SLEEPING WITH MY ENEMY

Sitting in the pew, Steven was pissed. Forget the fact he had been up till 12:00 last night crunching numbers for a disrespectful client, he was now sitting in a church attending his Aunt's wedding. If it weren't for the fact his mother had dragged him here, he would still be in bed. She knew full well that he had made a vow to stay away from churches till the end of his days. Hell...he really didn't even like his Aunt Vera. He hadn't been a fan of hers since he was little. She smelled funny, was ALWAYS at church, and...gave birth to his greatest nemesis...Azia.

Steven and Azia had NEVER gotten along. Even as children, they hated each other. She was always the biggest pain in his ass. Whenever he played by himself, she interrupted his fun. When he got a new toy, she found a way to try and destroy it. Her most grievous offense came at a church softball game. Playing in Centerfield, Steven had an unobstructed view of Sharice Green's beautiful ass standing at 2nd base. It was full, round, firm and plump, stuffed into a pair of tight, spandex "biker shorts." So beautiful it belonged on the back of a Nubian Goddess. Being so mesmerized by the sight, Steven didn't hear the crack of the ball fly high into the air; before it came crashing down on his head. This should have been enough embarrassment for anyone. But Azia couldn't resist pointing out his fully erect penis, pitching a tent in his loose basketball shorts. Steven was beaten to within an inch of his life for jumping up and punching Azia dead in the eye.

Another reason Steven hated the church (aside from the disaster that was his own failed marriage), was the ridiculous concept of CPT (Colored People's Time). When it came to celebrations, black people in churches often went WAY too far. This time was no exception. Once the procession started down the aisle, the games began. The flower girl just couldn't throw the petals onto the rug and make a path for the grown-ups. The little girl spun and twirled like a wooden legged ballerina. Depositing most of the petals everywhere EXCEPT the floor. The little boy who was the ring bearer, damn near broke out into a "mashed potato" just walking down the aisle. The groomsmen and bridesmaids all jigged to the beat. Looking like a procession of clowns, all except one. Dressed immaculately, her hair pressed in the back and front, curled at the ends. Her skin, a radiant shade of mocha, her frame a statuesque 5', 6" wrapped in a matching scarlet dress with gold accents, standing atop a pair of mid high pumps, walked Azia. She looked lovely. She looked regal...she looked pissed. Reverend Felkirk didn't let Steven down. The nuptials took so long, because he turned them almost into a sermon. By the end of the speech, Steven's ribs were sore. His mother repeatedly jabbed his ribs to wake him up. Although she knew full well he had been up late the night before working. But dragging him to a wedding at a church was more important for her social image. Finally, the ceremony ended, with the Reverend telling the well wishers to gather at the Piedmont Inn & Suites for the reception. Another sharp elbow to Steven's ribs caught him off guard: "You know I need a ride to that, right?" His mother said.

"What a fucking surprise." Steven said.

Like most black weddings, the reception saw more people show up, than were at the church. Steven's mood wasn't just foul...it was downright murderous. The DJ was spinning all the oldies (going back to the early 60's for God's sake). But at least the food was on point. The Piedmont had laid a wonderful spread: Fried chicken, greens, cornbread, green beans, corn, Fried fish, Salisbury steak, mashed potatoes, and smothered Rice. But due to the good thinking of someone, they catered from "Pops" BBQ, who showed up with enough succulent ribs and biscuits, everyone there was in danger of juicy, cholesterol induced diabetes! The only let down was the "wet" bar. The Bride and groom only authorized their guests to drink red or white wine, wine coolers, and champagne, that was reserved for the toast to the new couple.

After the food had been served and most of the people had eaten their fill, the DJ started to ramp things up a bit. It was then that Wanda (Steven's mom) spoke up.

"Sweetie, why you so upset? It's just a wedding. You should be happy your Aunt is getting hitched. That means there's still hope for you yet. Take a look around at all the lovely young ladies in here."

"Mom; I am exhausted. You knew I damn well didn't want to come here. Much less for Aunt Vera. Furthermore, I suggest you get your prescription updated. Most of the women in here are already sitting with other men or are big enough to need a State license plate screwed to their butt! No thanks!"

"Baby...you still stinging from that whole divorce thing? That was 5 years ago sweetie. You got to let that go. And stop harboring such a grudge against your Auntie. She and her child have been through a lot. Speaking of which, Azia is here. You should go talk to her...bury the hatchet."

"I'd rather bury a hatchet in her skull at a FOP meeting then talk to that nasty woman!"

"STEVEN ALLEN RHODES!! How dare you!! Boy, you just like yo' daddy...know how to hold a grudge! What happened between you guys was almost a decade ago!"

"A decade for you is fine! You didn't get your ass beat, nor were you embarrassed in front of everybody!"

"Yes...and you deserved it. But baby, you have been through a lot and so has she. Much more than you know. Believe it or not, you two are a lot more alike then you might think. I really need you to go make up with your cousin. Sometimes all you have in this world other than God...is family."

"Maybe she can pray herself more family then."

The slap to the lips wasn't hard. It wasn't meant to be. It was done to gain attention, and attention is exactly what it gained. Steven stood up so fast his chair almost clipped an attendant at the knees. Wanda stood her ground, standing to her full height. But it was no where close to his full 6',3", 230 lbs.: she forgot he was no longer a child. But staring up at his imposing figure reminded her quickly. Making her wonder if she might have gone too far.

"Look Ma: I love you. But don't you EVER do that again! Mother or not, I am a grown ass man and you WILL respect that! Clear?"

"Baby...I'm sorry. I just need you to grow up mentally as well as physically. You can't go through life holding grudges and carrying your pain on your sleeve. The first way of letting go is learning to forgive. If not for them, for yourself. You're too good looking a man and too sweet in your heart to forever be alone due to your hurt."

Pointing to a table in the back corner of the room, Azia sat by herself. Still looking like a caged viper.

"Talk to her Steven...for me. Please?"

Steven wilted down. "Fine. But shortly thereafter, I'm out."

Sauntering over to the wet bar, Steven ordered a wine cooler and a glass of red. With the DJ beginning to spin a few new and better songs, the throngs of guests began to move toward the dance floor. Navigating through this sea of humanity, Steven stood in front of Azia. Having come closer, he was pleasantly surprised at the growth of his cousin. She had grown into quite an attractive young woman.

"Uh hum." Steven said clearing his throat. "Hi Azia. It's nice to see you again."

Rolling her eyes, Azia responds; "Hi Steven."

"Uh...yeah. You look nice today. I really like the contrast of that red dress against your skin...ummm...How have you.."

"Look. I appreciate the compliments and everything. But can you get to your point? What do you want Steven?!"

Steven had had enough of women disrespecting him for one day. His irritation boiled over and he let his cousin have it.

"You know what? I don't need this aggravation! I came over here, brought you a drink and you talk to me like I have done something to you! I haven't seen you in forever and this is how you talk to me? You know what...fuck it. I came to bury the ax with you and really see how you're doing. But I see exactly how you're doing...you're the same irritating, self-absorbed, spiteful BITCH you were when we were kids. Bye!"

Turning to leave, Azia's voice stopped him.

"What did you say?" Steven said over the loud music.

"I said I'm sorry. I shouldn't have talked to you like that. I'm not having a good day. Please sit down."

Steven looked at his cousin with a side eye, until she used her foot to move the chair next to her so he could sit. Taking the seat, Steven pulled up next to his nemesis. Not sure exactly what to expect.

"Thanks for the drinks Steven. But I really am not in the mood for a drink right now, and I can't stand red wine. But I guess the first thing I should say is; Hi. And I'm so sorry."

Steven was stunned. He hadn't expected this turn around. He wasn't so sure about what was going on. "Ok...thanks. Now...who are you and what did you do with my cousin?"

Azia chuckled. This was a reaction she had met a few times before. But now she was sort of used to it. "Yeah, I know. It's shocking. But it's really me. I guess I can say that I have grown up a lot. I know I put you through a lot when we were little, but I didn't know any better and had no idea how it affected you. So, I'm sorry."

Steven looked at his cousin's face for any sign of deception. He was waiting for a "gotcha," or "sike," but none was available. She was telling the absolute truth.

"Oh fuck...not now."

"What?" Steven asked.

Just then a man in his late 20's, with a gut that threatened to pop his Jesus piece (and his pants button) clear across the room began to saunter over. Steven had no idea who he was, but something told him that Azia's attitude took a left turn because of him.

"Oh, isn't this a BLESSED day that God has made?! How are you today sistah Azia...you're looking fine as ever. And you sir?? How are we on this glorious day?"

"Hi Ronald..." Azia said with a tone of disdain in her voice.

"Hello Sir." Steven added.

"My, my, I sho' do love a good wedding; don't you Sistah Azia? A perfect union that God has put together. Might I ask who is this Azia?"

"This is my cousin Steven. High Deacon Ronald, this is Steven. Steven this is High Deacon Ronald. He's a member of the Usher board...among other things."

Steven shook the fat men's hand and felt like he needed a handkerchief after. His hand was moist and clammy to the touch.

"It sho' is nice to meet you Brotha' Steven. Maybe one day we can see each other again at the Church. You wouldn't happen to sing would you? We sho' could use more voices of men for the Lord. Azia, I haven't seen you around lately either. Have you been alright?"

"Just got a few things going on right now Ronald. Been busy with work and school...that's all."

"Oh sure. But we mustn't forget the Lord in our daily going forwards and coming to's. But since we're here...could I ask for this dance? I like this song."

