CHAPTER THREE - HANK'S PLACE

[SETTING: A quiet little dive of a pub that is closer to civilization than it seems. A funny little road at the edge of town that you'd always meant to drive down to see where it leads, but never got around to until today, when you had a reason...]

KIRSTEN: [I drive up to the dive bar in my SUV. My hands are shaking, my knees are shaking. Dang. Gotta get hold of myself! I get out and walk up to the door. I pause before I go in. The door is big and wooden with a huge round iron handle in the middle, as well as a normal handle in the usual place. The normal one has grease stains around it so you can tell it's the one people use. The door reminds me of the Temple of Doom in Indiana Jones. I take a deep breath and tug on the handle. Cooled air blows over my body as I step inside. I stop to allow my eyes to adjust to the low light.]

[There are dart boards. A beat-up old excuse for a stage in the corner. The floor is wood, boot-shined. The walls could tell stories, and probably would, if you knew where to look. There's a long, polished wood topped L-shaped bar. A couple of pinball machines by a payphone and a cigarette machine that has seen better days. The juke works perfectly, though, 75 cents gets you 2 plays, or the better deal, 4 songs for a dollar. And its not a bad mix, very eclectic, everything from Bonnie Raitt, Lucinda WIlliams, Santana, the requisite Stevie Ray and the Eagles to Billie Holliday, both Elvises (Presley and Costello) and Ella Fitzgerald, with stops in between at Motown and Nashville. All the classics, Marvin Gaye, Sly, Al Green; someone even thought to throw Brick House in there-the band, not the song. There's a good mix, you're sure to find something you like.]

[A couple of booths along the back wall, and the leather on the seats may be a little cracked, but the cushions themselves are still comfy enough. The lighting is shadowy back there, a bit more private, although the table service is pretty much nonexistent.]

[The bar itself is surprisingly well stocked. A decent array of beers, mostly domestic. For those who prefer it, there are a few beers on tap, but most stick to bottles. Bud and Shiner outsell all other brands almost 3 to 1, with Miller and Corona tied for a close second. Not a lot of name brand bottles back there, although all the usual suspects are in attendance... Jose, Stoly, Jack, Bacardi, Absolut, Tanq, but call and top shelf are nearly the same thing here. They don't serve food, but there are little bags of chips, pretzels, nuts and popcorn for sale behind the bar. Likewise, gum, mints and a small selection of your staple candies. ]

[The ladies' room is past the booths at the back. The walls have been plastered over, and someone thought to tack up a poster of Van Goghs "Sunflowers" to try and give the place a touch of class. One corner has pulled up from its tack, though and curls a bit, letting you see that the walls were once a slighty different shade of the vaguely buttery white they now appear to be. The toilet seats tend to feel a little cold at first and you have to jiggle the flusher on the one on the left, but it's clean. Over the two-basin sink in the middle is a bulbous soap dispenser full of pink liquid soap. The smell of the soap is sweet, somewhere between flowers and bubble gum. Brown rolls of paper towels sit on the side of the sink for the days when the dispenser jams, which is pretty much always.]

[At the end of the alcove, where the bathrooms are, lies the hidden jewel of this place. A wooden deck surrounded by trees, overlooking a small creek. The creek runs dry much of the year; it becomes a rock-strewn twisted pathway. But in this season, there is a thin sliver of water running over the rocks, giving off a scent of moss and movement.

There is one long picnic table with a history of initials carved into its surface, and several smaller tables, none of which matches any other. Two are round, one metal, one glass topped, two are square. More than one will wobble and lean a little if you press on it the wrong way, but they are cheerfully mismatched residents, there to stay. For a final touch, someone (probably the same romantic soul who tacked up the Van Gogh in the ladies room) has strung festive Christmas lights around the deck. On a warm summer night with the crickets chirping and the frogs calling to one another, it could almost seem magical.]

RUSSELL: [I'm sitting at the far end of the bar, one eye on the door, but being pretty subtle about it. No sense in coming off the nervous lad, risk blowing it and getting the flick. Or too much the cad, and getting a slap. Nope, I'm just sitting there, cool as they come, puffing on a ciggie, eyes idly up on the TV behind the bar where the sports channel is on, cutting looks over to the door. I know you'll know I'm here when you come up, my familiar blue Fat Boy is parked right out front.]

RUSSELL: [I'm clean and dressed casually nice, comfy broken-in blue jeans, my black cashmere V-neck over a white T, favorite belt, cross and watch. Though the cross is under my T and can't be seen, I like knowing its there. The heels of my bike boots are hooked onto the low rung of the stool I'm perched on. My hair is curling around my shoulders now, haven't shaved in dog's years except to tidy up now and again. I'm fully fallow and happy with it.]

RUSSELL: [I hear the door open and footsteps. Gotta be her, no one else has come in for over an hour. I roll my neck like I'm stretching and have a peek, trying to hide my grin as I take her in. She's a treat, just as I remembered.]

KIRSTEN: [It's a little smoky, and the click of pool balls temporarily gets my attention. I look around, feeling like an idiot. A woman walking alone into a bar... can only mean trouble, right? I'm reminded of Hammers Over the Anvil and Alan's line about women riding alone in the night on horseback signifying trouble.]

KIRSTEN: [Finally I see you sitting in a curl of smoke, way at the end. I hope you didn't see me flounder and flip around there like a fish on a deck. Sure enough, you're looking my way, so I summon up my courage, paste on a smile and walk up to you like I own the place.]

RUSSELL: [I set my smoke in the ashtray and give you a slow once-over, nothing smarmy, just having a look as you approach.]

KIRSTEN: [Your gaze unnerves me. Is that appreciation or a leer? I'm dressed nice but comfortably in my favorite Old Navy low rise jeans, black leather jacket, and a soft coral spaghetti strap t-shirt. Three rings on the first three fingers of my right hand; one on the index finger of my left. I wear a gold Seiko watch on one tiny wrist and on the other, a beautiful bracelet, a tinkling mass of fake purple amethysts. My necklace matches the bracelet, a silver chain with a mass of the gems hanging down between my breasts.]

RUSSELL: [I unhook my heels and push off the stool to greet you, a little smile playing at the corners of my lips and crinkling the edges of my eyes. You're just as I remember you, though I can see how nervous you are. It's actually sorta sweet and endearing.]

KIRSTEN: Hello, Russell.

RUSSELL: (My eyes twinkle as my grin goes playfully teasing and I find I can't resist.) G'day, Kirsten.

RUSSELL: [I hold out my hand to you, both inviting you closer and to greet you.]

KIRSTEN: [I extend my hand to shake, smiling and feeling like I'm going to be sick. A grin is on my face. I can't keep it down. Okay. Calm down. Don't treat him like a celebrity. Just shake the man's hand.]

RUSSELL: [I press your fingers in mine, not too firmly, but the strength is there, held back, and lean closer, brushing a little kiss against your cheek.]

KIRSTEN: [I turn my cheek to make sure it's the cheek and not lips you hit. No sense in giving you a false sense of entitlement! Okay--you are an attractive woman, now act like it! You own this place! He's only a man!!]  

KIRSTEN: (little cool nod)   --Russell.

RUSSELL: [I bite back my grin at your evasive maneuver. I was aiming for your cheek all along.]

RUSSELL: (I can feel your nervousness through your skin in the moment before I let your hand go, and make a conscious effort to take the intensity down a notch.) ... Have a seat?

RUSSELL: [I sit down, making this easy. There's a stool on either side of me, you clearly have your pick.]

KIRSTEN: Thanks. (I sit down on your left, not wanting to be in the direct line of the smoking ashtray by your right hand.)

RUSSELL: Get you a drink?

KIRSTEN: [I am actually getting ahold of myself now. We are past the worst of it.] 

KIRSTEN: I could use, umm... a glass of wine? Not that I'm nervous or anything. (I flash you a grin, but my eyes betray the knowledge that we both know that's not true)

RUSSELL: Okey dokey. (Easy grin as I signal to the barman with a little nod) What's your pleasure?

RUSSELL: [Despite the double entendre, this is not a sex laden question.]

KIRSTEN:  Umm, just house white. 

KIRSTEN: [Was that a pass? Already? Not takin' it that way, no way. I give another little grin to show that I am not disarmed.]

RUSSELL: (little chuckle) Uhh, yeh... (shifting on my seat with a little grin) I checked that out and you're in luck. It's not Gallo. 

