guest washroom he'd just showered in. Tina smiled at Ben at the excited sounds coming from the kitchen. He smiled in return. The groups switched rooms and more excited noises issued from both directions.

Juan had a resigned look on his face when they all rejoined Ben and Tina in the living room. "Do you think I might be able to hire these contractors to upgrade our kitchen as well?" Ben glanced over at Jaclyn and saw the hopeful look on her face as she clasped her hands together before her mouth.

He smiled. "Yes, I'll ask him about that as well." Jaclyn's face lit up with a smile and Juan rolled his eyes but kissed her cheek.

"Our kitchen is going to look like that?" Bianca said wide eyed.

"Close to that. I think the shape of the rooms is a little different. It will have the same quality fit and finishes and appliances."

"New appliances? What happens to the existing ones?" Rita asked timidly.

"They go to charity or a reclamation center if they don't work," Ben answered. "I'll get in touch with you once I speak with the contractor."

Ramon shook his hand again and Bianca gave him a hug. Rita gave him a hug too though it looked like her face was going to burst into flames. Juan shook his hand and Jaclyn gave him a hug and giggled as she followed her husband outside. Then it was just Tina and Ben. He carried her to the garage and sat her in the passenger seat of his truck then went back for her crutches. Once they were settled he opened the garage door and got them on their way.

The drive to the custom milling shop didn't take too long and Tina used her crutches to go inside with Ben. The staff made a big fuss over Tina as it was the first time their long-time customer showed up with someone from his life outside. Tina was secretly pleased with the attention but kept her eye on Ben. If he started to feel uncomfortable she would put an end to it.

Ben sat down with the machining tech and they went over the specs. Ben was conscious of Tina's presence so he made sure he kept them on track and they were done in twenty minutes. The tech was sure they had the raw materials in stock and would be able to machine the piece he wanted by Friday at the latest. Ben thanked him and he led Tina back out to the truck. He helped her in and drove them to the mall. He parked by the entrance near the food court. There was an info kiosk inside the doors and Ben signed out a wheelchair for Tina. She sat and he wheeled her down the hall towards the food court.

He took her to the Korean restaurant and she was able to order some favorites. She was also able to use her Korean to order and the staff treated her very well. Ben ordered some rice and some beef dish in a sweet sauce.

They found a table near the edge of the food court so he and Tina could people watch.

Ben was pleased to discover that eyes were sliding past him to gaze at Tina. He looked at her too and saw she really was glowing with health and happiness. It warmed his heart.

"It's good?" he asked as she devoured her food.

"I have such a craving for this dish. I do not know why," she said perplexed.

Ben smiled. "I believe food cravings are a normal thing for pregnancies.

Tina looked up in surprise and grinned at him.

They finished their meal undisturbed which was a relief for Ben. He thought they were going to actually make it out alive as he wheeled Tina back to the exit when he heard a commotion behind him.

"It's him!"

"The Bronze Man!"

"OMIGOD!"

"-autograph!"

"Selfie!"

Ben sighed and Tina looked up at him in concern. The voices were definitely female and didn't sound young.

They managed to reach the info kiosk to return the wheelchair and he was helping Tina to her feet when the two women swooped in.

"Mr. Shepherd?"

Ben turned to see two women, probably in their thirties, fresh from the salon, dressed very well with maybe a few too many designer labels on display, eagerly waiting for him to acknowledge them.

"Yes?"

Huge smiles blossomed on their faces. "Could I have your autograph?" one woman pleaded.

"You know, I'm not a celebrity. I don't give autographs," he said, trying to be civil.

"A picture then?" the other stepped forward holding up her cell and Tina wobbled back on her crutches.

Ben braced Tina with a hand on her back and his other hand protectively touching her tummy. The cell's flash went off and the two women suddenly seemed to realize Ben wasn't alone.

"Who's this?" the autograph chaser blurted.

"OMIGOD! She's having your baby?" the photographer exclaimed. Ben scowled and they took that as confirmation.

"But- but she said you were sterile!" responded the first.

"WHAT?!?" Ben growled as he reeled back.

The women leaned away but their eyes were twinkling with the excitement of a shared discovery.

"The woman claiming to be your wife told the reporter that you were sterile! In Peeps magazine!"

Tina tugged on his sleeve and Ben came back to the moment. Ears and cheeks burning with humiliation, he turned and walked with Tina out of the Mall. He could hear the excited giggles of the two women behind him and he trembled with undirected rage.

He got Tina back into the truck and got them driving back to the house. Ben was silent, his jaw clenched, as Tina watched him from her seat.

"I had a lovely lunch Ben," she said quietly.

Her words seemed to snap Ben out of his funk and he glanced apologetically towards her. "Oh, I'm sorry Tina. I did too! It was really nice to just be two people out for lunch in the food court. I really missed that." His brow furrowed once more as a troubled look stole back onto his face.

His cell began to ring so he passed it over to Tina to answer.

"Hello?"

"Hi, is this Tina?" asked a voice.

"Yes, who is this?"

"It's Joanne White. May I speak with Ben?"

"Ah, hello Joanne! May I put you on speaker? Ben is driving," Tina explained.

"Oh, sure."

"Go ahead," Tina prompted as the phone went on speaker mode.

"Ben? It's Joanne White."

"Hi Joanne! How is Florida?"

"Hot! But I'm not complaining!" she said and Ben heard the smile in her voice. "I- I'm calling about your offer. It's still on the table?"

"Yes."

"You're not going to lower it or tell me I told you so?"

"Joanne! I wouldn't do that! I'm sorry your other bids fell through," Ben said sincerely.

"Thank you Ben. I'd like to take you up on your offer then. I was going to contact you after the last buyer backed out but I was so embarrassed."

"Joanne, please! There is no need to be embarrassed. Listen, I'm going to give Trish's cousin Shelly a call. She's a realtor. You give her a call and she'll make all the arrangements. Here's her number." Ben gave her the number and Joanne repeated it back. "Just give me a few minutes to fill her in, ok?"

"Perfect! Thank you Ben!"

"Good doing business with you Joanne! Take care!"

"Bye!" she said and hung up. Tina dialed Shelly.

"Shelly Spencer, how may I help you today?"

"Hi Shelly, it's Ben Shepherd with Tina Lee on speakerphone."

"Hi Ben! Hi Tina!"

"Hello!" Tina answered.

"You are about to get a call from one of my previous neighbors, Joanne White. I've agreed to buy her home for 1.15 million. Can I ask you to take care of that for me?"

"Of course you can! You know you're my favorite buyer!" the woman said.

"Thanks Shelly! Let me know when you need my signature."

"Will do! Thanks again!"

Once she hung up Ben had Tina dial the bank to speak to the manager. Ben spoke with him to let him know he was going to need another check.

That taken care of they pulled into a gas station and while Ben pumped the gas, Tina made her way inside the little store to pick up snacks for her cravings. She returned with a bag and Ben's eyebrows rose. Tina stuck out her tongue and Ben smiled. She managed to get in by herself and Ben drove them home.

"I can get myself into the house on my own," Tina insisted and Ben wasn't even allowed to carry her bag of snacks.

He closed the garage and held the door for her but she made it in on her own and shooed him away once they were inside. He gave her a kiss and made his way downstairs to his office.

Ben stopped once more before the panic room door and stared at the dented surface. He was desperate to find something to occupy his mind, something to distract him from the incident in the mall. Examining the structure of the door he decided he was going to design a new one himself. He would work from the existing door's design but add gusseting to its back to stiffen the surface so it wouldn't bend under the pounding of a hammer. As that would increase its weight he'd improve the guides, the bearings and the hydraulics on the closer to bear the extra load as well as allow it to close faster.

Brain happily stimulated, he sat at his drafting table and got to work.

Tina sat in her favorite spot in the living room and listened for Ben. He was in his office so she knew she had a few hours at least. She pulled the magazine from her shopping bag. She'd grabbed an issue of Peeps and turned to the page with Wendy's story. Tina looked at the image of the woman. Greying blonde hair, sad eyes, tight thin lips, lines on her face, and very plump. She did not look like a happy woman.

Tina read the story which was only two pages. Aside from the picture of Wendy at the beginning of the article the only other photo was a wedding picture of Ben with Wendy. Attached as proof she supposed.

Wendy didn't paint a very flattering picture of her marriage to Ben or of Ben himself. She spoke of his disappointment when he discovered he was sterile and his subsequent loss of interest in her. By the end of the article Tina wanted to strangle the woman.

She flipped on her tablet and started a new email. She addressed it to Gabriella, Catherine, Trish, and Hannah and filled them in on the latest development with Wendy. She added the pertinent information Wendy had disclosed in the story and let them know how upset Ben had been when he'd been confronted by the two women in the mall. She snapped a picture of Wendy's face with the tablet and added it to the email. That done she sent it off.

First to respond to the message was Trish but that was no surprise. The language was very colorful but the message was clear, Trish loved Ben and would defend him to her dying breath. She offered to be at his side when the court case happened. Tina was sure all of the women in Ben's life would be there. She wasn't sure if that would be a good or bad thing to sway the judge's opinion. Something to speak to Gabriella about.

Speaking of the woman, Tina's tablet chirped with a video call request. Looking towards the stairs there was no sign of Ben. She dug her earphone out of the end table drawer and answered the call as she plugged it in.

Gabriella's concerned face popped up on the screen.

"Hi Tina! Is Ben there?"

She looked and the coast was still clear. She kept her voice quiet just in case. "Hi Gabriella! No, he went down to his office."

Gabriella's expression relaxed. She knew he'd be working on some engineering puzzle. "How are you doing?"

"Very well! I enjoyed very much my lunch with Ben today until the two rude women showed up," she said with a shrug.

"Tina, be honest with me. Does Ben need me to come back?" Gabriella asked.

"Does Ben miss you? Yes, but he will be coming to see you very soon. Would he ever forgive himself if he was the cause of your giving up your dream? I believe you know the answer to that question. We will keep him as happy as we can between his visits to see you. Tonight Lisa and Lori will be distracting Ben very much I believe," Tina said with a wicked grin.

Gabriella held up her hands in surrender. "That's ok, I don't need to know the details." A phone rang in the background and Gabriella looked away distractedly. She looked back at the camera. "Thank you Tina for being there for him. I miss him terribly too. Take care!"

"You as well!" Tina said and disconnected. She wondered when Gabriella got to sleep.

She saw a message from Hannah saying she would see how Ben was feeling in their group discussion session the following night.

A message from Catherine arrived and in it she asked if she should come over tonight. Tina let her know that Ben was ok for now and would be going out tonight. That made her think about dinner. Was Ben going to be home for dinner? It was almost time for her to begin preparing the food. She would have to ask Ben to put the roast into the oven but she could do everything else. She sent him a text. Moments later he replied he would be home for dinner but would be going out at 9:30PM.

Tina tucked her earphones away and put the magazine in the drawer. At the back, just in case.

She made her way into the kitchen to begin the prep work for dinner. She loved cooking for her man.

Ben was feeling pleasantly full from yet another amazing meal. Tina spoiled him terribly! He grinned happily as he scrubbed the roasting pan. He could hear the sounds of happy conversation behind him as Penny and Karen teased each other about something or other. He caught Karen saying the words 'your boyfriend' and he turned to look at Penny in surprise.

The doorbell rang and Penny leapt to her feet. "I'll get it."

Ben looked over at Karen who had a guilty look on her face. He sighed. Being a dad was harder than he thought it would be. He knew Tina had arranged for them to get birth control pills and they were technically adults but his instinct was to protect them. Penny's grades were still very good so he wasn't as concerned as he might have been. He wasn't happy that she had kept this new development a secret from him though.

Penny reappeared in the door with a strange grin on her face. Behind her was Jayden. Ben's eyebrows went up. He hadn't expected him to move quite this quickly but he supposed he should have.

Ben leaned back against the counter as he dried the roasting pan and watched Jayden nervously enter the kitchen. All eyes turned to him as Penny rejoined her sister at the kitchen table. This meant the young man was facing the curious eyes of Tina, Lucy, Penny, and Karen while under Ben's scrutiny as well. Christopher wasn't paying any attention at all as his toys kept him occupied on the floor.

"Good evening," he said, clearly nervous.

The women returned the greeting and Karen glanced quickly at Ben.

"Karen, I was wondering if you'd like to go see a movie with me on Friday. We could have dinner first then see that new Katherine Heigl movie."

Karen's eyes were wide with surprise and she quickly looked over at Ben to see if he was going to protest. Her eyes got even wider when she saw he was just smiling at her. Her face split into a wide grin as she looked back at Jayden.

"YES! I mean I'd love to. Could- could we see that Fast and Ferocious movie instead though. I don't like rom-coms. I like action movies!" Karen blurted excitedly. Jayden's smile got wider as he realized he'd hit the jackpot.

"Apparently Penny has a boyfriend too. Maybe you could double date," Ben suggested.

Jayden nodded and Penny looked even guiltier but nodded as well.

Lucy and Tina were all smiles.

"I'll pick you up at six on Friday?" Jayden asked.

Karen nodded excitedly and her smile was priceless. Jayden returned it and nodded to the group.

He looked over at Ben. "Goodnight Ben."

"Goodnight Jayden."

Karen got up and walked him to the door. She locked up when he left then came racing back into the kitchen to hug Ben. "Thank you!" she gasped into his chest.

Ben kissed the top of her head as he hugged her. "All I'm going to say is take your time. Enjoy the whole experience of dating and courting."

"Courting?" she asked looking up at him with big blue eyes.

"Getting to know each other before... it gets physical," he said uncomfortably.

She hugged him tighter and he hugged her in return.

"Do you have homework?" he asked and she released him to rush off to her bedroom to get started.

"Not so fast young lady," Ben called out to Penny as she tried to follow her sister.

Penny returned looking sheepish.

"What's the thing I've asked for in this household?" he said firmly.

Penny looked up at him through her thick lashes. "Honesty," she said quietly. "I'm sorry."

"I'd like to meet him. Have him meet you here Friday night. I also want you to keep an eye on your sister." Ben sighed. "And the same goes for you about taking it slow!" Ben growled.

Penny crushed herself against Ben's chest and hugged him. "Thank you!"

He kissed the top of her head then shooed her to go do her homework too.

Ben looked back at the kitchen table to see two very happy faces. "What?"

"Such a good dad!" Lucy said with a grin.

Ben snorted and went back to cleaning up.

"Please join us in the living room when you are done." Lucy said as she assisted Tina up and onto her crutches. Tina told Christopher to bring his toys into the living room and the boy quickly gathered them up and rushed into the next room.

After wiping down the countertops Ben walked into the living room and saw Lucy snuggled up on the couch with Tina and he smiled. Lucy moved over and the ladies patted the cushion between them.

Ben carefully sat between them and they moved closer to him. Christopher thought they were playing a game and crawled up on Ben's lap, giggling the whole time.

Ben gave the boy some kisses and pretended to eat his ear causing an explosion of giggles. He caught sight of Penny as she walked down the hall.

"Penny, I think it's time for this young man to brush his teeth and get ready for bed. Could I ask you to help him with that?"

"Sure! Come here little man!" she said scooping him up. He clung to her and more giggles could be heard as she swooped him back down the hall.

When they were alone once more Tina tapped on Ben's arm and he lifted it over her so she could lean against his side. Lucy did the same and the two ladies sighed with happiness.

Tina looked up at Ben. "I was texting Lisa and Lori today and they told me you were taking them to Club Eon tonight." He nodded. "They also told me it's not the usual kind of dance club you are used to." Ben's face took on a worried expression. "I would very much like you to take Lucy and me to this club after I have had our baby. You did say you would take me dancing."

"Yes I did and I will. What's special about Club Eon?" Ben asked cautiously.

Lucy looked up at Ben's face and caught his attention. "I did some research when Tina told me about it and I completely agree. I would love to go there with you! It caters to Doms and their Subs. You don't have to be in that kind of relationship to be admitted but there are strict rules of conduct to protect the patrons. It is very civilized so it's very freeing for us subs. Everyone wears two glowing pins except tourists, those not involved in the lifestyle, who wear a single yellow pin. Wearing the blue pin means you are a Dom. A red pin means you are a sub. An Orange pin means you can be both. The color of the second pin tells people your intent. White means you are there just to dance with your partner, or partners in your case, and aren't seeking additional relationships. A green pin means you are open to being approached by those seeking a relationship."

"I thought we were just going dancing!" Ben complained.

"You are but it is very nice for us to be able to show our appreciation of our Dom in a public way. An extra element of excitement," Tina explained and Lucy nodded emphatically.

"So I get to wear a blue and white pin and the twins will wear a red and- what, green?" he asked.

Tina and Lucy gave him a frank look and he realized he was still avoiding the truth. The twins were both subs and had claimed him as their Dom. He closed his eyes and took a deep breath. Honestly, as much as he fought the idea of them 'settling', deep inside he desperately wanted them for himself. He opened his eyes and felt the truth of it bitch slap him. It was time to man up and finally accept it. They needed a Dom and he would let them know tonight that they were his. He'd strung them along long enough, left them in this uneasy limbo for too long. He owed them that much.

He looked into Tina's eyes and saw they were practically twinkling with joy as she understood he'd figured it out. He kissed her and felt her melt against him. She knew she was his but that still left the question of Lucy. He pulled back from Tina's soft mouth and looked at the beautiful tattooed woman under his other arm and saw her eyes were filled with a desperate need. He felt something open in his heart as his resistance broke.

"You're mine," he growled as a wave of emotion almost overwhelmed him. He took her mouth with his and she squeaked.

When he pulled back from the kiss she had tears of joy in her eyes. "I love you Ben!" she gasped.

"I love you too Lucy. I love you both. I'm sorry I haven't been a better Dom for you. I will do better," he said, emotion making his voice rough.

"Ben, you're a better Dom than you realize," Tina said gently.

Ben still seemed a little unsettled. "What's wrong?" Lucy asked.

"I- I feel... uncomfortable with how possessive I am with you, Tina, and the twins. I consider myself rather progressive but my behavior with you four feels rather primitive, primal." He was struggling to verbalize his instinctive reaction to their submissiveness.

"Do you think we are your possessions?" Tina asked.

"No! That's not it-"

"Are we not women in your eyes?" she continued calmly, ignoring Ben's agitation.

"Of course you're women! You're all intelligent, strong, loving, beautiful women-"

"Ben, what you want to possess is our love, body and soul. This is what we want more than anything to give to you. It may be primal but for us it is exactly what we need. We feel safe being submissive with you because you still see us as women and not as objects," Tina explained. Ben paused to think about that.

"You'll tell Lisa and Lori tonight as well?" Lucy asked.

"Yes," he replied, his throat tight with emotion.

Tina gently pulled Ben's face down to hers and kissed him tenderly.

"Thank you Tina. I'll need you to guide me-"

"Ben," she shook her head, "you need no guidance in how to love us." She placed her small hand over his heart. "It comes from here and it's perfect."

They relaxed back on the couch and just enjoyed the closeness.

It was Lucy who noticed the time. "Ben you need to get ready to go. I suggest you wear that amazing charcoal grey shirt under your black blazer and slacks. The pins will glow nicely on black and you'll look fierce in that outfit!"

"Mmmm! Remember you have to take us there too one day!" Tina smiled.

"With pleasure!" he replied.

He got up and made his way to the master bedroom. Tina and Lucy followed and watched him dress. Once he was done they both smiled and made hungry noises. He gave them both passionate kisses and they rested on the bed, heads spinning as they giggled happily. He smiled over at them as he put together an overnight bag.

They followed him to the garage door and locked up behind him. He drove over to the twin's house and they rushed out to get into the back seat of his truck. They put their overnight cases over the seat into the back.

"No one is going to ride up front with me?" he asked in surprise.

"Did Tina tell you about the dance club?" Lisa asked cautiously.

"Ah. Never mind." He glanced in the mirror and saw two identical brilliant smiles. They were trembling with excitement and held hands.

They gave him directions and thirty-five minutes later they pulled up to the entrance of the Eon Hotel. The valet jogged around to the driver's door and opened it for Ben. The man handed him a chit for the car and Ben opened the rear door for the ladies as a second man collected their bags from the back.

Ben offered his hand and got his first good look at the twins as he guided them out. Both were wearing ankle length, light cream colored faux fur coats which covered their bodies completely. Their shining red hair was teased up on their heads and gold hoops dangled from their earlobes amongst the many other piercings. Ben led them to the reception desk and with a glance at Lisa he gave his name. The reception clerk took his information with a smile.

"Ah! Mr. Shepherd! It is indeed an honor to have you grace our establishment!" the night manager said as he overheard the name and rushed forward. "My name is Henry. Please let me know if there is anything we can do to make your experience with us better in any way!"

Ben smiled and hid his unease at how they man had emphasized the 'any'. He gave his credit card and signed for the room.

The reception clerk asked to see the ID from Lisa and Lori and nodded once she'd read them.

"Will you be going directly to the club? We can take your bags up to the room with your coats if you'd like," Henry asked.

Understanding his role for the night, Ben made the decision for them and nodded to the man. He took off his overcoat and handed it over. Then he turned to Lori who was drinking in his dark, powerful presence with a satisfied smile. He gestured for her to come closer. He looked into her eyes as he unbuttoned her coat and slipped it back from her shoulders. He allowed his eyes to roam down her body.

The first thing he noticed was the snug red leather collar around her neck with the small silver 'O' ring at the front. Below this was a lot of bare skin until Ben's eyes reached the tops of Lori's tits squeezed together and upwards in a short red leather bustier. Lori's tight tummy muscles were visible below the bustier and above a tight red leather skirt which covered her ass but ended at mid-thigh. Long toned legs stretched down to her red leather pumps. Ben was momentarily stunned by the raw sensuality Lori was presenting. He looked back into her eyes and saw she was biting her lip nervously. His eyes told her he was seconds away from taking her right there over the reception counter.

Lori suddenly felt her knees go weak as he devoured her with his eyes. His need and how fucking hot he looked in his suit were making her tingle madly and she almost couldn't wait for the fun they had planned for later.

Ben turned to Lisa and gestured her forward. She moved quickly to him and he removed her coat as well. He discovered she was dressed identically to her sister and he subconsciously growled as he took in her provocative attire. Her tits were almost begging to be kissed. Lisa's eyes were twinkling with excitement as she smiled up at him.

"You both look... delicious," he said for their ears only and they grinned widely.

"Let's save that for later!" Lisa whispered and squirmed as her body reacted to his hungry look.

Henry bowed to them with their coats over his arm and gestured the way to the club. Ben led them down the hall to an ornate doorway. Two men in leather straps opened the doors for them. Inside was a hostess desk. Another couple was currently speaking with the woman behind the desk and Ben saw she was explaining the glowing pins. He saw they were actually small glowing loops and there seemed to be a number of different ways they could be worn. He supposed that made sense as the wide range of outfits people wore to a place like this might make pinning the loop to an article of clothing impossible.

It was time to man up. He turned to the twins and once more gazed in awe at their beauty. He gave himself a shake and took their hands in his.