"Oh...wow." Said Azia..."I would, but my feet hurt from standing at the alter so long. Can I get a raincheck? Oh wait...there goes Sistah' Porter walking over there. You know how much she loves to dance in the church."

Both Steven and Ronald's heads snapped in the direction that Azia pointed in. They were both taken aback by the absolutely gorgeous, statuesque, Nubian figure that seemed to glide through the room. Pam Porter was well known through the Church and had a body that just grabbed your attention. Especially her ass. No matter what dress she wore, her firm, round, plump ass had men stumbling over themselves to get next to her. Not to mention, her loose morals concerning sex, quiet as was kept.

"Oh...I'll see you all later." Ronald said. As quickly as his feet could carry him, Ronald followed after Sister Porter's voluptuous posterior.

"Fuck...I don't need this." Azia exclaimed under her breath.

"Cuz...what's wrong? We may not be the best of friends, but I can tell when someone is stressed to the breaking point. Care to talk about it?"

Azia held her head in her hand in exasperation, "Ronald has been chasing me all over since I came back home. My mother told him I had a few issues while I was gone, and so he has been after me ever since. Do you know that asshole tried to cop a feel while we were having prayer? Dude's a straight pervert and he's using his position in the church as the Pastor's nephew and heir apparent to get with as many women in the church as he can. I'm not being used by him or any other man. Those days are over."

Steven didn't miss that last part. What exactly had she gotten into? What had happened to her? Just as he was about to ask, the music changed tone. The DJ slowed the music down and announced the happy new couple would take their first dance together, inviting all the well-wishers to praise the occasion.

"I can't...I just...can't."

Steven looked back at his cousin. Her skin was becoming flush and her hands were beginning to tremble as she swiped at her bangs.

"Azia...you are obviously not ok. Is there anything I can do to help you?"

Steven's cousin looked at him through reddening eyes. Then, he saw a light bulb go off.

"Do you have a car...do you still have that Beemer you used to own?"

"Yeah...I drove it here as a matter of fact. Why?"

"If you really want to help me...meet me out front in 10 minutes."

"What's going on...?"

"You offered to help me and I'm calling you on it. Are you willing to help me or are you as fake as all the rest of the people in here?"

"10 minutes...don't be late." Steven replied.

Azia rubbed his hand and mouthed "Thank You," before she got up from the table and left. Steven looked at his watch absentmindedly. He was trying to think of an excuse to tell his mother who rode with him, so he could bolt. Coming up with one on the fly, he raised up and walked briskly back to his seat.

"Hey Mom...I just got a text from work. They are having trouble with an account and I gotta get over there to help sort it out. Can you find a ride home?"

"Sure baby...Sister Phillips is here, and she only lives a few streets over from us. I'll grab a ride home with her." Kissing his cheek, his mother concluded with; "I'll get you a plate and take it home for later. You be careful and thank you for celebrating your Aunt's wedding. I know you're tired and didn't want to come. Also...I saw you and Azia getting along better. I'm so proud of you. Be careful getting out there..ok?"

"Yeah Ma."

With that, Steven turned and left out of the ball room. By the time he got past the door and down the hall, he was in a sprint. If there was one thing Steven believed in among other things...it was to NEVER be on CPT. Exiting the hotel lobby, Steven looked across the lot and saw his baby. It was the one thing he bought for himself during his tumultuous marriage.

Climbing behind the wheel, he started the engine and gave it a quick rev. Looking at his watch, he saw that he had 3 minutes left to meet Azia at the front door. Smoothly, he guided the twelve-year-old machine to the entrance, still sounding as new as the day he bought it. Taking another look at his watch, Steven only hoped that Azia held the same ideology for timeliness that he did. Just as one of the valet attendants prepared to ask him if he needed the car parked, all hell was breaking loose behind him. Azia was racing through the entrance, shoes in had as fast as her bride's maid dress would allow. Jumping in the passenger seat, she shouted at Steven: "GO! GO! GO! Get us the fuck out of here!!"

Stomping on the gas, the car shot forward just as a small throng of breathless men ran out the entrance of the hotel. Turning right, Steven skidded out of the hotel parking lot and careened toward the interstate. Hopping on the interstate going East, it was only then that Steven tried to address his cousin. Beside him, Azia was too busy doubling over laughing and screaming "YES! YES! YES!"

"Cuz...what the FUCK did you do?!" Steven asked, swerving past a slow-moving semi.

"OH GOD THAT FELT GOOD!! I have waited so LONG to do something like that!!" she screamed.

"Azia..."

"HUH?"

"WHAT THE FUCK DID YOU JUST GET ME INTO?!!"

"Oh...I knew the next part after the First Dance, was the "Toast." I waited for that occasion to slap my Momma and dump a whole glass of champagne on her new husband."

"YOU DID WHAT?!!" Steven exclaimed. "You do realize you just made me an accomplice to an assault; RIGHT?!!"

"Oh relax." Said Azia. "With everything I know...they won't be saying anything to anybody. They have no choice but to make up some story to cover this up." Azia leaned the seat back to kick her feet up on Steven's dashboard, in a show of satisfaction of her actions. In doing so, her dress rode up. Showing Steven, a nice unhindered look at her shapely, toned legs, up to the top of her black, nylon stockings. Seeing her error, Azia quickly replaced her feet in the seat well and smoothed out her dress.

"Either way...you have nothing to worry about. I just need to change clothes and...SHIT!! DAMMIT!! SHIT!"

Balling up her fist, Azia slammed it against the dashboard. "Hey...this is my car!! You want to chill out. What's wrong with you?!" Steven said.

"I'm sorry Steven. I just got carried away with myself. I was so concerned with what I had

planned, I didn't think ahead. I stayed at my friend Joy's house last night. My clothes are at her house and she said she was going out with her fiancée after the wedding. They're going out of town. I certainly can't go back to the wedding, and the key she gave me to her place is with my keys in my purse."

"Let me guess..."

"In her car."

Steven pulled off the highway, stopping at the nearest gas station. He pinched the middle of his nose and ran his hand over his head to alleviate the pain from the headache that was coming on his cousin had brought out. He should have known she would bring him nothing but trouble. But as his Momma said: "Sometimes all you have in this world...is family."

"I'm sorry Steven, you can drop me off on my campus and as soon as I can, I'll get your money back to you."

"Campus? What Campus?"

"Oh...I didn't tell you? I attended UNC Moreland for 2 semesters. But...something happened. So, I came back home to this mess."

"Moreland!!? That's 2 ½ hours away! That's almost Oregon territory! You expect me to drop you off almost in OREGON?!! Not a CHANCE!!"

"Well...I have no place to stay and no other clothes. Unless we can go to your crib. Speaking of which...I didn't see your wife today...didn't you get married a few years back?"

Steven's jaw tightened. He hated hearing that topic brought up. Ever. It still stung after all this time. But, he was a different man than before. At least...he thought he was. Looking at his cousin, he saw himself a few years ago. A person caught in a maelstrom of events not necessarily of her own choice. Besides, after her antics at the wedding, his house that he shared with his mother would be the logical choice for them to show up at, not an option. Putting the car back in drive, Steven got back on the road, his voice stern yet assuring.

"Ok cuz...I got you. On one condition."

"What's that?"

"You tell me EVERYTHING!! Leave nothing out. If I'm putting my ass on the line, I want to know why. Agreed?"

"Sure." Azia replied. "I guess I owe you that much."

Back on the highway, Steven drove back West where they came from. This time however, he took exit 112 South. 20 minutes later, they pulled into the parking lot of Loudes County Mall, walking in through the department store Nordsleaf.

"Ooh cuz...you have style, and a little bit of cheddar."

"I wish I did. This is just where we coming in at. The store we're going to is a little further inside."

The cousins walked through Nordsleaf into the mall proper. Halfway in the middle, was their destination. Franklin's was a low end, Hip Hop outlet that catered to young millennials that wanted to look like they were Ballin' on a Budget. Most of their stock consisted of clothing that was being phased out, but was still slightly relevant in the community. Loose fitting pants (for sagging), over sized t-shirts, boots and off brand shoes that had at one time or another shown up on some Hip Hop artists feet or in a video."Hmmmm..." said Azia. "Nice place. What are we doing here?"

"You said you needed an outfit, to get out of that dress. Go ahead cuz...I got you." Replied Steven. "Just do me a favor, don't break my bank and don't take all day."

"Oh boy...it really has been a long time. You don't know me at all." His Cousin replied.

Azia looked through the wares with a discerning eye. In less time than it takes to make a pizza, she came away with an entire outfit from "Baby Bottom," a company franchised by the singer Candy Sikes. Jeans, a T-Shirt, a zip up hoodie, ankle length socks, and a pair of white and pink shoes. When she took the collection of clothes to the cash register, the cashier rang up her purchases which came to a minimal $110 bucks. "You know, if your purchase comes up to $150 or more, you get a 25% discount along with the normal 10%."

Azia's eyes lit up. "Hold on just a second." She said with a smile.

She zoomed around the store like a whirling dervish, she collected another outfit, this time from the males section. An oversized hoodie, pants, a belt, socks and a nice pair of boots, all made from the company "BrookLand," franchised by Candy's current fiancée Louis Rex.

"Here you go cuz."

"But...I really don't..."

"Steven listen...you look really nice in your suit and everything. But if you're going to hang out with me...I need you to lighten up a bit."