RUSSELL: (I reach for my smoke which has burnt away to almost nothing while I greeted you.) It's nothing fancy, but it looks pretty palatable.

RUSSELL: [The barman sees my signal and heads our way.]

BARMAN: (Gives the lady a little smile as he stops in front of us.) What can I get you folks?

RUSSELL: (With a little nod towards you) She'd like a glass of white wine.

BARMAN: Can do. (He eyes my beer which is still 2/3 full) 

RUSSELL: [I shake my head with a grin, doin' fine, and he moves off to get your drink.]

KIRSTEN: I'm not real picky. I mean, I like good wine, but I can also drink whatever.

RUSSELL: (I lick back a grin as I look around as if to indicate the humbleness of this place, then lean in with a little wink) That's probably a good thing.

RUSSELL: [I look down at the dead butt in my fingers then tamp it out in the glass ashtray.]

KIRSTEN: (Wondering if this is a good time to clear up some confusion) Umm... Russell?

RUSSELL: (My eyes move to yours with an easy open smile in them) Yeh, darlin'? 

KIRSTEN: Well, first of all, umm, thanks for coming to see me today. 

RUSSELL:(I turn a little on my stool, angling to see you better, face you more directly. My tone is warm and easy, nothing leering in it.) It's definitely my pleasure, Kirsten.

KIRSTEN:  Uhh, and second, I wanted to umm, clear something up with you. (My hesitation softens the words. My eyes look at you earnestly, I really need to say something.)

RUSSELL: (little nod) Sure, darlin'. What's that?

RUSSELL: [I give a little easy expectant smile like nothing you say could possibly throw me.]

KIRSTEN: Ahh, well, those emails we've been sending.... 

[The barman comes over and sets down a cardboard coaster that says Coors Light, setting your wine in front of you then stepping away to the far corner of the bar again. He leans back, eyes on the TV as he discusses the upcoming game with a regular.]

RUSSELL: Uh huh?  (A little smiling nod)  I remember them.

KIRSTEN: I hope you don't think mine were too forward. 

RUSSELL: [I chuckle softly, neither surprised or put off by this.]

KIRSTEN: [This speech sounds a little embarrassed, maybe defensive. Funny, it didn't sound that way when I rehearsed it in my head.]

RUSSELL: Kirsten? (I touch your wrist lightly, my tone even, warm, friendly and relaxed.)

KIRSTEN: (I lower my chin but look directly in your eyes, signaling a little shame.) Yes, Russell?

RUSSELL: (My chin a little tucked, looking up at you from under my lashes) First off, darlin'... that was my bad, not yours. (My tone is light, even a little amused) ... I started that, so don't you go worryin' your pretty little head over it, okey dokey?

RUSSELL: [I lift my chin, meeting your eyes a little more directly, hoping to pull your face up with my gaze.]

KIRSTEN: [I take a deep breath and expel it, but my eyes are steady on yours.]

RUSSELL: Secondly?

KIRSTEN: Yeh? 

RUSSELL: We have a phrase where I come from, maybe you've heard it...? No worries.

KIRSTEN: [I chuckle. Well, I can't take it back, so all I can do is plow ahead.]

KIRSTEN: Anyway. Do you have something we can drink to? 

KIRSTEN: [I lift my glass expectantly.]

RUSSELL: (Another soft chuckle as I pick up my beer, which happens to be a Shiner.) Matter of fact, I do.

RUSSELL:  [I shift towards you again, my beer lifted in a little tilt towards your glass. My eyes sparkle with warm merriment, crinkling at the edges again.]

RUSSELL: To new friendships.

KIRSTEN: To new friendships! 

KIRSTEN: [I smile gratefully at you. Your eyes are gorgeous, open and laughing at me.] 

RUSSELL:  [I clink my bottle lightly against your glass with a little wink, sipping past my grin as I watch  you drink. I can now sense a slight change in the air around us. Something a little pressing has been lifted.]

KIRSTEN: [I sip the wine delicately. As always, the alcohol immediately floods into my body, making me feel a little dizzy. I lick my lips to make sure I can still feel them. A fleeting smile crosses my face as I feel they are already slightly numb.]

RUSSELL:  Sooo... 

RUSSELL: [I set my beer down, reaching for the packet of smokes near the ashtray, making this as easy as I can. I've been through meetings akin to this before, but it's different every time... interview, new friends, chance meeting, date... I often end up being the one to take command and set the tone, which is fine. I'm not a control freak, but leading comes naturally to me.]

RUSSELL: Did you have any trouble finding your way here?

KIRSTEN: No, as I said, I've been by this road before and seen the sign for it, but I wasn't sure if "Hank's Place" was a bar, or the name of someone's house.

KIRSTEN: [I look up at you with a wry look to see if you catch the joke.] 

RUSSELL: [I snicker a giggle at that as I pull out a smoke and then pick up my cheap blue Bic off the bar, glad its not in my pocket. Digging into my jeans could easily make you bolt like a skittish filly at this point.]

RUSSELL: Well, you found your way, that's the important thing.

RUSSELL: (My eyes cut to you as I lean into the flame, watching for your reaction and any signs of disapproval as I blow the smoke away towards my far shoulder) I'll try to keep this outta your face, luv.

KIRSTEN: (I inhale the acrid smoke a little.) Ahh, really, it doesn't bother me. 

RUSSELL: (A little lick of the lips before I exhale the next drag, almost as if smoothing the way, then I chuckle) Now, c'mon, luv, I'm tryin' to be a gent. Don't discourage me.

KIRSTEN: (laugh) Well, I am grateful I never picked up the habit. I'm a bit of a health nut, I guess. 

RUSSELL: It's a rotten habit. I don't recommend it. (I take another drag through a grin and then set my smoke in the ashtray, though my hand doesn't wander too far from it, like a security blanket.)

KIRSTEN: So...

KIRSTEN: [I search for a subject that seems neutral, something to open with. Not about your "day job" as you so charmingly put it, and certainly nothing sexual. Just something normal, yet personal enough.]

KIRSTEN: ... I guess you work out? 

KIRSTEN: [The wine is spreading through my body, relaxing me, making me calm down to the point where I will be able to have a conversation.]

RUSSELL: (Rubbing the little bare space between chin and lower lip with the back of my thumb, then grinning again. Someone's been doing their homework.) Only because I have to. Otherwise  ... (shaking my head) ... I am not a gym person by nature, no.

KIRSTEN: But you run, right? 

RUSSELL: When chased. (I give a little giggle)

KIRSTEN: (I giggle too) Chased by whom? 

RUSSELL: (Giggling more.) My trainer mostly. The occasional fan or goanna.

RUSSELL: [I tilt away for a drag, still giggling.]

KIRSTEN: (I take hold of my wineglass's stem, letting the fan comment pass for now.) What's a goanna?

KIRSTEN: [I sip]

RUSSELL: Oh. (Eyes sparkling)... Well, it's a, uh, y'know, a big lizard, right? (My hands come up to describe this) ... Kinda like an oversized iguana?

KIRSTEN: (I laugh out loud at this.)  Oversized iguana? Like a small Komodo dragon or something?

RUSSELL: (Another little giggle) They've got nicer markings and flatter heads,  but, yeh.

RUSSELL: But. (I lean closer, fighting my grin)... If you rile em up? They can be fuckin' fierce.

KIRSTEN: Well, I'd hate to be chased by a Komodo dragon. They actually kill people! (Incredulous look) ... So you have ferocious creatures in Australia?

RUSSELL:(I can't resist... a little wink) Some of us migrate.

RUSSELL: [I chuckle into the neck of my beer as I sip.]

KIRSTEN:[This is so funny I bow my head over the bar and guffaw, then shake my head as if to say unbelievable. After a moment, I'm back under control, and my glittering eyes move to you, one brow arched high and wise.]

KIRSTEN: We have ferocious creatures in Texas, too, you know.

RUSSELL: Uh huh. I noticed that. (I lean my furry chin on my hand, eyes sparkling at you.) ... What about you, luv? Are you...  ferocious?

RUSSELL: [My fingers curl to stroke my whiskers, almost as if trying to hide the teasing grin lurking beneath, though it registers clearly in my eyes.]

KIRSTEN: (I look at you sideways, a sexy little look.) Only when riled. 

KIRSTEN: (I pause as you nod, impressed at my comeback, then go on.) Don't you want to know what the ferocious creatures in Texas are called?