"First off I want to tell you how incredible you both look tonight." Smiles beamed back at him. "Second I want to apologize for the way I've been treating you since we... became intimate." Their smiles slipped into looks of confusion. "You've both been abundantly clear that you desired to take our intimacy to a higher level and I've been struggling to maintain a distance with the thought that you might reconsider spending time with me and find someone... younger or closer to your age at the very least." When they made to protest he held up a finger and they waited but he could tell they were on edge now.

"With the help of a very wise young woman I've come to the realization that I've been lying to myself. The man who claims to hold honesty as the highest quality failed to apply that standard to himself." He ensured he had their undivided attention. "I don't want you to find another Dom. I want you both for myself. If you'll have me I want to be your Dom. I love you. You're mine." He found himself growling the last words and once more he was shaken by how strong his emotional upheaval was as he expressed the truth he'd been denying to himself.

The ladies looked back at him in shock. Lori found her voice first. "Yes Ben, oh my god yes! I love you too!" This triggered Lisa. "Yes! Oh yes! We love you so much!"

Both looked on the verge of tears and they were here to dance so Ben exerted some control. "Good! No tears. It's time to dance. We're here to show our love and respect for each other. Let's go enjoy ourselves."

He looked at their collars and used the rings to pull them in close to kiss them, first Lisa then Lori. They smiled up at him as they trembled with joy. Ben straightened out his jacket which they'd wrinkled with their grips as he kissed them. He raised an eyebrow and they grinned as he turned to face the hostess who was waiting patiently for them.

The woman was wearing a complex outfit of leather straps and knotted rope. Nothing intimate was exposed. She was in her thirties and pleasantly full figured. Her long black hair was pulled back tightly and fell down her back in a long ponytail.

Her pale skin made her black eye shadow and lipstick very dramatic. Pale grey eyes looked at him with a hint of a smile on her lips.

Then her eyes widened in recognition. "Mr. Shepherd! You... here, in our club!"

"The last time we attended a club we ended up on the news. That isn't going to happen here is it?" Ben asked with a commanding tone.

The woman looked flustered. "No! We are the model of discretion! No cameras are allowed inside the club aside from the security cameras and that footage will never be used outside of its intended purpose. I would like to say though that it is a profound honor to have you visit us. I had no idea... oh, perhaps I've gotten ahead of myself. My apologies." She blushed. Gesturing to the display she continued. "We wear pins in the club to identify the roles we play in the Dom/Sub lifestyle. If you are not-" she was gesturing to the yellow rings.

"I'll wear the blue and the white. My women will be wearing the red and white," he said clearly and heard a faint squeak of excitement from the twins.

The woman's eyes lit up with delighted approval. "Very good, Mr. Shepherd." She fastened a blue ring and a white ring on the lapel of his jacket. She looked up through her thick lashes at him. "Should you choose to switch out the white for a green I know of many inside who might wish to entertain a relationship with you."

Looking back at the beautiful happy faces of his partners he shook his head. "The white is fine."

He gestured for Lisa and Lori to step forward and the woman hung the red ring from the silver rings on their collars. Then she connected the white to the red. Ben nodded in approval. The rings glowed nicely against their skin.

He couldn't stop himself from reaching out to both of them to cup the rings in his hands while he rested his knuckles against the tops of their breasts. Both sucked in a breath at the feel of his hand on their skin. He nodded like he was satisfied with the rings, released them and turned back to the woman who hadn't missed their reaction. She was struggling to hide her own smile.

"Please enjoy yourself at Club Eon and I hope you will return again!" she said.

"I definitely will. I've promised two others a visit." Ben replied and the woman's face showed her surprise.

Ben made his way into the club with Lisa and Lori close behind.

The room was quite large with a bar along the back wall and a large dance floor to the right and tables and booths straight ahead and to the left. Fairly standard layout for a bar. The difference was the sea of colored rings. It was pretty easy to see the yellow rings of the 'tourists'. It made them easier to spot. The white rings were fairly numerous. What he was most surprised by were the number of green rings. There were a lot of people looking for relationships in the club.

Ben tried to find other parties of three or more and that seemed to be a rare thing. Shrugging he led Lisa and Lori out onto the dancefloor and pulled them in tight as the song was a slow one but it was winding down. He kissed Lori and she clung to him tighter and moaned into the kiss. When he pulled back her eyes were slightly glazed so he kept his arm around her as he kissed Lisa. Her tongue boldly thrust into his mouth as she pressed herself against him. She smiled happily at him when he pulled back.

The next piece of music was starting and while he didn't recognize it the beat was driving and they moved apart to move to the music.

They danced for over an hour straight before Ben decided he'd like to sit down for a bit. He led them back to the tables and found and empty curved booth. He guided the twins in and heard a voice behind him.

"Hey! That's my booth!"

Ben turned to see a young man wearing a lot of leather and an angry expression on his face. He had the blue loop and a green loop though he appeared to be with an older woman dangling a red and a white loop from a wide slave collar. So she wasn't looking for a relationship but he was? That seemed rude but Ben was new to this so...

"It was empty with no reserved sign so it's ours now," Ben replied.

"Like fuck it is- AAAIIEEE!" The man squealed as Ben gripped the hand he'd been grabbed with and bent the wrist back painfully. He continued to fold it back until the squealing man was down on his knees and crying.

"Did I say you could touch me? The white ring means leave me alone, I'm here to dance. You should have heeded that warning." Ben said calmly. "I think it's time for an apology."

"FUCK Y-EEEEEEE!!" The wrist was moving back further and the tears were flowing.

"I'M SORRY! I'M SORRY!" he screamed.

Two men in leather straps arrived and Ben nodded to them. "This one was a little too aggressive and tried to pick a fight," he explained.

"Yes sir, we'll take it from here."

Ben released the wrist and stood back. The bouncers gripped the man under his arms and dragged him away as he whimpered. His partner glanced back at Ben as she followed them away. He turned his attention back to his ladies.

He slid into the booth across from them. "Lori, put your feet up on my lap."

Lori's eyes lit up and she glanced around furtively. She slipped off her shoes and stretched out her long legs to lay her feet on Ben's lap. Before she could move them he took a grip on them and began to massage them in his strong hands.

"Ohhhh Ben! That feels sooooo goooood!" Lori whimpered.

"I assume those shoes are more for looks than for comfort, especially when dancing," he replied.

Lori couldn't respond as his thumbs were working magic on her aching feet and all she could feel was bliss.

He worked his way through all of her toes, moved to the ball, then the arch, the bridge and finally the heels. Lori was purring by the time he was done.

"Lisa, your turn," he said as he moved Lori's feet over onto the bench next to him.

Her feet were immediately resting on his lap and Lisa had a broad smile on her face which quickly melted into a look of ecstasy as Ben worked the aches out of her feet. Once he'd reached her heels Lisa looked spent. She leaned back against the backrest and drifted on the warm buzz her feet were giving off.

A waitress arrived at their table. She was wearing red and purple rings. She was also wearing form fitting black latex, the impression of her nipple rings visible against the tight surface, complete with a mask exposing her lovely brown eyes and wide full lips, her blond hair sprouting out the back in a ponytail. Ben hoped she didn't have to wear that outfit for too long.

"Would you care for some drinks?" she asked.

"I'd like a bottle of still spring water," Ben said and looked over at the ladies. He didn't know what drink to order for them so he nodded to them.

"Dirty Martini," Lisa ordered.

"Same," her sister said.

Ben leaned forward. "Excuse me. What does the purple ring mean?"

The woman smiled at Ben's interest. "It means 'Do not touch'." She passed her eyes over his wide shoulders and powerful arms. "For you I might reconsider that."

Ben blinked in surprise and the woman walked away with a smile and an extra sway to her hips. He looked over at the twins and they were smiling back at him.

"Have you been to this club before?" he asked.

"No, not this club but we have been to others like it. This one is far more civilized about its approach to the lifestyle," Lisa volunteered.

Ben looked over at the area before the bar and saw that at least half of the patrons appeared to be circulating there. He looked back at the twins curiously.

"Once we've had our drinks we should make an appearance. This will be the first time we've exposed our submissive sides in public and it's a pretty big deal for us. We should warn you though, some take their dominance and submission to extreme levels. You will see people gleefully giving and gratefully accepting pain. We're at the other end of the spectrum. Pain isn't completely necessary to satisfy our submissiveness," Lori explained. Lisa glanced at her sister and looked troubled.

"Lisa, say what you want to say," Ben said firmly.

"I- I need the pain... sometimes," she said looking desperately at Ben. Lori was giving her sister a surprised look.

"I know," Ben rumbled and she squirmed as she looked at him hungrily.

The waitress returned with their drinks and her eyes were on Ben the entire time she served them.

"Shall I add the charges to your room Mr. Shepherd?" she said breathily, an odd catch in her voice.

Ben sighed. Damn his name was getting around. He nodded then he noticed her purple ring was missing. He looked up and saw her eyes were locked onto his. She was biting her lip and squirming as her body visibly trembled. Was she... touching herself? No, her hands were at her sides.

Ben scowled as she began to lean towards him, her knees giving out.

"What the fuck!" Ben growled, his hands automatically moving to catch her fall. They landed on her torso just under her tits and she threw her head back with a loud gasp as his rough grip sent her over the edge. The strength in her legs abandoned her as her body shook through her climax, making her lean more heavily against Ben's hands, the undersides of her tits rubbing on his hands.

"So... sorry!" she grovelled but her humiliation just seemed to make her gasp harder.

Suddenly the men in the leather strap outfits arrived to gently lift and guide the waitress away. She moaned unhappily as they left.

"What the hell was that about?" Ben asked Lisa who was staring at the retreating staff with wide eyes.

"She must have been a fan. I think she turned her toys on when she discovered who you were," she guessed.

Ben blinked in confusion at Lisa.

"The remote controlled vibrators she was wearing... internally," she explained.

"Geezus!" Ben gasped and shook his head. Now he'd heard everything. He tried to put it behind him.

They sipped at their drinks and watched the crowd in front of the bar.

Once they'd finished, the twins slipped their shoes back on and they stood up. Ben joined them and gave them a kiss for luck. Lisa gestured for Ben to lead them.

He walked towards the bar and Lisa and Lori walked side by side a step behind Ben. He didn't look back at them as he assumed they would know how to present themselves. Ben didn't avert his eyes from the others but looked in interest at how they were publicly presenting their relationships to their partners.

He saw a trim man, hair silvering at his temples, wearing the blue ring of a Dom on the lapel of his elegantly tailored suit. He also had a white pin. His partner was a muscular young man with long straight blonde hair whose attire was a pair of translucent latex briefs, a ball gag, a slave collar with red and white loops dangling from it, and a silk blindfold. The collar had a slim silver chain which lead to the leather loop around the wrist of his partner. The Dom nodded to Ben so he tipped his head in return.

There was a heavy set woman dressed completely in black leather who had another slimmer woman wearing minimal leather garments and a leash. Their blue and red rings were evident. Ben caught the cruel smile on the Dom's face as she yanked her sub closer to pinch the woman's nipple. The slim woman squealed and whimpered but the way she bit her lip afterwards gave away her true feelings.

As they made their way closer to the bar Ben saw a man almost as large and muscular as he was. He was only wearing a series of leather straps with chrome rings and what looked like a loin cloth. He had a ball gag jammed in his mouth and his hands were bound behind his back with black ropes. He growled menacingly at Ben as they approached. The red and white rings hanging from his slave collar swayed as his Mistress pulled his chain tight.

Ben looked to the woman holding the chain and saw she was busy undressing him with her eyes. Tall and voluptuous the black beauty's huge tits looked like they were about to escape from the daringly low neckline of her tight green dress. The blue and green rings on her necklace were on the verge of disappearing into her cleavage. Her hair was shaved close to her scalp on the sides of her head but along the top it was bound into many slim braids each ending with a small silver ball. She seemed to be considering him as an addition to her harem regardless of his blue pin when recognition suddenly flared in her eyes. She smiled hungrily and her eyes dropped to his groin as she licked her lips.

Ben sighed and continued on. He felt eyes on him and did his best to ignore the sensation as he moved through the throng. A woman to his left took a step forward as he approached, drawing his eye. Dressed in a simple white silk top above a tight black leather skirt and a short leather jacket. No spikes, buckles, clamps or other bondage paraphernalia. Ben was relieved to see that. She was wearing a slim silver chain around her neck from which a blue and green loop hung.

"Good evening Mr. Shepherd. My name is Pepin Stiegerwald. I'm the President of our little social club," she said with a smile as she gestured around. Her German accent was subtle so she may have lived in the states for quite some time.

While it was difficult to estimate accurately he guessed she was in her fifties though her body appeared to be fit and trim. The subtle lines at the corners of her green eyes and smiling lips and her confident bearing indicated she had some experience under her belt. She was comfortable with the lifestyle. Obviously, as she was the president of their club.

She was one of the few women with hair that didn't hang down her back. Short, with that tousled pixie look, her black locks was another sign of her confidence. That and the bold dark blue of her lipstick and matching manicure.

"Please, call me Ben."

Her smile was a flash of white as she shook his offered hand. She had a strong grip and she tested his just a little. A Dom to Dom thing perhaps he wondered.

He was about to introduce the twins when he caught himself. He had no idea what the protocols were. He was spared from a faux pas when Pepin took the initiative.

"Your ladies are truly lovely. Twins?"

"Yes. They are exquisite," he said with a smile as he looked at them with admiration. They glowed with his praise. He glanced behind Pepin but she just flashed him her smile once more.

"I'm currently between partners. The last one... could not maintain his passion for the lifestyle." She shrugged gently.

Ben wasn't clear on what that meant but he didn't feel comfortable asking.

"I don't believe I've seen you or them at the club before," Pepin stated.

"No, it's a first for us. To be completely honest, I've only recently accepted the role of being a Dom." He wasn't sure why he shared that but something about Pepin drew it from him.

"Then let me be among the first to welcome you to a very rewarding and satisfying lifestyle!" she said with a smile. "We have over fifty members in our social club. Just a little more than half have attended tonight. We try to get together at least once a month, optimally twice a month but we are a diverse group and schedules are so hectic these days."

Ben nodded thinking about how full his own calendar was. He was looking forward to being able to go back to a quieter life but wondered when that might happen.

"I believe Drago is going to do a demonstration shortly. He promised a good show," Pepin said.

"Demonstration?" Ben asked.

"He said he will be giving a young sub her first public disciplining session," she nodded.

Ben immediately felt uneasy but Pepin led Ben forward to the end of the bar where an area had been set up for the 'demonstration'. A bald man with broad powerful shoulders and arms limbered up. He wasn't too tall but he was wide with muscle and fat. He'd taken his shirt off and his blue and green loops hung from a belt loop. He was a... hairy man. Thick dark curls covered his back.

"Drago, may I introduce Ben Shepherd," Pepin said as the man turned to face them.

The dark curls continued to his chest it seemed. Ben caught the pungent scent of the man's sour sweat but tried to keep his distaste from his face. The man gave him a critical evaluating look and the briefest of nods. Ben was grateful he didn't have to shake the man's hand.

"You must stand back so you don't get hit," Drago cautioned.

"Hit? With what?" Ben asked.

Drago gave him an impatient look and gestured to a small table set up with a number of whips, straps, and riding crops.

Ben's unease went up. He glanced at Pepin who took his arm and guided him to the side. Lisa and Lori tucked themselves in close behind Ben.

"I see you are unfamiliar with the practice of disciplining a sub." She glanced at the twins. "They are very well behaved none-the-less."

"I've never used a whip or a riding crop on them. I find the idea... disturbing." Ben admitted.

Pepin nodded as she was aware it could be difficult to watch for those who didn't comprehend the underlying rules of conduct.

"Disciplining is a mutually agreed upon activity. A Dom must receive permission from their Sub prior to beginning. If the Sub does not desire the disciplining then it serves no purpose other than inflicting pain. Only the Dom would receive fulfillment from that," she explained.

"Assuming a Dom took pleasure in inflicting pain," Ben growled.

Pepin looked at him curiously. "It has been my experience that most do."

"Pain can be a powerful tool." He glanced at Lisa who shivered in response. "It's useful for achieving the goal of heightened pleasure for a sub. Taking pleasure from inflicting it? I'm sorry, I can't relate to that." He took a deep breath. "If a sub willingly gives themselves to someone wishing to inflict pain for their own pleasure..." He shook his head. "I don't understand but I'll try not to judge."

Pepin smiled. "Then you are more open minded than most." This made Ben snort. "A sub sees the pleasure they give their Dom as a gift for their partner. Many subs enjoy, even need the pain. While they receive it they know they are giving pleasure to their partner," she said.

Ben tried to grasp the concept but for him pain was something to avoid. If Lisa needed pain he could give her some but he received no pleasure from the act himself.

Dragging his mind back from the uncomfortable topic he glanced around. "Who is Drago going to discipline?" he asked.

Pepin looked around as well and frowned. "I'm not sure. He didn't have a partner with him at our last get together. He's only been with the club for three months."

The man in question gestured for someone to approach. A slim man moved forward guiding a small figure before him. The figure in question turned out to be a young woman with light brown, curly frizzy hair which was tied back to expose her face. Or more accurately her blindfold, ball gag, and ear covers.

Ben got the impression that she was very young. She couldn't be more than 18 and he was worried she might be less than that. He glanced at Pepin in concern.

"I can guess what you are thinking. I too think she looks too young to be here but Club Eon has a very strict policy of no underage patrons. They're not even allowed in the hotel. They would have had to have shown her ID," she said.

Ben remembered the ladies being carded at the reception desk and he felt a little better. Still the young woman was so young!

"Tell me, how old were you when you first got involved in the Dom / Sub lifestyle?" he asked.

Pepin gave him an odd look then looked back at the petite brunette being strapped to a large upright 'X'. "I was twenty-six."

"Do you believe you were truly capable of making well thought out decisions at that age or were you still fumbling around? How about when you were eighteen?" Ben said grimly as he saw the man who'd led the girl here roughly tear away the t-shirt she'd been wearing. The brunette shrieked through her ball gag and looked around frantically though she could not see or hear.

"How is she supposed to tell him she's had enough? Is he going to remove the gag? Why is she blinded and deafened?" Ben growled quietly to Pepin as his agitation grew. She saw where Ben was going with this and frowned at Drago. The man walked closer with the riding crop and snapped it against the inner thighs of the girl. She squealed and began to cry.

Ben had enough and moved.

Drago looked at him angrily as he approached. "What are you doing? Get back! The bitch is my sub!"

Ben ignored him and reached for the straps to the girl's ball gag. He wanted to hear from her that she voluntarily agreed to this.

SNAP!

Ben yanked his hand back and glared at Drago who'd just struck the back of his hand with the riding crop.

"You will leave the bitch alone. She is mine." Drago said coldly. Ben just scowled at him.

The young woman was still crying so Ben turned back to undo her ball gag once more.

SNAP!

CRASH!

The moment the crop struck Ben's hand he swung his arm backward and took Drago right off his feet. The man hit the floor hard and struck the table with all his tools. They crashed down on top of the prone man.

Ben undid the ball gag and got the straps of the blindfold and ear covers off. The girl shrieked when she discovered she was in a room full of strangers. She shrieked even louder when the tip of the whip struck her back.

"THE. BITCH. IS. MINE!" Drago bellowed. He was standing once more, breathing hard, holding a long whip loosely in his right hand.

"Do you want him to continue?" Ben asked the woman and she frantically shook her head no. "Sorry, I need you to say it. Loudly."

"No! I want to go home!" the woman cried.

The crowd began to grumble as they glared at Drago as he'd broken one of their cardinal rules. Pepin was immediately undoing the restraints and Ben put his jacket over the girl's shoulders until they could get her something to wear.

CRACK!

Ben hissed and spun to face Drago. The back of his shirt was ripped and he felt a large welt rising. Lisa and Lori cried out in fear drawing Drago's attention.

"Perhaps I will take my pleasure from your two whores-" Drago shut up fast when he suddenly saw Ben lunging at him. He quickly discovered that whips aren't very good for close combat. The opponent needs to be out at the end of the whip otherwise he just grabs it and yanks you off your feet to drive his knee into your face. Then the lights explode and everything fades to black.

Ben stood above Drago's unconscious form and glared at his assistant. The shocked man beat a hasty retreat.

"Would it be a stupid question if I asked if anyone here has restraints we could use on this guy?" he asked and got laughter from the group. Several people moved forward with ropes, cuffs, and bondage shackles.

Seeing he had no more opponents Ben walked back to Pepin and the young woman who was clinging to her with her head tucked in under the older woman's chin. Ben smiled. He picked up the ball gag he'd removed from her and tossed it back to the group binding the unconscious man.

"I'm sorry Ben. We assumed he'd followed protocols since he'd come to our meetings and knew how we worked. If you hadn't reacted so quickly Melody here could have been badly scarred."

"He should be arrested and charged for what he did," Ben growled as Lisa and Lori rushed over to him. He assured them by giving them each a kiss. They moved to his back and gently lifted his shirt. Ben just pulled it up and over his head. He stared in dismay at the rip. Tina and Lucy liked this shirt but it was a write off. He looked up to see Pepin and Melody both staring at his chest.

"My, you... certainly have a lot of scars," Pepin said with a breathy voice. Melody nodded, wide eyed. He felt gentle touches on his back.

"The whip didn't break the skin." Lori said looking around his arm.

"Good. One less scar," Ben said thankfully. The welt stung but his shirt had taken the brunt of the damage. He was lucky that Drago hadn't been so skilled at wielding his weapon of choice.

The club hostess arrived and made a beeline to Ben. "Are you alright Mr. Shepherd? The authorities are on their way."

"Yes, thank you. I think I'm done dancing for the night though. Do you have some clothing you might loan Melody here?"

"Yes! Right away," she said and spun off to get the clothes.

"Where are your clothes?" Ben asked the young woman.

She shook her head.

"Did he drug you?" Pepin asked.

Melody's eyes began to tear up and she nodded. Pepin held her a little tighter and tucked her head in under her chin again. She looked over at Ben. "I wonder if I have time to get a few kicks in before the police arrive."

Ben grinned then shook his head as the police were already making their way over to them.

"Good evening Officer... Davis." Ben said reading his badge. He frowned. "Have we met?"

"Yes, Mr. Shepherd. I was the officer who interviewed you back at the end of September when you assisted in the apprehension of the drunk gang member outside the mall. How is your hand?"

"Much better, thanks!" he smiled.

The officer looked at the bound man lying on the floor behind them and raised his eyebrows at Ben.

"I just... incapacitated him after he struck me with a whip and threatened Lisa and Lori. The others put him in restraints." Ben turned his back to Officer Davis who winced when he saw the welt across the scars.

"And why did he whip you?" the officer asked uncomfortably.

Lori held up Ben's shirt to show he wasn't topless when he was struck.

"I was preventing him from whipping Melody. I wasn't convinced she was a willing participant. She was gagged, blinded and deafened so I was removing those restraints to ask her when he whipped her then me."

The officer turned to the young woman. "Did you come here of your own free will?"

The brunette shook her head.

"Verbally, Melody," Pepin prompted.

"No. I was drugged at a dance club and they put me into the bondage stuff. I don't know where my clothes are or my purse or my phone..." she began to sniffle and Pepin hugged her until she calmed.