Steven just gave a half smile and paid for the clothing. Surprisingly, the final price didn't go over $200. Gathering their respective outfits, Azia and Steven changed in the dressing rooms. Steven was curious what his cousin would look like when she appeared. Once she did, his mouth dropped. Decked out in her street chic, Azia looked delicious. Especially the shoes, which dropped her down to her normal height of 5',6". The T-shirt fit snuggly, accentuating her round C-cup breasts. But when she spun around, he caught sight of her lovely, round behind. While it might not get her into a video shoot, it was definitely a sight that would appear in most black men's dreams.

"What do you think?" she asked comically.

"Uhhhhh...wow. You look...totally different."

"Is that a bad thing"

"Oh no...not at all." Steven said trying to play off his amazement. "I guess I should say you look very nice."

"Thanks." She smiled. " You look rather dashing yourself."

"Cool. Let's get out of here."

Taking the lead, Steven beat a quick pace back to his car. If only he would slow down a bit, thought Azia. He might see that his cousin was checking him out as well. Admiring his broad shoulders, the way his new jeans moved with his every step. Shaking her head, Azia had to take a step back. She wasn't sure why...but Steven looked...hot.

"Well...what now?" Steven asked once they got back in the car.

"Honestly?" Azia asked looking at her old nemesis. "I could REALLY use a drink. I talk better with one."

"I know just the place."

Hitting the highway again, Steven guided the vehicle to the "rougher" side of Loudes. Many of the buildings were old and worn down. Empty lots and boarded up businesses dotted the landscape, as they passed. The majority of businesses that thrived here were liquor stores, check cashing shops, and beauty supply stores.

Azia shivered a bit. She had heard of these kinds of places. But had never in her life been out here.

"Damn Steven, you trying to get us mugged or something?"

"Ha, Ha...relax. This place might be on the news almost every night. But contrary to what the media says, this place is fairly quiet. I come out here all the time when I need to get away. I think you'll like this place. Just chill."

Pulling into a lot that stood by itself, the building looked like it had been there forever. The red bricks faded and chipped all over. Graffiti, having taken up the majority of the outside space. The lot itself was sparsely taken up by cars of a long gone era. As they walked up, the heavy door to the place was accentuated by a large, blacked out window that advertised Cali Sunshine beer. The old painted letters above the doors had faded ages ago, but they were still slightly legible. "The Tipsy Pelican."

The inside of the Pelican was akin to taking a trip back through time. It was adorned with neon signs advertising even more alcoholic beverages. The walls showing pictures of black women in swim suits, sitting at a table with their men, boxing posters and mirrors.

The establishment was sparsely populated. Maybe a grand total of about 7-9 people. Spaced out in booths or watching a ball game at the bar. Conversations were masked by a jukebox situated at the end of a parquet dance floor that was completely empty. Steven led his cousin to a booth nestled in the corner of the bar. The pleather seating had seen better days. Cracked and torn in several places. Yet, the cushioning was soft and comfortable. The lighting around the establishment was minimal. Casting an almost intimate glow to the atmosphere.

"Wow...nice place. How in the world did you find it in the middle of this war zone?"

"It's NOT a war zone. It is just a staple of this community. There isn't a lot of money here. But I found it because the owner Reggie came to my old job looking to get his accounting books straight. This is my hideaway when I get stressed out and just need a break from the world for a while."

"I hope I didn't stress you to drinking. Remember, we were so..."

Before she could finish her statement, a large bodied woman walked over. Her salt and pepper hair brushed back into a pony tail. Her apron wrapped around her slightly bulging stomach. But her demeanor was soft and kindly, even if it was packaged in a slightly louder tone.

"Steven? Hey baby I thought that was you! How you doin' honey?"

"Hey Dawn. It's nice to see you too. It's been a minute."

"Um hum...how you been baby? I hope you are better than the last time I saw you."

"I'm doing a little better Ma'am. Just another "ghetto child" trying to make it. How's Reggie?"

"Oh, he's limpin' around these days. You know he got "The Sugar," and he don't like takin all them pills the doctor gives him. Hard headed as ever. He had to leave early to go lay down. You know I almost had to hit him up side his head with "Ole' Bertha" to get his ass to go home. But he good. I know he gone be upset he missed you. But I'll tell him you came by and asked 'bout him. And where are your manners? Who is this doll you done brought up in here? She's a lot better looking than that other thing you used to come in here cryin' about." Dawn looked directly at Azia and held out her hand. "Hey baby...I'm Dawn. You goin' to take care of my little side boyfriend?" she asked comically.

"Hi. I'm Azia." She replied. "I don't know...this is our first date. I'm tryin' to get to know him better."

Steven chuckled. "Dawn...this is my..."

Azia kicked Steven's leg to get his attention. "Don't pay him no mind. He's been chasing me around since we were in grade school. I finally decided to give him a chance and see what he's working with. You know how it is."

"Girl you better take care of "boo." Other wise I'll have to come after you." Dawn replied. "I done fixed him and put him back together once already. I ain't in the habit of doing things over again. Anyway...what y'all having?"

"I guess I'll have my usual..." Steven said.

"What's that?" Azia asked

"Oh...he wants a Mud Slide."

"Oh no...we have to do better than that. Do you have Cali Sunshine?"

"Yeah...bottles and on tap."

"How about Sunny Dew vodka?"

"Of course...it's made only about 100 miles from here."

"Good. We'll have a pitcher of Cali and 2 shots of Sunny, and please bring a couple beer steins."

"Coming up."

Dawn walked away to fetch the order. When Steven looked at his cousin, she looked absolutely spent. Whatever stress she was dealing with, was destroying her. Touching her hands, he found that she was shaking. On the verge of losing whatever composure she had. The façade was failing.

"Hey Azia...talk to me. This is too much. What is wrong with you?"

Azia was silent for a moment. She clutched his fingers. "Thanks Steven." She replied.

Moments later, Dawn came back with the drinks. After thanking her, Azia swiftly filled the frosty steins with the beer. When she was satisfied, she stopped Steven from drinking his. Taking the orange flavored vodka and dropped them in the beer. "Bottoms up." She said. In one fell swoop, she guzzled the glass empty and took a moment to compose herself after. Just as she was reaching to fill her glass again, Steven stopped her.

"Enough Azia. Talk to me. I won't sit here and pay for you to get fucked up without knowing why. As you said...I have earned the right to this knowledge."

"I...I...guess you hated me as a kid huh?" Azia began.

"You were definitely NOT my favorite person...no."

"Well...according to my therapist...I was projecting my hurt. It all started after my Dad died. His death took a toll on my mother. She was so nice and sweet when I was growing up. But after he passed, she just couldn't take it. She became distant, erratic, and OVERLY religious. I mean...we went to church like everyone else. But after he died...we were there ALL THE TIME!! And since she went, I had to go too. It was all we knew. If I wasn't at school, I was at church. If not church, I was at school. All I knew was church and school, she made it so I was a robot. Studying and spouting nothing but the Bible without having any context or differing opinions. All my friends I had outside church, I had to eventually get rid of; if they didn't run away before. Then she found out a bomb shell. My Dad had a short-lived affair with another woman at his job. It was at a bad time in their marriage. So then she began to do nothing but bash men. Guess what; she spoiled my mind with the same stuff about boys. How bad they were, how they smelled funny. How they weren't faithful or strong. How they only wanted ONE THING. That anyone that wasn't interested in God, they were essentially evil."

Steven was stunned. He had no idea these were the things Azia had to deal with. He just saw the things that were on the surface. Just how she treated him. Picking up the pitcher, Steven filled her glass again. Azia lifted the stein to her lips. A droplet spilled. He watched it almost in slow motion, run a trail from her luscious lips down the front of her neck, to disappear under her shirt. Steven immediately felt a tingle in his pants.

"Then I began to hang out with you. All the things she filled my head with about boys, you exemplified. I didn't know how to take you. That you were different for a reason. That you weren't my father. You weren't responsible for the hurt she felt, by the hurt I felt. You were just there. Everything I was supposed to hate. But didn't really know why. I felt this way all the way through High School. I didn't give boys a chance to hurt me or please me. I didn't know they could make me feel good. Not sexually...but by just being themselves. Then I went to USC Moreland. I joined this Christian group. We sang together, studied together, hung out together. Always together...but that's when things started going wrong."

Azia went silent. Her gaze glossed over, yet her eyes became wet. Here was her Rubicon. Her wall that sheltered her. The area of her countenance that was bare and painful. So...he waited.

"My friends started to change. We still held Bible study, but some of the guys and even the girls started to bring a little alcohol. At first...I was appalled. How many times had we studied the Bible saying we should live sober lives? How many times had we heard that men and women shouldn't drink together? Weren't we doing the same things everyone else was? I had to leave. A couple days later, I was still in shock. I didn't know what to do. That's when I went to see one of my closest girlfriends Mya. She acted differently when she was with us. I THOUGHT she was different. She was. She seduced me. My first sexual activity came with her, when I was at my lowest. But she accepted me. Acted as if I was the most important thing in the world. So, we started hanging out more. Then she betrayed me. She wanted to bring another girl in with us one night. I was so hurt and confused. That's when I met Curtis. Curtis came to SOME of the groups. I remembered talking bad to Curtis many times even when all he wanted to do was be nice to me. But he talked to me. Comforted me. Prayed with me. He even called Mya out in front of EVERYBODY! I had never felt like I did with Curtis. He gave me feelings I had never had the opportunity to feel before. Steven...I fell in love! I called my Mom to tell her about Curtis. Do you know what she said to me?!!"

Steven held his head in his hands. He already knew. But he braced himself for the inevitable.

"That he was EVIL!! No different than my daddy or any other man! She got angry at me for going off to college and becoming a slut! For falling for the traps of the devil, yadda, yadda, yadda."

