Magic: A Ladies in Love Romance Pt. 02

Magic

A Ladies in Love Romance

By Magda McKune

Part Two

CHAPTER 5

I strolled seductively into the living room wearing a sheer peach negligee shawl that hung three inches below my crotch. I purchased it at a lingerie party a couple of years ago to tempt a boyfriend I had at the time, but we broke up before I had the opportunity or the nerve to wear it. I was naked underneath and the nearly transparent garment left very little to the imagination.

I stood before my boss with my hands on my narrow hips, my long blonde tresses cascading loosely over my shoulders.

Jennifer glanced up from scanning the headlines of the day's newspaper, her eyes taking in my voluptuous curvaceous form. "Oh... my... God," she breathed reverently.

I leaned down and took the paper from her hand and set it aside. "You did say you hired me to be your eye candy, remember?"

"Yes. But I didn't realize just how unbelievably sexy you were."

I straddled my legs on either side of her knees and sat on her lap. "I happen to think you are pretty sexy too, lady." I began to unbutton her blouse. "What do you say we turn in for the night?" I cooed seductively. "Your bedroom or mine?"

"Are you sure you're ready for this?"

I opened her blouse and parted the sides, smoothing my palms over her breasts in her white lace brassiere. "Absolutely," I breathed seductively. "The question is, darling; are you ready for me?"

Jennifer smiled and placed her hands on my waist inside the sheer nightie. Her fingers were cool and soft to the touch. "What brought out this amorous side in you?"

I leaned forward and rested my forearms on her shoulders, my lips close to hers. "You did, you sexy lady." I kissed her passionately on the lips. I felt my loins tingling and knew she and I would be making love that night. The thought of having sex with this gorgeous woman was really getting me hot. Jennifer poked her tongue into my mouth. I expelled my breath into her mouth and tangled my tongue with hers. "Oh yes, baby," I panted lustfully. "We better go to your room right now before I rape you right here on the couch."

Jennifer leaned back and gazed into my eyes. "My room?"

"Yes, lover. That way it'll will feel like I'm the one who's seducing you."

My partner smiled and smoothed her hands up my sides to my ribs. "I have no doubt that will be the case before the night is through."

I rose to my feet and offered her my hand. "Come to bed, darling. It's time to teach me lesson number one of how to satisfy a lady."

Jennifer chuckled under her breath as she rose to stand. "I have no doubt you will be teaching me a thing or two before the night is through."

"I have a confession to make," I stated honestly as I led Jennifer by the hand into her bedroom. "I haven't gotten laid in practically forever. When you had me pose naked for you the other night, it got me hornier than I realized." We entered her room and stopped beside the queen size 4 poster bed. I turned to face her and said, "When you offered to take care of me, I felt myself getting wet just thinking about it. I knew right then I had to get you into bed and take advantage of your offer."

Jennifer winced sheepishly and said, "In that case, I have a confession of my own to make."

"Oh?"

"It's true, I want you to be eye candy for the show. But when I first saw you at the theater, I felt really turned on by you. So, to be absolutely truthful, part of the reason I offered you the job is because I hoped we would have sex together." The woman lowered her head coyly. "Is that so terrible of me?"

"Of course not, darling," I cooed softly. I moved to her and took both her hands in mine. "As you recall, I was the one who begged you to have sex that first time." I leaned closer and gave her a tender kiss on the lips. "I never made love to a woman before I met you, Jennifer Prescott, and now making love with you is practically all I can think about." I slipped my hands around her waist and rested my palms on her rear. "I'm glad you wanted to have sex with me," I purred, brushing my lips along her neck to her jaw. "I want to have sex with you, too. Right this very minute, as a matter of fact."

I groped her rear and pressed my mouth to hers. I kissed her hungrily. "Oh yes," Jennifer panted into my mouth. "You are so hot."

"Hot for you, honey." I leaned back and unfastened the last buttons on her blouse.

Jennifer stared at me and asked, "Do you want me to leave the lights on or turn them off?"

"Turn them off. There's plenty of light from the hallway to see by." I eased her blouse over her shoulders and tossed it aside. "If we have trouble seeing what we're doing, we'll simply have to feel our way."

Jennifer giggled with glee. "I suppose so!"

She switched off the light and returned to me. I unclasped her bra and pealed it down and off her arms. "You have an incredible body," I sighed reverently.

"So do you."

I kissed her neck and over her shoulder as my hands roamed over her bare chest. Jennifer unfastened her slacks and pushed them down over her hips. I slid my hands lower, over her abdomen to her waist. I leaned back and smiled at her when I realized she wasn't wearing any panties. "What a sexy woman you are!" I grinned.

"I suspected they might get in the way tonight." Jenny cupped my breasts in her palms and moved closer to kiss me. "At least, that was what I was hoping." We kissed and pawed each other beside the bed. "I've had many lady lovers, as you might have guessed," she murmured into my ear. "So, let me take charge with you."

"I am in your hands," I breathed lustfully. "Figuratively and literally."

Jennifer leaned back and gazed into my eyes. "I want you to lick me."

I looked at her questioningly. "Lick you?"

"Yes." She put her hands on my shoulders and gently pushed me down. "On your knees."

I lowered to kneel in front of her. Jennifer put her fingers on her pubic area and spread her vaginal lips to my face. "Lick my pussy."

I didn't hesitate. I leaned in closer and pressed my mouth to her vagina. I swirled my tongue around the delicate folds. Jennifer shuddered above me and I hoped I was doing it right. The girl expelled her breath in a deep contented sigh. "Oh baby, you are so good."

I probed my tongue deeper inside her. She tasted so sweet and delicious. I remembered how wet I got when she fingered me off the other night. I wanted her to get wet for me. I raised my hand and inserted a finger below my chin into her pussy. Jennifer gasped and leaned back to give me better access to her cunt. I probed my finger in and out as I licked her pussy. It was so erotic! I rocked hack on my heels and smiled up at her. "Am I doing it right?"

Jennifer appeared as though she was in a trance. "You are incredible!" she breathed lustily. "Don't stop!"

I resumed my licking and fingering of her snatch. Jennifer trembled above me and I knew it wouldn't be long before I tasted her cum juice in my mouth. I flicked my tongue over the sensitive nub of her clitoris and sawed my finger in and out of her seeping vent. The girl was getting very wet. At last, she shuddered and I tasted a flow of nectar on my tongue. It was so sweet and delicious. I wanted more. I licked and lapped harder, my tongue probing to the deepest recesses of her womanhood. Jennifer gripped a fistful of my blonde tresses and pulled my face tight to her cunt. My free hand groped her bare ass. Jennifer suddenly jerked and released another spew of juice onto my delving tongue. She shook with release, then dropped heavily onto the edge of the bed.

"Whew!" she sighed breathlessly. "You are one fast learner."

I rose to stand and met her mouth in a savage passionate kiss. This lady had merely gotten me started and I wasn't about to quit now. "I want to make love to you, Jenny," I growled lustfully. "I want to satisfy you and be your lover."

Jennifer cupped her hands onto my full breasts in the sheer negligee and leaned back, pulling me to lie on top of her atop the bed. She kissed me hungrily, her hands roaming over my flesh. I was completely consumed with desire for this lady and would eagerly comply with any request she would ask of me. I wanted to make love to her and have her satisfy me in return.

She slid one hand between my legs and dipped a finger inside me. "You're wet," Jenny breathed into my mouth.

"Wet for you, baby," I panted while kissing her.

"Sit on my face."

I rose up and stared down at her. "Say what?"

Jennifer grinned at me. "Crawl up onto the bed on your knees and squat over my mouth so I can lick your pussy."

I laughed as I crawled up over her. "You certainly have a way of making this girl try new things."

Jenny chuckled as I swung one leg over her head and kneeled above her face. "Trust me; you'll love it." She put her hands on my butt cheeks and guided me to sit on her mouth.

I felt her tongue probing inside me. It was a very strange and very stimulating sensation. I cupped my boobs in my hands and pinched my nipples with my fingertips. Jennifer's fingers groped my ass as her tongue lapped my cunt. It was the most erotic thing I could imagine! I had never had oral sex with another woman before. To have a lady lick my vagina was incredibly sexy!

"Oh, yeah, baby," I panted with lust. "Lick that hot wet pussy!" Jenny lapped my cunt and I rocked my hips to rub my vagina over her mouth. God, it was wild! Her hands slid up under my negligee and caressed my naked back. I never had a man give me the such stimulation before. This was the best sex ever!

I felt my loins tingling and knew I was getting close to a climax. I was surprised it was so soon. This lady certainly had a knack for getting my juices flowing. "That's it," I breathed lustily. "You're going to make me cum."

"Cum on my face," Jenny demanded from between my legs.

That was all it took for me to erupt with a gush of cunt cream into her mouth. My body shuddered and shook as I came onto her licking tongue and lips. It was gloriously satisfying.

I crawled backward on my hands and knees and stretched my body on top of hers. I kissed her hungrily on the mouth, tasting my cunny jizz on her lips. "Damn, you are one mighty fine lover," I growled with lust. "You make me want more and more."

Jennifer slipped her hands inside my nightie and smoothed her fingers over my bare flesh. "I want to give you more and more," she cooed softly. "We can satisfy each other all night long."

I lifted my head and smiled seductively down at my partner. "Don't tease me, lady."

"Oh, I'll tease you, all right," she leered lustfully. "And you can tease me right back."

I grinned. "Sounds wonderful."

We made love to each other for the next two hours until we were both utterly satisfied and content.

Jennifer held my naked body close to hers and kissed me lightly on the lips. "I know you have your own room," she cooed quietly. "But I would really like it if you slept here with me tonight. In my bed."