RUSSELL: Mmmm. (I give a low chuckle and pull a slow drag, my eyes never leaving yours.) ... Tell me.

KIRSTEN: (eagerly) Republicans and Baptists!!

RUSSELL: [My head tosses back with a good hard laugh at that, nearly choking on the smoke.]

KIRSTEN: [Your laughter is contagious, and I laugh too.]

RUSSELL: (I'm still chuckling a little as I look back at you, shaking my head as I reach for a drag and a sip, in that order.) I'll consider myself warned...Especially since both carry firearms.

KIRSTEN: (I cross my arms, stroking myself as if a little cold. This has the effect of accentuating my cleavage. I wonder if you will peek.) You got that right!

RUSSELL: [My eyes tempt in that direction, but struggle for the moment to stay above your shoulders.]

KIRSTEN: [I'm a little disappointed you didn't peek, but hide it.]

KIRSTEN: I have a story for you about guns and Texas. 

RUSSELL: So, okay...? Tell me a story.

RUSSELL: [I pull a last drag then tamp out my smoke while I listen.]

KIRSTEN: Since you like Texas so much, I feel I have to tell you this...

KIRSTEN: [A dramatic pause for effect, looking for your approval to go on]

RUSSELL:Uh huh? (A little nod as I turn back, giving you my full attention.)

KIRSTEN: I used to know a man who was a deputy sheriff. One evening, he took off his boots in front of me ... (I wince an embarrassed grin as I realize what I just revealed about the intimacy with which I knew this man.) ... And there was a small gun on a clip fastened to the front of the boot.

KIRSTEN: [I look to you to see if you are bored yet.]

RUSSELL: [I'm watching you intently as you tell your story. Far from bored, my eyes are riveted to you as if I find you and your story intensely fascinating.]

KIRSTEN: I asked him what it was for. He said it was a throw-down gun. Do you know what that is, Russell?

RUSSELL: Is it... (My eyes tilt off as I rub my chin, thinking.)... an unregistered firearm that's easily ditched in a pinch?

RUSSELL: [A little arch of the brow as I look back at you, not sure I got that right.]

KIRSTEN: Close. It's for if they shoot someone in the back, they throw the gun down so they can say it was the victim's. 

RUSSELL: (A little nod at that, sobered by your tone) That's along the lines of what I meant, yeh.

KIRSTEN: So...(a little lighter in tone) Do they have those in Australia too? Corrupt deputies and lots of firearms floating around?

RUSSELL: (Easy shrug) I'm sure they exist. A lot of the country, especially if you go out in the bush, its still, y'know, a bit wild?

RUSSELL: [I feel a bit put off that you didn't get that my answer was actually the same as what a throw-down gun meant. I've done extensive research into the realm of law enforcement, and I certainly know about things like this. As if to prove this, I throw out a little reminder, an example, if you will...]

RUSSELL: (My lips fold on a proud little grin) I did ride-alongs with the police in LA.

KIRSTEN:[I don't necessarily want the conversation to stray to your movie roles. I want this to be a conversation between a man and a woman.]

KIRSTEN: Hmmm.... you may have seen wilder things there than what we have in Texas, then. 

RUSSELL: [I note the closure in your tone. You don't want to go there. No worries, new subject.]

RUSSELL: So. (I pull another slow drag, watching you over the flare of the tip.) This Deputy Sheriff... is he your ex?

KIRSTEN: (My cheeks flush.) Yes. He is.

KIRSTEN: [I look down, studying my glass as my eyes fill up a little.]

RUSSELL: (My brows pull down a little over sympathetic eyes. My tone is soft but curious. Willing to listen, but I'll back off if need be.) Bad breakup?

KIRSTEN: (The corners of my mouth start to turn down and tears threaten. I gulp them back and smile weakly.) Bad... I guess all breakups are bad in a way. Bad with guilt, especially when neither person is really in the wrong... when you've just kind of grown apart.

RUSSELL: [That gets you a nod of understanding. Growing apart is something that I know all too well. Different needs, no one truly in the wrong, but nothing feels quite right anymore, either.]

RUSSELL: (softly - I know your pain.) Yehhh, that's a bitch. 

KIRSTEN: (lightly, smiling at you with eyebrow raised, chin cocked) That's what he said. 

RUSSELL: Yeh? (My crooked smile twists a little higher.) Well, what's he know, anyway?

RUSSELL:  [I chuckle softly as if to say, 'Well, here I am, and where's he?'.]

KIRSTEN: [I turn to face you, to look you directly in the eyes. I want to admit to you that I was part of the failure.] 

KIRSTEN: Russell. I can be a real bitch sometimes. You gotta watch out for me.

RUSSELL: (My smile only pushes deeper, my voice a bubbling chuckle as I shake my head.) What, y'don't think I know how to handle a bitch when I meet one?... Honey, I work in Hollywood.

KIRSTEN: [Instead of judgment, I see understanding and sympathy in your eyes. It touches me deep inside. I know you won't back off from handling me if I get wild, crazy, bitchy. I know I'm in good hands.]

RUSSELL: Speaking of...?

KIRSTEN: [I take another sip of wine, feeling more comfortable with you with every passing minute. I lift my brow, my eyes inviting your question.]

RUSSELL: [I flick my ash into the ashtray near my elbow, then lean my cheek on my hand as I draw on my ciggie, watching you through the curl of smoke.]

RUSSELL: You know what I do, which hardly seems fair. (Another little smile.) So....  how do you earn a crust?

KIRSTEN: [I giggle. Your voice is so sexy, it's flirtatious even when you don't mean it to be.] 

RUSSELL: [Your giggle evokes my smile again.] 

KIRSTEN: I'm a trade show manager for a hospital system in Central Texas.

KIRSTEN: [I look at you sidelong, wondering if you'll pursue it.]

RUSSELL: Huh. Okay. (I nod, fingers stroking the dark hair on my own cheek.) So... what's that mean? You do... um... conventions? Things of that nature?

KIRSTEN: Sort of. I go to all kinds of medical conventions and exhibit at their trade shows. We recruit doctors, nurses... stuff like that. ...Promote the hospital. You know.

RUSSELL: Ah. (My smile pushes deeper again, carving small crescents in my cheeks and the actor takes over with a nasal American accent.) Come to our hospital, folks! We have the shiniest bedpans! And the freshest livers!

RUSSELL: [I giggle.]

KIRSTEN: (I join in the fun.) The most pompous horses-ass doctors you'll ever have the pleasure of meeting! 

RUSSELL: (My grin goes cheesier, like a game show host.) We'll even stick our bills up your.... (I pause, giggling again and shaking my head as I catch myself) ... Better not to go there.

KIRSTEN: [I giggle, but am too ladylike to join in that one. Or not quite tipsy enough, more likely.]

RUSSELL: (I pull another drag, licking at my grin as I turn away to flick my ash.) Anyway!

KIRSTEN: [I peer at my empty glass, looking up at you sideways, wondering if you'll get my hint. It's your gentlemanly duty to fill it, after all.]

RUSSELL: [It's while you're frowning at your glass that I steal a look at your breasts, getting a nice eyeful then flicking my gaze away to follow yours.]

RUSSELL: Uh oh. Well's gone dry.

KIRSTEN: [Out of the corner of my eye I catch you peeking. I'm pleased. Pleased that you're looking at me as an attractive woman, pleased that you seem interested in me.]

KIRSTEN: You might want me to switch to water for a while! I don't want to start telling dirty jokes, here.

RUSSELL: (Little chuckle at that) So happens I like a good randy laugh. (I look over at the barman) ... Mate? 

RUSSELL: [He looks over, then pushes off the bar, heading our way.]

BARMAN: (Easy smile. He has my credit card back there, we look settled in, he's happy.) Yessir?

RUSSELL: (Nudging your knee with mine) Whatcha like, Kirsten?

RUSSELL: [I've decided to let you sink or swim by your own hand] 

KIRSTEN:  Truly, just water. I'll switch back next drink. 

KIRSTEN: [The knee contact felt good. A little aggressive, but still all right.]

RUSSELL: (Smiling at the barman) Bottled water. 

BARMAN: (Nods easily, not offended by my specification) Okay.

KIRSTEN: (A whisper, concurring with a little wink) Bottled water might be safer. 

RUSSELL: And I'll take a, ahhh... (I squint off at the air a moment) ... Know what? Bring me a Jack and Coke to nurse at a bit. (My look holds him there a moment) You hungry at all, luv? Want some crisps or something?