Steven was at a loss for words. There was no further doubt in his mind that his family was highly dysfunctional. Both his mother and her sister lacked the character to really help their children in the face of adversity.

Picking up the pitcher, Azia filled her glass half way with beer, and then flushed it all down in one gulp.

"Then he proved her right." She said.

Steven's eyes darted back to his cousin's face. He was at rapped attention to see where this would go.

"I loved him Steven. I loved everything about him. I loved his smell, his intelligence, his face, his charm. I would've done anything for him. You have to understand...he was my first; and only...for a while. He needed my help for homework, I stayed up late doing his notes. He needed clean clothes so he could have a couple dollars to hang with his boys, I did all his laundry and THEN gave him cash. He would sneak into my dorm to get some head...I would wake up and give it to him. Even if his dick smelled weird. Then..." her eyes filling with tears. "He invited me over to his frat house for a party. I met all his brothers. We drank and had a good time. All of a sudden, they decided to have a wet t-shirt contest. A lot of the girls there stripped down to their panties and put on t-shirts. I didn't want to do it...it felt dirty to me. Wrong. I cried when he asked me to do it. But he got angry. He wanted to show me off to all his friends. So, he-he-he gave me a pill. I trusted him. I did the contest. I began to feel weird, but good. I didn't care anymore. I wasn't self-conscious anymore. I danced, spun around...I can't even remember if I won the contest or not. I just know I blacked out. When I woke up...or came to...whatever...I had his dick in my mouth. But someone was in me. I was forced to have sex with someone I didn't even know. I had just recently lost my virginity, and I was knee deep in a gangbang without my consent."

"For the rest of the semester, I was damn near suicidal. My grades fell off, I stopped going to classes. I didn't answer anyone's phone calls. I stayed in my room, I lost weight because I wasn't eating. It took my roommate going to one of my professors to get me help. She came to my room with the school Psychologist and school Therapist just to get me out. They put me in a psych ward for 2 months. During which time I had to talk to the police about the incident. Almost everyday I had to recount and relive what I had gone through. Curtis, the man I still had feelings for was arrested, along with several of his friends. Many of whom were popular, influential members of the student body. I had to give a deposition in closed court. At this point, I'm not even sure what has become of the case."

Azia poured the last of the beer into her glass and gulped it down. With her other hand, she got Dawn's attention for a refill.

"My God Azia...I really didn't know." Steven said. His voice filled with concern.

"Steven...you've only heard the half of it." Azia continued. Tears misting the corners of her eyes. "Because of all the folks I had to dime out, most of my professors understood and were willing to let me try and make all my work back up. The staff were even willing to scratch the entire semester and start all over again. But the girls on campus, especially those whose boyfriends got caught up in the drag net, couldn't stand me. They circulated my name all over campus as "that ho," "that freak," "that lying bitch," etc. I couldn't go anywhere on campus. I eventually had to stop going to classes again. None of the girls wanted to partner with me, even when the professors threatened to give them failing grades. They all thought I brought the whole situation on myself, or I wanted it and then changed my mind. I wanted to become a gold digger, and let's not forget my former classmates in the Christian group. They went in even harder. They called me a Jezebel, a sinner even God might have issue with forgiving. They even overlooked Mya's OBVIOUS lesbianism just to attack me for what Curtis said about them in public, even if their actions proved him to be true."

Dawn arrived at that moment with a new pitcher of beer. "How y'all doing over here...girl you ok? Steven what have you done to this poor..."

"Nothing Dawn! She has just been telling me about..."

"My ex!" Azia interrupted. "He's such an asshole. All the stuff he put me through. Steven is being a true gentleman listening to all my woes."

"Baby...you got a good one now. If I weren't married...ooooh...the things I'd do for this one right here!" Dawn replied, moving her hips as sexy as she could. "Y'all gone and continue. I'll stop back by in a few." With that, Dawn sauntered back to the bar in order to service the rest of the customers.

"Thanks." Steven said.

Azia looked at Steven in his eyes. For the first time ever, she looked at her cousin differently. She saw how handsome he had grown to be. His goatee was meticulously done, his eyes were so clear and dare she even admit...beautiful. A deep shade of brown that reminded her of the time just after dusk. When the last light of the sun cast shadows everywhere. Calm, peaceful, serene, caring. Azia had to shake her head. What was she thinking? This is Steven...her cousin. A man she had treated so badly. She had been sharing all her terrible secrets. He must certainly think she is a ho. But...he's been so supportive up to this point. Could she continue?

"Don't mention it...I just didn't want her to think you were being disrespectful. I have destroyed enough people's lives..."

"Stop that." Steven corrected. "You haven't done anything wrong. All that's happened to you isn't your fault. If people got hurt by you, it's because they deserve it." Steven then took a huge gulp of his own lukewarm glass. He then refilled the glass again. Raising the new batch to his lips, he began to gulp it all down in one pull.

"Steven...what are you..." He held up a finger to stop her. When he finished, he wiped the excess from his lips on his bare arm. "I wanted to catch up. No sense in you drinking alone." He laughed.

Azia smiled. Picking up the pitcher, she refilled both glasses again then picked it up, so they could toast one another. Taking quick sips of the beverage, Steven asked: "So, why did you attack your mother and step dad then?"

Azia's eyes grew dark again.

"When I couldn't take anymore abuse at school, I asked to come back home. When I did get home, you can imagine the look on my mother's face. I had to explain why I wanted to come back home. Why I couldn't stay in school. Why my grades had dropped off so much. When I told her, she flipped! She made it out to be all my fault. She refused to believe me when I told her that a bunch of Christians did me like that. But more than anything...she blamed me for not listening to her about Curtis. She told me I should have just listened to her from the get-go. That I was a wicked little girl that just set out to make her hurt. That's when Deacon Moore showed up. He was constantly coming over to the house. Constantly wanting to come over and hold prayer vigils over me. But more importantly, he wanted to get closer to my momma."

"Before I knew it, he started to come over almost every night for dinner. He started going home later and later. They began to hold "prayer sessions" in her room, with the door closed. Then one morning, I woke up and went to the kitchen to get something to drink, I turn the corner and there he is; standing in his boxers with morning wood. I could smell my momma's cooch all over him. The bastard didn't even have the decency to take a shower first. Instead of him excusing himself, he just stood there; like he lived there, almost daring me to say something. All he could do was pass closely by me and say; "Good morning." The ultimate insult though came when I almost had a nervous breakdown. He was the only one home with me. He came into my room and asked me what was wrong. I couldn't really tell him other than I had run out of my psych meds. He offered to pray with me. He told me to get on my knees, so we could pray. Before too long, he stood up and placed his hands on my shoulders, like he was trying to bless me. But when I opened my eyes, he had positioned himself, so I was staring right at his crotch. The mutha'fucka had a hard ass dick pointed at me while he was praying, steadily trying to pull me closer. I punched his ass right in the nuts as hard as I could and ran out of there. I just couldn't stay there any longer. I walked around the city for hours."

" I finally came back home about 10:00 that night when I knew my momma was home. I tried to tell her what he did, but she slapped ME INSTEAD! Saying I was trying to bring my whorish ways into her house. Trying to take her man from her by being a harlot. That I embarrassed her as a daughter by wanting to fuck my soon to be step father! The bastard left the house and bought her a wedding ring to cover his tracks when I got home to tell her. So, she made us talk it out in the living room and he came up with a bullshit plan. He would pay for me to get back into college, IF I played nice and was one of her bridesmaids. I could get a huge payment if I kept my mouth shut, acted nice to him, listened to my mother and let the marriage go through without a hitch. I kept up my silence as long as I could. I just couldn't hold it in anymore."

Angry tears began to flow down Azia's cheeks. Her knuckles blanching against the glass in her hand, almost to the point of breaking. Steven grabbed her other hand, in a show of comfort. Azia looked at their hands intertwined. Her anger and hatred lessening in the face of comfort.

"Cuz..would it be ok if I gave you a hug?" Steven asked.

"I would kill for one."

Steven changed positions in the booth. Wrapping his arm around his cousin, he held her tightly to his chest. Azia slumped against his body. Her mind surprised her. It concentrated on her cousin in ways she never thought it would. His body was warm, hard, surprisingly muscular. His scent was musky, manly, filling her nostrils with the most wonderful smell. He felt so familiar...open, kind.

"So, I've filled you in on all my dirt...what's holding you back?"

"A cold heart." Steven replied, as the music changed on the jukebox.

"Dannielle was my heart throughout High School. We started dating as Sophomores and continued all the way through college. I went for Accounting, she went for nursing. My grades were among the best in my class. She could barely draw blood without passing out. But she had potential. Potential I needed and wanted. She became my project...my love. I eventually graduated and she wanted to get me a present. It was a pregnancy test. It said I was an expectant father. I was over the moon. We had talked ad nauseum about having kids and being a married couple. Growing old and dreaming of grandchildren. So soon after I got a job at Walther, Spencer and Associates we got married. But as time moved forward, she didn't get any bigger. At least...not with child. She then told me some bull crap lie that she lost the baby. I was devastated. So, I put all my attention into work. I pulled in tons of small accounts that brought the company millions. This gained me the attention of my boss, who had me train his son. His name was Lee, your typical, privileged, white guy. I made the mistake of bringing Dannielle to our Christmas party and introducing the two of them. At first I thought it was no big deal. But he began to want to hang out all the time. But, the more we hung out, the more his dad started giving me harder assignments that took up time. Initially I was ecstatic. More responsibility, more autonomy, and of course; more money. I got 3 raises in the span of 8 months. I was making really good money. But I wasn't able to spend as much time with her."