"I doubt there would be much sleeping for either of us if I did."

"There is a very distinct possibility."

I kissed her on the lips and smiled. "In that case, I happily accept."

We cuddled naked under the sheets -- kissing and groping and feeling and fondling one another until we fell asleep in each other's arms.

I awoke in the wee hours of morning to movement next to me. I wasn't used to sharing a bed with anyone and it was something I knew I had to get used to. Not that it was uncomfortable in any way. It felt great to have a warm body next to mine under the soft linen sheets.

I lolled my head to the side and studied Jennifer's face in the pale moonlight filtering through a gap in the window curtains. She looked so incredibly beautiful. I never realized how much affection and desire I could have for another human being, let alone a woman. Jennifer Prescott was the first woman to stir such passion within me, and I wanted more. I wanted it every day and every night, as long as I could get it.

Jennifer stirred in her sleep and rolled closer to me. She draped her arm across my tummy and rested her head on my shoulder and drifted back into slumber. My heart melted at the sheer sweet intimacy of it. This lady felt so comfortable with me in her bed that even in her sleep, she needed to be close to me. I caressed my fingers over her bare shoulder and heard her purr with contentment.

I felt that same flutter in my chest and knew I was headed down a path from which there was no return. I was in danger of falling madly in love with this lady, and was surprised to find that I didn't care. If I lost my heart to this sweet loving lady, so be it. There were far worse things in life than surrendering your heart and soul to someone who makes you feel wanted, desired, and complete. If I was to find myself totally devoted to one wonderful caring person, let it be someone as incredible and amazing as Jennifer Prescott.

I smiled to myself in the dark as my lover slept soundly on my shoulder. The Amazing Jennifer indeed. This woman had no idea how truly amazing she was.

Rays of morning sunshine peeked through the window curtains. My lady boss stirred lazily as I alit onto the edge of the bed at her side. She stretched her lithe frame and smiled dreamily up at me. "Good morning, Carla."

"Good morning, gorgeous." I bent down and gave her a soft lingering kiss on the lips. "I made coffee for us. Want me to bring you some?"

Jennifer reached a hand out from under the sheets and caressed my bare legs. I wore a loose tee shirt and nothing more. "Not right now." She smiled happily up at me. "You are a very sexy and satisfying lover, you know that?"

I grinned at my new boss. "I'm a fast learner. Plus, I had an excellent teacher."

"Mmmmm," she purred contentedly. "In that case, I'll definitely have to give you many more lessons."

"I look forward to it." I leaned down and gave her a soft kiss. "I have to go to work. I'll stop and get more of my clothes at my place and come here after that."

"Fine." Jennifer reached up and wrapped her arms around my neck. "You know, I could really get used to this."

"Get used to what?"

"Seeing your beautiful smiling face in the morning."

I grinned at her. "You better get used to it, honey. You're officially stuck with me now."

Jennifer chuckled softly. "Lucky me." She pulled me down to give me a lingering kiss. "See you tonight."

"Bye."

The first thing I did when I got into work that morning was to arrange the papers and files into manageable groups. I expected the new girl to arrive soon and didn't want to greet her with a disorganized mess.

The temp agency sent a young woman named Melissa who arrived a few minutes after eight. She was young and pretty with short brown hair and a slender figure. Not that it mattered. Nobody would ever meet or see her. Melissa had a sweet personality and pleasant phone voice, and she quickly understood the office filing system and business procedures.

I set up an email account and computer password for her and introduced her to Stan Willoughby when he came in around nine. The man was cordial enough toward the girl. I expected as much. Stan was not one to be overly concerned about business matters. He focused his attention on schmoozing the clients and left the office duties to his secretary. To him, we were little more than glorified answering machines.

"Don't worry about Stan too much," I coached my replacement with a warm smile. "You'll hardly ever see him. You are the boss here ninety percent of the time, so make this office your own."

"I will," Melissa smiled sweetly. "Thank you for helping me get settled in."

I forced a smile and nodded, knowing full well the poor gal will be bored silly in a few weeks. Perhaps Melissa preferred a quiet desk job, or simply saw this as an opportunity to put another paragraph on her resume. In any event, in a few days, the job would be hers and she was welcome to it.

At twenty minutes after ten, Sandy Fulton called me. "I want to invite you out to lunch," she said. "Our usual sandwich shop at eleven. You can tell me all the juicy details of your date with your hot new boss."

"There are no details to tell, juicy or otherwise."

"Liar."

"Okay, maybe a few."

"Yes! Baby! Meet me in the lobby at eleven."

"You got it."

I taught Melissa the filing system and email protocol in less than an hour. There was not much for me to do but to organize papers in the file cabinets and watch the young lady work.

At exactly eleven o'clock, I met Sandy Fulton in the lobby of our building. "You must be desperate for news to beg me for another lunch rendezvous."

"I live vicariously through you." Sandy led the way out the glass doors to the street. "I've been holding my breath all night thinking about you and that hot blonde doing the wild thing in her bedroom."

I laughed as we headed down the sidewalk. "Okay, here's a teaser; we did it."

Her jaw dropped in shock. "I knew it! Damn, girl! Tell me all!"

"Not out here." I slipped my arm through her elbow. "This news is going to cost you."

"Pastrami on rye?"

"Ha! You know me so well!"

"So what was it like?" Sandy asked eagerly as we strolled from our building toward the sandwich shop.

"What was what like?"

"You doing the wild thing with Jennifer Prescott. You said you were thinking about doing it last night."

I gave my companion a wry smile. "I'm not one to kiss and tell."

Sandy grabbed my arm. "You had better tell!" she demanded. "You slept with her! I know it!"

"Shhh!" I hushed, glancing around the parking lot. "Announce it to the whole world, why don't you?"

"You have to tell me all about it."

I continued walking, glancing down at the pavement. "It was incredible. I never felt anything like it before in my whole life. It was like a super nova of sex."

"Oh my God," Sandy growled under her breath. "I absolutely hate you."

"I mean, I've had sex before with guys, but this went way beyond that. We actually made love to one another. You know, the way intimacy was meant to be. Jenny genuinely cared about my needs and desires and I felt the same way about her too. It was more than just getting off. She and I actually made love to one another. It was... magical."

"Holy cow."

"Yeah," I nodded. I glanced sheepishly at my friend. "You don't think it's gross or weird or disgusting? Two girls getting it on?"

"No. It sounds like it was a very pleasant experience for you. I'm actually quite envious."

I stopped and smiled at the woman. "Envious enough to want to try it yourself?"

Sandy laughed and dismissively flapped a hand at me. "Not that envious!"

I paused with a deep sigh and glanced around at the buildings. "It was like I was feeling what real love was for the very first time. I mean, like I was having sex for the very first time, and the feelings were so new and real and pure. I didn't have to prove anything to anyone -- no expectations or need to satisfy my partner to feel adequate as a lover. She and I gave each other what we needed and found that it was more than enough for both of us. It was truly remarkable."

Sandy dolefully shook her head. "Damn. Here you are, getting some nookie every night and me stuck with HDTV. It isn't fair."

I laughed and rested my hand on her arm. "Try to be happy for me, Sans. I'm starting a new life, a new career, and exploring new ways to love."

"Oh, dear God, please don't say the 'L' word," she huffed, resuming our walk to the diner. "I'm jealous enough already."

"I didn't say I was in love with her."

"Not yet, but if I know you, Carla Monroe, you will fall madly in love with this woman. I mean, what's not to love? She's beautiful, glamorous, exciting, and a great sex partner for you. Who cares if she's a woman? If she makes you happy, then I'm very happy for you both."

"That's very open-minded of you to say. I have to admit I'm quite surprised by your candor. I would have thought you'd make some negative comment about lesbian love being sick or evil or something like that."

"I would never do that. You're my friend. A little screwy at times, but you're still my friend. Friends care about each other no matter what." She smiled at me. "If rolling in the sack with a beautiful sexy lady does it for you, then you have my blessing. Good luck to you both."

I draped my arm across her back. "You're wonderful, you know that? I had my misgivings about dropping everything in my life to join Jennifer in her show. Your supporting my new choices really does mean a lot to me, Sans."

"Yeah well, don't expect me to go swapping saliva with you anytime soon. This gal is still a guy-chaser, no matter how slim the pickings might be."

After lunch I dropped my costume off at a dry cleaner that also did alterations. The woman there took my measurements and promised to have the changes made as soon as possible. I told her to let the bust out enough to accommodate my big boobs but keep the tummy tight to make me appear slimmer. Maybe if it was a tad tight in the tummy, it would offer additional incentive to keep my body in proper shape.

I returned to the office to find Melissa painting her fingernails a bright shade of red. "Getting settled in, I see," I quipped jokingly.

"I finished early. I hope it's all right."

"Of course." I took a chair across from my old desk. "You'll find yourself with lots of time on your hands in this job."

Melissa blew her breath on her wet nails. "Is that why you are leaving here?"

"No. I got another job offer. I start at the end of the week."

"Good for you!" She blew on her nails. "Another office job?"

"Actually, I'm going into show business."

Her eyebrows shot up. "Really?"

"Yes. It's been a dream of mine my entire life. Oh, it's not very exciting or glamorous as yet, but it's a start."

"I'm happy for you. I believe it's important for us to chase what we believe to be important in our lives."

I nodded in agreement, knowing that the decision to chase my dream with the Amazing Jennifer was indeed the right one.

CHAPTER 6

Seven o'clock that night, I carried a suitcase and an overnight bag into Jennifer's apartment. The woman glanced up from reading the newspaper as I shut the door behind me. "This is the last of it," I exhaled.