Officer Davis made notes as the hostess returned with the clothing. It was a red knit dress that, while a little tight, looked like it would fit Melody's petite frame. Pepin took the garment with thanks and guided Melody over to the washrooms. They returned shortly and Pepin handed Ben his jacket back.

Ben frowned as he recalled the frightened look on Drago's co-conspirator. He walked over to the officer who was retrieving the unconscious man's wallet. "Drago wasn't alone tonight. He had help but he ran off. He was around 5' 6", white, slim build, thin mustache, and crooked front teeth. If they grabbed Melody..."

The officer nodded and read Drago's address from his driver's license into his mic. "I've sent a cruiser to his address. We'll look for other victims at his residence. Thank you Mr. Shepherd."

Ben nodded and walked back to the twins. "I think it's time to call it a night."

Pepin handed him a card. He looked at it and saw the name of the social club printed on it and underneath was her name, title, email, and phone number. There was also a website URL which he thought was a little odd.

"I'm terribly sorry for the poor introduction you had to our group. I was hoping you might give us another chance."

Ben nodded thinking he'd talk to Tina and Lucy about it first. Get their opinion. Pepin seemed level headed enough.

"Thank you. Take care Melody."

Ben shook Pepin's hand once more then looked to the twins who slipped in behind him immediately. He smiled then walked out of the club. They handed in their colored loops and nodded to the hostess as they made their way to the elevators. He pressed the button and turned to face Lisa and Lori. He saw they were trembling with excitement.

"It wasn't exactly the best introduction to the lifestyle but I think it went well enough." He took Pepin's card from his pocket. "Would you two be agreeable to meeting up with this group again?"

They both nodded with brilliant smiles as they saw Ben was willing to make this work.

He nodded and put the card into his wallet. He'd talk with Tina and Lucy about it as well.

The elevator arrived and took them to their floor. Ben let them into their room and slowly walked through it taking in the décor. Their overnight bags were lined up on the bureau and their coats were in the closet.

Dominating the room was the huge king size four poster canopy bed. The posts were gorgeously carved to look like twisting vines and Ben realized they were impressively strong. The tops of each were connected to the others for extra rigidity. The 'vines' had looped openings at intervals climbing up each post. They were designed to be used as tie points for restraints. Ben realized they could be used to tie someone down to the bed or standing at the end of the bed as well.

He looked back to the twins and saw they were watching his discovery of the bed's intended use very closely.

"Ingenious design. Functional and beautiful." He looked around curiously. "But what if you didn't bring your own restraints?"

Lori immediately rushed to the end table and opened the drawer. Inside Ben saw a variety of bondage devices, each packaged for sale. He snorted in surprise but smiled at the brilliance of the idea. Catering to the customer's needs and making extra income in the process. Like the room's mini-bar.

Lori was biting her lip as Ben looked through the items inside the drawer, his mind ticking over the possibilities. He knew the ladies deserved something special tonight. It seemed a little light bondage was the way to do it. He pulled a box from the drawer and saw Lori's eyes light up. He'd selected some padded cuffs and straps for tying one of them to the bed. Lori made an involuntary whimpering sound. Ben pulled a second set from the drawer as well and looked at Lisa who was visibly trembling.

"It would be a shame to not use this bed for its intended purpose, wouldn't it," Ben said in a rumble.

The two women nodded quickly.

Ben hooked a finger through the ring on Lori's collar and he roughly pulled her to him. He gestured for Lisa to come closer and when she did he seized her hair and pulled her close as well as she squeaked in surprise. Their eyes were wide and their breathing quickened. He brought his lips close to each of theirs but he didn't kiss them. Looking fiercely into their eyes he saw he had their attention.

"You're mine. Every single inch of your delicious flesh and every strand of silky soft hair on your head is mine. Heart and soul. Yes?" Ben was giving them one final option to change their minds.

"Yes!" they cried. Ben kissed Lisa deeply and she squealed at his aggression but clung to him until he pulled away. She was gasping and dazed as he turned to her sister.

Lori looked a little frightened but when he took his kiss from her slowly and sensually she melted against him. He knew she wanted his domination and was excited seeing his rougher side but she needed a gentler touch. In this one thing the twins differed greatly and he found that fascinating.

He pulled back to drink in their outfits with his eyes one more time. One of Lisa's tits had been jostled a little when he grabbed her and a stiff pink nipple was peeking above the edge of her red bustier, the gold of the barbell piercing gleaming even in the room's soft light. He reached over and gave it a gentle pinch and she gasped as sparks shot through her body.

He turned her around and loosened the ties on the bustier. Once the garment was loose he heard a zip and Lisa opened the garment from the front. He handed it to her then undid the zipper on her tight skirt and pushed it down over her smooth hips and firm ass to discover the cheeky redhead wasn't wearing any panties. She stepped out of her skirt and he handed it to her as well.

Then he squeezed her ass cheeks in his hands as she cried out. He gave her butt a slap and she whimpered a little but when she glanced over her shoulder Ben could see the hunger in her eyes as she bit her lip and rubbed her thighs together.

He turned to Lori and gently spun her around. He undid the laces and zipper on her bustier and skirt and exposed her creamy smooth skin. She also wasn't wearing panties but instead of squeezing her ass as she expected he slid two fingers across her wet pussy lips tearing a gasp from her. She staggered on her pumps but he steadied her with his other hand.

"Put your clothes over on the chair and come back to face me," he ordered and they moved quickly.

When they returned to face him he took in their beauty. "Truly exquisite," he sighed happily and they flashed brilliant smiles at him.

"Undress me," he said and their faces lit up once more.

Each took a side of his jacket and slipped it back over his shoulders. Lori carried it over to the chair. As he no longer had a shirt under his jacket Lisa knelt at his feet and slipped his shoes and socks off.

Lori returned and knelt next to her sister as Lisa stood to carry the items she had over to the chair. Lori undid his belt, the top button and his zipper but waited for Lisa so they could both pull his pants down.

He was beginning to tent his silk boxers by this point and the ladies grinned at each other.

Ben stepped out of his pants and Lori stood to fold them and place them on the chair. Lisa waited for her sister to return but he noticed that her hand resting on his hip was shaking.

"Lisa, you're shaking. What's wrong?"

She looked up at him and shook her head.

He frowned. "No. Talk to me."

Lori knelt down beside her and hugged her sister. "Brutal honesty," she said and Ben nodded.

"It's really happening! We're his! He's ours!" Lisa blurted to her sister with tears of joy pooling in her long lashes. Lori nodded emphatically and grabbed her sister in a tight hug as tears sprung from her eyes as well.

Ben was rocked by the raw emotion in her voice and the strength of Lori's response. He hadn't realized how important this was to them and once more felt a stab of guilt for being resistant for so long. He knelt before them and wrapped his arms around them both. He felt them both trembling and heard them sigh in happiness.

Their soft but firm bodies were pressed tightly against his and Ben's adolescent libido was less impressed by the emotional bond than the wonderful tingling sensations this softness was giving him.

Lori felt his hot cock pressing against her and gasped gently. The heat seemed to rush through her body and she swayed slightly. She guided Lisa's hand to the front of Ben's boxers and it was Lisa's turn to suck in a breath as her fingers felt the hardening flesh behind the silk. They looked up into his eyes with need in theirs.

Ben stood and looked down at the beauties kneeling at his feet. Once more the intensity of the emotions racing through him caught him off guard. He was at once excited by their willingness to be his completely and shocked at the audacity of his almost primal possessiveness. Doubt tried to resurface but was brutally crushed by his knowledge that these ladies wanted- no, needed him to feel this way about them. His need for them surged in response.

Four sets of graceful fingers slipped over the waistband of his boxers as pale blue eyes looked up at him, seeking his permission. He couldn't speak but he nodded and they carefully pulled the silk down his legs, their eyes trapped by the heavy flesh bobbing and swaying between his thighs.

Lisa bit her lip as she felt her own need flare. She glanced at her sister but Lori was mesmerized by the gentle rise and fall of the throbbing cock before her.

Ben struggled to talk, to tell them what he needed them to do. His body was demanding he take them now and hard but he needed to stay in control.

"Use your mouth-" he began when both Lisa and Lori quickly leaned forward to press their tongues against the hot skin of his cock.

Ben grunted with the sudden bliss of their feverish licks and kisses as they moved from the head to the base on each side of his cock. He hadn't meant for them both to work together but he couldn't argue with how amazing it felt!

He felt himself reach a new level of stiffness and the twins responded with increased urgency in their movements and little mewling sounds.

He guided Lisa's face down to his balls and she eagerly sucked one into her mouth, stroking it with her tongue.

With full access to his cock now available, Lori took the thick head into her mouth. Her eyes went wide as she realized the extra stiffness meant extra girth. She was only able to get a few inches into her mouth. The thought of this beast driving into her pussy made her moan and she forced her mouth down harder over his stiffness.

Ben's mind spun with the incredible sensations. It felt so damn good but he wanted more! He eyed the bed and decided how he was going to make use of the restraints.

"Enough," he said firmly and they pulled back to look up at him in surprise. "It's time to make use of this interesting bed. Stand up."

The twins stood and he could see glistening on the insides of their thighs. He smiled and guided Lisa to the end of the bed. He pulled a set of cuffs from the package and firmly secured them to Lisa's wrists and ankles ensuring they were tight but not uncomfortable. Then he pulled the straps of the wrist cuffs through the top loops on the bedposts at the bottom of the bed and stretched her arms up and wide. He tied the straps of her ankle restraints to the lower loops on the bedposts. She had a perfect view of the bed from the end but she couldn't move.

He opened the other box of cuffs and straps an attached them to the four bedposts and gestured for Lori to get onto the bed. He had her lie down with her head at the end of the bed so she would have a better view of her sister when he... was with her.

Ben fastened Lori's padded cuffs and tightened the straps until her arms and legs were spread eagled on the mattress. He ran his fingers lightly down Lori's chest, between her lovely tits, across her trembling stomach and over her exposed and very wet pussy. Lori gasped and writhed on the bed. He bent forward and stroked her nipples with the tip of his tongue.

"Ahh! Oh Ben! Fuck! Yes!" Lori cried out.

Ben smiled up at Lisa and saw her struggling to rub her thighs together to no avail.

He walked behind her and knelt down to admire the perfect, firm orbs of her ass cheeks. He dragged his nails down the insides of her thighs and she yelped and squirmed, her juices beginning to flow in earnest.

Her asshole was twitching and winking at him as she struggled. He dipped forward and began to tease it with his tongue.

"What- MmmAHH! What are you- Oh FUCK! OH FUCK! OH GEEZUS! BEN! OH GOD!" she wailed as he gradually worked his tongue into her little pink butt hole. She wasn't pulling away but was pushing back against his tongue as her legs trembled.

Ben recalled something and pulled his tongue away, making Lisa moan unhappily. Ben moved to the end table and looked in the drawer. He spotted the item once more and picked it up. He removed it from the package and turned to see two wide eyed redheads watching him curiously. He smiled and Lisa whimpered looking at the silver anal plug in Ben's hand. The smooth, egg shaped metal plug had a round flat disc on it with a pretty red jewel on its surface. Perfect for Lisa. He took a small bottle of lube from the drawer as well.

He moved behind her once more and heard Lisa begin to take big gulps of air. He stood and turned her face to kiss her. This settled her down so he returned to his position behind her. He kissed her smooth ass and stroked his tongue across her dripping pussy roughly.

"FUCK! OHHHH!" she gasped.

Ben's tongue slipped easily into her ass this time but she quickly tightened up once more as her ass pressed back against his face. He drove his tongue into her again and again and she was shaking almost uncontrollably.

He pulled back and she sagged against her straps. Ben dripped some lube onto the plug spreading it around then touched its tip to the wet puckered opening.

"AHHHH! OHFUCKohfuckohfuckohfuckohfuckohfuckohfuck!" Lisa gasped and chanted as Ben pushed the plug deeper into her ass.

He slid a finger into her wet pussy and suddenly her ass stopped clenching. The plug popped inside.

"OOoOooohhhh!" Lisa warbled as the plug pulled and stretched her sphincter muscles causing her ass to tingle like mad. The combined feelings of being full and the need to release this weight from her ass overwhelmed her and her legs wobbled.

Ben gently tugged on the jeweled disc and Lisa's moans got louder. He stood and made his way around her to stand next to the bed. He looked down at Lori's wide eyes and saw he needed to lift her hips. He spotted a cushion on a chair in the corner of the room which was designed specifically to do just that. Carrying the cushion back to the bed he climbed on and knelt between Lori's stretched open legs. He slipped his hand under her ass and felt how wet she'd become. He smiled at her and lifted her ass upwards to slide the cushion under her. When he set her down her pelvis was raised by several inches which gave him much better access.

With a hot look at Lori he began to kiss his way up between her thighs, alternating sides. She moaned and squirmed as he got closer to her pussy and cried out when his tongue finally stroked across her ultra-sensitive flesh.

"YES! Oh fuck yes!"

He licked and kissed and Lori thrashed under the sensations. When he pulled back she was gasping for air and her eyes were rolling. He spotted her pink rosebud and gave it a playful lick.

"AAAAAAAHHHHHHH!!" Lori screamed, arching her back. Ben looked at her in surprise. He hadn't expected such a strong outburst from her. He dipped back down to gently probe the winking orifice with the tip of his tongue once more.

"FUCK! OH! OHGODBEN! OH! OHGEEZUS!" Lori cried out.

Ben looked over into the drawer and spotted another anal plug. He climbed off the bed to retrieve the bottle of lube then went to the drawer to get the plug. He pulled it out and was pleased to see it also had a red crystal on its disc. He pulled it from the package and added lube to it.

Moving back onto the bed he positioned himself between Lori's legs again. She was watching him with wide eyes. He pushed his tongue into her ass as Lori gasped and shook then roughly sucked on her pussy lips as he slid the butt plug into her ass while she was momentarily distracted.

"UUUUUUUUUUUNNNNNNGGGGG!!" Lori moaned and Ben pulled his mouth away to look up at her face. It was glowing with a flush and her eyes were half lidded and unfocused. He gently tugged on the disc and her mouth dropped open but no sound came out. He looked up at Lisa and saw she was watching them intensely.

Ben moved off the bed and once more knelt behind Lisa and parted her ass. She whimpered and pushed back against his hands. He pushed his face deep between her legs and began to lick and suck on her tender flesh.

"OOOOOHHHHHH FFFFFUUUUUCCCKKKK!!" Lisa gasped and shook as he brought her to the brink of an intense orgasm again and again, always pulling back just before she peaked. He stood and looked over Lisa's shoulder at Lori who was watching them with the same intensity Lisa had.

He slapped his hard cock against Lisa's pussy and her legs buckled so he wrapped an arm around her and lifted her slightly as he bent his knees. He positioned the head of his now wet cock against her pussy and drove it upwards to push half of his length into her.

"AAAAHHHHH! FUCK BEN! OH FUCK YES!" Lisa wailed and Ben began to pump his cock in and out of her abused pussy. It was so fucking thick it felt like she was being turned inside out with his cock plunging so deeply into her and the anal plug being bumped and jiggled in her ass simultaneously. When his thrusts pounded against her ass it was too much and her orgasm ripped through her, tearing away her rational mind. Everything was bliss and her muscle control was gone.

"Beeeeeeeennnnnn, fffffuuuuuuuuuccccckkkkkkkAAAAaaAaAAhhhhhhhh!" Lisa cried as the sharp pleasure spiked and flared. He pinched her nipples tightly and her head arched back, her mind lost in the delicious mix of pleasure and pain.

Ben felt her shaking in his arms and realized she was done. His cock was still hard as iron and sheathed deep inside her but he was a ways from his own release.

He reached up and pulled the end of the strap on her right arm and it released from the post. Her arm fell limply to her side. He did the same for her other limbs all the while holding her against him as she whimpered and cooed from the shocks coursing through her body.

He carried her against his body to a chaise lounge and finally lifted her from his cock causing her to spasm as her pleasure spiked strongly once more. He laid her gently on the lounge and smiled down at her dazed and blissed out expression. He reached down to remove the anal plug but she covered it with her own hand.

"No, please, leave it in," she breathed, trying to look at him as her eyes rolled. He bent over and kissed her deeply, giving her nipples a gentle tug.

"MMMMmmmmfffffffff!" she moaned and arched her back as new waves crested through her nerves.

Ben stood and walked back to the bed while Lori watched his heavy throbbing cock with wide eyes.

He leaned over her and began kissing her in random spots on her body until she was squirming and panting. He sucked on her stiff nipples as he reached down between her legs to tug gently on the jeweled disc.

"FFFFFUUUUUUUCCCCKKKKK!! OhBen! FuckBen! OhFuck! Ben! OH!" she chanted as the new sensation surged through her. She was confused by how it made her feel. She saw how her sister reacted and wanted to feel that good but this pushed on some of her own personal taboos.

Lori arched her back as Ben released the disc with a twist and slid two fingers deep into her pussy.

"Aaaaahhhh! Yes!" she gasped.

Ben climbed onto the bed between Lori's legs and slapped the thick head of his cock roughly against her wet pussy. She jolted with each impact. He positioned himself and pushed forward slowly. The head popped inside and Lori's body jolted again.

"YYYYYYEEEESSSSS!!" she cried as she felt him sinking deeper into her body. He stretched her open so widely. She knew she'd ache afterwards but for now it was pure bliss!

Ben pulled out equally slowly then drove himself in deeper and repeated until he was making long smooth strokes.

"OhgodOhgodOhgodOhgodOhgodOhgod!" Lori murmured to herself as his cock filled her then pulled away only to fill her again.

Then Ben reached bottom and his body slapped against hers, a spike of pleasure shooting out from her clit. The plug in her ass made its presence known as well, sending waves of unexpected pleasure from down below. Lori's mind was in turmoil.

Ben felt his release beginning to build quickly as he gazed down at the ravishing redhead tied to the bed. Her brows were drawn down as she concentrated on the strange new sensations. He sped up his thrusts, slapping his pelvis into hers and her eyes flew wide as the intensity of her pleasure surged.

Lori could no longer deny the pleasure she was getting from the small anal toy. Waves of indescribable bliss were radiating out from her ass every time Ben slammed his body against hers. The intensity of the experience was almost painful as the different sensations overlapped and built upon each other.

"Oh! Oh Ben! OH FUCK! I- I'm- I'm going- It's coming- FUCK! AAAHHH! CCCUUUMMMIIINNNGGG!!" Lori screamed as Ben drove himself deep one last time and ground against her, growling out his own bliss, firing stream after stream deep inside her.

When Ben's mind came back to him he saw Lisa standing next to the bed. He gesture for her to undo Lori's restraints and she moved to do it. Ben pulled his softening cock from Lori's trembling body and her eyes rolled back. She was panting heavily and struggling to focus on him but her body was still coming down from her release. Ben kissed her tenderly and she moaned sweetly into the kiss.

He moved to the side and gently lifted her and stepped off the bed.

"Lisa, remove the cushion and pull the sheet down please," he said and she did. He laid Lori on the bed to recuperate. Lisa climbed on and snuggled in next to her sister. He smiled down at the beauties and they smiled in return then closed their eyes.

Ben moved to his overnight bag and collected his toiletry kit. He went into the bathroom and brushed his teeth. Lisa and Lori followed him into the bathroom with their own toothbrushes. He moved aside and they took care of their preparations for bed as well. He admired their bodies from behind and as they bent to spit into the sink he saw the jewels winking back at him. He reached forward to gently press on the discs. Both women gasped and leaned on the counter as they looked at him in the mirror with heat in their eyes.

"Should I remove them?" he asked.

The twins shook their heads and smiled at him as their eyelids trembled with the tingles he was sending through their bodies.

Ben pulled his hands back and walked out to the bedroom once more. He climbed onto the bed in the middle and the ladies quickly climbed on as well, one to each side as they pulled the sheets up over them. They reached over and turned off the lamps plunging the room into darkness.

He heard them sigh contentedly as they snuggled against him. He hugged them and kissed them goodnight tenderly.

As he waited for sleep to take him he wondered if his new Dom/Sub relationship with Lisa and Lori would change the dynamic of his home life. Would they continue to live at home or would they want to move in with him? He already had Tina and Lucy sleeping in his bed at night. While his bed was large he didn't think it would fit... oh, right. The twins already had joined him in his bed with Tina and Rochelle! Still, that was a lot of people in one bed.

His mind spun in circles about it until he finally faded into sleep.

Chapter 19

Ben sat in the waiting room waiting for Tina to return from seeing her doctor. There were three other female patients waiting who'd arrived after Tina went in. They were trying not to stare at him but he could see the curiosity was eating at them. He also caught occasional glances from the two ladies seated behind the counter.

Ben reached for a magazine to hide behind and caught the hand of the woman seated across the small table instead as she was reaching for the same magazine.

"Oh! I'm sorry!" the woman gushed.

"No, I should have paid more attention," Ben replied as he pulled his hand back.

"Have you... read this issue of Peeps?" she asked as she picked up the magazine they'd both reached for.

Ben's eyes dropped to the cover of the magazine. He hadn't realized what the magazine was. He shook his head as his expression froze.

The woman looked at him timidly but pushed on as the others watched with interest plain on their faces. "There's an interview inside by a woman claiming to be your wife. She said- she said some very negative things about you."

Ben glanced towards the office door where Tina had disappeared but it remained closed. He sighed.

"I-" his voice cracked "I haven't read the article. I haven't seen or spoken with Wendy in over 12 years. Not since the night she left me for another man." He clasped his hands together.

"This... this is an obstetrician gynocologist's office. May I ask why you're here?" the woman asked and Ben had all eyes on him now.

He scowled. He glanced to the doctor's door once more. "My fiancé is seeing her doctor for a checkup. Yes, she's carrying my child," he added as he saw the woman was about to ask the question.

The woman blinked in surprise as did a few of the others.

"Not everything you read is the truth. Especially if the source is a magazine that requires sensation to drive revenue. Dull truth is not as lucrative a commodity as cruel gossip," Ben said quietly but they all heard his words and caught the reproach in them.

"What source do we have to hear the truth?" a woman sitting across from him asked.

He looked at her frank expression and answered with a question of his own. "Why are the details of my personal and private life seen as matters of public record?"

"You've been on the news multiple times. That makes you a celebrity or at least a public figure," she replied.

"I was never given a choice to be in these stories. I was forced into each and every situation and no matter how hard I've tried to avoid the attention of the press they won't leave me alone. I never asked to be a celebrity. I don't want to be a public figure. I'm a private person. I find it offensive to be asked such personal questions by strangers. If someone approached you in a mall and asked you about your sex life or some other intimate detail how would you feel? Wouldn't you at the very least feel uncomfortable?"

He could see their expressions were closing up. He'd offended them and made them feel defensive for their curiosity. "I'm sorry if you feel like you've been cheated from hearing the ending of a book you've been given titillating samples of but the ones you should be angry with are the ones who wrote about me without my permission."

"Wait! What about the statue! If you didn't want public exposure why pose for the statue and put it on international TV?" a third woman insisted rather belligerently.