"She began to get all in her feelings, even though I was the one who was paying all her bills and keeping her in Nursing school. Amazingly, it was during this time that I noticed her grades turned around. She became so much better at doing her studies and passing her tests. I was happy for her accomplishments, but we argued all the time. This brought on a ton of stress for me. I began to lose weight, not sleep, and I wasn't able to relax. I even fell asleep behind the wheel of my car at least 4 times. Fortunately, I never wrecked or got caught by the cops."

"Finally, I went to work and got stressed the hell out. My coworkers told me I blacked out and hit my head. I had the worst headache in the world, plus a gash on my head. My boss sent me home and told me not to come back for a week. When I got back to the house I shared with Dannielle, I saw Lee's car in the driveway. I ran in the house and saw him fucking my wife on the sofa I bought!! I cracked Lee in the jaw as hard as I could. But instead of apologizing to me or trying in any way to argue against what she had been doing, Dannielle started talking mad stuff! Telling me they had been fucking since after the Christmas party. Two, three, sometimes four times a week! Especially after Lee made sure the work I got would keep me at work till late. Also, that she had never been pregnant. She took her sister's test and showed it to me, but that she was now pregnant and there was no way in the world it was mine! I blacked out again. I don't remember anything."

"All I know is I woke up in the back of a squad car handcuffed. They said I beat the shit out of Lee and Dannielle. They of course pressed charges against me. I lost my job while I was in jail. Dannielle filed for divorce after she emptied our account, as well as filing for a restraining order that kept me out of my own house. Furthermore, she burned all my clothes, equipment, but most important of all...my paperwork. Everything that proved who I was. My accounting degree, accounting license, and all of my paperwork regarding my stocks, bonds and mutual funds. She in essence, left me destitute. My mother had to put her home up as collateral on my bail. I had to take a serious pay cut just to work in my field. I barely hung onto my license. Then I had to take anger management classes I HAD TO PAY FOR!! Plus, Dannielle got the house and the new car I bought her in the marriage. She's still trying to run me through the courts for more money. Dragging my name through the mud."

This time Steven pulled a long gulp from his glass.

"But there is one Silver lining to this story."

"What's that?"

"Lee's father almost disowned him when he found out that his "darling son" was about to taint the gene pool with "one of them..." So, he dumped Dannielle like a bad habit. You know that she tried to put me on those child support papers. But the judge had the good sense to stop that one right in its tracks."

Azia picked up her glass and toasted her cousin. "Here's to Silver linings." After taking a couple sips, she asked;

"OK...so there's that ONE female. But , I KNOW you have women lined up around the block."

"Nope. I keep to myself. Trying to pay moms back on the house, pay off my lawyers fees, and get my reputation back take up all my time. Plus, most of the women I run into want either a "high powered" sugar daddy; because he can get them all the nice, expensive trinkets she wants or the local "hoodlum," because he's "exciting." Either way...I don't fill either of those roles. I'm just an average guy, living an average life."

"Cuz...you talk about me...I knew at least 20 girls at my college that would kill to get close to a guy like you. You're smart, accomplished, ambitious, have a good head on your shoulders, I mean you're about something. It helps that you're not bad lookin..."

Azia cut herself off. It must have been the alcohol. She almost let it slip. Or were those her REAL feelings? Quickly, she changed the subject.

"Hey...you have any coins?"

"No...why?"

"Give me a couple dollars."

Reaching into his pocket, Steven pulled a $5 off the roll and handed it to his cousins small hand. For a split second their skin touched. A bolt of electricity shot through their beings. The cousins jumped at the contact...but just stared at each other and smiled. Getting up, she walked over to the bar and had Dawn change the bill into coins. Next she walked over to the jukebox at the edge of the dance floor.

Steven was perplexed. Here was the woman that vexed his very existence for years. But now she had grown so much. Been through so much. He knew he shouldn't, but as Azia walked, he couldn't help but check out her frame. The way she walked so sexy even without trying. The way her hips flared out just right. The fabric of her jeans hugging her curves like a second skin. Her small waist. Not to mention the "onion" that punctuated the whole thing.

Steven sank his hands into the palms of his hands. What was he thinking?!! This was his COUSIN!! Not only was she a woman that had been through a lot of stuff with men. She probably was thinking of never having sex AGAIN! Plus...and more importantly...she's related to him...BY BLOOD!! Ain't no way in HELL she would even CONSIDER doing that!!

The next thing he knew, the music changed and Azia had returned, grabbing his arm to pull him to the makeshift dancefloor. "Come on! Don't be a stick in the mud...dance with me! I missed the one at the wedding."

Steven knew he wasn't a good dancer...it was one of those things he just never put a lot of time into. But he did find the beat. Thinking back to all the moves he saw in those rap videos. Shifting his feet left and right. Stiff as a board and cornier than a field in Iowa. Azia could do nothing but crack a smile the harder he tried. But she played along anyway, turning her back to him and backing her ass into his mid-section over and over again. To his credit, he found a rhythm that matched her own, grinding and bumping into her. A faux act of sexual copulation, in the midst of so many strangers. Right before the last of Azia's songs ended, Dawn sauntered over to the jukebox and payed the tab for another selection.

"Ok...you two young ones showed me you could dance like a pair of blind rottweilers on acid...can you show me how you dance as lovers?"

The strings of an oldie began to play. Long, mournful, and known to the entirety of the older sets of black folks sitting in the bar. Many of the patrons that had been nursing a drink or paying attention to the game on the TV, stopped in their collective tracks, as Tommy Barnett and the Tommy Guns began to sing their one and only hit, "This Love I Found." The cousins looked at each other, tentative and unsure. But Steven held out his hand in a hope against hope that Azia would take it. To his amazement, her touch was feather light. The skin of her hands, soft, supple and malliable. Taking her in his arms, her body fit neatly into his own. A perfect match. Slowly they began to dance. The simple, sensual, two step of lovers. She followed his lead, as if they had done this a million times.

Steven's nose was placed in the perfect position to inhale Azia's sweet mixture. The scent of her perfume and her own natural sweat coalescing into an aphrodisiac that sent Steven's attention starved heart and soul onto a course for the stratosphere. The result was obvious as he began to grow between his legs.

"Shit...I'm sorry..."

Azia placed her fingers to his lips to end his protest. Re-encircling her arms around his waist.

"Not now...I'm enjoying this too much."

Azia was indeed enjoying the dance. The closeness, the heat, the feel of a man's body next to her skin. It was a feeling that had been corrupted, taken advantage of, and misused. But in that moment, she felt something she hadn't in ages. Appreciated, safe, adored. Taking a chance, she broke the pregnant silence between them.

"Cuz..can I ask you something?"

"Anything."

"Do you think I'm pretty?"

Steven's heart skipped a beat. How did she know what he was thinking? How could he answer that kind of question without scaring her off? It was bad enough he had a hard on pressed against her (even though she wasn't running in terror at the obvious bulge in his pants).

"Seriously? What kind of question is that?"

"A serious one. I really want to know what you think."

"Honestly...you're beautiful. Any number of men should be beating a path to your door. "

"If I weren't your cousin...could you...would you..."

Azia's words stopped short. She couldn't bring herself to finish her thought. She needed a drink. Releasing Steven's waist, she marched back to their booth and was about to chug the rest of her drink. Steven placed his hand over the top before the glass could find her lips.

"Azia...what is it? Talk to me. We've done so well thus far. You've shown more courage tonight than I have ever seen. Don't shut me out now. Finish...please."

"I was going to ask a question that's too taboo to finish. I know we have a long, strange history. I just don't want to mess all that up. Hell...maybe I don't need another drink. I don't know..."

"Just tell me Azia...I'm not made of glass."

"I KNOW Steven...and that's what scares me. The fact that what I want to ask is one way, or I'll look stupid or desperate or..."

"Or like a lovely woman?" Steven finished. "That has been through a lot. That has trusted so many...only to be disappointed over and over again? I won't disappoint you...or at least I'll try."

Raising the glass, Azia took two small sips of the lukewarm alcohol, took a couple long breaths, and let her words come out slowly.

"I was going to ask...knowing my history, OUR history, if I weren't your cousin...could you fall for a girl like me? As the night has gone on, and I've spent more time with you...I am finding you more and more attractive. All the things in a guy that I like. Maybe it's the booze. Maybe it's 'cause I'm broken. Of all the sins I could commit, to find an attraction to my own cousin...that's just...wrong."

If the electrical currents from his brain hadn't continued, Steven's heart would have stopped right there. Steeling his nerve, he took Azia's hand in his own. Softly, methodically, he traced the lines in it, before bringing it up to his face. Letting her fingers trace the lines in his.

"Azia...we were kids. Doing what little kids do. Not knowing how to appreciate one another. Not knowing how to appreciate our differences. Looking for love and acceptance in a family that fights so hard to cover it up. Azia, I too have grown very attracted to you. I've been wishing all night that I weren't your cousin. That we were really on a date. That I could hold you close, like a woman I loved. Could touch you and feel you. Not just your body, but your heart too. I guess if there is a hell for wanting to sleep with your own blood, I'd be right next to you. But I don't think God works like that. Of all the sins that he forgives, I think that one is low on his list. Hell...he forgives everything else."

Azia blew a strand of hair out of her eyes. She was so relieved to hear that.

"I don't want to push Azia, but can I ask you something?"

"Sure." She said, rubbing the dark chocolate skin on the back of his hand.

"Can I kiss you? I know you've been through a lot..."