RUSSELL: (A little chuckle) Sorry. Chips, I should say. (Little grin) ...I get lazy when I get to go home for long spells.

KIRSTEN: Ahhh, no chips, thanks! I ate before I came. 

KIRSTEN: [I look at your manly hair peeking out of your sweater sleeve and stifle the urge to stroke it. Reaching up to my chest, I ever so lightly stroke my bare skin with my fingertips, then make a pretense of tugging up my strap a little, seeing if I can draw your gaze back.]

RUSSELL: [I catch you looking at my arm and decide you were looking at my watch, not to tell the time, but it is large, a bit eye-catching.]

RUSSELL: (My eyes catch on the movement of your fingers a moment, then I smile and nod the barman off) Sounds like we're good then.

RUSSELL: [As the barman moves away, I shift towards you a little. I'm sensing the little signals that pass between a woman and a man who like each other, feeling bold. I let my thigh rest against yours.]

KIRSTEN: [Stevie Ray Vaughan comes on the jukebox: Floodin' Down in Texas... Instantly I close my eyes and start to sway a little, lost in the music. I feel your thigh and the contact feels nice. Warm. Manly.]

RUSSELL: [I smile, watching you as you close your eyes and sway.] 

RUSSELL: [When I took the chance and asked you for a date, I wasn't sure what to expect, and already, you're full of surprises. For one, we've been here for a good twenty-odd and you haven't mentioned even one of my films. In fact, you seem to be happy to steer clear of such subjects, so already, you're nothing like most of the women I usually meet.]

RUSSELL: [To be honest, now that we're sitting here together, I'm not at all eager to go that route. I like how we're relating, simply as man and woman, as anyone might, and I'm in no hurry to mess with that dynamic.]

RUSSELL: [More to the point, you're a bit of a treat, and I'm finding that I'm reacting to you on a primitive level. While I'm curious about you, my attraction is already threatening to overtake my curiousity.]

RUSSELL: (My voice dips a shade lower and softer.) Y'like this song?

KIRSTEN: (smiling) Oh yes. 

KIRSTEN: [I catch a scent of something. What is that? I try to ascertain....my nostrils flare a little. My eyes open and I look around trying to figure it out. I look at you. It is the scent... the scent of... it is your scent...and its so captivating. I can't quite place it. Soap...?  I try to be subtle about it, but the scent is not subtle. It's coming into my senses, grabbing hold of my body, as Stevie plays on.]

KIRSTEN: [I recognize the scent as yours and begin to sweat a little, creating my own unique scent as it mixes with my perfume. I'm feeling hot, so I gracefully hop off the seat, take my jacket off and lay it on my barstool. Then back up on the stool, my eyes promptly closed again. I want to remember this moment forever, to memorize the smells, the music vibrating through my body, the sense of an incredibly attractive man next to me, a man who is clearly attracted to me and I to him. It's the moment before things might start to turn serious, where there is the delicious sense that anything could happen tonight, anything. Thoughts run through my mind of being in your arms, you making love to me sweetly and slowly, your scent all around me. There is a thought way at the back of my head that the wine has worked quickly on me and that I need to think about something as a result of that, but I'm not quite sure what it is. I slowly open my eyes to see if the thought will become clearer to me.]

RUSSELL: [I am leaning close, the closest I've been yet, and yes, my nostrils are flaring a little as I sniff the air around you, picking up both your perfume and the heat of your skin. There's something womanly about it, but not too sweet or flowery. In fact there are soft spicy notes, like clove oil or cinnamon buried in the fresh airy sweetness.]

KIRSTEN: [I'm a bit alarmed to see you are extremely close to me, inside my personal space, and you're even sniffing the air like a wolf. I realize my closed eyes and swaying body read like an engraved invitation to make love to me. The wine has, once again, betrayed me.]

RUSSELL: [When you open your eyes, you catch me inhaling your scent but I don't look embarrassed to be caught. In fact my eyes just take on a soft little shine. A little smile alights at the corners of my lips. Just a hint, delicate as a butterfly.]

KIRSTEN: [I freeze in place, and even though I am on alert, I force myself to allow this invasion of my body space. All I would have to do is turn my head just a little and our lips would be inches from each other.]

RUSSELL: [My lashes dip heavily a moment, sensing the almost electric charge in the air around us. I look at your lips and consider the possibilities... and decide it's still a little too soon to push that far. Instead I reach for your hand, flicking the barest nod to the barman as he brings our drinks, including a glass for your water.]

KIRSTEN: [I flinch at the hand hold, caught off guard. It's too soon for such intimate contact. I'm not ready and can't help looking a bit surprised. I peer at my drink, wanting to look anywhere but at you.]

RUSSELL: [I chuckle nervously as I drop your fingers lightly and reach for my drink instead. Fuck. Pushed it too far too fast, and now I'm a bit thrown off my game, unnerved by your reaction, which I will now endeavor to cover gracefully.]

RUSSELL: (My tone is light, almost brisk, giving the word a playful flick of inflection at the end.) Sorry.

KIRSTEN: S'ok. 

KIRSTEN: [I concentrate on filling my glass with the water. It was my fault, the wine's fault; I gave off the wrong signals, too soon.]

RUSSELL: [I pull the straw out of my drink like it's in my way and take a healthy gulp. In a parallel universe, you could see me kicking myself. Hard. It's a good thing I'm sitting down.]

KIRSTEN: [I take several drinks from the glass of water, glad it is water. Something tells me that I want to keep my senses with you, and that's not an easy feat. There is something in the air around you, in your enticing aura, making you seem hard to resist.]

RUSSELL: [I take another swallow of my drink. Liquid courage. I need to get my footing back, and the warm tingle of the Jack under the sweetness of the soda is helping immensely.]

RUSSELL: Okay. So! (I pull a little breath and send you a bright grin, firmly back in the saddle, shoulders up, taking the reins again.) ... How about we scout the jukebox?

KIRSTEN: (relieved) Sounds great! Maybe we could even find something to dance to. You do dance, don't you? 

KIRSTEN: [I look at you sideways, trying to recapture the mood.]

RUSSELL: (A little chuckle as I grab another gulp on my way off the stool) Darlin, do I dance?!

KIRSTEN: (Chuckling) Well, you mentioned that you did! (I fight a grin.) On rooftops, right?

RUSSELL: (I chuckle.) Yeh, something like that.

RUSSELL: [I resist the urge to hold out my hand for yours, instead keeping my nervous fingers busy digging into my front jeans pocket for some change as I lead the way over. There is a clear bounce to my step.]

KIRSTEN: [I lightly slip my hand in the crook of your arm as if to tell you it's okay as we head toward the jukebox.] 

RUSSELL: (Looking to make you laugh or at least smile, I slip into my broad Louisiana- type dialect) Ah dance like piigs flaay. (giggling)

KIRSTEN: Well, in Texas, that would mean you wouldn't dance at all. (A sly grin spreads slowly across my face.)

RUSSELL: [I shoot you a wisely winking grin and look in my palm at the odd collection of change, coins from two worlds mixed in my hand. I pull out four quarters and repocket the rest.]

RUSSELL: (Still in the gleeful dialect) Twoo fo' youuu, and twoo fo' mee.

KIRSTEN: [I wonder what you are gonna pick. A slow number? Something lively? Hmmm. This will be a test. Then you show me the quarters and I realize I'm gonna have to pick too. I scan the juke for something good and spot the Marvin Gaye. That would be too obvious. I see they have "Wild Horses" by Garth Brooks. Perfect. I can tell you are being a gentleman and waiting for me to pick first, so I pick that one and then, I can't resist. I punch the buttons for "Let's Get it On" then smile and wait for you to make your selection.]

RUSSELL: [I shoot you a little grin, then lean down to peer at the roster.]

RUSSELL: [I punch in the numbers for Raitt's version of "Thing Called Love" and ... leaning closer like this is really important... then, my lips trying to press my smile flat, Santana's "Maria Maria" before raising my face to yours with a little arch of the brow.]

RUSSELL: Dunno about you, but a Latin beat always gets my hips goin'.

KIRSTEN: [I smile at that. Garth comes on first. I reach my hand out invitingly and you take it as we walk over to the small dance floor. It's getting dark outside. I face you and wait expectantly for you to take the lead.]

RUSSELL: [One hand wraps lightly to yours and the other slips around to rest lightly on your lower back. I try not to think about how close our bodies are, or how tempting it is to slide my hand lower. There may well be a time and place for that... if I don't blow this.]