The first woman who spoke to him looked curiously at the third as she obviously had no knowledge of the statue in question. The belligerent woman pulled up the image on her cell phone, quicker than she could have browsed for it. She must have saved a picture of it on her phone. She gave Ben an embarrassed glance. The woman seeing the statue for the first time gasped and looked at Ben with wide eyes.

Ben once more cursed the damned statue.

"I only agreed to pose for the statue because the artist was the cousin of a very good friend of mine. She'd recently undergone a traumatic experience and had lost her interest in art. She did abstract sculptures and she's blind so it seemed safe enough at the time. I had no idea the sculpture was going to turn out to be so... accurate. I had no idea they were going to have a press conference and expose the damn thing to the world."

"Hold on, the artist was a woman and she's blind?" the angry one asked.

"Yes."

"How?" The confusion on the faces of the group was clear.

"She mapped me in her mind by touch." The moment Ben said it he regretted it as he could see the mental wheels turning as the women imagined the process. "It wasn't sexual. It was art," he growled.

"Mrs. Thompson? You can go in now. Examination room two," one of the ladies behind the counter called out.

Mrs. Thompson turned out to be the angry one. She looked frustrated to be called away from their interrogation of Ben. She was slow to get her stuff and Ben sighed in relief when he spotted Tina moving towards him on her crutches. Her doctor was following with a smile on her face as she looked excitedly at Ben.

Ben wondered why the doctor was so excited. Did she have news about the baby?

The woman who'd asked for a source for the truth about him didn't see Tina coming and leaned forward. "So all of the stuff we've seen about you on the news and read in that Peeps article was lies?"

Ben looked back to the woman with a frustrated look. "No, I'm not saying that. Much of what you saw on the news happened as they said. I have no idea what was said in that magazine."

"It was lies!" Tina barked as she bristled at the woman. "I do not know why she said such mean things about Ben but they were lies to hide the truth about how she abandoned a man deeply in love with her."

"Tina," Ben said firmly and she clamped her lips closed but her eyes panned across the other eyes in the waiting room in challenge. Ben smiled at her fierceness.

"How did you break your leg?" the angry woman asked.

Tina's doctor answered as she'd read the report. "A reporter pushed her over a store display when he accosted her in a grocery store and she wouldn't answer his questions about Ben. Any other offhand accusations you'd like to make?" The accuser had the good sense to keep her mouth closed as Tina glared at her.

Another doctor, an older man, walked out into the waiting area looking for his patient. "Mrs. Thompson, please come along- Mr. Shepherd?!?" The doctor smiled in surprise. He stepped up as Ben stood up. He held out his hand and Ben just automatically shook it. "It's truly an honor to shake your hand Mr. Shepherd. What you did for those girls in France! Really inspirational!"

"As I said to the police, it was just a matter of being in the wrong place at the right time," he said modestly.

"But you acted and five girls are free today because of you. I understand you were instrumental in breaking the slavery ring!" the man gushed.

"What? No, that was an exaggeration. I played a small part. The police did the real work," Ben deflected then looked over at Tina's doctor who was still smiling at him. "How is Tina?"

The male doctor suddenly realized he'd been gushing and grinned at Ben as he turned away to gather up his annoyed patient.

"Tina is in optimal health. Everything is progressing normally," she replied.

"That's good to hear. I thought you had some other information as your expression when you came out seemed kind of expectant."

"Oh! Sorry, I was just looking forward to meeting you in person. I'm also a fan of yours," she said with a smile.

Ben heard a snort and looked to the other women in the waiting room and they gave him a look.

"Aren't you going to chastise the doctors for treating you like a celebrity?" the truth seeker asked.

"Neither of them asked me personal or embarrassing questions and this woman is taking excellent care of Tina so she's earned my gratitude." The doctor smiled at that. "Listen, I'm not asking for anything outrageous. I'd just like to keep my private life, private. Something everyone deserves. You do, so why don't I? Come on Tina, let's go. Thank you doctor." He shook the woman's hand and she smiled back at him.

Ben led Tina to the elevator bank and got them out into the parking garage. He helped her up onto the seat and carefully got her crutches in beside her. As he got them on the road he frowned as the conversation went round and round in his head.

"Ben?"

"Hmm?"

"I am sorry those women treated you badly," she said sadly.

Ben glanced over at her. "It's fine. No one likes to have a failing pointed out to them. I must have touched a sore spot when I said they were all reading gossip."

"I would like to punch their sore spots."

Ben barked out a surprised laugh at Tina's tough words. He stopped for a red light and looked at the beautiful and petite woman next to him in delight. She smiled impishly back at him. She always knew how to lighten his mood. His heart swelled with love for the woman.

That made him think about the club he'd attended the night before. He really wanted to take Tina and Lucy there. He'd said as much to them at breakfast this morning.

As the twins needed to get home early they woke early and he got them back to their house in time to have breakfast with their mom. On the way he'd asked them point blank if they wanted to move in with him. They looked a little worried so he said he was fine with whatever they decided. Feeling a little better they said that they needed to stay with Daphne as their mother needed them. They hoped to be able to continue to have the occasional night out with him, overnights especially and he assured them that he was good with that. They really wanted to attend another social get together with Pepin's group when Tina and Lucy could join them. They got giggly thinking about it.

Ben tried but couldn't imagine the reaction of the group if he showed up with four subs.

When he asked them if they'd removed the... gifts he'd given them the previous night they got giggly about that too but finally said they had. They were only for special get togethers.

He drove them home and got Tina set up in the kitchen. He pulled the ingredients out and started to make cookies for tonight's group therapy session.

"When will you be able to go back to see Dr. Granger?" Tina asked.

Ben nodded as he mixed the cookie batter. "I'll talk with Hannah about it tonight. If Dr. Granger is available I may be able to talk with her before I head to Milan this weekend. I won't begin any of the hypnotherapy until I get back from Australia as you know how it affected me last time. I don't want to be travelling with some of my noodles loosened."

Tina smiled at him but he could see the concern in her eyes.

He put the cookie dough on the tray and slid it into the oven. He enjoyed these domestic moments with Tina. It brought him such a warm feeling of security.

"Where will Rain be staying until the house is ready?" Tina asked.

"Trish said that she could stay with her until the place was ready. Speaking of which according to Dominic the house is going to be move in ready not this Saturday but the next. We need to pick out furniture. I'll be picking up Rain from the airport tomorrow afternoon. Maybe we can all go out for dinner then go choose furniture for the house."

"That sounds like fun! I'm sure the girls will be very excited about that! Could you bring me my tablet so I can text them?" Tina smiled. Ben nodded.

He put the cookie pan into the oven and set the timer. He collected Tina's tablet for her then tidied up the kitchen while he waited for the cookies.

"They are both excited about going shopping for furniture," Tina said.

"They're going to need groceries, cookware, utensils, glasses, flatware, sheets, and towels." Ben looked at Tina feeling just a little overwhelmed.

"Ben, please let me take care of this for you."

He looked at her gratefully and walked over to give her a kiss. "Tomorrow morning I'll go to the bank to get you a cash card with access to an account to cover the expenses." She nodded happily. She had something she could do for Ben. She opened a spreadsheet on her tablet and began making a list of all of the items the new house would need. It felt so good to be helping!

Ben walked over to the front window and saw Dominic's truck was still in front of the house. He heard the timer ring. He walked back to the kitchen and took the cookies out to cool on the counter. The smell of warm peanut butter filled the room.

"I'm going to go speak with Dominic for a second about the renovations on your old place as well as Hernandez' kitchen. Tina just nodded as her mind was occupied with her the shopping list. He kissed her cheek and headed out.

He found Dominic in the living room standing next to a table he set up with plans rolled out on it.

"Hey Ben! What's up?" the big man boomed out.

"I understand it's end of season for your team but I was wondering if you'll have any people available to do a few kitchen and bathroom renos when you are done with this place?"

"A few? Did you buy more homes?"

Ben smiled at the man. "Just one but first I need to upgrade the kitchen and bathrooms and swap out some of the built-in bookshelves in an office for wardrobes. That's in Tina's old place. The new tenants are getting married and will be moving in by the end of next month. I'm in the process of buying Joanne White's house, number 9. I'm going to do an upgrade on its kitchen and bathrooms as well. I've also been asked by Luis Hernandez who lives at 3 Ashburn Court to upgrade his kitchen.

Dominic looked a little awkward. "Are there any homes for sale in this neighborhood you don't intend on snapping up?"

Ben looked at the man in surprise. "Are you interested in buying a place in the neighborhood?"

The big man squirmed a little. "Well, I showed my wife some pictures of the homes in the neighborhood and what we've done to this place and she's been after me to do a major remodeling on our place to add more rooms for when the kids come over to visit with all the grandkids. Our place doesn't have the structure to support additions so I'd have to level it and start from scratch. I'd never get the money back out of the property. Additionally, when I get home I'm done with work and I don't want to have to work on my own place."

"Joanne White's place has five bedrooms, a huge family room, a big room in the basement that would make a nice playroom, and a nice big backyard for the kids to play in. You'd have very little to do to bring it up to the standard I've been upgrading them to. I'd gladly let you take it off my hands for what I'm paying to get you into the neighborhood! It would be great to have you as a neighbor!" Ben exclaimed.

Dominic smiled. "How much are you paying for it?"

"1.15 million."

Dominic winced. "That's a little too rich for my wallet."

"With the sale of your place how much were you thinking of being able to pay?"

The man frowned and did some mental calculations. "I could probably go as high as $800,000."

Ben nodded and did some mental calculations of his own. "How much is outstanding on this renovation? If you reworked the quote to do the job for cost after salaries and expenses how much could you reduce the bill? If you did the renovations on Tina's house and Luis' kitchen at cost as well. Adding these figures to the $800,000 where would you be?"

"I could call in a few favors from the people I rented equipment from to get discounted rates. Then I'd sit down with my bookkeeper, who's also my wife, and have her rework the numbers but I'm thinking it would only add another $150,000 at most."

"That brings you to $200,000 outstanding. We could work out a mutually agreeable payment plan for the rest. $40,000 per year for 5 years or $20,000 per year for 10 years. I'm not looking to make a profit on these homes. I want them going to good people to bring families to the neighborhood. Listen, talk it over with your wife and let me know. You can see pictures of the property online. Both of you take a look. I did an inspection before I bid on it. I know the home is a solidly built structure. Very good bones." He smiled at Dominic's thoughtful expression.

Hector walked past and Dominic called out to him.

"How many of the crew are available for some extra shifts once we finish this place?" he asked the site foreman.

"Me and I can think of at least six others, including Jayden," Hector replied.

"Ben needs the kitchens gutted and redone on..." Dominic looked at Ben.

"At 3 and 11 Ashburn Court." Ben looked at Dominic. "Potentially on 9 as well. I also need the washrooms redone like these washrooms in 11 and potentially 9."

"What's with the 'potentially'?" Hector asked.

Dominic's expression turned gruff. "Because I may be buying 9 Ashburn Court from Ben. Include it in the homes. One way or another the house will be getting upgrades in the kitchen and washrooms."

"Cool. Well I'll ask around but you have seven guys definitely. When do we start on the new projects?" Hector asked.

"As soon as you are available," Ben said.

"That could be next week. The painters will be here next week and we will be done," he said.

"Then 11 Ashburn would be the first one to work on. I have people moving in on or after November 23^rd," Ben explained. "Then the kitchen in 3 Ashburn. Then the kitchen and washrooms in 9 Ashburn."

"Got it. Thanks!" Hector nodded to Ben and his boss as he headed back to his team.

Ben nodded to Dominic and headed home.

His home smelled of cookies and that gave him a warm feeling. He took his coat and boots off and made his way into the kitchen. Tina was where he'd left her but her spreadsheet was much fuller than it had been before. He smiled at her and moved the cookies to a plate and put plastic wrap over them. He took it downstairs and left it on the coffee table in the media room for his guests.

He went back upstairs and poked Tina. "Did you want me to start dinner?"

Tina blinked up at him. "Lucy is bringing home dinner tonight. Did I not mention it this morning at breakfast?"

Ben was drawing a blank but he'd been a little preoccupied when he'd gotten in. The twins had been... intensely sensual with their goodbye kisses. "Sorry, I must not have been paying attention. What is she getting?"

"A new Middle Eastern takeout place opened up near the college. She is getting a large order of many dishes as we've invited Catherine, Miriam, Daniel, and Ashley and her children. Trish can't make it as she's going out with her son to a movie and Rochelle is working. I called Beth and she and her kids are coming but Hannah said that she'd be over at 8 for your Group session with her and Beth."

"Maybe I should bring up the extra leaf for the table and some extra chairs?"

"Oh! Yes! That would be a good idea," Tina said, feeling a little flustered for not thinking of it. Ben gave her a quick kiss on the temple.

He moved off to get the two extenders for the table and once he'd installed them he went back downstairs to get eight card table chairs. He set them up around the table and they now had seating for sixteen. The table extended out into the living room a bit but that was ok.

He suddenly realized there were going to be six kids in their mid-teens coming over. He brought a card table upstairs and set it up against the far wall in the living room. Then he went down into the media room and disconnected the large flat panel TV. He lugged it upstairs and set it up on the card table. He plugged it in, turned it on and connected it to his home network. They could now connect to the online movie streaming plan he had.

If Daniel brought over his game console they could play games too. He sent Daniel a quick text suggesting that he bring it if possible with a selection of games that could be played as a group.

He moved some of the sofas and chairs to arrange the seating for maximum viewing angles. While he worked on that he got an affirmative response from Daniel.

He knew Karen and Penny had homework so that would keep them occupied. Christopher and Joshua liked to play together but would need to go to sleep early.

Ben was thinking of inviting Catherine and Ashley to join the group therapy session. He knew Catherine was still sad about Chanel and maybe Ashley would get something from being able to connect with her neighbors.

He quickly went to the convenience store and picked up a selection of soft drinks, pretzels, and potato chips. When he got home he saw Tina looking like she was about to cry.

"What? Where's this coming from?" he asked gently.

"I- I should have thought of these things. I am sorry Ben to make you do all this running around."

He scooped her up in his arms and held her close. "Tina, don't be silly. I don't mind doing this! It will be nice to have a get together."

"I think I have baby brain!" she pouted.

"Baby brain?" he asked, his eyebrows raised in question.

"My body is using all its resources to make our baby so it steals some intelligence," she said sadly.

Kissing her temple Ben held her a little tighter. "You're still a brilliant woman. I wouldn't put too much thought into this. Seriously." He glanced at the clock. "I have to go pick up Christopher. How is it going with that list for the new place?"

She brightened up as he put her back on her chair. "Very well! I believe this will be an epic shopping trip! I have never had to outfit a home from scratch! James' mother took care of our house."

Ben grinned at Tina's excitement. He'd have to make sure he went to the bank to arrange for an account access card for her first thing tomorrow.

He made his way over to the daycare and Lisa was signing out a pretty little girl to her father who was doing his best to flirt with the gorgeous redhead.

Ben caught Lisa's eye and smiled. Her face lit up when she saw him and the man looked over his shoulder.

"Good evening Mike," Ben said.

The man deflated when he saw who Lisa was smiling at. "Hello Ben."

"Please give my regards to Dawn."

Mike's eyes flashed to his. From Ben's knowing look he realized Ben had overheard his flirting and he nodded quickly and led his daughter outside.

Ben looked to Lisa who was grinning at him. "I'm pretty good at deflecting unwanted attention you know."

"Yes, I know. I just wanted Mike to know I wasn't impressed."

Her smile grew a little wider. "I'll get Christopher for you." She went into the back.

The door opened behind Ben and he glanced back to see Ashley stepping inside.

"Ben! Hello!" she said with a dazzling smile.

He wrapped her in a warm hug and returned her smile. "How was your day?" he asked once he released her.

"Really good! I'm really enjoying the course and I just got my grades which are top of my class!" she said proudly.

"That's great! Congratulations!" Ben exclaimed.

Ashley reached up and slipped her fingers into the hair above Ben's forehead as she gave it an evaluating look. Ben looked at her curiously.

"Yup, it looks like it's time for another haircut," she said definitively with just the hint of a smile... and a healthy blush spreading across her cheeks.

"Oh? Oh!" The lights came on behind his eyes and that little smile blossomed into a dazzler. "Uh, are you available tomorrow evening?"

"Tomorrow would be fine. 9PM?" she asked, trying to get her blush to calm down.

"Could we make it 10PM as I'm supposed to go furniture shopping that night with the girls?" he replied

"That works for me," she said with a smile.

"DADA!"

Christopher barreled into his legs so Ben scooped him up as Lisa returned.

"Hi Ashley! I'll go get Joshua for you," the redhead said taking in the heat on the woman's face with a curious look. She slipped away to go get the child.

"We'll see you tonight?" Ben asked.

"Mmmm, yes! I'll be over shortly with the girls," Ashly replied with a distracted smile.

"See you soon," Ben said with a nod and walked home with Christopher who was chattering away to him about the games they played.

When they stepped inside the scent of the take out dinner Lucy had brought home came to his nose. There were some spicy dishes in there.

Jackets and boots off Ben carried Christopher into the kitchen where the gang had gathered.

"MAMA!" Christopher squealed and Ben handed him off to his smiling mom. She kissed his face and hugged him as he went through his description of the games all over again for her. She listened attentively with a proud smile on her face.

Karen and Penny got their hugs then went back to setting out all the food on the table which was now covered with a festive tablecloth with colorful paper plates, and plastic cups and cutlery. They'd found the soft drinks and these were on the table as well as bowls of ice cubes.

Lucy slipped up to him and squeezed him tight. He kissed her tenderly and she sighed in his arms.

"Thanks for picking dinner up! This is really nice!" he said.

"Karen and Penny were instrumental in choosing the dishes as they are far more familiar with them," she replied.

He smiled at his daughters and they grinned back at him.

The doorbell rang so Ben went to answer it.

"Beth! John and Jane! Welcome! Come on in."

He took their coats and they left their boots in the tray. Ben gave Beth a big, warm bear hug and shook John's hand. Jane slipped in to get a hug from Ben as she grinned ear to ear.

The doorbell rang once more and Ben let Catherine in with Miriam and Daniel. More coats and boots and more hugs and handshakes. Catherine tilted her head up for a kiss so Ben gave her one.

Ben saw Daniel had a duffle bag with him. "The TV is in the living room if you want to connect the game console to it." He saw John's face light up. "I believe dinner is served so you guys can play after we eat, ok?" All the kids nodded.

The doorbell rang again and Ashley came in with her kids. John's eyes lit up again when Madison smiled at him. Daniel began to roll his eyes until Savannah's smile derailed his thoughts.

The entrance was getting really full so Ben gestured for people to make their way to the dining room.

The kids migrated to the living room end of the table and Ben started to move in that direction until Catherine hooked his arm and dragged him to the other end. Ashley grinned as her kids giggled at Ben's antics.

Catherine sat Ben at the head of the table with Tina on his right and Christopher in a high chair between them. Then Cat guided Lucy into the chair directly to his left. Lucy looked at her in surprise as Catherine sat down on her other side. Lucy hadn't expected to be given the seat next to Ben and smiled gratefully.

Karen took the chair next to Cat and Penny sat next to her sister. She smiled at John on her left as the boy sat next to her and introduced himself.

Madison quickly took the seat next to John and 'accidentally' bumped him to draw his attention back from Penny.

Savannah would have rolled her eyes at her sister's obvious if successful methods but she was busy making eyes at Daniel across from her. His blush was glowing brightly and Miriam delighted in this but secretly. She turned to Jane sitting to her left. Beth was on her other side, enjoying Joshua's giggles at her funny expressions. The infant was sitting between Beth and his mother Ashley in the clamp on high chair.

Tina tapped her crutch against the table as tapping a plastic fork against a plastic cup didn't make much noise. Once she had everyone's attention she turned her face to Ben expectantly.

"Oh! Uh, thank you all for joining us tonight for this informal get together. I understand I was informed of all the details this morning but I'm ashamed to say that until Tina reminded me this afternoon I had no idea this was happening. I'm grateful it did. A special thanks to Lucy for picking up the order and to Karen and Penny who selected the dishes. I can't wait to try it out." He reached out and took Tina's and Lucy's hands. They in turn reached out for the hands next to them. The chain continued down both sides of the table until Daniel and Savannah had to reach across the table to grasp hands. Ashley and her daughters dipped their heads in prayer while most of the others just smiled and waited.

Moments later Ashley lifted her head and gave Ben a dazzling smile in thanks and he nodded to her.

Then began the frenzy of opening the take out containers. Heavenly scents wafted over the table and Ben had to be repeatedly advised to avoid several dishes that he thought smelled amazing but were too spicy for him. He snuck a tiny piece from Tina's plate and paid for it with a burning tongue. His behavior set off giggles from the kids once more. Karen and Penny were the official menu experts and guided people to the dishes that best matched their tastes.

For the most part everyone found something they liked and only on two occasions was there a vehement rejection of a dish; once from Daniel and once from John. Much laughter ensued from that end of the table.

Ashley watched her daughters with a glowing heart. They were so much happier these days. School was good for them and now that they were allowed to participate in after school activities, they were blossoming into their full potential.

She turned to smile at Ben as she knew he was largely responsible for making their happiness possible. Ben spotted her smiling and returned it. She looked away thinking of the following night. It couldn't come soon enough.

They laughed and talked as they tried as many of the dishes as they could before they were all too full to have another bite. When dinner was finished Ben sent the kids to the living room to play while he and Lucy resealed the packages that still contained enough food for leftovers and put them into the fridge. Penny and Karen cleared the table.

Christopher played with this toys while Ashley held Joshua in her arms as the child slipped into sleep.

The doorbell rang and Ben answered it. He let Hannah in and gave her a warm hug after taking her coat.

"We were just making some tea. Would you like a cup?" he offered.

She smiled in delight. "Yes please."

He guided her through the living room and she was happy to see them playing a game together.

Hannah said her hellos to everyone as Lucy brought out the tea service.

Conversation turned to the progress of the renovations and Ben smiled at his girls.

"According to Dominic move in date is..." he smiled at Karen and Penny's intense anticipation as he delayed his response. Tina swatted his arm gently for being such a tease. "A week from Saturday!"

Karen and Penny squealed with happiness which made the others at the table laugh and the kids from the living room look over curiously.

"Tomorrow night when you get home from school we are going out for dinner with our new arrival Rain Palomo then we're going furniture shopping! Tina has been putting together a spreadsheet for everything the house will need. You two should speak with her to review the list so you can tell her of anything you think you'll need.

Karen suddenly realized that having their own place meant less reliance on Tina and Ben. She frowned as she looked over at Ben.

He caught the look. "We're just a few doors away. You can reach us by phone or drop by any time."

Penny gave her sister a hug and Karen felt better.

"You're also going to have Rain living there and you two will really like her. She's a smart young woman," Ben said to ease Karen's anxiety.

"Ben, Dr. Granger has a line on a position for Ms. Palomo. There is a medical clinic downtown that has an opening for a councillor. Her training in psychology would be a huge bonus. If it works out she could move to a full time position as a psychologist. If she could go in for an interview on Friday they are holding the position open," Hannah said.

"That's awesome! I'll let her know! Thank you very much and thank Dr. Granger for me as well!"