"No." She said short and to the point.

Steven looked dejected. Just when he thought everything was going well.

Leaning in closer to his ear, Azia added; "If you kiss me like I think you can...you'll make me hornier and wetter than I already am. I can't ruin the only pair of panties I have, till I can get my stuff."

With a smile, she playfully pushed Steven in the shoulder. "Come on...let me out of this booth. I got to go to the bathroom."

"Me too. Meet you back here?"

"Of course silly...you're my ride."

Steven got up and helped Azia to her feet. Holding out his arm, he led her to the hallway that held the his and hers bathrooms. Taking a moment, he drained his hardened tool, washed his hands and looked at himself in the mirror. "Steven ole boy...what are you doing?" he said to himself.

Steven opened the door and waited a couple minutes for Azia to appear. A whistle came from the main room, and sure enough, his cousin was already sitting in the booth. Steven just chuckled to himself, shaking his head. What a woman.

Azia held out her hand as her cousin slid in next to her. Once he sat, she scooted closer to the wall and pulled him along as well. Placing her hand on his face, she kissed his lips deeply, passionately. Her lips were like a drug. Making him feel like a junky, getting a hit for the first time in years.

When they parted, he said;

"But you said you didn't want to ruin your panties."

Taking his hand in hers, she slid his fingers into the front of her undone jeans. His digits finding nothing but moist, bare skin. "That's no longer an issue." She whispered softly.

"Now kiss me before I sober up."

The more they kissed, the hornier they became. Azia unzipped his jeans, finding the large, girthy member she had never dreamed her cousin possessed. While his hand became wetter and wetter.

Azia had to stop, break away from the touch that had lit her fire.

"Ok big boy...you've gotten me hot. Now what?"

"Don't worry." Steven said pulling his sticky fingers from her pants. "I know just the place."Steven rose from their booth to pay for the tab. The smile on his friend's face was wider than a 4 lane California highway.

"You two really look beautiful together Steven. I hope you treat this one right." Dawn said.

"I really hope so too. I like her a lot. What's the charge?"

"Now you know, normally I would say your money's no good around here. But I'm not trying to make you look bad. So just give me $20 and we'll call it even."

"You are a doll Dawn. Thank you so much." Turning to his date, Steven asked; "Ready to go?"

"Sure." Azia replied. "It was so good meeting you Dawn. I hope to see you again soon."

"Bye darling. You take good care of my side boyfriend there. He's a good one."

The cousins exited the building into the clear night of evening. The usual pall of chemical fog that covers many California towns was not to be seen this evening. The sky was clear and for the first time in decades, the air was crisp and clean. Taking a couple steps forward past the door, Azia swayed on the way to the car, leaning against her cousin's large body for support.

"Whoa." She giggled.

"You ok Azia?"

"I'm fine...just haven't had that much to drink in a few years. My therapist thought it best I didn't drink while I was taking my psyche meds. So, you could say I have been on the wagon for a while."

"Yeah...my mom put me on the wagon too. Apparently, I become a horrible person when I'm drunk. I took to drinking a lot when I was going through my divorce."

Climbing in the car, Steven started the vehicle,

"That's one of the ways I found this place. I brought Dannielle out here when we got the account. Dawn told me then I had made a mistake. During the divorce, I would come here and just drink the nights away. Too many times Dawn and Reggie had to drag me into a cab or get the cops to leave me alone when I got stupid."

Steven turned back onto the highway and headed West.

"The worst time I ever had, Dawn called my mother. When she came down, she brought a gaggle of her church cronies. All of them had Bibles in hand, trying to lay hands on me; get the "demon of alcohol" off me. Needless to say, I lashed out. I actually slapped my mother in the face and told her to get her Bible toting ass away from me. This time, the cops came and did arrest me. She let me out after I sobered up. I knew then I had to stop and get help. Real help. So...I had a therapist for a couple years myself."

Azia was stunned. For so long, she had felt that the only one who had gone through this was her. Yet, here was her cousin, her old nemesis, had gone through so much. Looking down, she noticed Steven drove with one hand on the wheel, the other on the shifter. Reaching down, she placed her hand on his. She could feel the strength in it. The feeling was powerful. Almost an electrical connection that flowed from the touch.

Steven pulled into the West Coast Inn & Suites. A common looking, turn of the Century abode that could have housed any number of families. Yet, it was run by an aging old black widow, whose husband bought the property after his stint in Vietnam and was now running it with her great grandchildren.

Parking in the back lot, Steven led Azia around to the front of the house. Once inside, Azia was again taken aback by the elegant interior as opposed to the crumbling façade of the outside. Sitting idly behind a counter in the foyer, a young woman was busy reading the latest edition of Black Locks magazine. A monthly dedicated to the care and upkeep of the hair of women of color. Without looking up from her pages, the young woman's greeting was cold and matter of fact.

"Hi, welcome to West Coast Inn, rooms are $75 a night for a room, $150 a night for room and amenities. What you need?"

Steven leaned on the counter and cleared his throat in order to get the young lady's attention. To wit, she still didn't look up from her mag.

"Fancy...you know your Grandmother would kick your ass for treating a customer like that."

The mention of her name and more importantly that of her Grandmother gained ALL the young woman named Fancy's attention.

"Oh shit! My bad...Steven how are you doing?!"

Running around the counter, Fancy leaned up and hugged Steven's neck, like a long lost relative. Azia looked on, as for the 2nd time that night; another female was ignoring her and totally into Steven. Wait...Steven was her COUSIN. She had no REAL TIES to his heart. They weren't REALLY DATING. He had just helped her escape a situation and treated her to one of the best "dates" in her life. Why was she so jealous all of a sudden?

...Because she was still a woman.

Releasing the hold Steven turned and introduced the women:

"Azia, this is Francine Kilcrease, otherwise known as "Fancy." Fancy, this is..."

"His GIRLFRIEND Azia." His cousin interrupted.

"Oh my God I'm so sorry...I didn't know "Uncle" Steven was dating again! I meant no disrespect."

"Yeah." Steven added. "I helped Fancy's Grandmother find some suitable investments for the meager money left, from her husband's life insurance policy that helped her keep this place, renovate it, and turn it into this B&B. I've known Fancy since she was barely out of those braces."

"Don't you start with that "Uncle" Steven." Fancy ribbed. "You know I hated them things."

"I know...but they were so cute on you."

"Whatever...what do you need tonight?"

"I need a quiet room. Preferably one that isn't too close to any other patrons."

"No need to worry about that." Fancy added. "This place is as quiet as a tomb. There might be a total of 6 people in the whole place. How about your favorite room on the 3rd floor, will that suit you? I don't think there's anyone else on the floor."

"Fine...I'll take it."

"Since you're a regular...I'll give you the "family" discount. Just make sure you see Grandma in the morning or she'll kill me."

"Deal."

Paying the fee, Steven led Azia back outside to the side staircase that led to the 3rd floor. Walking through the interior, Azia took in the "homey" feel of the place. While it would never rate higher than 2 stars in any hotel/motel price book, the hallway and the room itself was smartly finished and felt like any well done, one bed flat apartment you would find in a middle-class suburb.

Entering the room, Steven asked; "What was that all about?"

"What was WHAT all about?"

"That jealous streak downstairs. You sounded like you wanted to rip poor Fancy's head off."

"Oh nothing." Azia lied. "I just thought it was a little peculiar for you to be all hugged up on a girl that looks young enough to get licensed for a drink."

True enough. Fancy was only about 19-20; 21 at the most. With a child's face and a body shape that could easily be seen dancing on a "pole" at the thousands of clubs in L.A. But Steven thought better than to acknowledge that fact. Instead, he simply pulled Azia close into his arms.

"Yes...Fancy is cute. But she's still a girl. I have ALL WOMAN right here."

Steven kissed his cousin's soft lips. He immediately felt the tension dissolve from her body.

"Oh...you are smooth." She whispered. "Dannielle must have been crazy to let you go."

They kissed for several minutes more, before Azia broke away from his embrace.

"I feel nasty and need a shower." She replied heading to the bathroom. Stripping off her hoodie and t-shirt, she stood in the doorway in her white, lacy bra. "Are you coming?"

The water was warm and refreshing, as it cascaded on the two naked forms. Cleansing the dirt, grim and sweat from their bodies. But where the water succeeded in cleaning them, their dirty actions started the process all over again.

Steven took his cousin's voluptuous body into his embrace. Trailing kisses all over her body. Her lips and neck. Leading to the milk dud sized nipples on her breasts. Azia moaned as he assaulted her senses. Every touch, lighting a wildfire. Every kiss, igniting a raging inferno. By the time his hands found purchase on her ass, she felt damn near drunk.

Then it happened. His fingers found her wet pussy again. She couldn't tell whether it was from the water or her own juices. Either way...something snapped. Her mind raced back to that night at the Frat house. The feel of strange members pummeling and exploring her insides. The taste of pre-cum on her tongue as one strange dick after another moved past her teeth. Her feelings for Curtis and now her feelings for Steven crashed against her defenses like a tsunami. The face of Mya and her Mother screaming at her about being "wicked." It was too much. She panicked.

"No! Stop! PLEASE DON'T!!" Azia yelled. Placing her hands against his chest, she pushed Steven away from her. His back hitting the wall, his swollen cock swaying almost comically.

Grabbing a towel, she stepped out of the shower, dried herself off, wrapped her shaking body, sat on the edge of the bed...and wept.

"WHAT THE HELL AZIA?!!" Steven said as he too exited the bathroom. His towel barely able to hide his massive cock. "ARE YOU TRYING TO KILL ME OR SOMETHING? WHAT DID I DO WRONG?!"