KIRSTEN: [Now it's okay to touch since we're dancing. As I settle into your embrace, I'm pleased to find that you're just tall enough that I have to look up a little.]

RUSSELL: [With a little smile, I start to move us in time to the song. My eyes stay on your face, trusting you to follow my lead as I watch your expressions.]

 

 

RUSSELL: [Your body feels good against mine, slender, warm... supple. My hips brush yours lightly as we dance.]

KIRSTEN: [You're a good dancer, and I start to relax as I begin to follow your lead, trusting your dancing skills as we gracefully move around the floor.]

KIRSTEN: [I can sniff you to my heart's content in this position. Your scent is stronger now and I pick up the aroma of something crisp and fresh, maybe a whiff of cologne? I think I recognize Cool Water by Davidoff. I pick up overtones of rosemary and sandalwood in the scent.]

RUSSELL: [The smile in my eyes deepens a little as I notice not only how good you feel in  my arms, but also how easily you move with me, how well you follow my lead, the trust implicit as our bodies flow like animated liquid together.]

KIRSTEN: [It feels so good to be in your arms, dancing so close. A dance is so much like sex, and your obvious mastery of dancing begs the question of how you'll make love. The answer must be; with skill and grace and command, and with deep attention to my needs. I feel your strong shoulder muscles moving under my hand, your steady hand holding mine, always at the right level, as you move me around the floor. Dancing takes blind trust; after all, I can't see where we are going, so I must trust you to lead the way for us.]

RUSSELL: (it's easy to speak in low tones with your ear so near my lips) You're good.

KIRSTEN: [When you say this, your low, masculine voice directly penetrates my ear and brain and then my soul, sending a shiver down my spine that continues through to my legs, which weaken ever so slightly.]

KIRSTEN: [I'm feeling seduced by your voice, your voice that calls me to your heart, calls me to your bed.]

KIRSTEN: (With a sexy, throaty whisper in your ear, returning as good as you gave.) Thanks... You too.

RUSSELL: (My hand detects a little shiver through your back. My voice dips lower) You like it. I can tell.

KIRSTEN: (My head pulls back to meet your gaze with something akin to a proud happy smile.) Oh, I might....A little. 

RUSSELL: Uh huh. (My eyes sparkle a little, still holding yours. You're playing tough, but I'm not buying it.) You like me, too.

RUSSELL:(With a teasing little prodding drop in tone) ... Doncha, Tex?

KIRSTEN: [My resistance is melting rapidly with every drop in your velvety tone, but I bravely try to keep up a front.]

KIRSTEN: (I smile into your eyes, my words in opposition to what my body has already indiscreetly told you.) I like your dancing, Russell.

RUSSELL: [I chuckle softly, feeling your resistance, hearing it in your tone and taking it as a playful challenge. My chuckle causes my warm breath to tickle your ear.]

KIRSTEN: [I feel your breath, warm on my ear and shiver again involuntarily. A tension flows between us like that between wrestlers. A grappling.]

RUSSELL: [You have already tipped your hand enough that my confidence is back full force, firmly seated.]

RUSSELL: [I sway you in my arms, my hand on your back slipping a little lower as I  move us easily  in time to the song, drinking in  more of your warm scent. There's a lovely aroma rising off your heated flesh, perfume and clean hair, softly feminine, Mmmm, niiiice... I close my eyes and hold you a little tighter as the slinky Marvin Gaye song comes on.]

RUSSELL: [My hand releases yours in favour of resting on your hip as my own begin to rock in time to the music. A little grin flirts at the corners of my lips as I hum along.]

KIRSTEN: [I smile when Marvin Gaye comes on, but you can't see me do it. I respond to your change in body position as I reseat both my hands around your neck. I lightly wrap my fingers in your hair, so lightly perhaps you won't notice. Your sweater feels so soft against my body. I feel the muscles in your neck under my fingers.]

 

 

RUSSELL: [My shoulders bump and sway lightly to the beat, making my chest brush against you. My hand on your back guides you and holds you firmly as I maneuver my leg closer to your center, pressing and seeking until my thigh moves boldly between yours. We're not quite grinding, but the potential is there.]

KIRSTEN: [My breath catches in my throat as I feel your thigh come between my legs, not quite believing you can be so brazen, yet accepting the intrusion. Feeling myself welcome it. I feel myself start to get wet.]

KIRSTEN: (A soft feminine sound, deep in my throat) Mmmmmm.

RUSSELL: [I can't help it - a few drinks,  good music, a beautiful woman in my arms - I start to purr along to the lyrics...]

RUSSELL: Theerrre's nothing wrong with meeee... loving youuuu....

RUSSELL: Baby, noo noo...

KIRSTEN: [Your voice is doing me in. It's so deep... manly... I start to sweat again, and not from the exertion. That thigh between my legs is gonna be the death of me. I am struggling to maintain my control. Along with the thigh, I can feel you've gotten an erection.]

RUSSELL: And givin' yourself to me, could never be wrong... if your love is ... (My hips sway a figure eight against yours.) .... truuuue.

RUSSELL: Oohh baby...

RUSSELL: Whooo hooo...

RUSSELL: Don't you know .... how sweet and wonderful... life can beeee?

RUSSELL: [My hand on your back slips lower, flirts with the waistband on your jeans then slides lower still.]

RUSSELL: I'm asking you baby... to get it on with meeee.

KIRSTEN: [My arousal feels extremely obvious to me, but I'm hoping its not showing too much. This song is so right. I want to listen to you sing forever. Your voice is right in my ear and the vibrations are going straight through my body, down my core.]

RUSSELL: Whoooo.. I ain't gonna worry... I ain't gonna push....

RUSSELL: [My thigh presses a little closer as my hips brush more fully against yours. We're getting awfully close to grinding out a full blown version of dirty dancing now. I'm all but making love to you right there, on the small scuffed dance floor.]

RUSSELL: Cummon, cummon , cummon baby... stop beatin' round the buuuush.... Ooooh!

KIRSTEN: [You've brought me to another world. A world of the music, your smell, the rush of my blood in my ears, your thigh between my legs. I am breathing faster but hoping you think it's due to the exertion, not your seduction.]

RUSSELL: Let's get it onn.... Let's get it oonnn...

RUSSELL: [My hips rock to yours, rubbing my leg higher still as we swivel low, then back up.]

KIRSTEN: [I pull a deep breath, trying to regain a little self-control. I can feel your erection against my leg getting stronger.] 

KIRSTEN: (I summon up my own voice only to find it low and a little breathless.) Damn, Russell... you're a good dancer. 

RUSSELL: [My lips graze the side of your neck as the song starts to fade out. There's that spicy aroma again, a hint of clove oil rising off of your warm skin.]

RUSSELL: (My tone is low, a bit husky.) Only as good as my partner, luv.

KIRSTEN: [I know you know exactly what you're doing to me. I can feel it.]

[The Bonnie Raitt song starts.]

KIRSTEN: [I am starting to feel like I need some air. All due to the dancing, the heat that is being generated... the breathless feeling I'm getting. I am feeling the loss of control and it's scaring me.]

RUSSELL: [I instantly regret the change in mood of the new song, but don't let you go.]

KIRSTEN: Ummm... I think I need a little air. Aren't you hot?

RUSSELL: [A slow blink, my expression held back. Truth be told, I don't want to let you go.]

RUSSELL: [My eyes refocus and find yours with a teasing little grin as our bodies separate and I start to dance you backwards like a little two-step kind of move in time to the song, trusting you to move with my lead.]

RUSSELL: I thought you were tough, Tex?

KIRSTEN: (I laugh.) Even Texans sweat! 

KIRSTEN:[I'm wondering if we are going out back  on the deck. I bet it would be cooler out there. I think about proposing it, but don't. It's not that I don't want to, but rather that somehow, in the last few minutes our dynamic has changed. At some point, while we were dancing, it seems that I handed the majority of my power over to you, expecting you to take the lead in everything now. It's not unpleasant, but it is a feeling that takes a bit of getting used to.]

RUSSELL: No, luv. Texan or not.... (My eyes glitter at you.) ...Women glisten.

RUSSELL: (With a deep Texas drawl) Din't your Momma teach you that?

KIRSTEN: (My eyes glisten right back at you. I look directly into your eyes to make sure you catch my double entendre. Hoping you'll make me sweat-in bed-later on.)  If you get this woman hot enough, she sure 'nuff's gonna sweat, Russell.