Jennifer lowered the paper and gave me a quizzical look. "The last of what?"

"My stuff. I'm officially moved out of my apartment."

She narrowed her eyes with a doubtful expression. "For a woman, you don't have a lot of clothes and stuff, do you?"

"I didn't have any furniture, and I'm not one to collect a lot of knickknacks." I set my bags on the floor by the sofa and sat beside my house mate. "I gave some of my clothes away to a homeless shelter. I figured I'd be getting some replacements that would be more appropriate to my new position."

"Like costumes."

"Exactly." I patted her on the knee. "Last chance to back out on your offer to have me live with you."

Jennifer smiled warmly and rested her hand on mine atop her knee. "You have your own room, but I like it when we share a bed together."

I grinned happily. "That's the best part of working with you." I leaned closer and met her lips in a tender kiss. "That, and making love with the most sensuous woman in the world."

"In the world?" Jennifer giggled.

"Yes, in the world." I kissed her once again and rose to stand. "And to show her just how wonderful she is, I plan to make dinner for us tonight."

Jenny's eyes went up in surprise. "What, no take out?"

"Nope." I patted my overnight bag. "I have all the ingredients right here. I stopped on the way and got everything I need to make shrimp scampi."

The woman gave me a knowing smile. "You have a frozen dinner in that bag, don't you?"

"Well, yes," I winced slightly. "But it still counts as cooking."

Jennifer smiled happily. "I would be delighted to have you cook dinner for us tonight."

"Great! I also have a bottle of wine, so you can do your part by keeping our glasses full."

Miss Prescott laughed and nodded her head in acceptance. "Yes, ma'am!" Jenny followed as I brought the groceries into the kitchen. "Before we have dinner and wine, we have some work to do first."

"Goody!" I clapped my hands merrily. "I'm eager to get started!

"Tonight we're going to start practicing your role as my assistant," Jennifer stated evenly.

"Great!" I grinned. "What do I do?"

"First of all, you have to remember that a good portion of illusion is distraction and misdirection." She picked up two chairs from the kitchen table and carried them into the other room. "That's where you come in. While I'm performing a trick, part of the audience will be looking at you." She set the chairs on the opposite side of the room facing us. "This will be our audience."

I expelled my lungs in a snort. "Hopefully not a typical representation for when we give a real performance."

"We can only hope." Jennifer moved to stand in front of the chairs. "I'll perform a simple sleight of hand trick with a deck of cards."

She made a gesture and a deck of cards magically materialized in her hand. "How did you do that!" I gaped in amazement.

The woman rolled her eyes. "If only all our audiences were as easily entertained as you." She held the deck of cards up for the benefit of our invisible audience. "Now you pose and look pretty."

"I can do that."

"Rest your right hand on your hip and gesture delicately with your left." I did as I was told. "I said delicately," Jennifer stated firmly. "You're not swatting a fly. You are adding a dash of grace and class to the act. When I complete a trick, you smile at the audience and gesture with your hand as if to say, 'That, ladies and gentlemen, is how it is done'."

"All right," I nodded with understanding. "I'll get it."

"I know you will. Now try it again."

Jennifer performed the trick and I was amazed once again, but I didn't let on. I simply smiled sweetly to the empty chairs with one hand on my hip and gracefully gestured with the other to the deck of cards in her hand. I posed with a smile fixed on my lips. "How was that?"

"That was exactly right," Jennifer grinned. "I think you're getting the hang of this."

"It's a lot harder than it looks," I frowned. "I thought this was going to be easy."

"It will be in time." She took my wrist and made me switch places with her. "Let's try it from the other side."

She performed another card trick and I smiled brightly to the empty seats, my hand lightly gesturing to the cards in her hand. "Are you going to tell me how you do that trick?" I asked.

"A magician never reveals her secrets."

I moved closer to her and slipped an arm around her waist. "I have ways of making you talk."

Jennifer giggled with amusement. "I'm sure you do!" She gave me a quick smooch on the lips and turned to move to the television set. "I have some homework for you to do."

I regarded my friend with curiosity. "You do?"

"Yes." She switched on the TV. "I recorded several hours of The Price is Right from the Game Show network. After dinner, I want you to watch those models posing by the prizes and see how they do it."

"You want me to watch a game show all night?"

Jennifer laughed. "I can make some popcorn if you like."

"Not exactly romantic cuddling material," I shrugged with indifference. "But I'll take it."

I prepared dinner as Jennifer located the recorded programs on her DVR. I stir-fried a package orange chicken in a skillet on the stove, boiled some white rice, and cooked egg rolls in the broiler. Not bad for a gal who was used to eating take out or cooking frozen meals in the microwave. Jennifer made the greatest contribution to the dinner by pouring the pinot grigio.

After dinner, we settled onto the sofa to watch multiple episodes of The Price is Right. I had to admit, it was fairly entertaining and not too taxing as a training exercise.

Every once in a while, Jenny would pause the video and say, "Did you see how she did that?" We would back up the show a few seconds and run that portion over again. I would then jump up and mimic the girl showcasing the sailboat or new car.

"You're getting the hang of it," Jennifer grinned with approval.

"But wait!" I beamed brightly. "There's more!" I gestured my hands up and down to my figure and said, "You get this fantastic body, a winning personality, and a fabulous smile! Now, how much would you pay?" I struck a pose with a hand on my hip with the other raised in the air.

Jennifer laughed. "If she can cook, I'll take her!"

I smiled and gestured my hands to my body. "All this can be yours if... the price is right!"

My friend shood her head dolefully. "Sorry. What you are offering is far valuable to put a price on."

"Good answer!" I moved back to the couch and sat beside my companion. "I don't mean to make light of your training video, but I would probably do better in front of a real audience."

"You'll have one soon enough." She patted my knee with her hand. "I think you are almost ready. Just keep practicing so that your movements appear natural and not phony or forced."

"I will."

"Do you want to see any more of the show?"

"Yes! I want to know if that lady wins the trip to Cancun or not."

Jennifer laughed and pointed the remote to continue the program. "You are so easily entertained."

I snuggled into her side and draped my arm over her tummy. "A jug of wine, a loaf of bread, and thou."

"Would you settle for just a glass of wine?"

"Of course. So long as I have thou."

"You got her." Jenny gave me a tender smooch on the forehead. "Now, let's see if that gal can win that trip to Mexico."

That night, I slept in my own bedroom. It felt weird. It was strange sleeping in a different bedroom than what I was used to. But it felt comforting to know that this would be my new home. In essence, I was now sharing an apartment with someone. I would have to get used to working closely with my new boss and conforming to her schedule. That in itself would be quite a change after running an office practically by myself for so long. We'd be dining together and entertaining ourselves as Jennifer taught me the ins and outs of her act and the magic business. I didn't see a problem with spending all my time with my new employer and friend. Jennifer Prescott was an amazing woman and I knew she and I would get along famously.

I perked up my ears to the sound of my bedroom door opening. I could faintly see Jennifer's body backlit by the night light in the bathroom at the end of the hall. She wore a sheer and nearly transparent negligee that hung a few inches above the knee. The woman hesitated for a moment in the open doorway, then slipped inside my room.

I giggled softly as I felt her body slide under the covers and snuggle up to me. "Did you miss me already?" I whispered.

"Terribly," she murmured. Jenny shifted closer to my side and draped her arm over my tummy. "Knowing you were in the room across the hall proved too tempting to resist. I hope you don't mind."

"Of course I don't mind. I like it when you cuddle with me."

"It's just that, this is your bedroom after all. I don't want to make a nuisance of myself."

"Nonsense. You are welcome to share my bed any time you like. There's plenty of room for the both of us, and I enjoy the feeling of a warm body next to mine. You can sleep with me tonight if you want. I promise I won't mind."

I turned my head to face her. Jennifer had fallen asleep with her head on my shoulder. Either the gal was utterly tuckered out, or she felt completely at ease in my company. I was glad the woman could be so relaxed around me. I was certain that Jenny and I would become great friends and frequent lovers.

I wedged her arm between my breasts and gave my slumbering companion a kiss on the forehead. "Goodnight, sweetheart," I cooed softly. "Pleasant dreams."

Friday morning, I was giving all the last details I could think of to Melissa when Stan Willoughby entered the office. "Your last day?" he asked, as if he didn't already know the answer.

"Yes, Mister Willoughby. It is."

"Sorry to see you go," he said, and I actually believed him. My boss and I rarely shared any substantial conversation at the office, but the man was pleasant enough to work with. I suppose he had become accustomed to seeing me at my desk, and would now have to get used to working with a new gal at the office. "I'm sure Melinda will do a fine job."

I glanced at my replacement and back at him, struggling to stifle a laugh. "Melissa."

Stan narrowed his brow with a puzzled expression. "I beg your pardon?"

"Her name is Melissa."

"Yes... right... well..." he stammered. The man handed me a small elongated box with a clear plastic lid. "A parting gift. To show you my appreciation."

It was a pen and pencil set. With the company logo stamped on them, no less. Stan gave them freely to clients as gifts. The irony was that I was the one who ordered them for him. "How very sweet," I responded graciously. I was touched by the sentimentality of the gesture more so than the sheer absurdity of the act. I had never been given a going-away present before. "I appreciate it, Stan. Thank you."

"Yes... well..." He extended his hand and I shook it. "Best of luck and all that," he said.

"Same to you, Stan."

He glanced at his watch. "I must be going. Seeing as it is Friday, you may as well leave early. Melinda can manage the fort from here on."

"Melissa."

"Yes. Quite." He glanced at his watch again. An early tee time with clients at the golf course, no doubt. "Well, I'm off." With a nod of his head to Melissa and me, he turned for the door and was gone.