"EVERYTHING...and nothing." She replied.

"What are you TALKING ABOUT?"

"I DON'T KNOW!! I don't...know."

"Don't know WHAT!!?"

"I don't know what I'm DOING HERE with you!! I don't know what comes next. I don't know how I FEEL!! Should I feel icky and ASHAMED?!! Or should I feel sexy and admired? FOR GOD'S SAKE STEVEN...I'M YOUR COUSIN!! Should I just have sex and keep moving...or should I have sex and let you into MY BROKEN WORLD?!! And what comes next...HUH?!! Do we just go back to our lives and pretend nothing ever happened? Would you be satisfied knowing that you fucked your drunk ass, fucked in the head COUSIN?!! Can you and I interact as if your heart wasn't IN IT?!! Or that mine IS?!!"

"How do you profess to know whether my heart IS or ISN'T in ANYTHING?!!" Steven shot back.

"I DON'T KNOW!!" Azia screeched.

The tears flowed freely from her deep brown eyes. Her body heaving with every sob. For

the first time that night, Steven had no ready idea what to do.

"I just don't want to wake up tomorrow morning and wonder if my heart is broken from the hangover...or my thrice broken heart?!"

As Azia wiped her tears away, she lay on the bed, covering her naked body with the comforter. She could hear Steven's every angry footfall behind her.

"Steven...I know what you must think of me right now and I'm sorry. You have gone above and beyond for me today and I thank you. I have no right to ask this of you, but I hope that you are the one man I have EVER KNOWN that might understand. Can you just hold me...please?!"

Steven paced for several minutes. He was at a total loss as to what to do. He was angry, frustrated (if not just a LOT horny). But he really wasn't in the mood to sift through the damaged psyche of yet another woman. AS he looked at the silhouette of his cousin's body under the covers. While yes, it was a lovely shape, was it worth the headache? Was she worth the further trouble? Was she worth the blue balls he was currently suffering now that she was having a change of heart? And who the hell was She to determine whether his heart was in this for real or not?! Hell...he had much more invested than she did.

But as he paced, he also remembered all she had said earlier in the day. All the hurt, pain, and obvious trauma she had been through. All the pain caused by those she had once trusted. Mothers, girlfriends, boyfriends and undoubtedly countless others. Did he want to add his name to that list? Push her closer to the abyss of eternity that he himself looked into?

The answer...was no.

Pushing aside his confusion and irritation, Steven disrobed, letting the towel fall silently to the floor. Putting on his underwear, he crept into the bed behind the grieving form of Azia, lending his weight to her body. His arm encircling her naked form and pulling her closer. Azia cradled his arm in her hands. Her trembling body sending waves of anguish rippling through Steven's soul. Slowly, the tears dried, the heaves in her chest subsided, her breathing became steady and rhythmic. Peeking over her shoulder, Steven was presented with the slightly snoring, sleeping face of his cousin.

"Ain't this a bitch." He whispered to no one in particular. Settling into a comfortable position, Steven closed his eyes to the remains of this messed up day. Sleep took hold in minutes. His last thought being that as messed up as she was...his cousin was bringing him a moments peace.

Air. Steven's brain was scrambling for air. Signals raced to the main computer from the lungs for the life sustaining element. Return signals alerted the rest of the muscles. Squadrons of protective signals activated the twitch responders for movement, telling the arms to defend. The legs to prepare to fight or flee. The last signals were dual purpose. Awaken the conscious and open the eyes. Open eyes...for God's sake OPEN!!

Steven's lids rose slowly. The feint illumination cast from the street lights outside, filtered through the curtains. His brain picking up on the body above him. Hair falling into his nostrils, lips softly caressing his mouth. Weight planted firmly over the lower part of his abdomen. The cause of his mind's alarm.

Azia had straddled Steven's body in the middle of then night. Her naked sex rubbed seductively over the shaft of his penis. Steven grabbed ahold of his cousin's shoulders and lifted her away from him.

"What? You didn't like it?"

Sliding his hands to her pelvis, Steven moved Azia's weight to a more comfortable position over his engorged penis.

"I couldn't breathe Azia."

"Oh...sorry."

"Listen...what are you..."

She placed a finger over his lips to silence his protest. Leaning over, Azia began to leave a trail of soft kisses down his muscular trunk. Leading all the way to his obsidian obelisk. As she took the cock into her hand, she marveled at the size, weight, and girth of it. Her cousin had definitely been blessed. From her best guess, he was packing at least a good 9 ½ inches. If not slightly more. Dannielle must have been a fool not to worship this beautiful piece of man meat at her every opportunity.

Getting to the task at hand, Azia flicked her tongue to the underside of his helmet. Tasting the bitter/sweet tones of pre-cum that had seeped from his dick. She savored it as it mixed with her own saliva. Gently, she began to work her hand up and down the shaft as she took the head into her mouth.

Steven gasped as his cousin took the first length of his cock into her mouth. "Oh my God...Ahhhhhh." He moaned. Azia began to suck his cock at a slow pace. Showing her skill at cunnilingus by simultaneously working her spit into a glorious hand job.

To Steven's ultimate surprise, Azia was a very proficient lover. She missed no part of his cock with her tongue and mouth. She licked his entire shaft, cupped and suckled his balls, and even paid close attention to flick her tongue over the tip of his hole. He was in heaven. The longer he allowed her to worship his cock, the closer he could feel his orgasm rise. A powerful charge of cum beckoning to explode at any moment. He had to stop her.

Steven grabbed the sides of Azia's face, pulling her back up for a breather. Their lips met, and he took in her scent. The mixture of her shampoo and regular body odor intoxicated him. He felt the tips of her nipples grazing his chest.

When their lips parted, Stephen asked; "Not that I'm complaining, but what's with the sudden change?"

Azia looked her cousin in his dark brown eyes, lust emanating from hers: "I'm so sorry about that Stephen, I hope you can forgive me. But the alcohol had me feeling some kind of way. Had me thinking of things I shouldn't have. My feelings went allover the place. Believe me Stephen, I wanted you so much earlier. But I didn't want to be drunk and have regrets in the morning. Do you understand?"

Stephen answered by passionately kissing her lips, his hands rubbing her ass. Azia couldn't take anymore stimulation. She needed his massive cock inside her now. Sitting up, Azia straddled Stephen's lap, placing his head at the entrance to her love canal. But when she tried to sit on it, reality struck. The years of neglect had tightened her hole to the point that even though she was slightly wet, his rock-hard penis was too big to fit comfortably.

"OW!! Shit!! Wait...wait...wait."

Azia hopped off and rubbed her pussy. Not since the night she lost her virginity has this ever been a problem.

"Don't worry about it." Replied Stephen.

Laying Azia on her back, he trailed soft kisses down her trunk. Flicking his tongue over each nipple on his way down. Kissing all around the lips of her pussy, sucking gently on the folds. Azia took in a deep breath through her teeth. Her cousin wasn't playing fair...but she certainly didn't mind.

"Oooohhhhh shit Stephen...damn."

Stephen pressed forward. Leaning in, he took in her musky scent. The aroma of her arousal was intoxicating. Shooting his tongue forward, Stephen lapped at her hole. Licking all the way up to Azia's engorged clit. She responded with an all over body shudder that forced her to clutch the sheets in her fists.

"OH MY GOD!! SHIT!!" Azia stressed through her teeth. She had forgotten how good it felt having her pussy paid attention to. Especially with someone as skilled as her cousin was displaying. Stephen continued his assault by licking circles all over her opening.

Soon, Azia was bucking and squirming from Stephen's lingual lashing. Stephen's next move was to slowly insert a finger into her core. As like his cock, it met some initial resistance, but by eating her pussy first, her natural lubricants relaxed her Kegels. With a little extra effort, his finger slid in without further protest. Curling his finger upwards, he found the rough, spongy top of her walls. The most sensitive area of her insides. Azia shrieked! Grabbing a pillow, she let the sounds of her ecstasy (and her mini orgasm) become muffled by the material.

Stephen wrapped his free arm around her waist and held her in place. Her squirming trying desperately to extricate herself from his skilled attack. But his strength won the struggle. With no other options left to her, Azia grabbed the back of his head, forcing his lips and tongue to press deeper into her clit. Grinding her hips into his chin. With every pump of her hips, her unstoppable orgasm crept closer. Then Stephen did it...he inserted first a second, then a third finger into her tight hole. Rubbing her walls in and out. Making sure to pay attention to her G-spot.

That was it. She couldn't take anymore. Azia came harder than she ever had in her life. Her muscles tensed, her breath caught in her throat, her eyes rolled back. Then the shudders came. Wave upon wave of full body convulsions that sent her into nirvana. Her pussy dribbled juices all over Stephen's chin. His fingers scooping her musky lubricant out with every stroke. Once again, the pillow became her best friend, her security blanket. It stifled her cries as she shook and sobbed her rapture.

Once her body stopped betraying her lust, she reached down and grabbed her lover's face. Bringing him in for a wet passionate kiss. As their tongues jockeyed for position, she tasted her own arousal. The slightly tart, sweet flavor made her swimming senses spin even more.

"Please...I need you inside me." Azia pleaded. "Let me do this."

Again, she took a sitting position over Stephen's hard cock. This time, though there was minimal resistance, she was able to slide his thick rod into her pussy.

"Ahhhhhhh..." As she took in his cock inch by inch, her walls stretched to accommodate his thickness. She felt absolutely delirious.