RUSSELL: Okay. Fair enough. (I chuckle and favour you with a little flick of the brow that indicates that I shall consider myself warned.)

RUSSELL: (I stop you by the back of the room, nod towards the door at the end of the alcove.) Air's out there. Y'want me to fetch your water?

KIRSTEN: How about another glass of wine? I need to make a little pit stop. Meetcha out back? 

RUSSELL: (A little nod.) Sounds like a plan.

RUSSELL: (I let you go slowly.) See y'there.

RUSSELL: [I watch you step away into the alcove, then head back to the bar, my gait a bit stiff at first from the tightness in my jeans. I'm trying not to think about how good it felt to rub up against you as we were dancing, how badly I want you to touch me.]

RUSSELL: [I step up to the bar and order you another wine, ignoring my melted highball in favour of a fresh one. I reach down and adjust my jeans, smoking while I wait, making conversation with the barman, finding out that he's not Hank, though people always think he is. Many a newcomer has hailed him as such, trying to impress someone, friends or a date. "Hey, Hank, bring us another round!" they call. He shakes his head in wonder, though he wears the air of a man who has seen and done it all over the course of his many years.  He goes on to explain that he bought the place off the original Hank's family after the old man passed away five years back at the ripe old age of 87...]

RUSSELL: [While he's telling me this, I'm only half listening. My mind is on you. The attraction between us is so clear, and you're beautiful. I love the way you moved with me, so warm and feminine in my arms. I want very badly to take you somewhere, take you to bed, but I don't have time. In two and a half hours, I'm due back on the jet, cleared for take-off on a night flight to New York.]

RUSSELL: [I take the drinks from the man who isn't Hank and gulp most of mine down, then carry them outside, my ciggie dangling from my lips to free my hands. The whole way out, I'm thinking about how to get you into bed sooner rather than later... and at least kiss you tonight.]

KIRSTEN: [I escape to the ladies room. Touch myself up, go to the bathroom, make sure my cleavage is looking good. Then with a bounce in my step I go out back to join you. I look around the deck, scoping it out. It's green and lush, the woods behind the bar blocking out most of the moonlight, making it very, very dark out here. The multi-colored lights give an unearthly glow, just enough to delineate the outer bounds of the deck.]

KIRSTEN: [You're leaning up against the railing and I can't help but notice the definite outline of the hard on in your jeans. You make no move to hide it, almost as if you're proud and want it to be seen.]

KIRSTEN: [I take my drink from your outstretched hand and sip, watching you over the rim of the glass.] 

RUSSELL: (I watch you drink with a little grin tugging at my lips then tilt my head to indicate the back area.) Nice out here.

[Music drifts out the open doorway from the bar proper, faded a bit over the distance, hard to make out, but there. It doesn't quite drown out the silvery trickling sound of the small creek, or the calls of the night; the summery sound of the cricket's chirp, the throaty ratcheting of the little frogs in the moss by the water.]

RUSSELL: [My eyes stay on you as I pull a little drag, then push my ass off the railing where I was leaning while I waited.]

RUSSELL: Y'wanna sit?

RUSSELL: [My gaze moves over you again, no longer shy about it after that last dance.]

KIRSTEN: (I put the glass down slowly on the nearest table and look up into your eyes) No, I'd rather stand.

RUSSELL:  Yeh? (My brow arches at you as I lean back again, opening my stance invitingly) ... So, um, why doncha come stand over here?

RUSSELL: [I tug at the waist of my low slung jeans a little as I wait to see what you'll do. They're feeling tighter by the moment, especially since the moment of seduction seems to be upon us.]

KIRSTEN: [I boldly move in so I am standing between your legs, almost as if we were still dancing. I make no move to touch you, instead awaiting your move.]

KIRSTEN: (My tone is as teasing as the smile in my eyes.) Why, do you want to dance some more?

RUSSELL: [My arms slip low around your hips, closing to pull you to me until your body is resting fully against mine from knee to waist.]

RUSSELL: (A little flick of the head to get that flop of hair out of my eyes, then my chin tucks to meet your gaze, my tone low and velvety) Uh huh... I might.

KIRSTEN: [I teasingly allow my body to rest fully against yours. I can feel your erection through your jeans and I make full contact with it.]

KIRSTEN: (I try to taunt it out of you, letting you know I'm game.) You might... what? 

RUSSELL: [My lashes flicker briefly, then my eyes force wider, a shade darker and infused with heat.]

RUSSELL: I might.... do... this.....

RUSSELL: [The fingers of my right hand move up to rest lightly on your jaw, my thumb caressing your cheek a little as I lean a little closer, watching your expression as I close the distance.]

KIRSTEN: [My eyes never leave yours and remain welcoming, open, waiting...]

RUSSELL: [My gaze is intent, focused, intense... watching for any telltale signs of rejection.]

KIRSTEN: [I am so wanting you to kiss me.]

RUSSELL: [My eyes gently slip closed as my lips brush across yours.... just a light touch at first, almost teasing...]

KIRSTEN: [My heart comes into my throat. Your lips are so soft on mine. I am left wanting more.]

RUSSELL: [My fingertips hold you there as I tilt a little, my lips reaching for your top one, folding around yours with little pulls.]

KIRSTEN: [My arms encircle your neck and I find myself stroking you under your hair. My fingernails gently scrape up your neck and onto your scalp. I respond to the gentleness and sweet question of your kiss. A question that I answer with a soft, almost inaudible moan.]

RUSSELL: [My hand presses your hips closer to mine and I sigh softly against your mouth, sliding lower, taking your bottom lip between mine as my boots scrape against the wood planks, adjusting my posture to pull you closer. I can feel the soft round firmness of your breasts against my chest and my excitement grows a little.]

KIRSTEN: [When you move, it stirs up your scent. I can smell your cologne again mixed with soap and the heat of your body. I feel my knees start to weaken. I want you to keep kissing me, never stop.]

RUSSELL: [I pull back for half a breath, brushing my lips over and around yours with little dragging caresses before angling to take your mouth fully.]

KIRSTEN: [I give myself over completely to the caresses of your lips, the rest of my body motionless, as if afraid to move.]

RUSSELL: [My tongue teases against the point of your top lip, willing your mouth to open to mine.]

KIRSTEN: [I open my mouth just a little, just enough to invite you in.]

RUSSELL: (soft and low at the back of my throat) Mmmmm.

RUSSELL: [And then my tongue teases forward, beginning a gentle exploration, slipping over and then past your teeth, moving deeper.]

KIRSTEN: [I moan deep inside my throat, involuntarily, softly.]

RUSSELL: [My fingers slip from your jaw, moving into your silky dark hair to cradle the back of your head against my big palm.]

KIRSTEN: [I feel like a little ragdoll in your arms.]

RUSSELL: [My tongue slides over yours, a slow swirling caress, a slow sensual dance, enticing yours to play my sweet games.]

KIRSTEN: [ I respond, gently, femininely to your tongue, following not leading, accepting, twining.]

RUSSELL: [Your mouth is wine soaked, I can taste a lingering tart richness.]

RUSSELL: Mmmmm. 

RUSSELL: [My hips arch towards you, rubbing a little as the hand not in your hair moves down to cradle the curve of your ass through your jeans.]

KIRSTEN: [I taste cigarettes and whiskey in your kiss, smoky and delicious. Timidly my tongue touches your teeth. Gently. Tentatively. I feel your hand on my ass and it feels so good. It makes me want more.]

RUSSELL: [My lips part a little wider, inviting your exploration as my hand begins to caress and knead your ass, strong fingers rubbing against the smooth denim, feeling the heat of you so tantalisingly close.]

KIRSTEN: [I taste your mouth and it is warm, sweet, open. My tongue explores, still timid, but growing bolder.]

KIRSTEN: [Your hand starts to send messages through my body, creating an urgency, growing my need for you. I begin to rub my body, my breasts against you lightly.]

RUSSELL: [My voice catches with a breathless little grunt as you press against me and in response, my hand grasps your ass a little harder, rolling your curves against my palm.]

RUSSELL: [I slide my lips away, grazing them across your jaw, slipping low for a slow mouthful of the tender skin beneath, then dragging my lips to your ear. My beard whispers against your flesh as I move.]