Melissa's face displayed a comical expression. "That was different."

"Stan Willoughby is a good man, but sometimes he misses the mark by an inch or two." I handed the writing set to Melissa. "A parting gift for you, my dear," I grinned with humor. "And thanks a bunch for taking over for me."

The girl accepted the gift with a smile. "I'm sure I'll do just fine."

"I'm sure you will, too. Take care."

"You too."

I collected my purse and headed out the door into the bright morning sunshine. It felt strange to leave work so early in the day. Even stranger that I was walking out of the building for the very last time. I felt a tiny twinge of pain that I was leaving that job, but it only lasted for a moment. I thought of Jennifer Prescott and how I was going to be by her side up on stage in the white-hot spotlight. My dream had finally come true. At last, I was going to be in show business. But even more than that; I was going to be with a very dear woman who made me happy in more ways than I ever imagined possible.

I grinned and laughed with delight and twirled about with my arms extended like Mary Tyler Moore had done on her TV show. The world was bright and wonderful, and I was about to embark on the adventure of a lifetime.

It was nice to have a day to myself with no agenda to be concerned with. I picked up a sandwich and sat on a bench in the park to watch the birds fluttering about and the children frolicking on the playground. Afterward, I went to have my nails done and my hair styled. It felt good to pamper myself for no other reason than I wanted to. Plus, I would have to look my best if I was to be eye candy for Jennifer's magic act.

The last thing I did was go to the dry cleaners and pick up my altered costumes. They looked so sparkly and fancy in the transparent garment bag. I couldn't wait to try them on. Perhaps I would give Jennifer a little fashion show that evening. I smiled knowingly at how prancing about in sexy apparel got my partner in the mood for some carnal hijinks.

My first official day as magician's assistant for The Amazing Jennifer. That morning, I didn't think life could be any better, but I was wrong. Life was fantastic!

"Hi, honey!" I called cheerily as I entered Jennifer's apartment. My apartment, now. "Did you miss me?"

"Terribly," she responded without emotion as she tapped away on her laptop at the kitchen table. "Just let me finish typing this email." I crossed to her and kissed her on the top of the head. She smiled without looking up. "Thank you."

"I'll kiss you in other places when you are not so focused on work," I chuckled as I carried my costumes to my bedroom.

"Promises, promises."

I hung my costumes in the closet and returned to the kitchen. Jenny glanced up at me and smiled. "You're home early."

"It was my last day, so Stan let me leave before lunchtime."

"Your hair looks gorgeous."

"Thanks!" I sat at the table next to her. "I had it done. And my nails, too." I showed her my manicured fingers. "To look all the more beautiful for you."

"You're beautiful enough for the act."

I gave her a wry smile. "That's not what I meant." I rose and gave her a smooch on the forehead. "Let me open some wine and we can celebrate our new professional endeavor."

"Just a minute," she injected, taking hold of my arm. "A quick peck on the forehead is not going to cut it."

"My mistake." I leaned down and met her lips in a lingering passionate kiss. After a long while, I let the girl up for air. "Better?"

"Better," she smiled. "There's Chardonnay in the fridge."

I laughed and crossed to the cupboard to fetch a pair of wine glasses. "You anticipated a party?"

"I was hoping."

"Me too." I grinned and removed the chilled bottle from the refrigerator. "I can't help it, but I've been looking forward all day to cuddling and snuggling and maybe some friskiness with you tonight." I opened the bottle and poured us some wine. "Eve has tasted your forbidden fruit and now she can't get enough."

"It is never forbidden," Jenny stated evenly as she rose to stand and moved to join me. "Not from you."

"That's nice to know." I handed Jenny a glass and kissed her. "My body is never forbidden from you either. It's yours; anytime, anywhere."

"Good to know." She clinked her glass to mine and toasted, "To us."

"To us!" I took a drink and regarded her seductively. "I picked up my costumes today," I murmured coyly. "Maybe I can give you a titillating fashion show later."

"I'm all aquiver just thinking about it."

"I'll give you quivers, honey," I smiled, leaning closer to kiss her mouth. "Quivers and shivers like you never felt before."

"I can hardly wait."

I caressed my hand on her cheek and marveled at how incredibly beautiful and sexy this woman was. "I want to be a good partner for you, J. P. In every way I possibly can."

"You are, Carla." Jennifer kissed me softly on the lips. "In more ways than you know."

My hand smoothed down her neck to her chest. "Are you terribly busy right now?" I asked timidly. "I'd like to ravish you, if you don't mind."

"I don't mind." Her hand slid around my waist and she pressed her bosom to mine. "In fact, I think it would be a perfect way to celebrate our new professional arrangement."

"Strictly business," I purred, meeting her mouth in a hungry French kiss.

"Not all business," she panted into my mouth. "Business before pleasure, so they say."

"Absolutely," I rasped, my hands roaming over her body as my passion grew. "Lots and lots of pleasure."

Later that evening, Jennifer lay stretched out on the sofa reading a grocery store checkout line-type tabloid. I strolled into the living room wearing my sparkly parrot green costume and struck a seductive pose for my partner. "What do you think?"

Jennifer looked up at me and her jaw dropped agape. "My God! That is beyond a doubt the sexiest thing I have ever seen in my life!"

I leered at the woman and turned to the side offering a nice view of my ass. "Is this eye-candy enough for you, honey?"

"I think I'm about to have an orgasm!"

"I'll take that as a yes!"

"Other girls have worn that same outfit before you, but none of them ever looked as sexy or as beautiful in it as you do. You leave me absolutely breathless."

"You're so sweet."

My boss sat up and rose to her feet. "I may have a rough time concentrating on my act after seeing you in this sexy costume."

I turned to face her. "You better not stare at me too much, girl. If anything happens to you, we'll both be out of a job."

Jennifer stepped closer and smoothed her hands over my hips. "My God, Carla, you are so beautiful," she breathed reverently.

I smiled and rested my hands on her arms. "You can take pleasure in the knowledge that this sexy body belongs to nobody but you." I leaned close to her and gave her a tender kiss on the lips. "And you can have it anytime you want."

My friend returned my kiss. "I want you right now," she panted. "I want to tear that outfit off your sensuous body and ravish you right here on the carpet."

"Don't you dare!" I chastised playfully. "I spent twenty-four bucks altering this costume. Let me wear it for at least one show."

"Okay, one show." She slid her hands around my waist to grope my butt. "But after that, the costume comes off."

"It can come off for you right now, lover," I cooed lovingly. "If you want me us to delay our practicing the act."

Jennifer slid her hands up my back and peeled the zipper down my spine. "That's one good thing about being the boss," she breathed lustfully, her mouth meeting mine in a long passionate kiss. "You are allowed to be late for work."

I stepped out from behind the curtain and struck a pose in the blinding white spotlight. "Ladies and gentlemen!" I announced proudly. "Put your hands together and welcome... the Amazing Jennifer!"

We booked a small show at a local theater to give us a chance to practice our act and our new partnership in front of a crowd. It was so exciting! Jennifer was fabulous and I looked spectacular in my sparkly canary yellow costume. It was my dream come true. I was standing on the stage entertaining an audience. I was quite certain the men were pleased with me. I received a number of wolf whistles at my long slender legs and full bust in the titillating apparel.

Jennifer was very pleased as well. She may have had some reservations about my stage presence beforehand, but not after that night. The illusions were perfect and the crowd was thoroughly entertained. I couldn't stop smiling throughout the entire show. This is what I dreamed about, what I wanted so badly to become. A star on the stage! And to share it with my dear new friend made the night all the more delicious. Jennifer Prescott had found a true partner, one who would be there for her no matter what.

We stood beside each other and held hands to take our bows at the end of the performance. I turned and looked into my friend's eyes to see the sheer delight of having amazed and astounded another audience in a flawless show.

My heart swelled with pride at my partner's accomplishment, knowing she could not have done the show without me. Her success was mine as well, and we could bask in the glow of the spotlight together. In my mind we were now true and total partners in every sense of the word.

That evening, we were both too wound up to sleep. The adrenalin and thrill of putting on a great performance was utterly exhilarating. We chatted away on the sofa like pre-pubescent schoolgirls.

"They laughed and cheered and clapped at all the right moments," Jennifer chattered giddily.

"And at that one instant, just before you thrust that sword into my stomach? You could hear a pin drop!"

Jennifer took both my hands in hers and stared deeply into my eyes. "Carla, this is what show business is all about."

"No, darling. This is what partnership is all about."

Jenny leaned closer, her lips nearly brushing mine. "Then, I guess I got the right partner this time, didn't I?"

"I think we both did." I touched my lips to hers in a tender kiss. "We still have lots of energy and I doubt we'll be able to sleep," I murmured softly. "What do you suggest we do about that?"

"Mmmm," she purred as she met my mouth in a lingering embrace. "Let's take this partnership into another room and see what develops."

I grinned and giggled under my breath. "Miss Prescott, you are the best boss ever."

The next morning, Jennifer and I sat at the kitchen table in our bathrobes enjoying a leisurely breakfast of coffee and toasted English muffins. "We have to work on more illusions together," Jenny said.

"Didn't we do a good job on the last show?" I asked.

"Yes. We did great. But we have to add more tricks to our arsenal. First of all; it keeps the act fresh. When you get complacent and routine, you tend to make mistakes. Plus, the audience can sense when a performer is simply going through the motions. Secondly, it's a good practice to have some extra illusions worked up in case something goes wrong. I've had shows where a prop was missing or not working properly and we had to switch gears on the fly. You can't appear flustered or frustrated in front of the audience. You just have to move on to the next trick and take it in stride."