"You can thank her yourself when you see her this Friday morning. Tina let me know you'd be available this week so I booked it." Hannah held his eyes with hers and he nodded with a smile. Her expression softened into a smile of her own and she shared a nod with Tina.

Ben looked over at Tina who looked at him through her bangs. He knew she was just looking out for him so he gave her a smile as well and saw her relax.

He looked at Catherine. "Are Miriam and Daniel staying at your place?"

"I offered but with all their stuff in their home it just made more sense for them to sleep in their own beds. They come over for breakfast and dinners, I make sure all is well with them and they can call me anytime. It's worked out well so far. They miss their Mom of course and I know she misses them."

Ben thought about that. "Do you think they'd like to visit her for the weekend?"

The people gathered around the table blinked at Ben. "I'm taking a jet to Milan to see Gabriella this weekend. I can bring them along and they can come back on Sunday night on the jet. I'll continue on to Australia on a commercial flight."

"Oh my god! I think they'd love that! I know Gabriella would!" Catherine gushed.

Ben got up from the table to go into the kitchen to call his friend with the jet service. As business had been slow recently the man was delighted to hear from Ben once more. Arrangements made he returned to the dining room and was immediately grabbed by two overjoyed kids.

"Awww you told them?" Ben whined at Catherine whose grin was a dead giveaway.

"Thank you so much Ben!" Miriam gushed.

"You can't tell her as it has to be a surprise!" he insisted and the kids nodded emphatically.

They rushed back to the living room to play with their friends.

Beth leaned towards Ben. "Are you allowed to take the kids out of the country?"

He smiled. "Gabriella gave me a letter before we went to France stating I was authorized to travel abroad with her kids. It was just a precaution against disaster but it will work in this situation as well."

"That's a lot of trust!" Beth said with a smile and Ben nodded.

Karen and Penny excused themselves as they had homework to do.

Lucy picked up Christopher as the child was yawning and rubbing at his eyes. Tina followed them out with a goodnight to the others.

Hannah looked at the clock. "It's almost eight o'clock. We're going to have a group therapy session downstairs in Ben's media room. All are welcome to join us. I highly recommend it as it's very therapeutic."

Ashley looked at Hannah curiously but also a little nervously. "What happens?"

"We just talk. We take turns though if you don't feel like speaking this time that's fine too. We express things that we need to release. No topic is off limits. There's no judgement. We're all there to listen and support each other. Sharing that way is very good for the soul," Hannah explained and Ashley looked at Ben as if requesting permission.

"As Hannah said, all are welcome. If you'd like to join us that would be great! You can bring Joshua as he's sleeping peacefully and it's quieter downstairs. The girls are having fun."

Catherine looked at Hannah who nodded. "Please join us." Cat smiled.

Ben led the way with Hannah, Beth, Ashley and Catherine bringing up the rear. As they entered the room Beth smelled the peanut butter cookies and she beamed a smile at Ben.

They got comfortable on the couches Ben had arranged in a rough triangle. He peeled the plastic wrap off the cookies and held out the plate to Beth who took two. Everyone helped themselves to some cookies and relaxed back in the comfy seating munching on the chewy treats.

"Ben, would you like to start us off?" Hannah asked.

He took a deep breath. "Sure. What I'd like to talk about tonight is the source of my aversion to being called 'hero' or being treated like one." Eyes widened as the others leaned forward unconsciously.

He began with how the suppressed memories had begun leaking out recently and the pain he'd been experiencing. He went on to explain how Rain had made it possible for him to finally open up due to their shared experiences with foster care.

Then he told them what happened that snowy night in his past.

It was still hard to say but he realized Rain had been right that the pain lessened with each telling.

Ashley and Catherine had tears in their eyes when he finished and looked up at his friends. He wiped his own tears from his eyes and thanked them for listening.

Hannah wasn't able to speak since her throat was closing as she struggled not to cry. Beth was visibly touched as well but cleared her throat and leaned forward to address the group.

"That was an incredible breakthrough Ben. I believe... I believe I can honestly say that none of us think you were in the wrong for what you had to do that night. It was a horrible situation you were forced into." She shook her head. "Well, what I have to share is far less profound but I suppose that's also a benefit of these sessions. Getting perspective on your troubles." She smiled faintly at the others.

She related some difficulty she was having with a new hygienist at the dental office. How she was overly familiar with one of the dentists who was married. His behavior reminded her of her husband's before he cheated on her. It made her sad, angry, and confused.

"Should I confront her? Should I confront him? I don't want to lose my job but it hurts to see this every day," Beth said softly.

Hannah took her hand in hers. "The new hygienist isn't someone you know well?"

Beth shook her head.

"But the dentist is?" A nod.

"I don't think confronting them is the answer. However, if the environment is making you sad perhaps you might address that in his presence. Let him know how you felt when you discovered your husband had cheated on you. How it turned your world upside down and how a little honesty would have prevented so much pain. Don't make it about him but the parallel should be obvious to him."

Beth thought about that and nodded. She smiled at her friend.

"Catherine?" Hannah asked.

"I- I think I'll just listen for now," Cat said and Hannah nodded.

"I think I'd like to share something," Ashley said timidly. She had everyone's attention. "As you may have guessed, I have strong feelings about my faith. It's how I was raised and it gives me a sense of peace. It also helped me through some dark times during my marriage. The community of the church gave me a feeling of belonging to something bigger than just myself. Even during my marriage I was able to attend church and feel like I belonged. Since I've been here I've been trying to find a church and a congregation I fit into. I've been to a number of them and nothing has clicked for me. I love attending service with my daughters but the congregations have been less welcoming than I hoped. I still feel a deep connection to God when I am in his house but the moment the service is over I almost feel compelled to leave."

She took a deep breath and smiled at the people around her. "I just realized tonight during that delightful meal we all shared that this is the community I missed. You're all so respectful of my faith and so inclusive. I really feel like we're wanted and welcomed! I'm not sure how to continue with my search for a new church. I'm going to have to travel across town to continue searching but... I almost feel like I should just attend service in the nearest church, which is very nice, has a good priest, and a lovely service, and just leave directly after the service to come back to our own little community. Is that wrong?"

"I don't think any of us are qualified to call that right or wrong. I've always thought of faith as a deeply personal expression of love. As such you're the only one who can determine if you feel like you are being true to it. Not being accepted by a church's congregation sounds like a weakness in them. You are accepted here, completely," Ben said.

Hannah nodded and leaned forward. "I had a religious upbringing but my parents were heavy handed on dolling out guilt for any offense. Attending service was mandatory as we were pillars of the community and the church depended on us. In a sense it did as, on the secular side, churches depend on the attendance of its congregation for financial support. The collection plate helps fund its survival. As does involvement in fundraising activities and charity events. In my case my parents instilled a feeling of obligation in us to be involved in everything even though we couldn't really afford to be financially. My argument at that time was that by attending service and contributing what I could to the collection plate, I was supporting the church. Even the priest agreed with me but it was my parent's constant disapproval and harassment that ruined the experience for me. I rebelled and became quite a problem child."

Ben grinned as he tried to see Hannah as a radical youth. The two images were such polar opposites. She glanced and saw his grin. "Laugh all you want, I was a wild one."

"Not doubting you, just loving the image," Ben acknowledged and Hannah accepted that with a rush of warmth.

They ate some more cookies and the conversation turned to Ben's upcoming legal case. He frowned as this returned him to the memories of being accosted by the women in the mall and the waiting room.

"What is it Ben?" Beth asked.

He relaxed his forehead and sighed. "I don't know if it was part of their strategy but Wendy spoke to a gossip magazine and said some... rude and personal things about me apparently. I haven't read it but I suspect Tina has. On two occasions I was accosted by strangers in public demanding I address something they read about me. Deeply personal things. There is always a chance that Wendy and her lawyer could escalate so these occurrences may increase. The public's attention hasn't waned yet so they are ripe for more gossip." He scowled as he tried to understand. "I don't know why she would be saying these things. Is it just the money or is she really that bitter? What did I do to make her this angry?"

"Don't! Don't get it into your head that this is in any way your fault! You cannot be responsible for the twisted thoughts inside someone else's head." Catherine growled. "The fact that she is suing you for an outrageous amount of money after she abandoned you proves her true motivation is greed!"

Ashley was nodding emphatically and was giving him a stern look.

He nodded to Catherine and Ashley and saw smiles return to their faces.

The session went on for another hour, Catherine finally relaxing enough to mention her sadness at losing someone because of the impossible distances. She glanced guiltily at Ben as a twinge went through him when he thought of Gabriella.

It was approaching 11PM when Ashley realized she had to get her girls to bed. They all agreed to end the session there and everyone stood and shared hugs with each other. Everyone was happy with the meeting and they agreed to schedule another one when Ben returned.

Ben made arrangements with Ashley to pick up Christopher with Joshua when she got home the following day as they were going out to pick furniture.

They made their way upstairs and heard boisterous laughter and high pitched shrieks of frustration. Walking into the living room they saw Penny and Karen had joined the kids and were playing some multiplayer cartoony racing game with John and Madison. It was everyone for themselves and the battle was fast and furious.

Suddenly Karen's player surged forward and crossed the finish line and much shrieking was heard from a number of the participants as she won! Then they shrieked because they saw the adults had returned. Huge grins were on their faces and they were breathing hard.

"Time to shut down for the night," Ben said with a smile.

Karen handed her controller to Daniel and gave him a kiss on the cheek before running over to Ben. The young boy looked a little dazzled.

"Ben, we have to get one of these consoles for the house!" Karen gushed.

"I'll speak to my expert on the matter to make sure I get the right one," Ben said gesturing to Daniel. Now the boy puffed up with pride. Miriam rolled her eyes as he moved to disconnect his game console with a wide grin.

"School night, right?" Ben said and heard moans from all the kids. He just grinned and gave them hugs as they went by to get their boots and jackets. Karen and Penny hugged their friends and headed off to bed, leaving John and Daniel with burning ears and grins.

While the kids were occupied Ben pulled Beth into another fierce bear hug. Her face went bright pink and her eyes sparkled with happiness when he stole a quick kiss as well. "Have a good night!" he said fondly.

"You as well Ben, you big flirt!" she chuckled softly in his ear. He helped her put her coat on and she left with her kids.

Miriam gave him a hug and he shook Daniel's hand before they made their way back to their place.

Ashley stepped up and Ben gave her a firm hug as well. Madison was holding Joshua all bundled up in her arms as she and Savannah watched them with glee. When he pulled back he saw Ashley was looking up at him hopefully so he dipped forward and kissed her, making her squeak. He pulled back and looked at her in surprise as he thought she wanted the kiss. She began to giggle uncontrollably as her face went bright pink with embarrassment at the noise she made.

"I'm sorry, I thought-" he began but she stopped him with a touch on his lips with her fingertips. She nodded as she struggled to get control over her nervous giggles. He smiled and helped her put her coat on. She ushered her kids outside and just before she stepped out herself she gestured to Ben about his haircut and he nodded with a smile.

Catherine was against Ben's chest then in his arms the moment he turned back. He breathed in the fresh scent of her shampoo and tilted her face back. He kissed her sweetly and she smiled up at him dreamily.

"Sleep well Catherine."

"You too Ben. Good night Hannah!"

"Good night."

Then it was just Hannah and Ben.

"I'm so glad you were able to make that breakthrough when you were in Costa Rica. I can see you're more comfortable with yourself," Hannah said.

Ben nodded then his brow furrowed. "I'm still worried about my hypnotherapy sessions with Dr. Granger. I understand she felt she was close to getting to the source of my other repressed memories but the way my personality changed during the sessions... I'm really uncomfortable about subjecting everyone to that. I was... not a pleasant guy to be around."

"As I understand it that was just a build-up of tension as you got closer to the source." She tilted her head as she looked at him. "Have you had any other black out events?"

Ben's eyes looked troubled so she took his hand and pulled him to the living room and sat him on the couch. "Talk to me Ben."

"I- I had one episode while I was in Costa Rica. I think I was going dancing after dinner with the group we met there... then I woke up the next morning. You'd have to speak with Rochelle to get details on what happened as she and her new boyfriend brought me back to my room apparently. Trish and Rain weren't with us at dinner that night so they just saw the aftermath."

Hannah sat looking at Ben wondering what could have happened to him in his childhood that could have hurt him like this. She wanted to help him.

"Tomorrow I'll call Rochelle and ask her to fill me in on what she saw. Every little bit helps. We'll get you better Ben."

He nodded as he looked down at her hand as he ran his thumb over the back.

"Thank you Hannah. You've been so concerned for me and have taken such good care of me. I know I can be a bad patient sometimes but I hope I can live up to the effort you make-"

Hannah's lips were suddenly on Ben's then he was kissing her too.

Just as quickly she pushed him back and gasped for breath. "Wait! Wait. Oh my." She struggled to catch her breath as Ben watched her mouth hungrily. "I'm sorry. I didn't mean to do that. It- it was just your stroking on my hand and you're so..."

Ben reached up behind her head and released her hair from its bun. Her sandy blonde hair swung down to rest on her shoulders. He ran his fingers through it and her eyelids fluttered with the tingling sensation he was sending through her body.

She moaned lightly as his lips caressed hers once more only sensually this time. Slower, taking his time to memorize the shape and taste of her mouth. Only then gently exploring with his tongue. She trembled and gently sucked on the tip of his tongue as it dipped into her mouth.

"No! Wait! I promised!" Hannah gasped and she pushed against his chest and tucked her head against his shoulder.

"Promise?" Ben asked, his voice deep and rough with need.

"I- I promised myself I wouldn't do this. The first time I kissed you I knew I couldn't keep that promise so I altered it to be I wouldn't until you were better. You need me in my existing capacity as hospital director now. Later we can... readdress this... other need."

Ben looked into her eyes and nodded slowly. He leaned in and kissed her forehead as she let out a shaky breath. "We'll play it your way for now Hannah but you know how I feel about you."

She looked into his eyes and a warm glow filled her from the love she saw there. She nodded as she looked away quickly. Her resolve was crumbling. She had to leave.

Hannah stood and smoothed her skirt. "I will see you on Friday?"

"Yes. I'll stop by to say hello after speaking with Dr. Granger... when?"

"10AM."

"Good."

He stood and walked her back to the door then helped her on with her coat.

"Good night Ben," she said sweetly to him.

"Good night Hannah. Pleasant dreams."

She grinned at him as she shook her head then she was gone.

Ben locked up and moved back to the living room to tidy up a bit. He put the furniture back into place then carried the TV back down to the media room. He straightened out the furniture in that room then went back upstairs to put away the card table and chairs. Fifteen minutes later he stood in the entrance to the dining room and looked around. Everything was back in its place. Time for bed.

He made his way down the hall, shutting off the lights as he went and let himself into the master bedroom. Tina was out but Lucy was leaning back against the headboard reading. She looked up and smiled at him.

"How did it go?" she asked quietly.

"Very well."

He made his way into the washroom and got undressed for bed. He brushed his teeth and went back out to the bedroom to see Lucy putting her book away. She caught sight of his naked body and smiled seductively. Ben's cock twitched and he silently told it to go to sleep. Like any rebellious teenager it ignored him and began to wake up.

He crawled into bed and pulled the sheets up. He smiled at Tina's sleeping face then looked towards Lucy but she wasn't there.

Then he felt her lips pressed against his cock.

He lifted the sheets and there she was kissing her way up his rising flesh. She gestured for him to be quiet then ran her tongue around the ridge of the head. Ben gasped at the wonderful sensations. Lucy gripped the base and took him into her mouth then down her throat.

"Fuck!" Ben exhaled as his brain felt like it exploded.

Lucy began to bob her head in long strokes taking him from the head down to the base driving him deep into her throat. Again and again she sucked him deep and the pleasure was overwhelming.

"Oh Lucy, you're going to make me cum," he whispered hoarsely as his body began to tremble. This just made her bob over his cock more quickly. Ben was lost. His body tipped over the top and he was cumming in strong surges. Lucy moaned happily as she swallowed as quickly as she could. She milked Ben until he was completely spent and resting back against his pillow.

When his brain came back from heaven Lucy was slipping back into bed. She grinned happily at him with sparkling white teeth and minty fresh breath. "Had to brush my teeth after my last meal of the day!" she said impishly.

He pulled her against his body and kissed her fiercely. She melted against him happily. When he pulled back from the kiss she sighed and tucked herself against him, purring in satisfaction.

Sleep tugged at Ben and he gave in to its pull.

Chapter 20

Ben groaned as the stack of plates gently clanked back into place. He'd been lax with his exercise routine because of his healing finger so his muscles protested when he ran them through their routine this morning. He was pleased to feel no twinges or aches coming from the weakened digit. He'd continue to be cautious with the finger for the next little while but it felt... better.

He made his way upstairs. The house was quiet as it was still early. He made his way down the hall to the master and slipped inside. Tina was up and sitting on the side of the bed. She looked so sweet Ben couldn't resist swooping in to kiss her.

"Ben! I have morning breath and you are all sweaty!" she complained weakly.

"Then join me in the shower!" he grinned.

She gave him a frustrated look and pointed to the cast.

"You know the doctor said you could take showers if you wore the waterproof boot over the cast," he insisted.

"It is not so easy to put on," she pouted.

Ben retrieved it from the bathroom and worked it up her cast to seat the tight rubber gasket around her leg just below her knee.

"There!" he exclaimed and scooped her up in his arms as she squeaked. He carried her into the washroom and pushed the door closed.

He was passing the sink when Tina reached out for her toothbrush. He dipped her closer to the sink so she could get it. He waited patiently with her in his arms as she quickly brushed her teeth. That done he carried her into the shower.

The hot water felt good on his muscles and he gently set Tina down on her feet. He quickly washed his body and hair as she admired his pumped muscles. Clean, he moved to take care of her. He rinsed her hair and massaged shampoo into her luxuriously long black hair from her scalp right down to the ends. She purred under his strong hands. He rinsed the shampoo out then worked in the conditioner and she smiled blissfully with her eyes closed as he repeated his meticulous care of her hair. Once that was rinsed clean he began washing her body with the moisturizing soap. He was thorough then began running his hands over her body sensually. He smiled as her face began to show a flush and she bit her lip.

"Ben?" she whimpered as her body craved release. He kissed her deeply and she sighed as her tongue stroked across his. He knelt before her and pressed his lips to her doming belly then dipped his face lower.

Tina's eyes flew wide as his tongue stroked her wet pussy.

"Oh Ben! Oh!" she gasped.

He stroked and sucked as she clung to his head and cried out her bliss. He knew she was close by how hard she was clinging to his head. He also knew what she needed to tip over the edge. He was pumping a finger into her pussy as he strummed her clit with his tongue. He slipped his wet finger back until it touched her rosebud. He ran his slick fingertip in circles around it as Tina shook.

"Oh yes, Ben! Yes, there! Yes! I am so close!" Tina gasped.

Ben stepped up his tongue's assault on her pussy as he slid a finger into Tina's tight little ass. Her body went into a full spasm as her release took her. He kept her on her feet as her muscles lost their strength. She screamed silently as the pleasure flooded her body.

When Tina began to sag he stood and held her against his body until she got her breathing under control. He rinsed their bodies under the spray once more and shut off the water. He dried them with big fluffy towels and removed the waterproof boot.

Next he helped her rub cream over her skin. Tina loved this ritual the most as the feeling of his strong hands on her body always made her feel safe and wanted. He carried her out into the bedroom and saw Lucy had made the bed and was nowhere to be seen. She must have used the guest bathroom for her shower.

He handed Tina some clothes and got his own on. He heard a knock on the door and called out permission to enter. Lucy stepped in fresh from the shower, hair bound up in a towel, and spun to close the door. She squeaked when Ben's hands cupped the undersides of her large tits through her silk dressing gown from behind as he kissed the side of her neck.

"Ooooohhh god!" she moaned.

"I think she needs a good licking," Tina suggested with a grin.

Ben smiled and wrapped his arms around Lucy to carry her to the end of the bed. He dropped her down on the mattress on her stomach. He pushed the dressing gown up to expose her ass. She didn't have any panties on yet so when Ben roughly parted her cheeks she yelped and her pretty pink nether lips glistened with the beginnings of her excitement. He wasted no time on subtle touches but stroked his tongue across her pussy roughly.

"GAHH! OH FUCK!" Lucy exclaimed.

Ben flipped her over onto her back and held her legs back and wide. He stroked, sucked, probed, strummed and thrashed her unmercifully with his tongue until she locked up and went into convulsions as her eyes rolled back.

"FFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFUUUUUUUUUUHHHHHHHHHH!" she half growled half whimpered as her orgasm rocked her.

Tina used her crutches to get herself into the bathroom and she returned with a warm damp facecloth. She wiped Ben's face then, when Lucy finished coming down from her high, Tina lovingly cleaned her up while Lucy watched her with love in her own eyes. Tina went back into the bathroom to toss the facecloth into the laundry basket.

"Time for breakfast, not for lazing around in bed," Ben teased.

Lucy snorted and dragged herself off the bed to find some underwear.

Ben waited until she was decent then made his way to the kitchen.

Karen and Penny smiled as Ben walked in and rushed over to get a hug. Karen returned to the oven where she was making everyone's breakfast. Penny went back to making toast.

Tina arrived with Lucy who had Christopher in her arms. Ben gave him a kiss then everyone settled down for their meal.

Ben smiled as he looked around the table and realized he would miss the girls. They really did need the independence and would grow so much from the experience. He sighed then caught Tina watching him with a knowing smile on her lips. He huffed as he couldn't hide anything from her. A glance in the other direction brought him to Lucy's smiling eyes. Her too? He faced the girls.

"Remember, tonight when you get home we're all going out for a quick bite to eat then we're hitting the furniture store," he said to remind them.

"Yes!" Penny said with glee and Karen just smiled as her mouth was full.

Ben finished up and tidied the kitchen as the others finished and their daily rush to get out the door began.

He gave them kisses as they left then smiled at Tina.

"I know you will miss this Ben but it is for the best," Tina said.

"Oh, I know. Having their own place will be really good for them," Ben sighed. "I made arrangements for Ashley to pick up Christopher tonight so you could come shopping with us. Did you want to come with me to the bank this morning?"

"No, I am still working on the shopping list for their home. Have fun!" she replied.

"Ok, I'll take Christopher to daycare first." He bent down and gave Tina a kiss then scooped the boy up.

The daycare entrance was a little backed up this morning with four parents dropping off their children before Ben. He waited his turn at the back and overheard two women standing in front of him talking.

"-news said he had two girls chained in his basement!" one gushed in a hushed tone.

"How horrifying! They should chain him in a basement then fill it with water," the other one responded.

"Ladies, not a conversation to have in front of the kids," Ben leaned forward and said gently. They jumped as they hadn't seen him come in.

"Mr. Shepherd! You're the one who caught him!" one of the ladies gushed.

Ben pulled back in surprise and stared at her. "I did what?"

"This Draco creep! The news said you were the one who caught him!" she continued.

"Draco- Drago?"

"Yes! Right, his name was Drago!" she beamed at him.

Ben's mind was churning over this new information. So, he was in the news again, once more unintentionally forced into the role of hero. Geezus, they were never going to let this go.

Daphne signed in the first woman's child but the woman remained where she was looking at Ben like he might suddenly sprout wings and a halo.