KIRSTEN: [I want your hand inside my jeans. I want your hand on my breast. So much want... my body is begging for more as I feel your beard's sensuous tickle. My neck is so sensitive, your kisses there send shocks through my body.]

RUSSELL: Mmmm, darlin'.... (I breathe in your ear as my lips play with your lobe.) I want you.

KIRSTEN: (A whisper... I cannot muster a full voice, I am feeling so weak) Me too.

KIRSTEN: [My fingers slip down your chest, over your nipple, over your soft sweater, down to your waistband... I slip my hand under your sweater but not under your t-shirt, stroking up to your ribs then to your pec. My thumb caresses your nipple.]

RUSSELL: Sssssssssss. 

RUSSELL: [I hiss in a heated breath and my body responds with a little hitch. The hand at the back of your head slips down over your collar bone and cups your right breast through the stretchy fabric covering.]

KIRSTEN: (Softly pleading, wanting.)  Hohhhh... Russselll... Russselll... 

RUSSELL: (A low purr as I roll your breast in my palm, getting  a feel for its shape, enjoying its heavy warmth in my hand) Mmmm... y'like that?

KIRSTEN: (Almost inaudible, a breathless whisper) Yessss... kiss me...

RUSSELL: [My left hand clutches your ass a little tighter, keeping you pressed against me, feeling my cock throb against the warmth of your body as my lips find yours again, my tongue no longer shy about flooding your mouth.]

KIRSTEN: [As you kiss me, I sneak my hand down to pull your t-shirt out of your pants and for the first time, feel your bare skin with my hand. I can feel the soft hair encircling your belly... my thumb sneaks under your waistband just a little before my fingers come back up to your pec to touch your nipple, gently rolling it between thumb and forefinger...]

RUSSELL: Hoh.

RUSSELL: [My lips break away with a little gasp as gooseflesh rolls over my heated skin.]

KIRSTEN: [My left hand moves to your back. I reach into your jeans and touch your ass boldly, stroking you through your boxer briefs.]

RUSSELL: [I clutch your ass harder, rubbing myself boldly against you now, letting you feel my hardon, what I have for you, like a promise.]

RUSSELL: [My hand slips under the hem of your light top and moves up to fold around your breast.  A low sound of pleasure rises from deep in my chest as I unearth the treasure of your warm, soft flesh, rolling and kneading you lightly against the meat of my work roughened palm.]

RUSSELL:  Hhooohhh.... Kirsten.

KIRSTEN: [I feel your hand on my breast and fear I will soon be lost... this will only make me want you more, want more of you, want this to be completed...I reach under your waistband onto the bare flesh of your ass and stroke you back there. You are firm, your glutes are sweetly rounded but muscled.]

KIRSTEN: Hmmm... Russell... I want you...

RUSSELL: (On a breath) Yesss.

RUSSELL: [My lips find yours again, my jaw rocking to yours with a new hunger. Wondering if you can taste just how badly I want you. Taking a cue from your bold explorations, my other hand releases your ass... but only long enough to slip down the back of your jeans, fingers seeking your flesh with tactile curiosity, not sure what I will find.]

RUSSELL: [I feel for the elastic of your panties.]

KIRSTEN: (I moan as I feel and taste your new urgency. I can taste your desire, your heat, matching my own.) Huhhhh, Russell...

KIRSTEN: [I feel your hand slip back there...]

KIRSTEN: (softly, between your sweet pulls on my mouth) Russell, you are making me so hot... so hot between my legs...

RUSSELL: [You can feel my grin in one of your kisses as my hand moves over the warm roundness of your cheeks. Your ass cheeks are bare with just a thin strip of fabric between them. Mmm, a thong... sexy.]

RUSSELL: Mmmm... Kirsten... honey... so sexy, baby.... god, yes.

KIRSTEN: [I flex my ass instinctively as your hand caresses me... your sexy voice penetrates to my soul yet again.]

RUSSELL: [My hand moves lower, following the trail of fabric, one finger teasing under the stretchy thong.]

RUSSELL: Mmmm.... 

RUSSELL: [I catch your hardened nipple between my fingers and tug gently.]

RUSSELL: Mmm... your skin is so fuckin' soft, luv.

KIRSTEN: Ohhhhh Russelll... oh baby, you make me want you... (my voice trails off, I mouth "inside me" and wonder if you heard it.)

RUSSELL: [My hips rub more firmly against you, my jeans feel full and tight, the maddening friction is both pleasure and frustration. Now I tug your nipple more sharply, rolling it between my strong fingers.]

RUSSELL: Mmmmmmm.

KIRSTEN: (My breath catches...it hurts a little, but like an electric shock the pain shoots instantly down to between my legs, making me wetter.) Unhhhhh, Russelll... yes, please....(whimper)

RUSSELL: [I tug your thong a little, pulling the fabric tight between your legs, hoping this will cause your hips to writhe against mine.]

KIRSTEN: [My hips start to move against yours, matching your subtle undulation.] 

KIRSTEN: (breathless) Kisss me....

RUSSELL: [My fingers release your tight thick nipple as my tongue invades your mouth again, rolling with a hungry wet heat that is nearly overwhelming.]

RUSSELL:  [My now free hand reaches back for yours, looking to guide it where I want it. I let go of your thong as my tongue continues to plunder your mouth, like a pirate stealing riches. My hand brings yours to the front of my jeans, offering my own.]

KIRSTEN: (My voice is altered, soft, strange to my own ears.) What do you want, baby?

RUSSELL: [My free hand fumbles with your belt, gets that undone and moves on to the button at your waistband]

RUSSELL: To feel you... and to feel you feel me.

KIRSTEN: (With a deep husky sigh) God... Baby, I want you inside me... I want you to make love to me, Russelll.

RUSSELL: [I get your jeans undone and pause to rub your hand over the hard shape of my bolt, wanting you to feel the desire you have created. Needing to feel the warmth of your hand on me.]

KIRSTEN: [I take your cue and reach inside the front of your jeans, under the waistband of your briefs... I feel your warm cock, throbbing with your desire for me, weeping precum.]

RUSSELL: [My head falls back with a low surprised gasp as my hips arch my cock instinctively towards your hand.]

RUSSELL: Hooohhhffuck!

RUSSELL: [My own hand flattens and shoves greedily down the front of your jeans.]

KIRSTEN: [This encourages me and I undo your belt, then open your jeans, reaching inside, taking you fully into my hand, stroking your shaft as best I can inside your tight jeans... my thumb slides over the top, spreading your new juices, making you slide...]

KIRSTEN: ['m panting now, breathing hard and loud... pulling at you... I can feel my knees shaking a little with my passion.]

RUSSELL: [My fingers sink low - seeking and then finding your moist cleft as my head comes back, eyes meeting yours, wide, dark, a little lust dazed. Excited and breathing hard.]

KIRSTEN: [My legs spread to allow you better access...]

KIRSTEN: Ohhhh... Russell... baby... baby... you feel good on me... 

RUSSELL: [My eyes begin to blaze as my fingers slip lower, parting your lips, feeling a small patch of damp fur, then slippery wetness.]

KIRSTEN: Yes, baby... yess...

RUSSELL:  [My chest is hitching with each hard breath as my finger slides and explores, moving up and down your slick slit. You're so wet it makes me shiver. The thought of burying myself inside your moist heat makes my knees weaken. ]

RUSSELL: Fuck, darlin'... you're so fuckin' wet for me.

KIRSTEN: I'm even wetter inside... wet for your cock...

RUSSELL: [Is it possible for me to grow harder in your hand? Or am I just rock hard and throbbing?]

RUSSELL: [I lean in, brushing my lips over the side of your throat as my free hand holds onto your hip for balance. My finger circles around the tight little slick nub of your clit.]

KIRSTEN: [I am still stroking your cock, but you get my attention when you touch me down there... like a horse on a twitch I stop in my tracks...]

RUSSELL: Hmmmm. (My lips smile against your skin as my finger circles again.)

KIRSTEN: Oh, Russelll... (Suddenly I get feeling back in my body and feel your lips on my neck ...I need you to invade me)...Bite me.

RUSSELL: [My warm lips part as I drag down to the place where your shoulder meets your throat, laid bare beside the narrow strap of your top.]

RUSSELL: [I draw my finger up the length of your clit as I suckle a bite, increasing the pressure of my mouth every time I feel you wriggle on my hand.]

KIRSTEN: (I shiver all over from your lips and hand.) Oh, Russell... I want to feel you inside me...