I smiled warmly at my boss. "You are such a smart lady."

Jennifer chuckled with amusement. "When you are in show business, you have to accept the fact that things are not always going to go the way you expect. You are going to hit some rough spots. Sometimes you have to learn things the hard way, through trial by fire."

Over the next few days, Jenny and I practiced some new tricks and ran through a few of the ones we were more comfortable with. We worked on every trick until our choreographed movements were fluid and precise, yet appeared completely natural to the audience. It would look unprofessional if Jennifer tried to execute a trick and I was on the wrong side of the stage, or if the props were out of reach. I quickly realized that being in show business was a lot harder than it looked.

We worked on the act several hours every day at the warehouse. Jenny had cleared a large vacant space that we used as a pretend stage to practice our illusions. We put in about three hours each morning, then broke for lunch, and then worked another five hours in the afternoon. It was so interesting and fun for me to be learning a new profession. It didn't feel like work at all and time seemed to fly by.

Jennifer gave me helpful advice and constant encouragement as we practiced each new illusion. She appeared to be quite impressed by how quickly I learned each trick and how well we worked on stage together. I could easily see us becoming a well-polished act before too long

"I am going to saw this woman in half," Jennifer announced to our absent audience.

"Careful with that saw," I scowled playfully as I lay inside the magic box. "The last assistant you tried this trick on is now living in both Denver and Chicago."

Jennifer laughed. "Careful with the jokes," she chided. "Or you'll end up being half-sisters."

"Or cousins, once removed."

We played around and joked with each other a little, and Jennifer grinned happily knowing that we were so compatible on stage. I realized it as well; that our friendship showed in our performance. When the audience sees that we are having fun, they will have more fun watching our show.

Jennifer giggled as we packed up our props. "I've never had so much fun with any of my assistants before."

"Maybe because they were your assistants and not your friend."

She looked at me with a thoughtful expression. "You may be right about that. I've been fearful that my assistant would steal my secrets or hurt me in some way. I don't have that concern with you, Carla."

I smiled and moved to take her into my arms. "You never have to worry about me hurting you, darling," I cooed lovingly. "You are the best thing to happen to me in a very long time." I kissed her tenderly on the lips. "And I just don't mean the act, either."

Jennifer smiled demurely and hugged my waist. "The feeling is definitely mutual, Miss Monroe." She kissed me with growing passion. "Let's take this act back to my bedroom, where I can show you a trick or two."

"Why, Miss Prescott," I purred lustfully. "That sounds like a marvelous idea."

CHAPTER 7

Jennifer booked us for a performance on a weekday, which was a tad unusual. "You need to mentally prepare yourself for this audience," Jennifer warned cryptically.

"What makes this show so special?" I asked as I adjusted the bust of my new emerald green costume.

"We're giving a free show at the children's shelter this afternoon."

I furrowed my brow with a puzzled look. "Children's shelter?"

"It's where they take abused and neglected kids who have been abandoned by their parents, or taken away by social services because they were ill-treated."

"That's awful!" I mewed pitifully.

"Yes. My heart breaks for those children."

"Is that why I have to prepare myself?" I frowned quizzically. "Because my heart will break when I see all those poor abused kids? Or is an audience of children going to be rowdier than our usual crowd?"

"A little of both. They really do enjoy a magic show. And the last time I did a show for them, I wanted to take all those sweet kids home with me."

"You're such a softy." I adjusted the elastic under my buttocks. "Do I need to carry a whip to help keep the Peanut Gallery in line?"

Jennifer laughed. "They aren't so wild as that! Kids make for a great audience, it's good practice for us, and if there is anyone who needs to believe in magic, it's those kids."

I glanced down at my costume and winced sheepishly. "I feel silly in this getup."

"You look gorgeous," my friend stated unemotionally. "The children will love you."

I expelled my breath in a huff of skepticism and adjusted the thin fabric under my big boobs. "The boys entering puberty certainly will."

"This is show business, honey," Jennifer said. "Every audience deserves the best show we can give them. I've performed in front of a crowd of thousands, and also to near empty theaters. But every show was the very best performance I could give. Why? Because those folks paid to see a magic show, and I was there to give them one. Just like we are going to give a show those children today. You and I are going to give those kids the best show we can possibly give."

I grinned and nodded in agreement. "Let's knock their socks off!"

We arrived at the children's shelter and unpacked our gear. A dozen youngsters materialized at my side to assist unloading the vehicle. I was right; the boys gaped openly at my form-fitting costume and Jennifer's tight shorts and long fabulous legs. The little girls giggled and hovered by us, making me feel like I was a princess or their fairy godmother. My boss was right about one thing; I wanted to take every single one of them home with us.

Jennifer started the act by pulling a stuffed rabbit out of a black top hat. That got the kids laughing. Then she did some slight of hand card tricks and made a bouquet of flowers disappear in a puff of smoke.

I watched in admiration as my partner enchanted our young audience. She performed each illusion with style and grace, as though we were headlining at Carnegie Hall. Jennifer Prescott was a class act, and gave every audience her very best.

My partner put me into a tall wooden box and made it separate into three sections. Jennifer opened a little door on one of the boxes and tickled my tummy while my head was shifted to the left and my fingers were shifted to the right.

"When you said I needed to branch out," I quipped, "I didn't know you had this in mind!"

The kids giggled with glee as Jenny released me from the box unscathed. Our performance was flawless and fun, and I could tell that the kids were thoroughly enjoying the show.

I looked at Jennifer and suddenly I felt woozy and my legs went weak. My brain swooned and I felt dizzy. I wasn't ill. I wasn't disoriented. I realized with shocking clarity that I had fallen madly in love with Jennifer Prescott.

It hit me like a sledge hammer right between the eyes. My head felt light and my stomach fluttered. I realized in that single instant that I was truly and hopelessly in love with this woman. Sandy Fulton was right; if I spent enough time with Jenny, I would fall madly in love with her. I wouldn't have believed it myself until that very moment.

Jennifer Prescott was now more to me than merely an employer. More than a lover or a sister or a dear friend. I knew I was wholly and deeply in love with her. It was the most insane notion that had ever popped into my head. I was in love for the first time in my life, and it was with a lady! And yet, I knew it was the forever kind of love, not just a passing fancy or lust of the flesh. I knew beyond a doubt that I wanted to spend the rest of my life with this wonderful woman. I would be her assistant, her lover, and any other person she wanted me to be. I was hers -- totally and completely.

My legs felt like rubber and my head swam. The horror suddenly slapped me hard in the face. What if Jenny didn't love me back? What if I told her how I felt and it embarrassed her or upset her to the point where she didn't feel comfortable working with me anymore? What if the love of my life didn't desire me in that way? I didn't want to lose my job and my apartment and working with the most wonderful woman in the world because one silly slip of the tongue.

I decided it would be best to keep my thoughts and feelings to myself for the time being. I would love Jennifer Prescott in silence. For now, that would have to be enough.

We finished the act by having two kids from the audience each hold one end of a long white rope as Jennifer severed the middle with a scissors and then joined it back together again. Everyone clapped and cheered.

After the show, Jennifer and I mingled with the children and told them how much fun it was performing magic for them. All the young girls and boys were absolutely adorable. I realized Jennifer was right about how much folks needing to believe in magic. I was happy and proud that I could bring a little make-believe into their lives.

"Those kids were wonderful!" I sighed dreamily as we packed our gear.

"Yes. I like to give a show there every month or so. It helps give me practice to a very appreciative audience. And it reminds me of how blessed I am to have the life that I have."

"You are so thoughtful and sweet."

We sat on the sofa together sipping from a bottle of dry champagne. It was a time to celebrate. The Amazing Jennifer was back in business. I sat with my legs stretched out before me resting on the coffee table, my partner sitting with her legs tucked under her and her arm draped across the sofa behind my back.

"You seemed to enjoy yourself today," she observed. "Every time I looked at you, I saw you beaming like a child on Christmas morning."

I nodded in agreement. "It was everything I dreamed it would be and more. Sure, it was wonderful, but it was even better for me because I was helping you perform your craft. We were out there together. You were doing the illusions but I was playing an important role by offering a pleasant distraction for the audience."

"And quite a distraction for me too," she sighed happily. "I found myself ogling your sexy body more than a few times during the show."

I turned my face and gave her a smooch on the cheek. "Keep your mind on the act, honey. I just started this gig and I don't want to make another career change because my boss sawed herself in half."

Jennifer chuckled and stroked her hand over my back. "I promise I'll be good." She sipped her champagne and turned to eye me curiously. "You had a strange look on your face at one point the middle of the act. It was as if you wanted to tell me something."

I glanced down at the glass in my hands in my lap. "Maybe."

"What is it?"

"I'd rather not say."

Jennifer shifted her body to sit beside me. She turned to me with a look of concern on her face. "Please tell me." I sat silent, staring at my hands. Jenny hooked her fingers under my chin and lifted my eyes to hers. "We promised we'd be totally honest with each other and not keep any secrets from one another. Tell me, what's bothering you?"

I drew in and expelled a long doleful sigh. Now was the moment of truth. I rued having to tell Jennifer how I felt about her, but I knew I couldn't keep my emotions bottled inside me forever. Best to tear the bandage off quickly and be done with it. "I didn't want to tell you for fear that it might cost me my job."

"What? How?"

"We both promised to be truthful to each other from the start. I need to confess to you what is in my heart." I drew in and expelled a long breath, my throat choked with emotion. "Well... if you must know... I believe... I'm in love with you, Jenny."

"What?"