"I didn't know anything about women chained in a basement! I had nothing to do with that!" he complained.

"Didn't you subdue him and restrain him?" the excited woman asserted.

"I- I did... subdue him, yes. Others restrained him and contacted the police. It was the police that went to his home."

"On your instructions!" she pushed.

Ben opened his mouth to protest but he could see they really weren't listening. They wanted to believe so they wouldn't hear otherwise. Still he couldn't take credit for another's efforts.

"The police are the heroes here. Truly." He shut up as they just smiled at him.

Daphne returned to take the talkative woman's child inside. She gave Ben a worried look but he just shook his head. Nothing she could do.

When she returned Ben handed her a squirming Christopher and smiled as the boy rushed into the back room to play with his friends. The women finally left as they had to get to work and Ben sighed with relief. "Tonight, Ashley will be picking up Christopher as well as Joshua. She's watching him until I get back from furniture shopping for the renovated house."

"No problem Ben, I'll make a note of that," she agreed.

"Excellent! Could I speak with Lisa or Lori?" he asked Daphne.

"Sure. What were those ladies talking about?" she asked.

"What? Oh, just some creep I beat up that turned out to have some women chained up in his basement when the police went to his home looking for his partner. I didn't know anything about that," he asserted.

Daphne just smiled and shook her head as she walked into the back to get her daughter.

Moments later Lori came out with a big smile on her face. "Hi Ben!"

Ben relaxed when he saw the beauty but he refrained from getting too intimate in the daycare.

"Hi Lori. I just wanted to confirm you and Lisa can take Rain shopping for clothes. She has a job interview on Friday so Thursday night would be best."

"You said she needs a winter wardrobe too? One evening isn't enough time. How about we shop for the interview outfit on Thursday night and take her shopping for the rest on the weekend?" Lori suggested.

"Yeah that makes sense. Thank you!" Ben smiled.

"Anything else I can help you with?" she asked with a coy smile.

Ben smiled back at her. "No, that's all... for now."

He gave her a hug and Lisa rushed out to get a hug too before she dashed back to the kids.

Ben went home with a smile on his lips and found Tina still plunking away at her spreadsheet. He sat with her in the living room and reviewed the engineering boards on his own tablet. He came across another company looking for a solution to a problem he'd already solved so he directed them to the company that manufactured the piece they needed. Then he sent a note to the president of the company to let him know he might want to up their marketing efforts.

Glancing at the clock he saw it was time for him to visit the bank. He gave Tina a kiss then headed downtown.

His visit to the bank was quick and he left with two debit cards, one for the twins and one for Tina. Each was connected to an account with sufficient funds for both Rain's clothing and outfitting the renovated home.

Rain's flight didn't get in until 3PM so he had time.

Ben's mind went back to the evening before and the 'gifts' he'd bought the twins. He was thinking Tina might appreciate such a gift as well. He knew Lucy had an aversion to being touched there but she did have piercings so maybe something along those lines? He used his cell to find a shop that might sell such items. He skipped the sleazy sounding ones and spotted one that sounded promising. The name... there was something about the name. The address wasn't too far away so he drove over to the shop. It blended in with the more upscale clothing shops in the neighborhood so he wasn't embarrassed to go inside.

As he stepped in the door he noted it looked like many other clothing shops the twins had taken him and Tina to. He began to relax. Looking closer he saw the racks contained mostly lingerie but as he moved further back the items began to become a little more fetish based. The materials shifted from satin and lace to leather and latex.

Further back he encountered glass cases with discreet displays of sex toys. Higher end merchandise in artfully designed packaging to be sure but still sex toys. He spotted a display case with anal plugs and saw they came in many sizes, some dauntingly large.

"Ben?"

He froze until the accent in the voice tickled his recollection. He turned. "Pepin?"

"Hello! I didn't expect to see you in my shop so soon but I am delighted!" she smiled up at him.

That's when he remembered her business card and the website URL written on it. It was the name of the store! That's why it seemed familiar.

"I have to admit that when I came in I wasn't aware of the connection. I was just looking for someplace to pick up a couple of items and the name of your store didn't make me want to run the other way," he admitted. She grinned.

"Yes, we do cater to a more upscale market who appreciate discretion and propriety," she said indicating the subtle nature of the displays. He nodded with a smile of his own.

A woman appeared at Pepin's elbow and stood there trembling slightly. "Melody? What's wrong?" the older woman asked.

"Mistress, may I hug him?"

Pepin smiled and looked to Ben. "You recall Melody from the club? She would like to show her appreciation for saving her."

Ben's eyebrows were raised. He did recognize the young woman but hadn't expected to see her here, especially after what she'd gone through. He nodded in a daze.

Suddenly Melody was against his chest, squeezing him tightly. He hugged her in return then she stepped back to stand slightly behind Pepin... submissively. It clicked in Ben's mind and Pepin smiled as she saw his awareness appear in his eyes.

"Yes, Melody has chosen me as her Dom. I have to admit I wasn't expecting it and I've only had male subs before but she was a quick learner." She turned to the girl. "Wait for me in my office." With a final smile at Ben Melody rushed off to the back of the store.

"Congratulations?" Ben ventured and Pepin smiled graciously.

"What are you interested in seeing today?" Pepin asked.

Ben was about to suggest he find another sales person but he realized there was little point. "I'd like to pick up this item," he said indicating the anal plug matching the shape and size of the ones he'd got the twins, "and I'm wondering if you have something for someone who wears piercings in her, ah, nipples."

Pepin nodded and opened the drawer under the display case to show an assortment of boxes. "What color gem would you like?"

"Clear, please."

She extracted a box and handed it to Ben. He looked inside and nodded.

"As for the other item I have something that just came in the other day." She led him over to a display case showing different kinds of piercings. She opened the case and lifted out two bar piercings with hemisphere rings attached. A delicate looking chain ran between the rings.

"That's very pretty!" Ben said.

"And functional too. A gentle tug on the chain stimulates both nipples at once," Pepin replied.

Ben blushed a little and Pepin smiled in delight. "You are refreshingly innocent, Ben!" When he squirmed under her gaze she let him off the hook. "Was there anything else you were looking for? Perhaps you wish to get a second one of each item for the other twin. As I saw at the club they like to adorn themselves similarly."

"Oh, these aren't for the twins-" Ben began and Pepin's eyes caught his in surprise. Ben's cheeks got a little warmer. "These are for two other ladies I'm with."

"Also subs?" Pepin asked in surprise.

"Yes."

"They're aware of the others..."

Ben frowned. "Of course, I'd never abuse their trust by lying to them."

Pepin nodded and seemed to center herself once more. "Well... good for you." She put the chain back into the display case and pulled a boxed one from the drawer under the cabinet. She handed him the box and looked up into his eyes. "I've never witnessed a successful polyamory relationship before. Maybe you could teach us your secrets at our next meeting?"

Ben detected a hint of hostility in her request and wondered at its source. Still, he could answer the question. "I'm not a relationship expert. I wouldn't be in these relationships if it wasn't for- another woman I'm in love with. She's opened my eyes to the possibility of opening my heart to more than one woman. The secret? The only secret is that there can be no secrets. Brutal honesty. Always. There's no room for jealousy. That's poison for relationships."

Pepin looked at him thoughtfully so he felt comfortable continuing. "No relationship is static. They take effort to maintain and they evolve. I've had to be open to the changes even when it wasn't positive for me. Love grows or it doesn't and sometimes its shape doesn't match your preconceived notions. I've had to learn to accept it all."

"Do any of the women love others?" Pepin asked pointedly.

Ben nodded. "One recently fell in love with another man and I'm pretty sure will be moving away to live with him. Another is in love with a woman as well but distance is proving to be too much of an obstacle for them."

Pepin's eyes widened in surprise. "What if she decided to move away to be with this woman?"

"She's told me that she won't give me up but if she needed to be with her I wouldn't stop her from going. But I wouldn't give her up either. I'd just visit her as often as I could," he said with a sigh, thinking of Gabriella.

Pepin nodded thoughtfully as she led Ben up to the cashier. She instructed the woman to give Ben a member discount. Once he had his package Pepin walked him over to the door.

"I'm sorry if I was a little short with you earlier. I've had some bad relationships in recent years and the idea of a successful polyamorous relationship struck a nerve. I'm glad we talked. I extend the offer again to speak to the group about it. Though I believe some of our members couldn't endure such a relationship it's an excellent lesson to know it can work," Pepin said contritely.

Ben just smiled and shook her hand. He gave her his email address so she could keep in touch. Then he made his way home. He tucked his little presents away in his jacket pocket. They were for later. He hoped Tina and Lucy would like them.

Chapter 21

Rain shivered as she held her hands up against the vents in Ben's truck to warm them. The plane had run their air conditioner the entire way and the airport hadn't been much warmer. The walk to the truck had chilled her to the bone. She was worried she'd never get warm again.

Ben looked over at her in worry. Maybe this California native wasn't going to survive her first actual winter.

Rain caught his glance and smiled at him. "Don't worry Ben. Unless you expect me to live in an igloo I think I'll be fine... once I get some warmer clothes that is."

"I wanted to talk to you about that. Hannah talked to Dr. Granger who got you a job interview at a clinic downtown on Friday. The position is for councillor but she feels you could be moved into a psychologist position if all goes well. I've asked Lisa and Lori if they could take you out shopping for an outfit for your job interview tomorrow night. They will take you out shopping this weekend for the rest of the clothes you'll need for the winter."

Rain sat looking at Ben with her mouth open in shock.

Ben glanced over and saw her expression. "Have you frozen solid?"

"I- I thought the best I'd get in a medical center was working reception, being a filing clerk, or sweeping floors. Being a councillor? Oh my god! Thank you!" Rain gasped.

"I just had friends who could get you in the door. You still have to impress them in the interview. Personally, I don't think that's going to be a problem for you," he said and smiled at her. "Tonight though, tonight you have to pick out the furniture for your new bedroom. The girls, Tina, Lucy, Trish, you and I are all going out for a quick dinner then off to the furniture mall."

"Pick out furniture?"

"I just had the house rebuilt almost from the ground up. The renovation team is painting next week and you get to move in by next Saturday. It would be good to have some furniture for you to use when you move in. Hopefully the stuff you guys select will be in stock and can be delivered by that day but if it comes a little later we will make alternate living arrangements until its ready. The house is currently empty."

Rain looked like she was going to cry.

"Hey! No tears in my truck! That's my rule!" Ben growled without any real heat.

"Thank you Ben!" she whispered through the tightness of her throat.

They pulled into Trish's driveway and Ben got them as close to the door as he could. "We'll drop your bags off here. Trish will drive you to the deli we're having dinner at and we'll meet you there."

Rain popped her seatbelt and leapt on Ben to give him a happy kiss.

When she pulled back Ben saw Trish standing behind her storm door grinning at them. He got out and grabbed Rain's bags from the back seat as the woman dashed for the door with her other suitcase. She made it inside and was hugging Trish tight and the two were squealing happily as Ben set the bags down.

"We'll meet at the deli at 5PM, right?" he asked and Trish gave him a happy nod. After giving her a kiss, he slipped back outside and drove home. The girls hadn't come home yet but would be arriving soon.

Ben found Tina in the living room and gave her some smooches until she was gasping for breath and pushing at his chest as she grinned. She knew they'd have company soon. He gave her the bank card and let her know the PIN. He warned her that it had no daily limit and if it was lost she needed to call the bank immediately to cancel it.

From the laughter Ben could tell the girls had arrived. He glanced at the clock and saw they still had a little time. He walked out to greet them. Karen and Penny were giggling excitedly and leapt against his chest to give him hugs.

"Alright you two, go get ready to go out," he growled fondly and they scurried away. He pulled Lucy to his chest and kissed her until she purred.

"You ready to go out?" he asked and she just nodded. The girls returned and Tina smiled at them. Ben scooped her into his arms and Lucy took her crutches as they went into the garage to pile into Ben's truck. He got them on their way and the drive to the deli wasn't long.

They made their way inside and spotted Trish at a long table. Rain stood and faced the ladies with Ben with a trembling smile.

"There is no need to be nervous with us. Ben told us what you did for him in Costa Rica. We are all very grateful! Welcome to the family," Tina said sweetly and Rain got a little teary eyed as she came forward to be hugged by Tina.

"I am Tina Lee and this is Lucy Bennett," she said continuing the introductions. Lucy enveloped the petite brunette in a warm hug and Rain wiped her eyes when Lucy released her.

"This is Karen and Penny Shepherd," Tina said.

"Ah! Ben's daughters and my soon to be roommates!" Rain smiled.

The girls hugged her as well and they all took seats. They wasted no time in ordering as they were eager to get shopping. They kept their meals light, except for Ben.

The food was good but they ate quickly and were looking at Ben impatiently as he gobbled down the last few bites. Ben paid the bill and they made their way to the furniture mall. Once they were all inside they gathered around Ben.

"Ok, I'm going to take Tina and Lucy with me as we are going to pick out the appliances. What I'd like you all to do is review the bedroom sets. This means a bed, two bedside tables with lamps, a dresser and mirror, and a bureau. My suggestion is that you look for beds with storage under them. It's the most practical design. The bedrooms are large so you can easily fit a desk and chair in there as well so once you've picked out the bedroom set take a look at the office furniture. Text me when you are done."

He got nods from the others so off they went, Rain still looking a little dazed by the whirlwind experience. Lucy returned with a wheel chair from customer service and Tina settled into it. Lucy pushed while Ben carried the crutches.

Tina was very particular about the kitchen appliances but they finally made their selections. They looked over at a salesmen who had been hovering not too far away and he swooped in. Ben got him to start an order and the man grinned when he heard they had more items. He followed them like a puppy as Tina and Lucy inspected the washer dryer sets. Once they'd chosen, Ben directed the man to add them to the order.

Ben's phone chirped and he saw Trish had sent him a text that all three ladies had chosen their sets. He responded that they were on their way. The group made their way over to the bedroom suites and spotted them. The salesman was wide eyed with surprise at the beauties waiting for them.

Trish indicated to the man which sets each of the three had selected and he added the items to the order. Karen had chosen the same set her sister chose and all three had at least some under bed storage.

A stop by the mattress section and they added three mattresses to the list. Karen and Penny chose plush and Rain went with a firmer mattress.

They'd all chosen the same office desk and chair combination so that was simple enough to add to the order. The salesman's eyes were growing wide.

Then they went to the living room sets and after much discussion they settled on a sectional sofa, a loveseat, two comfortable chairs, two end tables, and a coffee table. They then selected a sofa, two end tables with lamps, two love seats and a coffee table for the family room.

For the dining room Ben insisted they get a really big table so they could host get togethers for large groups of neighbors. The home's dining room was designed with a large table in mind. They found one they all fell in love with which expanded with a leaf on either end to extend the table to a huge length. They selected comfy cushioned chairs for the table as well.

Finally Ben dragged them over to the electronics department and got them to see a big, flat screen TV he'd researched. Though the ladies groaned about his insistence on getting a truly large screen he stood fast that the 80" set would be perfect for watching movies and playing games. The set had a multitude of connectivity options. As he was the one paying for it they finally gave in. Karen and Penny were secretly thrilled as they imagined gaming on the big screen.

He also chose a set of surround sound speakers which could be connected directly to the TV.

The salesman reviewed the item list and once Ben was satisfied he left to key it all into the system to place the order.

Ben glanced at the time and saw it was 9:30PM. "Wow! Time really flew!"

Rain crushed herself against Ben's chest and hugged him. "Thank you for this! I have never felt so... included in a group in my life!" she said looking up at him happily.

"You know I know something about the feeling of being an outsider. I won't allow that here. We're not only neighbors, we're a family!" Ben said to her.

The salesman rushed back and was relieved to see they hadn't slipped away. He led Ben away to make the payment and arrangements for delivery.

Once done he collected his family and everyone made their way back to the vehicles. A round of hugs and kisses ensued then they piled into the trucks and headed home. Lucy walked with him over to Ashley's place to collect Christopher then carried the sleeping boy home.

Ben admired how Ashley's yellow blond hair was braided. Most likely one of her girls had done it. He admired her body as he followed her into the home.

Ashley led Ben into the kitchen. "Off with your top," she said with a grin.

Ben managed to pull his sweater off while keeping the undershirt on. When he saw her pout he pulled the undershirt off too. That got a smile from Ashley. Ben leaned over the sink and she leaned against his body as she began washing his hair. She was far more comfortable touching him this time and her body felt really good against his.

"Where are the girls?" he asked.

"I sent them to bed. They were up late last night playing games at your place so they were extra tired today," she replied.

"Ah, sorry about that."

"No, it's fine. Once in a while it's ok and they really did have fun!" Ashley sighed as she rinsed the shampoo, running her fingers through his hair.

She turned off the tap and put a towel over his head. She led him to the chair in the middle of the kitchen and sat him down. She took the towel off and looked critically at his head. "Size one bowl or size two bowl. Hmmm..."

Ben reached for her with a grin but she danced out of reach with a grin of her own.

"Haircut first! I won't share my bed with some long haired hippy type," she scoffed and Ben chuckled as he sat back.

She began and he could see the concentration on her face as she snipped away the excess length.

When she was finally satisfied she stepped back and smiled at the job she'd done. She swept the hair up around him, whisked his body and swept up that hair and had him stand so she could whisk once more. That swept, she guided him back to the sink and washed his hair once more, pressing her breasts against his back. That felt really good so Ben was showing considerably against the front of his pants when she dried his hair.

"Is that for me?" she asked, just a little out of breath with anticipation.

He pulled her into an embrace. "What do you think?" he rumbled with need.

She trembled in his arms then her mouth was on his and once more her inexperience made her rush. He took her head in his hands and slowed the kiss. It was still deep but now it was sensual as well. She moaned into the kiss as she ground her body against his.

As they kissed he lifted her in his arms and she squeaked in surprise. Ben pulled back from the kiss and carried her upstairs. She pushed her door closed with her foot and giggled nervously as he carried her to the bed. He undid the zipper on her skirt, letting it fall to the floor as she tugged her blouse up and off.

Ben undid his belt and pants and let them drop.

Ashley paused as she saw the shape of his cock pressing against the inside of his boxers. She unclasped her bra and slipped it off. A warm feeling spread through her body as she caught Ben's admiring gaze. He thought her body was attractive! He didn't ridicule her for her stretch marks or call her freckles dirt-

"I love these freckles!" Ben exclaimed and bent to kiss them. This of course led to him kissing his way across the top of her breasts.

She gasped from the sensation of his lips touching her so intimately. When he pulled back she looked at him with heat in her eyes. Her nipples were stiff with excitement and he hadn't even taken them into his mouth yet!

A sudden wicked idea popped into her head. She was so surprised by herself that she rocked a little on her feet. Then her resolve hardened and she told herself she could do this.

Ben was looking at her curiously having seen an odd expression flit across her features. "Everything alright?"

"YES! Ah, yes, I'm fine. I- I want... to do something," she struggled to say.

He stood before her in his boxers waiting for her to explain. She glanced down then back into his eyes.

"Sorry, I'm not sure what you want," Ben said with a small smile on his lips.

"I- I- I want to... with my mouth," she squeaked.

Ben blinked in surprise. That was a pretty big step for someone with Ashley's history and inexperience. He recalled how intense she got from just holding him in her hand. "Ah, are you sure?"

She just nodded rapidly, holding his eyes with hers. He thought she looked more than a little frightened but he'd make sure they went slow and stopped at the first sign of distress. "Ok. You just need to make sure you take it really slow and keep your teeth back," he said cautiously. "If you start feeling lightheaded or need to stop then stop immediately and take some deep breaths."

She nodded and looked down again. She saw it throb and press against the tight fabric. Her eyes widened. To her it really did seem like some kind of beast struggling behind the cloth barrier. She knelt before him and hooked her fingers over the waistband and slowly pulled them down. Her eyes were trapped by the sight of his thick cock emerging. Finally the boxers fell and his flesh bobbed before her face. She was so close. Too close. Her mind went blank. She looked up at him in desperation.

He smiled gently. "Why don't you start by just holding it?"

Her eyes went back to his cock and she nodded cautiously as she moved her hands closer. She steeled herself and wrapped the fingers of one hand around his girth. Ben shifted and she glanced up to see his smile had changed to a look of enjoyment. Emboldened she gently stroked the fingers of her other hand over the spongy head. Her eyelids fluttered as she realized what she was doing.

"Ooo, not too tight Ashley," Ben cautioned as her grip had spasmed tighter.

"Sorry!" she gasped looking up into his eyes and unlocked her fingers. She went back to caressing the soft, hot skin and allowed herself to enjoy it. It really did feel wonderful under her fingertips. From this vantage point though Ben's cock looked much too big to fit into her mouth. Once more her eyelids fluttered as her mind fought the very idea of putting this flesh inside any of her orifices.

She wobbled again and leaned against Ben to recover. He couldn't see her dazed expression so he thought she was just getting closer. Her brain was screaming at her, saying she was crazy and out of control but deeper there was a voice growling she was just doing what she wanted- no, what she craved to do! She clung to the strength of that voice.

Resting her cheek against Ben's hard abdomen she looked down at his cock and moved her mouth closer, struggling with herself the entire way until her lips pressed against the soft skin.

"Oooohhhhh!" Ben gasped and his cock surged in her hand.

Ashley's face burned with a flush and her lips tingled but she needed more so she kissed her way slowly down the length towards the head.

"Oh my, Ashley! That feels so good!" Ben sighed.

A thrill ran through her body at Ben's reaction. She was doing it right! She was bringing him pleasure!

When her lips reached the softer skin of the head her tongue automatically slipped out to stroke the ridge. Ben sucked in a breath and her eyes went wide when she realized what she'd done. What's more, she'd enjoyed it! She slipped her tongue out again and ran it all over the throbbing head. Her eyes fluttered closed as she could feel Ben twitching under her attentions. She felt amazing as she was controlling this big man!

Ashley moved her head to face his cock straight on. She opened her mouth and slipped the slick head inside and closed her lips around it.

"Fuck! OH! OH! Ashley!" Ben gasped and shook.

Trembling and cheeks burning she took more of his cock into her mouth and slid her tongue across its surface. She was doing it! She had his cock in her mouth and she... loved it!

Ben's thighs were trembling under her hands as she pushed forward to take more and more of him inside. Her tongue stroked over, under and around his cock to get all of his flesh slick with her spit. This made it easier to swallow him.

Then Ben's cock hit the back of her throat.

Ben jolted and pulled back slightly as he looked down at her in concern.

She looked up at him curiously with half of his cock in her mouth.

Carefully she moved forward again and the head touched the back of her throat. She was feeling a little lightheaded but her body was tingling like mad and she wanted more! She stretched her throat forward and felt the head of Ben's cock dip into her throat. She was moving forward again! She pushed forward moving slowly until her nose bumped into his body. She pushed her lips forward and realized she had it all. Ben's big, thick cock was buried deep in her throat! Her eyes began to roll back in her head.

"Oh fuck! Oh! Oh- Ashley! Oh!" Ben gasped and shook as her throat squeezed and caressed his cock.