RUSSELL: [My teeth nip a sharp little bite as your words make me groan low in my throat.]

KIRSTEN: (whispered) ...Feel you inside me... 

KIRSTEN: [My hand caresses your firm round head, now peeking up outside your waistband, but still sheltered by your sweater.]

RUSSELL: [With a low hissing shuddering moan, I dig for every fibre of determined self-control I have ever possessed. My hand slips from your jeans, slick with your nectar. My other hand moves to still your wrist as I lean back to meet your heated gaze.]

KIRSTEN: [I look up to your eyes, questioningly. But I instinctively know what you're going to say.]

RUSSELL: [My eyes are heavy with want, but softened by trying to will your understanding.]

RUSSELL: (My voice is low, husky, soaked with desire.) Kirsten. Listen to me.

RUSSELL: I want you... I want you so fuckin' bad.... 

KIRSTEN: (softly) Yeh... 

RUSSELL: But.

RUSSELL: [I paint your lips with your own juices seeing if you'll suck and nibble my finger as my eyes move warmly over your face, trying to read your expression.]

RUSSELL: I want t'do it right.

KIRSTEN: [I take your finger into my mouth, tasting my own juices. Then I guide your finger to your mouth so you can taste it too.]

KIRSTEN: (With and understanding whisper made heated by the sight of you tasting me on your skin.) I know, baby. 

RUSSELL: (Between little sucks of my own finger.) You're too... beautiful... to rush... I want... mmm... to savour you.

KIRSTEN: I know, baby. I didn't mean for the evening to end quite like this. 

KIRSTEN: [I am not embarrassed. My passion has been matched by yours, we are two people in want, just needing time and a better place to explore it fully.]

RUSSELL: [My arms wrap around you, gathering you against me, shivering a little as the cold buckle of your belt brushes my still hot and throbbing exposed cockhead.]

RUSSELL: (I nuzzle my lips against your ear) It's gonna be sooo good.... Soo sweet...

RUSSELL: (I kiss you tenderly then lean in to whisper again, promising.) ... So amazing.

KIRSTEN: (My whisper is soft and low.) I know, baby. I know when you get inside me, you are going to make me come soooo good.

RUSSELL: Hoh yes.

RUSSELL: [My furry cheek brushes lightly against your warm soft one.]

KIRSTEN: [I cover you up with your sweater, gently, protectively.]

KIRSTEN: I wish you didn't have to leave tonight.

RUSSELL: (A little sigh) Me, too.

RUSSELL: [I reach between us, head bowed a little as I grasp the two fronts of your jeans and work to get them rebuttoned.]

KIRSTEN: [I am coming down from my sexual high a little, enough to think a bit more clearly.]

RUSSELL: [I raise my eyes to yours as I fit the two pieces of your belt together, pulling them snug across your flat belly.]

RUSSELL: (A little shrug, but my eyes are making promises.)  I can come back.

RUSSELL: (A shy little grin matches to another light shrug as I peek up at you through my long lashes and the flop of my hair.) Handy having big toys, y'know?

RUSSELL: [I fit the leather strap into the buckle and give you a pat when I'm done threading before reaching to tuck myself away.]

KIRSTEN: (I grin at the reference to your jet and the double entendre.) So...when do you want to get together? 

RUSSELL: [My head tilts as I think on this, working my schedule over in my mind, wishing for just one tic that Mark was handy to shout to. My brows furrow in thought as I resettle myself inside my jeans as best I can.]

RUSSELL: Umm... coupla days? I've, y'know... 

RUSSELL: [My eyes come back up to you with a little shrug of the brow, not putting you off, simply unsure.]

KIRSTEN: (With an understanding nod.) I can work around your schedule. Just email me. 

KIRSTEN: [God I hope you do!]

RUSSELL:(I nod at your words.) I will.

RUSSELL: [I lift your hand to my cheek, eyes narrowing like a big happy cat as I caress my face to your palm, my gaze on you as I press a tender kiss on the soft flat of your hand.]

RUSSELL: I'll email you. We'll figure something out.

KIRSTEN: (Shyly now) 'kay.

RUSSELL: (Another little palm kiss) I promise.

KIRSTEN: (Looking into your eyes with a mixture of regret and trust.) I believe you.

KIRSTEN: [I feel a little sad that we can't complete things tonight, yet also relieved. I need some time to digest what's happened. I didn't expect things to move along so rapidly, didn't expect to hand over so much power so fast. But sometimes things happen like that. The evening had its own rhythm that felt right.]

KIRSTEN: (Looking into your eyes, trusting, wide eyed) Walk me to my car?

RUSSELL: (My eyes sparkle more at that.) I was just about to ask if I could.

RUSSELL: [I wait for you to step back, then stand up to button and buckle up before giving you a little nod. My hand rests on the low part of your back possessively as we walk through the pub. Hardly a head turns from the game as we pass, though the number of patrons has trebled. I'm glad for the slight overhang of my jumper, though it doesn't hide much.]

KIRSTEN: [We walk through the pub and with a start, I realize I left my jacket on the barstool.  With a feeling of relief, I realize that no one has yet sat on it or stolen it. I peel it off the stool as we walk by the bar. I'm still feeling warm, so I carry it easily in my hand.]

KIRSTEN: [The front door looks less malevolent now as you open it for me. I lead the way to the driver's side of my SUV, and turn to face you, leaning against the door, in no hurry to go.]

KIRSTEN: I'll try to be better behaved in the next email, 'kay, Russell?

RUSSELL: (A low chuckle) I hope not.

RUSSELL: [My eyes move over you, taking you in as I crowd you a little. It's all I can do not to toss you in the back of your SUV and have at you.]

RUSSELL: (My eyes glitter a little grin at yours, keeping you there as you watch me expectantly. My tone is light and playful as I speak through a soft smile.) This is the part where you kiss me goodnight...

RUSSELL: (I lean a little closer.) ... And I thank you for a lovely evening...

RUSSELL: (My thigh rests lightly between yours.) ... And then promise to email you - which I will.

KIRSTEN: (I smile up at you. I trust you implicitly.) I know.

RUSSELL: [I lean closer still, my hands coming up to rest against the side of the car on either side of your head as if I don't quite trust them to be free when I'm so near to you.]

RUSSELL: (My eyes sparkle and blaze to yours as I lean in.) Soo...? Kiss me.

KIRSTEN: [I tilt my head to you and go up on my toes a little to meet your mouth. The heat immediately returns to my body as if turned on with a switch. With difficulty, I fight it down.]

RUSSELL: (I brush my mouth over yours, pulling little mouthfuls of kisses from your bee-stung lips.)  Mmmm.

RUSSELL: [I let the kiss fall away slowly with a sigh.]

KIRSTEN: (simply) I'll miss you.

RUSSELL: [I rest my forehead lightly on yours, rubbing noses.]

RUSSELL: See you soon.

KIRSTEN: (Eyes dancing) Very soon, I hope. 

RUSSELL: (A little nodding grin) Mm hmm.

RUSSELL: [I steal another little kiss, then push off the car and take a step back.]

RUSSELL: (My grin deepens) Go. Now. While you still can.

KIRSTEN: [I grin and get into the SUV, then roll down the window for one last kiss.] 

RUSSELL: [I come over and lean against the door, stretching a little to reach your lips.]

KIRSTEN: [I feel the promise in your lips and your kiss.]

RUSSELL: [I taste the sweetness of your want and am glad that we're waiting.]

RUSSELL: [My lips release yours slowly, stepping back with a little sigh.]

RUSSELL: Drive safe.

RUSSELL: [My eyes say a hundred other things.]

KIRSTEN: I will. 

KIRSTEN: [I reluctantly roll up the window. I shiver against the night air, turning colder now... or is it because I am no longer in your arms? The car roars to life.]

RUSSELL: [I toe the ground, watching the tip of my boot stir up the gravel and then look up, giving a little wave, grinning up at you from under my long lashes. Then my hands shove down deep into the pockets of my jeans, shoulders hunching up a little as I watch you head out.]

KIRSTEN: [I mouth "bye" as I leave]

RUSSELL:  [I grin and mouth "see you soon."]

RUSSELL: [As soon as you hit the gas, I'm already walking up the stairs headed inside, looking for some kind of relief, thinking that another drink, a few smokes and half an hour spent in the grand old manly tradition of shouting at sports-players on a screen might just do it.]

RUSSELL: [.... At least for now.]

 

To Part Three