"I know it sounds crazy, but it's true. I love you more than anyone I have ever known in my life. I adore you, Jennifer Prescott. I continually lust over your sexy body. My heart leaps in my chest every time I see your sweet smiling face. I can't help the way I feel. I've never felt this way about anyone in my whole life. I never thought I would ever feel this way about anyone, especially a woman. But there you have it. God help me, I'm hopelessly, totally, madly in love with you."

Jennifer was silent for a long while. "I never knew you felt that way about me."

I looked at her. "I didn't realize it myself until today. And then it suddenly hit me like a sledge hammer in the chest. I can't explain it. All I know is that I care for you more than I have ever cared for anyone in my life." I lowered my eyes to my lap. "I didn't want to tell you because I didn't want you to think I was crazy."

"You're not crazy." I glanced up to see her smiling at me. "I care for you a lot too, Carla. Certainly not as much as you care for me, I suppose. I guess in a way, I love you too."

"Really?"

"Yes honey. You know how much I lust over your body and I really enjoy your company a lot. I want us to work as a partnership and I'm glad that you do love me. Perhaps I'll come to love you as well in time. Perhaps even come to love you as much as you love me."

I offered her a small smile. "Now that you know how I feel about you, what do we do about it?"

"We carry on the same as we always do. We make love to each other and go on with the show."

I chuckled and raised a hand to caress her face. "I love you so much, J. P."

"I love you too, Carla." She leaned closer and kissed me softly on the lips. "So, what'll it be? Your bedroom or mine?"

I raised my arm and draped it across her back, holding her to my side. "Let's just sit here and finish our champagne. Our lovemaking can wait."

"Wow, this is a switch! Usually, it's a fight to keep my clothes on when you get in the mood for some sexual satisfaction."

"I'm in the mood to hold you," I murmured quietly. "I want to feel you in my arms for a while."

Jennifer took the glass from my hand and set it aside with hers. She rose to her feet and offered me her hands. "Come along, darling." I took her hands and rose to stand beside her. She smiled at me and began to lead me to my bedroom. "You can still hold me, honey. But it will be much better naked cuddling in your bed."

We entered my room and Jenny stopped beside the bed. I slipped my arms around her waist and kissed her tenderly on the lips. "God, how I do love you, lady."

"I'm glad." She raised her hands and began to unbutton my blouse. "Let's get into bed, sweetie, and you can tell me all about it as many times as you want."

"That may take all night."

"No problem. I'm not sleepy and I doubt you are either." She eased my blouse off my shoulders. "Let's cuddle naked and maybe make love as well."

I smiled warmly at my companion. "You always have wonderful ideas."

Sunday evening, Jennifer and I were cuddling on the couch watching a syrupy romance on the Hallmark Channel. I glanced at the clock on the wall and remembered I had to call my cousin Madeline at nine pm. I didn't want to be late after promising last week that I would be the one to make the call this week. "Jenny, honey," I said. "I promised my cousin Madeline that I would call her tonight. We talk every Sunday to keep caught up with each other's lives. I missed calling last week and told her I would not forget tonight."

"Of course, sweetie," Jennifer smiled. "Go ahead and call. I'll tell you how the movie turns out."

"I can probably guess," I snorted as I rose to stand. "They live happily ever after."

Jennifer chuckled and nodded in agreement. "It's Hallmark. What other kind of ending is there?"

I gave her a quick peck on her forehead and hurried to my room to make the call. I stretched out on top of the bed and dialed my cousin's number. Madeline answered immediately. "Hey, girlfriend!" she beamed brightly. "How are you doing?"

"Great! How are things on your end?"

"The baby is teething and keeping us up at night with her crying. The doctor says it should only be another week or so."

"Get some ear plugs and trade off with George to get some rest."

"That's what we're doing. How about you?" Madeline gave me a wry smile. "Whatever happened with that girl crush you had with your lady friend? Are you dating her?"

I allowed a knowing grin. "You might say that."

Madeline's eyes grew wide. "Shut up!"

"No lie! Her name is Jennifer and she is incredible!"

"So, you two are an item then?"

"You might say that." I hopped off the bed and scurried to shut the door so we could have some privacy. "Jenny is also my boss."

"Wow! Dating the boss! How stereotypical." Her eyes narrowed with bewilderment. "Why did you go close the door?"

"So that Jennifer wouldn't hear our conversation."

"What? She's there now?"

"Actually, I'm at her place." I went back to lay on the bed. "More like our place. I moved in with her last week."

"Holy crap! That was fast!"

"I know! My life has been a whirlwind since we met. I moved out of that roach motel apartment of mine into Jennifer's place. It's great! She is so sweet and accommodating. I told you she was my boss, but she's more like my partner. Jenny is an entertainer and I am her assistant. I finally got into show business, Cuz!"

"That's wonderful! I always had faith that you would make it into the big time."

"Well, it's not exactly the big time, but it is fun and exciting nonetheless."

"That's awesome! Tell me about this Jennifer gal. I want to know everything."

I felt my face redden. "Well, I can't tell you everything."

Madeline's face took on a shocked expression. "Wait. Are you sleeping with her?"

"Well... sort of. Yeah."

My cousin squealed with delight. "That's fantastic! I'm so happy for you!"

I narrowed my brow with a puzzled frown. "You are?"

"Of course! You are happier than I have seen you in months. You found someone who makes your heart flutter, as you would say. You are living in a nice apartment and finally into show business. You're living the dream, girlfriend! I am so very happy for you."

"You don't think it's weird that I'm having a relationship with another woman?"

"Not at all. In my opinion, a girl shouldn't hook up with a guy unless they plan to have babies together. No offense, Carla, but you don't strike me as the maternal type."

I laughed. "No offense taken."

"You're with a person who makes you happy. That's all I ever wanted for you, sweetie."

"Jennifer does more than that, Mads. In fact, I think I'm in love with her."

"Wow!" Madeline giggled with glee. "You really do work fast!"

"I guess the reason I never hooked up with a guy is because my heart was waiting for the right one to come along. For me, Jennifer is the right one."

"I am so very happy for you, Carla. I really am."

"Thanks, Mads. I guess I was sort of over-analyzing my relationship with Jenny and wondering if I was doing the right thing. Hearing you approve of us means a lot to me."

"You don't need my approval or anyone else's. You just do what makes you happy." Madeline paused and cocked her head to the side. "Hold on. Molly stopped crying. I think she's asleep. Maybe George and I can have some much-needed sex." She winked knowingly at me. "I suggest you do the same."

"Have sex with George?" I winced in disgust. "No way!"

Madeline laughed. "I meant with your girlfriend! You nut!"

"Good night, Mads. Love you."

"Love you more. Bye!"

After she hung up, I strolled out of my bedroom to find my partner still sitting on the couch. "The movie is over?" I asked.

"Just about."

I lowered to sit in her lap and draped my arm around her neck. "Why don't we skip the ending and retire to your bedroom to have some passionate naked girl sex?"

Jennifer chuckled and caressed her hand over my leg. "If this is what happens when you talk to your cousin, I suggest you call her more often."

"It isn't chatting with my cousin that gets me in the mood." I gave the girl a tender kiss on the lips. "It is the Amazing Jennifer. She makes my heart flutter."

Jenny laughed and smoothed her palm over my knee. "I make your heart flutter?"

"Yes." I lifted her hand and pressed it to my breast. "Feel for yourself."

My partner smiled warmly and said, "I definitely feel it."

"You can feel it better with my clothes off."

"Then, by all means." Jennifer caressed her hand up my neck and cupped my cheek in her palm. "You can check out my heart, as well."

"It works much better when we're naked."

"I'm all for that."

I leaned closer and met her mouth in a lingering kiss. "I wholeheartedly concur."

We had a quick naked sex romp on the top of Jenny's bed, then we both decided to call it a night. I gave her a kiss on the lips and disappeared into my room. I could see how we could easily get into the routine of sharing the same bed, but seeing as we each had our own bedroom, it would be a pity if we only used one of them. As I slipped naked under the covers and turned out the light, I pondered the possibility of alternating bedrooms. We could have sex in Jennifer's bedroom one night, then my bedroom the next. Being ladies, we both prefer having our own closet space, so we would most likely leave the rooms as they were. The only difference is that we would both be sleeping in the same bed.

I smiled happily and snuggled into the warm softness of my linen bedsheets. Perhaps I would suggest an alternating sleeping arrangement to Jennifer in the morning. It would be good to have some variety in our lovemaking environment, as well as in our sleeping locations.

Making love with Jennifer Prescott, I sighed dreamily as I gradually drifted off to sleep. At times, I think that part is even better than being in show business.

Jennifer entered the kitchen wearing a bath robe and her hair was wound in a towel from her shower as I poured her a cup of morning coffee. "I have a lot of paperwork to do this morning," she said, accepting the cup. "Boring stuff. Arrangements for an upcoming show." She sipped her coffee. "You can do a grocery run if you feel like getting out on your own for a while."

I tilted my head with a thoughtful expression. "I think I will call a friend from my old job and meet her for lunch. Get caught up on the news."

Jennifer grinned and moved closer to give me a smooch on the lips. "Not to reveal any of our secrets, I hope."

I gave her a wry smile. "Magic secrets, or personal secrets?"

"Either."

"If you insist." I kissed her and patted her on the butt. "You are a very sexy lady, fresh from the shower."

My friend snorted and said, "You think I'm sexy all the time."

"That's because you are."

"You're sweet." She sipped her coffee and turned to the bedroom. "Thank you for the coffee and the compliment."

"Anytime and every time!" I chuckled as she winked at me over her shoulder. I could get used to seeing her this way in the morning. Perhaps every morning for the rest of my life.

I met my friend Sandy Fulton at our favorite diner on the corner. We hugged and sat at a small table by the front window.