Ben's voice brought her back to her body and she realized she needed to breathe. He'd swollen slightly in his excitement so he was a tight fit. She pulled back and felt the ridge on the head dragging against the sides of her throat. Then she pulled free and was able to suck in a breath of air.

"I- I have to sit down," Ben said with a wobbly voice. He sat on the end of the bed.

She blinked at him. "Did I do something wrong?"

It was Ben's turn to stare at her. "Wrong?!? No! That was incredible! It was just a little intense and my legs felt like they might give out at any time."

"Intense in a bad way?" she asked tentatively.

"Not at all! Intense in a too much pleasure for my brain to cope with way!"

Ashley beamed a broad smile at Ben and knee walked over to be between his legs. She reached out and gripped his cock as her eyes widened. She really liked touching him there. She liked holding it but she loved having his cock in her mouth. She grinned and pushed him back so he was lying on his back with his ass on the edge of the bed. His erection was pointing skyward and she took the end into her mouth. She pressed the flat of her tongue against its underside as she slowly pushed it deeper and deeper into her mouth. It reached her throat again and she pushed it deeper until she had it all once more. Her body felt like it was going to spontaneously burst into flames and shoot bolts of electricity everywhere simultaneously. She could feel Ben throb and twitch deep in her throat. She felt so incredibly wicked yet good at the same time!

Once more she slowly pulled him out until the head was resting on her tingling lips.

"Ashley! Wait! Oh my- wait!" he panted. She pulled him from her mouth with a pop and smiled up at him as his eyes rolled back. "AAAAAhhh! Oh geez!"

He pushed himself further up the bed until only his ankles were hanging over the end. She watched her new favorite thing moving away from her with a pout on her lips.

"Come up on the bed- Wait! Take your panties off first." She did as asked. "Now come up here and kneel over my face. That should give you a better angle." She saw what he meant. Now the slight upward curve of his cock would be aiming down her throat.

As she rested across his body she jolted as she felt lips kissing their way up the inside of her thighs. She realized Ben now had access to her sensitive place as much as she had access to his. She dipped forward and licked the head of his cock feeling Ben jump under her. She just managed to take him into her mouth when she gasped at the sensation of his lips and tongue caressing and licking her most tender flesh.

And his hands! He was gripping her ass and, oh my stars, that felt better than anything. Well, almost. She sucked him into her mouth and he slid down her throat much easier this time. Unexpectedly she saw Ben's... balls... her eyelids fluttered. They were pressed up against her nose and they were moving! Like little pumps! Up and down! It was too much! Ben's balls in her face, his thick meat in her mouth and filling her throat, and his tongue working magic between her legs. He was panting as he licked her and the gusts of breath were teasing her tender spots which were becoming intensely sensitive.

Suddenly her body convulsed as she hit a fast and hard climax. She moaned deep and low with Ben still in her throat. She pulled back to gasp in a breath as her body continued to shake and jolt over Ben's talented tongue.

"Ashley! I'm going to cum!" he gasped.

She knew she should pull her head away from his cock but her body refused to listen to her. Instead she just drove his cock deep into her throat in a series of quick surges.

"FUCK! OH FUCK!" he cried and she clung to his legs as his body went rigid. "ASHLEY!"

She held tighter and pumped her mouth over his cock more aggressively until his cock fired stream after stream of hot cum into her mouth. Ashley trembled as she swallowed as quickly as she could. Her eyes were closed tight as she sucked harder.

"Stop! Ashley, enough!" Ben called out after he'd endured all he could and was becoming too sensitive.

Her eyes popped open and she pulled his cock from her mouth. She lifted her leg over his body and turned to face him, her expression swinging between shame and desperation.

"It's all good! It was just getting too intense at the end there," he said and pulled her against his body. He felt her shaking. He pushed back to look into her eyes. "What's wrong?" He saw the beginnings of tears pooling.

"That priest was right! I- I am a wanton slut!" she squeaked.

"What? No you're not!" Ben said with a scowl. "Why would you say that?"

"I didn't want to stop! I couldn't get enough!" she cried.

"That just means you are passionate! It was wonderful!" he insisted.

"You told me to stop and I didn't want to," she moaned.

"That can happen when the moment carries you away. It's ok! That doesn't make you a bad person. You found something that excites you, it was pretty amazing for me too! Now come on! Get those silly ideas out of your head. Those aren't yours anyway. They belong to that narrow minded little... jerk of a priest."

Ashley snorted gently through her tears as she heard Ben struggling to keep his profanity in check. It warmed her heart to know he cared so much about her. That's what made the sex so... incredible. The intimacy and caring.

She rubbed her face on his chest and breathed in his clean, warm, masculine scent and felt her body relaxing. Stars, she loved the smell of this man. And his hands on her body! They were doing some amazing things to her back at the moment and she felt that tingle begin between her legs again. Emboldened, she reached down to feel if his cock was waking up and it was! She loved that feeling too!

Ben tilted her face up and kissed her tenderly. She trembled and melted against his body more closely and she felt his hands lifting her on top of him. Her sensitive bits were resting atop his hardening cock and she felt its throbbing very intimately. She gasped as his hands moved down to her ass and began to kneed the flesh there.

Ashley thrust her tongue deeply into Ben's mouth as a rush of tingles shot through her body. Ben was pulling and pushing her over his hardness and she was getting really charged up. Suddenly he pulled back and positioned the head of his cock against her wet opening and gently pushed himself inside.

She gasped as he began to spread her open wide to take in his girth.

"Oh Ben! Oh! Oh stars you're so... big! Oh my, yes!" she sighed. The intense sensations were almost overwhelming.

Ben smiled as he gradually pumped his cock in and out, going deeper with each thrust. He watched her face to make sure she wasn't in pain but she had her eyes closed and her mouth open as she concentrated on what he was doing.

As he went deeper he had to slow down as Ashley was becoming tighter and her body was trembling. It felt so good and Ben felt his release getting closer.

"Yes! Yes Ben! Like that! Stars! Oh! Oh! Oh!" she groaned as her hips began to move on their own, driving him deeper. She liked being on top as it gave her so much more control. Soon her hips were rocking and bouncing on him as she pulled him deeper and deeper.

"Ashley, that's good but you're going to make me come if you keep that up!" he groaned. She tilted her head up and grinned at him in challenge. Her hips moved faster and more aggressively. Ben's head dropped back to the mattress as his orgasm raced up. He squeezed her ass with one hand and moved the other to squeeze her breast, gently tugging on the nipple.

"FUCK!" Ashley gasped as her orgasm exploded over her mind from his three sided attack.

Ben chuckled from her outburst then groaned as the movement sent both of them into additional throes of ecstasy. Ashley was bearing down on his cock which was buried to the base.

He hugged her to his body as he twitched and surged deep inside the gasping blonde.

They rode their waves of bliss until they both sagged, completely spent.

Ben wondered if he should get cleaned up but Ashley slid off his body to cuddle up against his chest. She felt so good there. He smiled and rested his eyes for just a little bit but sleep took them both under.

Chapter 22

Ben let himself inside his house feeling the burn of his embarrassment finally cooling on his cheeks. He'd just run the gauntlet of his daughters and Lucy's knowing smiles as they met Ashley for their drive to school. This after having breakfast with Ashley and her daughters who didn't stop grinning at him through the entire meal. Ashley's own cheeks were glowing with a blush all morning. Her eyes twinkled happily when she looked at him but she still wasn't completely at ease with the idea of her daughters knowing she'd been 'having relations' with Ben.

When they met Lucy, Karen, and Penny in the driveway Ben thought Ashley's face might ignite completely. He gave her a kiss before she rushed off to take Joshua to the daycare and she squeaked but smiled at him as she hustled away.

Lucy told him she'd already dropped off Christopher as she tilted her face up for her own kiss. He heard giggles from Madison and Savannah behind him and his ears burned. He gave the others a hug then made his own way home quickly.

"Good morning Ben!" Tina called out as he walked into the living room. "I like your haircut."

He nodded distractedly. "Thanks. Good morning Tina."

"Is something wrong?" Tina asked.

Ben sat next to her and sighed. "Too many."

"Too many what?"

"Too many relationships. Too many women I'm involved with. It's getting too difficult to manage without the fear of hurting someone." He took Tina's hand in his. "I didn't intend on sleeping over at Ashley's last night. This morning we had to face her daughters who seemed to take my presence alright but I don't know what their expectations are."

Tina smiled at Ben. "What is your policy?"

He blinked at her. "Brutal honesty." He wondered where she was going with this.

"You have been honest with her. Ashley is looking for happiness in her life. She is a good person who was trapped in a bad marriage to a terrible man. She is aware of your relationships with us. The fact that she still wanted to be with you means she feels safe with you. Did she tell you she wanted more?" Tina asked.

"No."

"Then maybe you are borrowing trouble where none exists. You can always just ask her an honest question," Tina said, tilting her head to look at Ben.

He looked at the petite woman in admiration. "I thought Gabriella was supposed to be the Love Goddess!"

Tina smiled happily at the compliment.

"Would you come with me today when I pick up the prototype? I got a text saying it will be ready at lunch. Maybe we could go to the mall for lunch again.

"I would like that!" she grinned.

"Excellent!" He smiled and gave Tina a kiss.

She grinned back at him. "This Saturday Trish is taking us shopping for all of the household items we will need. The list is quite large."

"The card will cover it," he replied and she nodded.

"When will you be back home from your trip?"

"I'll spend the weekend in Milan with Gabriella and her kids then on Monday I have a flight to Melbourne. I'll be there for two days then I fly to Sydney to spend until Sunday when I fly home. I think I'll be back on the following Monday."

"Then you begin the other sessions with Dr. Granger?" Tina asked.

Ben nodded. "I have a session with Dr. Granger at 10AM tomorrow. I expect we will set up the appointments then." He looked at the clock. "If you don't mind I think I will pop into the shower and freshen up. I don't care for the scent of the soap Ashley buys. It smells fine on her but it's really not my thing."

Tina wrinkled her petite nose with a smile indicating she agreed.

He grinned, gave her a kiss and hopped up from the couch. He had a day to get started.

Once more the staff at the custom milling house made a big fuss over Tina and she ate it up. Ben just smiled at her happy grin. He spent about half an hour with the mill technician reviewing the prototype and confirming measurements. Once again the shop had done quality work and he packaged up the piece in bubble wrap and a duffle. Then he settled the bill and collected Tina who was holding an audience with several of the ladies in the office. He raised an eyebrow and they slipped away with mischievous smiles on their faces. Tina was all innocence and sweetness so he scooped her over his shoulder and carried her outside, the duffle and her crutches in his other hand. As they left he heard shrieks and giggles from the watching ladies. He was going to have trouble the next time he came back.

He put Tina in the truck and she watched him with lust in her gaze as he walked around to his own door. Ben smiled. He locked the prototype in the back and got in to drive them to the mall.

As they made their way along Ben noticed a blue sedan behind him. It turned when he did and he seemed to recall seeing that car someplace else this morning. As they pulled into the lot of the mall it came to him. The sedan had been parked on the side of the road outside of Ashburn Court when they headed off to the milling shop. He frowned as he pulled into a spot and watched the car drive by.

He wasn't going to let it bother him. Probably just another reporter. He got out and carried Tina into the mall and over to the guest services booth. He signed out a wheelchair and Tina sat in it gently.

"Is there anything you'd like to look at in the mall?" he asked but she just shook her head and pointed to the food court with a grin. He chuckled and pushed her in the direction she'd pointed.

The workers behind the counter of the Korean restaurant called out greetings to Tina as they stopped before the counter. She spoke to the owner for a bit after he came out to greet her and he smiled and nodded to her gesturing for her to wait. Ben paid for their order and in a few minutes the owner and one of his cooks came out the access hall carrying two trays. They carried them over to a table for Tina and Ben and Tina thanked them. Ben tried to emulate Tina's motions but that just made them all laugh so he stopped. He wheeled Tina in place and sat across from her.

Ben could smell the spices in Tina's food from across the table and knew they'd made it especially strong for her. Just like she liked it. His food barely had any spice heat at all but it did taste very good. They ate in happy silence and Ben loved seeing Tina so content. He wondered how the baby was dealing with the heat of the spices she was consuming.

When they were finishing up they watched the people go by as they'd done the previous time. Tina held Ben's hand as she played with the last of her noodles. Ben got that she was full and was just letting the food settle. He was content to give her as much time as she needed.

"Mr. Shepherd."

Ben sighed. Of course. At least the reporter was courteous enough to let him finish his meal. He looked up and saw a face he recognized. It took a few seconds to connect the dots in his head. "Mr. Holland?" The man smiled widely at being recognized.

Tina looked at Ben so he explained. "Mr. Holland is Wendy's attorney." He turned his head back to the man standing before them. "I suppose this isn't just a happy coincidence, us bumping into you here- the blue sedan." The clues connected for Ben.

"I just thought it might benefit us both to have a quiet conversation before the trial to see if there was anything we might do to make this unpleasant business go away," the lawyer said smoothly.

Ben took in the relatively well tailored, dark blue pinstripe suit, the crisp white dress shirt with expensive looking cuff links and pinkie ring, the grey silk tie, the highly polished black leather shoes and the black attaché case. The man did well enough in his business. The man himself wasn't particularly tall, fit, or handsome but he did have a sharp eye so Ben suspected he was smart enough. Thinning grey hair hinted at him being in his early sixties.

"You really should be speaking with my lawyer. He's handling all the details," Ben said.

"Some details are best reviewed by the defendant. The plaintiff is in some financial difficulty and has already resorted to selling some information about her marriage to you to the press. Against my advice of course. You may have seen the article in Peeps magazine. I understand the magazine has a considerable audience."

Ben scowled. "Yes, I was made aware of the article."

The lawyer pasted a concerned expression on his face. "Good. Good. Well, like I said, my client is struggling financially and has been fielding offers from several major studios to do a televised interview. These are nationally syndicated programs so they are guaranteeing exposure to a much larger audience. There is considerable money involved in these offers. So far I have been able to convince her to hold off but I'm not sure how much longer I'll be able to do this."

Ben stared at the man. It was a blackmail scheme. He sighed. "Thank you for clarifying the purpose of the lawsuit. Now that I know its true nature I have a much better understanding of the depths you and your client are willing to sink to. I would ask that you direct all future communications to my lawyer.

Mr. Holland smiled and nodded. "I thought you might react in this way. There is something else you should know. Mrs. Shepherd's financial dilemma is caused by very large medical bills. She's sick Mr. Shepherd. Very, very sick."

Seeing Ben's stricken expression the man smiled once more and walked away. Ben was going to leap to his feet to chase after him but Tina's hand on his arm locked his muscles. He turned his head to look at her.

"You must not follow him. You need to take your own advice in this matter and speak with your lawyer," she said looking him in the eye.

Ben closed his eyes and struggled to center himself. Finally he opened them and nodded. "Of course, you're right. I'm sorry for that lapse. Thank you for being the voice of reason for me Tina."

She smiled at him and he kissed her hand.

He tidied up and wheeled Tina back to the guest services desk. Once the chair was signed back in Ben carried Tina out to the truck and drove her home. He saw no sign of the blue sedan.

Once they got home Ben followed Tina's advice and called his lawyer. He made himself comfortable on the couch in the living room and dialed the number. It took a few moments but he finally got through.

"Ben! How are you?"

"Hi Walter. I'm doing well. Listen, I just had a short, surprise meeting with Wendy's lawyer Mr. Holland. He tracked me down, followed my car, and approached me after I ate my lunch at the mall."

"Let me guess, he's trying to blackmail you. His client is feeding crap to the press and to stop it you just have to settle."

Ben was surprised. "Uh, yes exactly."

"Ben, you have to let me countersue. It's the fastest way to crush this nuisance suit." Walter asked.

Ben thought about what Holland said about Wendy. "No, I don't want to do that. I don't want to sue Wendy."

"At least let me go after Peeps magazine for libel. That might make other media outlets less eager to listen to her. Better yet if you could prove her statements were patently false," the man suggested.

Ben thought about that. Something popped into his mind.

"I still have the airline tickets... and the bracelet," he said quietly.

"What?"

"I was going to take Wendy to Hawaii. To rekindle the marriage. To try to break through her depression. I also bought her a diamond bracelet. The night she left me I was going to present the tickets and the bracelet to her. I still have them... with her rings she left on the table," Ben pushed out.

"I'm sorry Ben. That must have been awful," Walter said gently.

"Yes." It was all Ben could manage to say.

"That's all the evidence we need. I'll file the papers. Take care."

"Thanks Walter. Bye."

Ben hung up and saw Tina standing in the doorway with tears in her eyes. She made her way to the couch and sat down next to him. He pulled her in close and gently rocked her in his arms. This relaxed both of them.

"I want to scratch her eyes out," Tina said in a quiet voice.

Ben smiled. "No, don't do that because our baby needs its mother. Not prison visits."

Tina recognized her own words to Ben and giggled. She pressed her face against his chest.

He ran his fingers through her thick, silky ebony hair and felt her tremble in response. "I love you Tina."

She looked up at him with joy in her eyes. "I love you too Ben. So much!"

Ben kissed her tenderly and she sighed. They cuddled on the couch until they both fell asleep.

"Awww, don't they look sweet? Like angels!"

Ben cracked his eyelids open and saw Lucy, Karen and Penny smiling down at him. Tina began waking as well and realized she'd drooled on his shirt.

"I am sorry Ben," she said contritely but he just waived it off.

"Wow! We really nodded off there," he said.

Tina nodded and jolted. "Dinner!"

"We can order in tonight," Ben said.

"CHINESE!" Karen and Penny called out in unison.

"I'll just have the soup I normally order," Ben replied. Tina nodded and the girls cheered and rushed into the kitchen to call in the order.

Lucy slid onto Ben's lap and put her arms over his shoulders. She dipped her face down to his and kissed him with just a hint of tongue. Ben felt himself stiffening under her legs and so did she. She pulled back with an impish smile. He gave her a hot look.

"If you are going to start something, we're going to finish it when we go to bed tonight," he growled quietly. Lucy's smile grew broader and her eyes twinkled with excitement. Ben looked at Tina. "I have something special in mind for you two tonight."

"What is it?" Tina asked quietly, quivering with anticipation.

Ben stood with Lucy in his arms and plunked her down on the couch next to Tina. He adjusted his stiff cock in his pant leg and both women watched with rapt attention.

He gave them both an impish smile of his own. "You'll just have to wait until then to find out, won't you?"

He walked away hearing them both moan and a grin spread across his face. He turned back suddenly and they looked at him eagerly.

"Did anyone get Christopher yet?" he asked.

Lucy shook her head with a pout and Tina smiled.

"I'll get him," he said and put on his coat and boots.

The daycare was empty of parents this time which Ben was grateful for. Daphne greeted him with Christopher on her hip. Ben's eyebrows went up when he saw the marker mustache Christopher was sporting on his upper lip. Daphne looked embarrassed and the child looked sad.

"Sorry Ben. Christopher and one of the other boys got into the markers and drew on each other. This little guy got the worst of it."

"It washes off?" he asked.

"Eventually," she winced.

Ben collected the boy in his arms and looked at him critically. "Will it make him less tasty?" He proceeded to pretend to eat the boy's ear and Christopher shrieked with laughter.

Daphne grinned at Ben's antics and saw how happy the child was now.

"I guess he's tasty enough. We'll give him a good scrubbing tonight to get him back to his tastiest. Thanks Daphne!"

The twins came out looking incredible as usual. Their eyes lit up as they saw Ben. Daphne said her goodbyes and went into the back.

"Are you two off to take Rain shopping?" Ben asked and they nodded happily.

"Trish is going as well," Lori said.

"Say hi for me," he said. "Ah! I almost forgot!" He handed Christopher to Lori then dug his wallet out. He handed Lisa the debit card. "This is for the shopping trips. The pin is 5324. If you lose the card you must notify the bank immediately to cancel it. Understood?" He received dual nods so he took Christopher back. Lisa slipped the card into her wallet.

The twins each stepped close and got a kiss from Ben and kissed Christopher on the cheek much to his delight. Ben walked down the driveway with them then they parted ways. He walked home with Christopher and listened to the boy chatter away happily. He got them inside and they took off their coats and boots. Christopher went charging around the corner into the living room.

"Mama!" Ben heard his delighted squeal and Tina's happy laugh as she hugged him. "What's this on your face? Silly boy!"

Even behind the wall Ben could picture their joyful reunion. Christopher was such a happy boy and Tina was such a good mother!

He had some time before dinner was delivered so he went downstairs to do a little work on the security door redesign. He'd be sending the specs to the custom milling house soon to get them to create the door for him. His design was strong yet reasonably light for a security door. It would also resist the pounding the last one got without distorting and effecting its ability to close.

He worked on the design and ran some virtual stress tests on it. His software was sending him green lights but he wasn't satisfied with the performance of the track the door was going to move on so he decided to do another search for alternate means of moving the door.

He heard Karen calling him for dinner. He saved his progress and went upstairs. It was time for dinner with the family. That gave him a warm feeling.

Conversation was light and happy. Lucy got an excellent grade on a recent project and had been asked to work at the College radio station. Tina told everyone about her visit to the milling shop and the delicious lunch they had at the mall. She skipped mentioning the lawyer as that might have upset Karen and Penny. The girls were excited about their date tomorrow night which brought something to Ben's mind. He cleared his throat to get everyone's attention.

"Penny, I'd hoped to be home to meet your boyfriend tomorrow but I'm going to have to head off to the airport in the late afternoon so I'll be gone before you get home. I expect you to bring him in to see Tina and Lucy though, ok? I'll be getting their update when I land in Milan and call in."

Penny nodded at Ben while Tina and Lucy smiled happily.

He wanted to say a lot more about their date but with a glance at Tina he held his tongue.

The girls cleaned up as this was their favorite take out meal. They packaged up the leftovers for tomorrow's lunch.

Tina and Lucy took Christopher to the bathroom to give him a bath and see about scrubbing the marker ink from his face and hands.

Ben went back downstairs and finished up his redesign of the security door and the closing mechanism. He placed an order online for some parts then shut down his computer. The final virtual tests had run successfully and Ben's redesign on the closing mechanism yielded a twenty five percent increase in the closing speed. He was satisfied with that. He would send the plans off to the milling shop techs in the morning to get their opinion on the design and an estimate on how long it might take them to build it.

He made his way back upstairs and doors popped open in the hall as he made his way to his bedroom. Penny got a hug and a kiss on the cheek then Karen. Tina and Lucy were coming out of Christopher's room, having put him to bed and they smiled up at him.

"You ready for bed?" he asked. They nodded and followed him into the master bedroom. He closed the door and they stood at the end of the bed watching him. He smiled at their expectant looks. "Is this how you get ready for bed?" he asked and they immediately moved to begin undressing him. That wasn't what he meant but it was a start.

Once he was naked they began undressing themselves as he made his way into the bathroom. He brushed his teeth and Tina entered on her crutches to brush her teeth as well. Lucy carried in their clothes for the hamper and brushed her teeth with Tina. Both ladies snuck glances at Ben to see if he was ready to tell them what the special thing was. He was having trouble keeping the smile from his face. He hoped he didn't oversell the surprise and leave them disappointed.