"Fuck Azia...you're so tight."

Azia began a slow grind. Moving her hips back and forth, letting her pussy become accustomed to the size of the object impaling her. Stephen grabbed her ass, lifting her hips off his pelvis, creating space for her to land back down. A minor shockwave rippling through her as her clit found purchase on his skin. Over and over, Azia's body rocked back and forth, taking the cock all the way down. Letting Stephen fill her up. His penis hitting all her spots.

"So, you really like it?"

"Azia...I love it. I'm in heaven." Stephen proclaimed. "You feel so fucking good."

Their bodies continued to crash together. Sweat mixing, bodies overheating. The bed squeaking out their rhythmic dance.

Stephen stopped Azia's motion. Flipping her over, he entered her from behind. Grabbing her hips, he began to ram into her pussy over and over again. Azia was drunk. Her head returned to the pillow so she could bellow out her multiple orgasms. Stephen's deep thrusting prevented her from shaking all over again. Suddenly...Azia placed her hand out on Stephen's hip.

"Wait...wait...stop."

"Are you serious? What now?"

Azia removed Stephen's rock had piston from her wet snatch. Grabbing him by the back of his head, she kissed him gently.

"I want you to get on top. I have never seen a man cum before. I think it's the most erotic thing ever. No one has ever done that for me. Will you? Will you make love to me?"

Stephen didn't answer. He simply pulled her closer to himself, kissing her lips with all his might. Wrapping Azia's shivering body in his strong arms. Lying her down, Azia grabbed his swollen member and guided it to her entrance. With one slow, deliberate thrust, he reentered her awaiting walls. Azia almost came again as she watched his eyes roll back before they closed in pure bliss.

Azia wrapped her legs around Stephen's waist and her hands around the back of his neck. Stephen locked his arms as he plunged like a slow piston into her pussy. Breaking down her Sugar Walls with every stroke. Loving, passionate, unhurried, Stephen and Azia became one. Tears of pure joy streamed from Azia's eyes as she watched her cousin come closer to his hallelujah.

"Oh God...Azia...I'm going to ...I'm going to..."

Azia pushed Stephen off her body. Quickly she took his throbbing pens in her mouth and sucked reverently.

"Oh SHIT!! Azzziaaaa!! What are you..."?

He couldn't stop it. The tsunami of his orgasm exploded load after load of his hit seed deep into her throat. Azia suckled and pulled every last drop of his offering into her mouth. Swirling his slightly salty cum over her tongue before swallowing of it.

Stephen fell spent onto his back. He had no more strength or breath left to be vertical. Azia rolled off the bed, wanting to go to the bathroom. Immediately, she had to steady herself with the nightstand. Her legs were spaghetti and her head was swimming. Standing up, she took one step after another ought her to the bathroom. Running the water, she sucked in a couple mouthfuls and gargled the residue of Stephen's love out. Spitting for a couple minutes to get rid of the aftertaste. Soaking the rags, Azia returned to the bed with one soapy one and one clear one. Affectionately, she wiped her cousin's body clean. His face, his chest, his arms, his legs. She left no area unattended. When she was done, she did the same to herself. After returning the dirty towels to the bathroom, Azia walked back to the bed, snuggling up to her new lover's body. Fitting his body as if it were her natural position in life.

"Azia...can I ask you something?"

"Sure. Anything you want."

"I'm not complaining mind you...but what was that you just did?"

Azia gave a small chuckle. "You mean the swallowing thing?"

"Yeah."

"I figured...it one of the things Curtis taught me when we were together. He said he really liked it. At first, I wasn't sure if I could do it. I thought it was nasty, and at first...I wasn't wrong. But then I researched it a little bit and eventually gave it a try. The more I did it, the more it turned me on to see how it made him feel. I felt so powerful. To see him that weak for just a moment and to know I was the one who did it...I guess I just got used to it. You didn't like it?"

Stephen craned his neck to look at his beautiful cousin in the scant light of the room.

"Are you kidding me? I was married for several years and had a few girlfriends before that and NONE OF THEM ever did that for me. I had my fantasy fulfilled in one night without saying a word. My God...why were we enemies again?!!"

The cousins shared a stolen kiss, before reality filled the room. With her head on his chest Azia brought the fantasy back home.

"I haven't had this much fun and pleasure in a long time. I thank you Stephen. But I got to know...what happens next? Do we just go back to how things were? Do you just go back home and leave me out here alone? I know I have no right to ask you for anything else. I don't even really know how you feel about me over the long haul...I mean, it's not like you can say you are in love with me or anything."

"I can be. If you are the woman you have shown me today...I can be. As for what happens after today...I will help you face it anyway I can...if you are willing to do the same for me."

Tears fell from Azia's eyes as his words hit her heart. For so long she had searched for someone to believe in...and here he was, in the flesh. As far as next week, and as close as a brother.

"I promise." She said.

As the sun began to peek through the blinds, the new lovers fell soundly asleep. Fr the moment lost in the now of their union. Unaware of what came next, yet hopeful for the tomorrow.

For the forth time Stephen checked his appearance in the mirror. His bow tie always seemed crooked. The sounds of the organ player dragging out the tune of "We Come to Worship Him" in the back ground reminding him that he was back in a church. Not his favorite place to be but today; no where else he would rather be in the world. A panicked knock on the door broke his concentration.

"Stephen!! Stephen come out quick!!"

Striding to the door, Stephen poked his head into the hallway, looking down at the short, plump form of Azia's coworker Danita.

"What's up Danita? Where's the fire?"

"You got to come quick. Azia wants to see you now!"

"Isn't that bad luck to see the bride before the wedding?"

"THAT'S FOR THE GROOM SILLY ASS COME ON!!" Grabbing Stephen by the sleeve of his tuxedo, Danita drug him to the other side of the church. Stepping into the Women's bathroom, he was confronted by a gaggle of women all in panic mode.

"What the hell?"

Faydra (another young friend of Azia's) looked at him coldly. "You men...that's the problem.

"Stop it Faydra, I called for him. Leave him alone." Came a familiar voice sitting in front of the mirror.

"Ladies...can we have a minute?" Stephen asked above the collective din of the gathered women.

"Are you serious? This is the WOMEN'S ROOM!! We ain't got to go nowhere!!" Shot back Faydra.

"Fay...beat it. And take the rest of them with you. Please." Said Azia.

Momentarily, the women hung back, before one after another they all filed out. Faydra didn't miss the opportunity to brush past Stephen harshly. Once they left, he locked the door and turned to face his cousin.

"What's her problem?" Stephen asked rubbing his shoulder.

"Oh Faydra...she likes you...actually, she's over the moon for you. She was the woman I told you to call a few months back; that you didn't."

"That's Faydra?!! No wonder I didn't call. She's a..."

"Don't say that." Azia remarked. "She's just a coward that doesn't know how to talk to men. She's been on her own since she was 16. She really has a sad story, but she's a really good woman to get to know."

"Whatever...right now I'm worried about you."

Azia turned around in her chair. Though her make up was messed up, she was still so beautiful. Her white gown flowed resplendently, the train currently bunched up and hanging from a couple hangers on the wall.

"You look so handsome." She sniffed looking at her cousin.

Stephen stood in his tuxedo, midnight black, with cream shirt, and royal purple tie and cumber bun. His goatee meticulously done. A changed man from the 2 years past she met him.

"Well...you look a hot mess." Stephen replied with a chuckle. Trying to lighten the mood.

"That's not funny." Azia stated.

"I'm kidding cuz...what's wrong? You know you have a church full of people out there waiting on you."

"I know." Azia replied. "I'm just sort of confused. Are you sure about this? Are you really cool about this? I mean...after today...everything changes."

Stephen paced around the room for a second. His mind replaying the past two years. After leaving the B&B, he accompanied Azia back to her mother's house. Everyone there including his mother...and the police. But once Azia convinced her mother not to prosecute (mainly due to her having saved a couple pairs of her panties with her husband's DNA still on it), the cousins packed a few of her things in a U-Haul and made plans to move together to another state. Though his mother wasn't thrilled with the idea, she was still happy to see him want to spread his wings. Arriving in Kentucky, the cousins took his savings and bought a house together. He started his own accounting firm, and she helped, while she finished her degree in Nursing. Before long, his name got around and he was able to string together several prominent businesses as clients. Azia graduated with her degree and was immediately hired by one of the biggest hospitals in the state. All the while, no one had clue that they regularly slept together.

Before too long, Azia caught the eye of one Dennis Gross, a Trauma surgeon she worked with a couple times. He was immediately smitten by her, and she by him. Now, they sat in a church waiting for her to take her man.

"Azia...as long as you are happy...I will be fine. Your happiness is my ultimate goal."

"If you want me to stay with you...I'll call it all off. I don't think our relationship will be looked down on too much out..."

"Stop it." Stephen interrupted. Taking Azia in his arms, he hugged her tightly. "I am by myself because I haven't found what you have yet. I will eventually. As long as I have a place in your heart...I'll always be your Prince Charming. But you have another Prince that is waiting on his Princess. You must not disappoint him. Besides, I must not have TOO many issues with it. I'm here in a church for you right?!"

The cousins laughed nervously.

"OK...I'll go. Just one thing though?"

"What's that?"

"Kiss me one last time...before I never kiss those lovely lips again?"

The kiss had all the passion and longing of two well acquainted lovers. Once enemies, they now realized they were friends for life. Joined at the hip forever.

"Damn...I'm going to miss that. But ok...send that ladies back in please Stephen. I'm ready if you are."

"I'll be waiting outside for you love. Now and forever."