"So, how is show business?" Sandy asked eagerly.

"Everything I imagined and so much more," I gushed. "It's a dream come true."

Miss Fulton gave me a knowing grin. "I'll bet part of the thrill is working side by side with that hot honey Jennifer Prescott."

"Jenny is incredible!" I beamed radiantly. "She is a real professional. Her magic act is truly amazing, and she is one of the best women I have ever worked with."

"Work with," Sandy grinned. "And play with."

I felt my face flush from embarrassment. "Yes, well, we do play quite a bit."

"You and her are an item, then?"

"Yes." I gave my friend a knowing smile. "I don't want to sound indelicate, but she is one fantastic lover."

"I'm happy for you."

"You are?"

"Of course. I only want to see you happy, Carla. Being with Jennifer Prescott obviously does that for you."

"She does. I told my cousin Madeline that Jenny makes my heart flutter."

"Your heart flutter!" Sandy laughed. "You'd think you were in love with her or something!" Her face suddenly took on a startled look. "My GOD! You are in love with her!"

I raised my palm and said, "Guilty, your honor."

"Does she know about this?"

"Yes. I told her how I felt. Jenny doesn't feel as strongly about me, but then, we've only known each other for a short time. We get along well in every way, and maybe someday she'll come to love me back."

"I'm glad. Not to mention, jealous as hell."

"You are?"

"Heck, yeah. You're living the life you always dreamed of, with a gal who makes your heart happy."

"And is an incredible lover," I added.

"Don't remind me."

"Why? Does it disgust you?"

"The part that disgusts me is that you are getting more nookie with a hot blonde than I ever got from the male gender."

I gave her a playful grin. "You can always come join us some evening."

"Me? Sandwiched between two gorgeous blondes? Please, I feel self-conscious about my body enough as it is."

I laughed. "Then I'll leave you to your heterosexual pursuits. I'm perfectly content with the partner I've found, thank you very much."

"Speaking of thank you very much, I hear that lunch is on you."

"Oh, you hear that, don't you?"

"A little birdie told me."

"Too bad that little birdie didn't tell me."

"Fair enough. You can't blame a poor working gal for trying."

"I'm still a poor working gal too, you know. Jennifer is reworking the act to accommodate a new partner and it'll be a while before she is back on top again."

"Back on top?" Sandy giggled. "Is that how you two do it?"

I laughed. "Such a naughty mind you have!" I picked up the menu and pretended to scan the lunch options. "As a matter of fact," I murmured under my breath. "We take turns being on top."

CHAPTER 8

That evening, I made us a nice chef salad for dinner and we cuddled on the couch watch an old romantic movie on TV. When the film was over, Jenny gave me a smooch on the forehead and climbed off the couch. "Time for bed," she announced.

"More cuddling?" I grinned knowingly.

"Naturally."

"Yippee!" I giggled.

My partner gave me a sideways glance and a wry smile. "You are so easily satisfied."

"Not always," I corrected as I rose to stand. "It usually takes some Jennifer Prescott to make this woman satisfied."

Jenny giggled with amusement. "You are so cute!"

I met my partner in the bedroom. She wore a frilly pink see-through nightie. Very sexy. "I stopped at a toy store this afternoon," I said.

Jennifer gave me a dubious frown. "Aren't you a little old to be shopping for toys?"

"This coming from a woman who performs card tricks and pulls rabbits out of her hat."

"Good point."

"Besides," I smiled knowingly. "It wasn't that kind of toy store."

"Oh?"

"I bought us a special present for the bedroom."

Jennifer gave a bright smile. "You bought a present for me?"

"For both of us. Well, actually this one is more for me." I struck a match and lit a candle in a silver candlestick atop the wooden dresser. "Seeing as we are partners now -- in every sense of the word -- there are certain things you are going to have to do for me."

The woman gave a wry smile and sat on the edge of the mattress. "Uh oh... here it comes. Employee negotiation time."

"Exactly." I moved to the door and flicked off the light, casting the room into a gentle orange/yellow glow. "But it isn't money I want. Or equal billing, for that matter. What I want from you never has to leave this room."

Jenny cocked her head with a curious expression. "What are you getting at?"

"You and I are lovers, honey, but there's something missing from our relationship." I opened a drawer and removed a rubber penis attached to a leather harness. "Since I no longer desire to have any men in my life, you are going to have to fill that role for me from now on."

My friend's jaw dropped in shock. "You have got to be kidding!"

"No, I'm not." I tossed the strap-on dildo onto the bed. "You've had lady lovers, but I've only been with men before I met you. Like it or not, sweetheart, you are the only man in my life from here on in."

The woman picked up the apparatus and examined it with a dubious frown. "You want me to fuck you with this thing?"

"Hey, licking and fingering is nice, but every once in a while, this girl needs to feel a long hard cock between her legs. Ergo, you are going to have to fill that role from now on."

Jenny grinned at me and laughed with amusement. "Have you ever used one of these before?"

"No, but I imagine the principal is generally the same as with a man. Have you?"

"Hell no!"

I removed my clothes and crawled on my hands and knees atop the bed. "Put it on, lover. I want you to make love to me with it tonight."

Jennifer revealed a playful smile. "Are you sure?"

"Yes. I promise to scream and moan and beg for more as much as I always do."

"Well, that much of our relationship hasn't changed."

I crawled closer to her and kissed her on the mouth. "Please, try it for me."

"You know I can never resist you when you act sexy like that."

"That is my secret weapon to make you lower your defenses."

Jennifer shook her head in disbelief. "We have just crossed over into the weird zone." My friend stood and peeled her gown off. "All right, you asked for it! Do you have any lubricant?"

"Yep. In the drawer on the bed stand."

Jenny opened the drawer and removed a tube of KY jelly. "Seems you thought of everything."

I rolled onto my back and spread my legs, my fingers rubbing my vaginal lips. "Put on that big bad tool and come fuck my pretty little pussy."

The girl giggled as she shed her nightie to the floor and slipped her legs into the leather straps. "You always have a way of keeping our lovemaking fresh and new."

"I try."

Jennifer adjusted the latex dick over her crotch, the tool sticking out from her groin like a pink pole. "This is weird," she scowled skeptically.

"You look sexy. Come here and take care of me."

My lover smeared some lubricant onto the rubber dick and crawled onto the bed on her hands and knees. "The things you talk me into, Carla," she huffed.

"You'll love it." I spread my legs and extended my arms to her. "Come to mama!"

Jenny giggled with amusement. "I'll say one thing for you; you know some interesting ways to spend the evening."

The woman crawled above me and I reached down between our bodies to guide the dick into my waiting vent. "A little closer," I instructed.

Jennifer dropped her head and looked down her body. "I can't see past my tits."

"Just keep coming and I'll guide you in." She inched forward on all fours. "That's it," I exhaled. The lubricated head of the rubber phallus slowly eased inside me. "Oh yeah," I sighed with contentment. "That's the ticket!"

"Is it in?" Jenny frowned.

"Yes. Give me a little more." She lowered her hips and pressed the tool deeper into me. "Oh fuck, yes," I exhaled. "That's great." Jennifer lay her tummy onto mine; her tits crushed to my breasts. "Now stroke in and out," I said.

My lover undulated her hips to fuck me with the rubber cock. "Damn, you're sexy," Jennifer murmured as she established a slow steady rhythm.

I smiled up at her and caressed my hands up her arms and over her sides. "You are the best lover ever."

"Want more?"

I giggled with glee. "Yes, ma'am!" Jennifer picked up her tempo, driving deep inside me with every thrust. I raised my rear up off the mattress to meet her. "God, you are incredible," I growled with lust.

"Is it good for you?"

"Honey, it's great for me." I stared up at her as she pumped the rubber cock in and out of my hot wet cunt. Her breasts wobbled about her chest in cadence to her humping rhythm. "God, you are so incredibly beautiful," I sighed reverently.

Jenny grinned down at me. "You are one hot chick, Carla."

I cupped her face with my hands and kissed her hungrily on the mouth. Jennifer never slackened her fucking tempo inside me. I let her up for air and grinned lustfully up at her. "Now, drill me hard and deep and finish this woman off!"

Jennifer smiled down at me, her blonde hair fanning like a curtain around her face. "I'll do my best!" The girl doubled her stroke, pounding fast and deep with each penetration. It was glorious! I gripped her hips and pulled her harder into me with every thrust. My loins tingled and my pussy throbbed. This gal was definitely going to make me cum!

"That's it, honey," I panted breathlessly. "That's it. Right there. Oh, yeah! That's it. Getting close! Getting close!" My breath came in short and quick staccato gasps as I neared a climax. "That's it, baby! You're making me cum! Oh yes! You're making me cum!"

Jennifer's stroke became erratic and I knew she was getting tired. I wanted to get off before she pooped out. I hooked my ankles together behind her rear and pulled her harder into me with every hammering stroke. I felt her breasts rubbing against my breasts, her tummy pressed to mine. I was so very close to having a major orgasm. "Fuck me!" I shouted. "Fuck me, Jenny!"

My lover found a hidden reservoir of strength within her. She quickened her stroke and I felt the juices welling up inside me. I was going to cum and cum big.

All at once, Jennifer slammed into me with one massive thrust. The rubber dick plunged to the deepest recesses of my womanhood. I jerked and spasmed as a torrent of cunt cream exploded from my sated snatch. I gripped Jenny's shoulders and stared up into her gorgeous face, my entire body trembling as wave after wave of pussy jizz spewed from my cunt. "Oh fuck," I whimpered weakly. "Oh... fuck..."