He leaned back against the counter and admired the two naked ladies. The petite Korean beauty with her long ebony hair and her baby bump. The auburn haired young woman with the ornate tattoos and piercings.

Speaking of which he looked at Lucy's nipple piercings and saw they were roughly the same size as the rings he'd bought her. He brought his eyes up to Lucy's and saw she was biting her lip and pressing her thighs together. A little excited? He smiled.

He saw they were done. "Follow me."

He walked out to the end of the bed and had each of them sit on the end of it facing him.

"Club Eon was an interesting experience. I met a woman named Pepin who runs a social club of sorts for Doms and Subs. They get together once or twice a month. I look forward to bringing you two to the events," he said and they smiled excitedly.

"I wanted to get you both a little something to show you my appreciation as your Dom. I stopped in a little shop downtown and bumped into Pepin who happens to be the owner of the shop. I selected something for both of you. Again it's not extravagant-"

"Ben! You don't need to buy things for us to make us feel special. You already make us feel that way," Tina said.

Ben looked into their eyes and saw it was the truth. Still, he went to his bedside table and took a small box out. They watched him curiously but they couldn't see what he had in his hands.

He looked at them smiling back at him and felt his heart swell with joy. They were his!

"I got you different things as you are as unique in your pleasures as you are in everything else," he said. Handing the small box to Lucy he looked into her eyes. "Thank you for being mine."

She looked at the little box and popped it open. She poured the contents out and gasped when she saw the gold chain on her palm. Then she noticed the piercings. Her face lit up as she lifted the two rings and held them up to her nipples. Tina smiled.

Lucy immediately took out her existing nipple piercings and put the new ones in. They looked very pretty but most compelling was the gold chain running between them.

Tina reached over and gently tugged on the chain.

"Aaahhh!" Lucy gasped.

Tina looked at Ben. "I like this present!" she said with a grin as Lucy gave her a hot look.

"What did you get Tina?" Lucy asked with a quavering voice as Tina slid the chain through her fingers.

"Tina will have to lie on her stomach on some pillows first. Can you put some pillows on the bed to make her comfortable?" he asked Lucy. Tina released the chain with a mischievous smile.

Lucy quickly got up, dropped her old nipple rings on the dresser and placed some pillows on the bed. She helped guide Tina further up the mattress and onto the pillows ensuring her tummy was supported. She grinned at Tina's raised ass.

Ben gently moved Tina's legs apart and he felt her tremble. She was becoming a little wet and her lower lips had begun to glisten.

"Mmmm, Tina looks delicious. Doesn't she?" Ben said to Lucy and she grinned at him. They both moved forward and sensually kissed her ass cheeks.

"Mmmm! Oh!" Tina moaned and squirmed.

Ben raked his nails gently along the inside of the petite woman's inner thighs making her gasp. With a gesture Ben sent Lucy upwards, kissing her way up Tina's back as Ben started kissing his way up Tina's legs from the back of her knees, alternating legs so the squirming woman wouldn't know when and where the kisses would land. Lucy saw what Ben was doing and began randomly moving where her lips would kiss Tina's back.

"Oh Ben! Lucy! MMMmmm!" Tina gasped and panted.

Ben kissed her cheeks again and squeezed them in his hands. Tina's body was quaking under his hands she was so excited. He didn't make her wait any longer as he ran his tongue deeply between her legs, stroking her pussy and ass. He paid particular attention to her twitching rosebud which caused her to cry out with lust.

"YES! OH! Mmmm, YES Ben!"

Ben grinned at Lucy. Tina was dripping wet and primed. "I think she's ready for her present."

Tina looked back at them over her shoulder.

"Could you get the other box in the drawer and the tube of lube?" Ben asked Lucy. Her grin widened as she scrambled to get the items. She handed them to Ben and he opened the box and removed the anal plug. Tina's eyes widened as she saw the chrome egg with the disk attached to it. She gasped when Ben showed her the crystal embedded in the disk.

Ben added lube to the plug then proceeded to fuck Tina's puckered orifice with his tongue until she was gasping and begging for more. He looked at Lucy and saw she was watching with half lidded eyes as she ran her fingers back and forth along the gold chain between her nipples.

He placed the tip of the anal plug against Tina's rosebud and gently but firmly applied pressure to the disk. Tina moaned but after a moment the little eggs slowly slid inside.

"AHHHH! Oh fuck! Ben!" Tina wailed. He waited to see if she wanted it out but she settled down and the little disk pulled up tight against her body as the plug was sucked inwards by her twitching muscles.

"Oh... oh... oh..." Tina moaned quietly as her body throbbed around the intruder.

Ben caught Lucy's eye. "Lube me."

She immediately got closer and squeezed some lube out of the tube onto her hands. She gripped Ben's hard cock and her breath gusted out as she felt how fucking hard he was.

He slid his hand into her hair and took a kiss from her mouth as she stroked the lube over his cock and shook with her own lust.

"Enough," he said as he pulled back from her mouth. Lucy pulled her hands back and immediately rubbed the excess lube on her left hand over Tina's wet pussy as her right went onto her own.

"AHHH!" Tina squealed at Lucy's touch and her body shook with a minor release.

Ben knew he couldn't go in too deep but he doubted Tina would need much to get a satisfying result. He knee walked up behind her and leaned over her body.

"Guide me in," he said to Lucy. She immediately grasped his thick cock and lined up the head with Tina's opening.

"Oh Ben! Oh Ben! Yes!" Tina blurted as the head forced her lips open and he began to slide inside.

He leaned over her body until his head was just above hers and growled deep in his chest as he pushed a few more inches inside. He stopped at six inches as Tina was panting and moaning under him. She cried out when Lucy slipped her hand between them and gently tugged on the disk.

"BEN! LUCY! OH MY GOD!" she exclaimed.

Ben began to stroke in and out of her clenching pussy as Lucy kept up her tugging on the disk.

"MMMMMMNNNNN! OHFUCKOHFUCKOHFUCK! I'M GOING TO CUM! BEN! I'M GOING TO CUM!" Tina yelled.

Ben stared down at the woman who was typically so quiet and reserved and couldn't get over the change in her. He sped up his thrusts but kept them shallow. Tina was bearing down so hard he was at risk of being pushed right out as he withdrew to the head.

Lucy pushed her other hand under Tina to rub her clit as she plucked at the anal plug's disk and Tina's eyes rolled back as her mouth dropped open. She made an odd guttural moan sound and collapsed on the bed, her body going slack. Lucy checked Tina's breathing and smiled up at Ben who was pulling his cock from the spent woman.

"I guess she liked your present," Lucy said with a grin. Ben smiled back and lifted Tina up to lay her on her back on her spot on the bed. Just to be sure he lifted one of her eyelids and saw her pupil react. Just passed out then. He gently removed the anal plug and tucked the sheet over her. He stepped over her and stepped into the washroom to quickly clean off the used lube and washed the plug. He applied a fresh coating of lube to his cock as he was far from finished for the night.

He returned and stood at the end of the bed, his hot gaze locked on Lucy. She watched his cock as it bobbed with his pulse.

"Come here," he said, his voice rough with his need.

Lucy knee walked closer to him. He took her face between his hands and kissed her deeply. She whimpered into the kiss as she tried to press her body against his but his hold kept her back. As he continued to kiss her he slid his hands down to hold and squeeze her large tits making her moan with need. Her nipples were so stiff and his gentle tugs on the chain sent jolts of pleasure through her body.

He pulled his mouth from hers. "Lie back."

Frantic, she threw herself back on the bed and squeaked when he surged forward to cover her with his own body. He kissed her again, hungry for the feeling of her soft lips and the taste of her pink tongue.

She felt a little overwhelmed by his passion. He wasn't crushing her under his heavy body but he definitely had her under his control.

Her whimpers grew as he rubbed his hot length against her pussy without letting himself slip inside. He was so hot and felt like iron against her. His hips had hers pinned down and though she pulled at his body he ignored her efforts and drew her pleasure upwards at a mind bending slow pace. When she was about to scream from frustration he drove his thickness into her body and all thoughts left her mind. Sensation was everything. He was so fucking thick! She felt like she was coming apart at the seams. He drew himself out to the head then drove his length deep inside. Three more times he did this until his pelvis slapped into hers. His cock was deep inside her body.

Lucy felt so full! He filled every little empty space in her body and mind!

"Oh fuck Ben! You feel so damned good!" she sighed.

When he drew himself out slowly she tried to stop him but his strength was just too much for her. He slammed himself back into her depths and she cried for joy. It felt better than before. She felt his cock getting thicker and hotter.

"Uhhnn! Fuck! Oh god Ben! Yes!" she gasped and clung to him.

Once more he slowly pulled himself out and she struggled to keep him inside. Then he was driving in again and Lucy felt her emotions coming off the rails, it felt so good.

Ben lifted the chain upwards and Lucy moaned with the sharp little pleasure/pain shooting through her. He touched her lips with his finger and her mouth automatically opened. He tucked the chain between her teeth and she looked at him in surprise. Now she had control over the tugging.

He growled deep in his chest and began to hammer her against the mattress with hard strokes that went faster and faster.

Lucy couldn't think. It was too much and Ben just kept making it more and more intense. She began to feel herself disconnecting from her body as the bliss washed over her.

Then her orgasm struck.

She may have screamed. She may have exploded into tiny crystal shards. It's also possible that she ascended to heaven.

Ben howled as his orgasm smashed against his mind. He held himself tight against Lucy's body as he fired jet after jet into her depths.

It seemed like forever for his body to finally settle down to a point where Ben felt like he could move again. It took three false starts before he was able to pull himself from Lucy. The woman spit the chain from her mouth.

"Oh my god Ben!" she gasped as her eyes rolled in her head.

He scooped her up and moved her to lay her head back against her pillow. He crawled under the sheets between the two women and tucked them against himself. He kissed Tina and she murmured happily in her sleep. He tenderly kissed Lucy and she sighed contentedly.

Ben had to admit he felt pretty damn content too. He sighed happily and let sleep drag him under.

Chapter 23

Ben felt a little shaky leaving Dr. Granger's office. He usually did after his sessions as she had the ability to bring his raw emotions right up to the surface where she could see them.

She was very pleased with the progress he'd made with his repressed 'hero' memories and told him she was looking forward to speaking with Rain. She was impressed with how she'd dealt with his breakthrough.

She discussed what Hannah had learned from Rochelle. She now knew there was music that could be used to trigger his dissociative episodes and had the names of a few pieces of music she would use in his future sessions. He'd given her a glum look when she announced that. He informed her of his travel schedule and she booked him to begin the hypnotherapy sessions a few days after his return.

Finally she'd asked him about how he was dealing with his ex's return. He mentioned the nightmare and she discussed that with him until he began to feel more than a little frayed at the edges.

The session ended and she thanked him for returning to her. She felt confident she could help him. She said he seemed to be ready and he could only nod in response.

Ben walked through the halls of the hospital in a daze. He knew he was looking for Hannah but his legs were just moving his body and he didn't seem to have much control over that.

Hannah found him standing at the window of the maternity ward, watching the babies sleeping.

"Ben? Is everything alright?"

"Hannah? What? Oh... yes. I'm fine. Just a little emotionally worn out from my session with Dr. Granger."

"Have you begun your therapy already?" she asked in surprise.

"No, not until I get back from Australia in a little over a week's time. This was just a refresher to bring her up to speed on my current state," he said with a weak smile.

"Come on. I'll get you some bad coffee and stale donuts. That always resets my perspective on life," she said with a smile. He nodded so she led him to the elevators. They got in and she pushed the button for the ground floor where the cafeteria was located. Ben still looked a little shaky so she wrapped her arm around his back. She suddenly found herself wrapped in his arms with her cheek pressed against his chest. He was so freaking big! He smelled so warm and comforting. She could hear the thump of his heart as her ear was pressed against his chest.

She felt him trembling and she hugged him tighter. Gradually his trembling slowed until he relaxed in her arms. She leaned back and heard the elevator ding. She jolted when she saw there were three additional people in the elevator with them, all admin staff on their way to the cafeteria. They were grinning from ear to ear, eyes twinkling with glee at the scandalous little tidbit they'd just witnessed.

"Thank you Hannah. I needed that. Dr. Granger's sessions always seem to unbalance my emotional equilibrium. Your hug grounded me. Thank you." Ben said honestly and the three women watching them suddenly lost their smug grins.

"That's fine Ben. That's what friends are for," she said calmly, straightening out her jacket. She looked at the women and nodded. They quickly nodded and rushed out when the doors opened.

As they were alone in the hall Ben stopped so Hannah did as well. "I'm sorry about that little display in front of your staff. I know you try to keep them all on their toes and my emotional episodes don't help you."

"Ben, you needed me and I was able to be there for you. That's far more important to me. Besides I have other ways I can bring down the hammer of discipline on the unruly. Don't worry about that!" she said with a grin.

They made their way into the cafeteria and Ben was treated to coffee and a donut just as good as Hannah had promised.

Ben looked into the cup and stuck his tongue out as his face scrunched up in disgust. "I thought you were just teasing! This tastes awful!"

Hannah grinned at him. "Wait 'til you taste the donut!"

"Thanks, I'll pass," he growled and pushed it away.

"Don't you feel better about your life now? You get to go home and drink good coffee and eat something delicious. Things are looking up, right?" she smiled and Ben couldn't stop his own smile from appearing.

"Clever girl." Hannah smiled happily at him.

"On a completely different topic, I was out at the mall with Tina yesterday having lunch when I was approached by Wendy's attorney."

"How did he find you at the mall?" Hannah asked.

"He followed us from the neighborhood and waited until we were in a public place with lots of witnesses before he approached. He basically told me that Wendy was going to do a televised interview about me unless I settled. I spoke to Walter, my attorney, who's going to sue Peeps magazine for libel. He's hopeful that will make the studios think twice about speaking with her."

"Hopefully but they may decide to risk it as you're a hot story right now," Hannah said in concern. "The TV studios have teams of lawyers and deep pockets."

Ben frowned at her and she shrugged. "Brutal honesty."

"Right. Well... damn." He shook his head. "I'm not going to worry about it."

"Did you find out why she's doing this? Aside from greed?" Hannah asked.

Ben nodded and looked at her bleakly. "Her lawyer said she's broke and has large medical bills because she's very, very ill."

"Playing on your sympathies. She's probably fine!" Hannah growled.

Ben expression remained glum.

"What?"

"I spoke with the family doctor shortly before her mother passed away. Wendy has the same genetic markers for the disease that took her mother. It isn't a pleasant way to go and it's a lingering death. Wendy was in denial about it. The lawyer's story may be just a trick but it might also be based on her having to go through the same treatments her mother did," he explained.

Hannah looked at Ben and saw the pain there. "Ben, you were there for her all the way and she left you. You owe her nothing!"

Ben looked away and nodded absently. "I- I just thought you should know. You might be seeing her on TV someday soon, saying some not so pleasant, or true, things about me."

Hannah sighed as she saw Ben's evasion. She wished Gabriella was here to talk sense into him. Speaking of the woman, she touched Ben's arm. "When do you go to visit Gabriella?"

"I'm flying out tonight with Miriam and Daniel."

"Right! I wish I was there to see her expression when she sees her kids," Hannah smiled.

"I'll try to remember to record it."

"Yes please!" Hannah said and looked at her watch. "Oh geez! I have to go as I have a status meeting in two minutes! Have a lovely trip and take care! Say hello to Gabriella for me!" She jumped from her chair and with a final wave hustled off to the elevators.

Ben dumped his 'reality check snack' and made his way back out to his truck. The drive home was quick and he began packing. Apparently it was going to be chilly in Milan but very comfortable in Melbourne and Sydney. Ben packed light as he didn't want to be carrying too much. He had his computer bag as well as the duffle with the prototype so a heavy suitcase wasn't an option.

It was lunch time and walking through the living room Ben spotted a gourmet food truck parked in front of his newly renovated house. He turned to Tina. "Would you like some spicy fish tacos?"

"Yes please!" she said beaming a smile at him, her eyes twinkling with her love. She was especially affectionate this morning. Ben had woken to her kissing his cheek. She liked her present.

As he pulled on his coat and slipped on his boots he recalled Lucy's hug and kiss this morning was more... intense than usual. She must have liked her present as well.

The guys picking up their orders at the truck greeted Ben with a cheer as he walked up. He smiled and waved to them. He got in line behind Dominic and was about to greet the man when his cell rang so he answered it.

"Ben? It's Shelly."

"Hi Shelly!"

"Do you think you could swing by the office today? I have documents for you to sign. Should you wish to bring along the check, that would be fine with me as well," she giggled.

Ben looked at the time. "Yeah, I can probably swing that. I'll be out of town for a little over a week so better I get the purchase of the house out of the way before I go." He noticed Dominic waving at him. "Uh, hang on a minute Shelly."

"Sure," she said. He put the phone against his chest.

"Is this about number 9?" Dominic asked.

"Yup. You still interested?"

"Yes. My wife is ecstatic! I drove her through the neighborhood and walked her through the renovations we've done to your place and she's onboard. We can swing the full amount as she's willing to contribute from some of her inheritance. The woman has money tucked away in accounts I have no clue about!"

"So maybe I should just let you finish the transaction. Saves me the commission fee." Ben said and Dominic nodded. Ben brought the phone back up to his ear.

"Sorry about that. I'm going to put you on the phone with my friend Dominic Selleni. It turns out he's the one who will be buying the home. Same price. Same everything. That cool with you?"

"Oh! Yeah, that's no problem. I'll just get his details and update the documents to reflect the new owner," Shelly agreed.

"Great! Here he is," Ben said and handed the phone to Dominic. They made their way closer to the front of the line, Dominic answering Shelly's questions and once they were done he handed Ben his phone back.

"Thanks very much Ben. That was the easiest home purchase I've ever made and the most expensive," the big man said with a grin.

Ben returned the smile then it was their turn to order. When Ben gave his the truck owner recognized him and shook his hand. Ben's business had really helped them through a tough summer. This would be their last visit of the year. They were heading south to visit family in Monterray, Mexico.

Once his order was ready he headed home and ate with Tina in the kitchen.

"Dominic and his wife Sofia will be moving into Joanne White's place," he said. "I've asked Shelly to complete the transaction with him. Saves me some commission money."

She nodded as she enjoyed another mouthful of the spicy food.

They finished up in a comfortable silence, just enjoying each other's company. Ben began to think about all the stuff that had to be done before his daughters could move into the house and worry lines appeared on his forehead.

"Ben, we have this. You can go to see Gabriella and Margaux without worrying about us. I have a plan and I have Catherine, Trish, and Lucy to help me see it through. We will make all the preparations to get the girls into the home. I can also reach you on your phone. Please, just enjoy your time with them and come back safe and sound to us."

He looked at Tina and felt his tension draining away. He nodded. "Thank you Tina for reminding me how amazing you are. I'm so lucky to have you here. I love you so much!"

She smiled in return. "I love you too Ben!"

He kissed her knuckles.

"When do you pick up Miriam and Daniel?" she asked.

Ben glanced at the clock. "In two hours. I sent them texts and they both replied they were ready." He grinned. "They were probably packed the night I asked them to join me."

Tina nodded with a grin of her own.

He cleaned up and Tina made her way back into the living room. She had begun working on some online courses to prepare herself for the accounting course she intended to take.

Ben went to his office in the basement and reviewed the plans for his security door one last time then sent the package to the milling tech at the shop to get his opinion on the feasibility and cost of building it. That done he tidied up and realized he had nothing left to do before his flight.

He collected his baggage including the duffle with the prototype and put them in his truck. He'd be leaving it in long term parking at the airport as no one here needed it during his absence. He thought about asking Tina and Lucy if they were planning on getting their driver's license.

He looked at the clock and saw it was time. He found Tina, gave her a big kiss and asked her to pass it along to Lucy and to give a hug to the girls. Then he drove over to Gabriella's place. Miriam and Daniel were immediately out the door. Miriam locked up and joined Daniel in the truck. Both were smiling excitedly.

"Ready to go?" Ben asked needlessly.

"YES!" they both cried in unison.

With a chuckle Ben got them on their way.

"How was Catherine this morning?" he asked, glancing over at Miriam as she'd be more likely to pick up the other woman's state of mind.

"She's great!" Daniel offered.

Miriam glanced at her brother then looked at Ben. "She is great but she's also a little sad. I caught the look on her face from time to time."

Ben nodded. He thought as much. You don't just get over a broken heart overnight.

They made the airport in good time as the traffic was light at this time of day. Ben parked and they made their way through security. They met their pilot and co-pilot who both shook Ben's hand as this was the first time they were meeting the man who was the partner of such lovely women. They were ushered on board and the kids were gushing at the luxurious interior. Miriam was especially surprised to discover there was a bedroom on the plane with an actual bed!

"Well, we're going to be flying overnight. We arrive at 8AM Milan time. You can take the bed and the men will tough it out on these fully reclining chairs," he said with a grin.

Miriam's eyes lit up with excitement and Daniel appreciated being called a man by Ben.

The pilot announced they would be leaving the gate soon so everyone buckled in. They watched the safety video and got comfortable. Ben realized this really was the first time he'd actually been comfortable on a plane. The seats were wide and plush and his head was actually cradled by the headrest. He sighed. Great, now he was spoiled.

Soon they were in the air and on their way. There would be a refueling stop in New York then their next stop would be Milan. Daniel was taking pictures out the window.

Ben flipped on his computer and linked to the onboard network to get Internet access. He sent a quick note to Gabriella letting her know he was on his way and would arrive at 8AM her time. He also sent a note to the company in Melbourne that he was on his way with the prototype and would arrive sometime late on Monday or possibly Tuesday morning. Finally he sent a note to Margaux letting her know he'd see her next week. A reply came back from Gabriella. She was ecstatic that she'd be seeing him soon. She was feeling so lonely! She said she couldn't reach her kids tonight as they were likely out with their friends again. Ben smiled and replied with a note telling her how much he loved her, how he was looking forward to holding her in his arms and kissing her. He said to not worry about her kids because he knew they missed her and loved her and were so proud of her. He couldn't say more as he didn't want to give the surprise away. He shut down the computer and stowed it in his bag once more.

Daniel found the galley and they settled down for a meal. After dinner they watched a movie together which was interrupted by their fueling stop. Once they were back in the air they finished the movie and Ben announced it was time to get some sleep. Miriam slipped away to the bedroom and Daniel and Ben reclined on their chairs.

"Ben?"

He surfaced from the light doze he'd drifted into. "Hmm?"

"I wanted to thank you. For everything," Daniel said with a serious tone.

Ben blinked his eyes open and looked across to the boy. "You're most welcome."

"You love my Mom, don't you."

Ben didn't hesitate. "With all my heart, yes."

Daniel nodded and smiled. "Goodnight Ben."

"Goodnight Daniel. Sleep well."

Ben lay there listening to the hum of the jet and thinking about this young boy across the aisle from him. Thinking how different their lives had been but how fortunate he was to have met Gabriella and her kids to become part of their lives. He was really looking forward to seeing Gabriella's expression when she saw Miriam and Daniel's happy faces.

With that thought warming his heart, Ben allowed himself to be lulled asleep.

The morning promised to be a good one.