Jenny drew out and rammed home once more, the latex dick buried to the base in my flowing vent. My body wrenched with another climax and my pussy erupted once again. The girl fell spent against my bare chest. I wrapped my arms around her naked back and held her as my body quivered from overstimulation. "Oh, baby," I mewed. "You are the best lover ever."

"I'm glad." Jenny raised herself up onto her elbows and smiled down at me. "Damn! Satisfying you is hard work."

"But I appreciate it very much." I kissed her hungrily, feeling the rubber tool still buried to the base inside my seeping snatch. "Let's take that apparatus off you so I can make love to you now."

Jennifer smiled and kissed me with mounting passion. "And you know, I appreciate that very much."

A few days later, I stood over the sink washing the dinner plates in the soapy water as my partner entered the kitchen. "I have to go out of town for a few days," Jenny announced. "Three days at the most."

"Where?"

"Las Vegas."

I turned to her with a startled expression. "Las Vegas! Why?"

"I'm meeting with an old friend who manages a warehouse. I've used him before when I headlined in Vegas a few years back."

"An old friend with a warehouse," I smiled. "How very cryptic."

"I need to make arrangements to have Firebird shipped to him for when we compete in the Greatest Illusionist contest. I know I can trust him to not let anyone see it or touch it until we come down for the show."

"I understand the need for secrecy and all that."

"I'm making this trip solo. I hope you don't mind."

"Of course not, darling. When are you leaving?"

"In the morning."

I rinsed a plate and set in the rack to dry. "Is there anything you want me to do while you're gone?"

"No. Stay here and relax. Go to a day spa and pamper yourself. Maybe go visit some friends you haven't seen in a while."

"I suppose I could do that. I could watch more game shows and get pointers on how to move and gesture for our act."

"Good idea." Jennifer crossed to me and wrapped her arm across my back. "I know we promised not to keep any secrets from each other, but this is a really big one. I can't let any other illusionists discover where I store my equipment. Magicians have to deal with professional thievery as much as anyone."

"Sounds very cloak and dagger."

"It is." Jennifer kissed me on the cheek. "Trust me this one time, okay?"

I forced a small smile. I didn't like the idea of her being away from me for three days. And the thought of Jennifer skulking around the back alleys and dark warehouses made me feel uneasy. But we promised to trust one another, and this was a test of my conviction. "Of course, sweetheart. You go and have a really nice time."

My friend gave me a bear hug from behind. "Thanks."

Jennifer paused from turning down her bedsheets and looked at me. I stood in the open doorway wearing a nearly transparent shawl that fell an inch below my crotch. Her eyes grew wide and her mouth fell agape in awe. "My God," she breathed, "I am continually amazed at how sexy you look."

I sauntered seductively toward her. "And I am amazed at how desirable you are." I rested my forearms on her shoulders and met her mouth with a hungry kiss.

Jenny smiled when I finally let her up for air. "What brought this on?"

"Seeing as you are going to be gone for a few days, I need to get my J. P. fix to tide me over for the duration." I slid her nightgown over her shoulders and down her arms. "In short, I am here to seduce you." I kissed her with growing passion as her top slipped off her arms and onto the floor. My hands roamed over her naked flesh. I couldn't believe how much I wanted to have sex with this woman, and how hot her bare body made me. "Let me make love to you."

"You'll hear no argument from me."

I eased her back toward the bed and guided her to lie upon the mattress. My hands roamed over her sensuous naked body and down to her tummy. The woman often wore panties to bed. I hooked my fingers under the elastic waistband and peeled them down her legs, tossing them aside. I placed my hands on her knees and squatted between her legs. Jennifer stared down her body at me as I pressed my mouth to her vagina. "Oh, Carla," she exhaled with desire. "What you do to me."

My tongue probed in and around the sensitive folds of her pussy. I discovered that I loved the taste of my partner's womanhood and the sensations of my tongue flicking over the soft fleshy folds. I pressed my mouth tighter to her cunt, probing ever deeper inside her.

Jennifer raked her fingers through my hair as I licked and sucked her into a state of pure unbridled lust. "God, yes," she panted, her chest heaving and body writhing atop the bed. "God, you are so good."

I caressed my hands over her thighs and around her tummy. My nose rubbed against the nub of her clitoris as my tongue lapped her warm damp pussy. I wanted to satisfy my partner, and I wanted to taste her sweet cunt juice in my mouth. Jenny began to twitch and spasm to my coital stimulation. She was definitely aroused, but I wanted her to get off. I licked and lapped harder and faster, willing the woman to cum in my mouth. A sharp gasp escaped her lips as her body jerked and released a flow of jizz onto my tongue. I licked in and around her wet pussy as she shuddered and came once more, then relaxed spent upon the bed.

I slowly moved above her, tenderly kissing every delicious inch of her sensuous flesh, up her abdomen and over her chest to her mouth. My lips met hers in a hungry savage kiss. At last, I raised myself up and let her catch her breath. "Feel better?" I leered.

"I feel wonderful," she sighed dreamily. "You are incredible."

"I just want you to remember what you have waiting here at home while you are away."

Jenny smiled warmly. "I know what I have, and honey, I truly do appreciate you."

"I'm glad." I kissed her lightly on the lips and moved to stand. "I'll let you get some sleep now."

"That won't be so easy," she chuckled softly. "Now that you got my motor started."

"In that case, darling," I mused, crossing to the bedroom door. I snapped off the light. "Time for bed."

"I told you; I don't think I will be able to get much sleep."

I sauntered seductively to the bed. "Who said anything about sleep?"

Early the next morning, I drove Jennifer to the airport. We hugged each other and bid our fond farewells, then she passed through the security gate and was gone. My heart sank the moment my partner disappeared from sight. I never knew being in love with someone could be so painful.

It was too early to invite my friend Sandy to lunch, so I stopped at a store to buy groceries and several bottles of wine before returning home.

The day crept slowly by. I hadn't realized how Jennifer had become such a big part of my life. I watched some television, read a magazine, and missed my lover terribly.

That evening, I sat on the couch with my feet up reading a trashy romance novel. Hot and steamy with plenty of raw sex; just the way I liked it. Only problem was that it was getting me horny, and me without my sexy lady lover to provide relief.

I glanced up at the sound of someone knocking on our front door. I set the book aside and rose to answer it.

I opened the door to find an extremely good-looking gentleman in an expensive dark suit holding a wine bottle in his left hand. He was about five foot ten with short dark curly hair and tanned skin. Tall dark and very handsome. It was as if the hero in my romance novel had come to life and was here to satisfy my carnal needs.

"May I help you?" I smiled, praying he wasn't lost and looking for another woman's apartment.

The man returned a puzzled expression. "Oh! I am so very sorry to disturb you. I must have the wrong address." Damn. And he had a trace of a French accent too. Very sexy. "I was looking for Jennifer Prescott."

"She lives here," I beamed brightly and offered my hand. "I'm her assistant, Carla Monroe."

My mystery man's face broke into a wide grin. "What a lovely assistant you must be!" He gave a formal bow. "It is indeed a pleasure to make your acquaintance, Miss Carla Monroe." He took my hand and kissed my knuckles. "Enchante."

I tried hard not to blush. "Won't you please come in, Mister --?"

"LeBeau," he said, entering the apartment. "Francois LeBeau."

"I am pleased to meet you Mister LeBeau." I closed the door behind us. I didn't want this handsome fellow escaping too soon, especially after my libido was activated from my steamy romance novel. "Are you and Jennifer old friends?"

"Old acquaintances," he commented, entering the living room. "She and I have not seen one another for quite some time."

"Well, I'm sorry to tell you that your timing is a little off. Jennifer is gone out of town for a few days."

Francois turned to me without expression. "A pity. I was hoping to do some catching up with her."

I moved closer to him. "As long as your here, you can catch up with me. I would love the company."

The man smiled warmly and I thought I would melt. God, he was handsome! "I brought a '69 Bordeaux for the occasion." He held up the bottle of wine in his hand. "A peace offering for my extended absence. I was hoping to share it with your friend, but it would be even nicer to share with a lovely lady such as you."

I smiled brightly. "I would love to." I accepted the bottle from him and turned for the kitchen. "Please make yourself at home, Mister LeBeau."

"Francois, if you please. My name sounds so much sweeter falling from the lips of a beautiful woman."

"What a charmer you are!" I giggled, rummaging through the drawer for a corkscrew. "Do ladies always fall for your silver tongue, Francois?"

"I assure you, it is not idle flattery, Miss Monroe."

"Carla."

"Carla. A true gentleman would never be insincere in his praise of a lovely woman."

"Well in that case, don't let me interrupt you from being a true gentleman."

I filled two glasses and joined my guest in the living room. He stood staring out the window at the night. "Here you go." He turned and accepted one of the glasses of wine from me. "A toast - to a true gentleman, come to rescue me from the doldrums and quiet boredom of an evening all by myself."

His dark eyes twinkled with delight. "To the pleasures found in unexpected surprises."

I clinked my glass to his. "I'll drink to that." I took a sip. Exquisite. The man certainly knew how to pick the right wine. "Would you care to sit down?" I offered.

"Yes. Thank you."

I alit on one end of the couch and Francois sat on the cushion beside me. "So how do you know Jennifer?" I asked.

"She and I go back many years," he said. "I knew her when she was just starting out in the business."

"Oh? Are you a magician too?"

LeBeau laughed with a playful grin. "Illusionist. And yes, I am. Jennifer and I have had a rivalry of sorts for many years. Always trying to outdo one another." He sipped his wine and regarded me thoughtfully. "I suppose that is a good thing in the end. It encourages us to strive to achieve higher goals. To continue to be better at what we do. One would not want to become complacent or stagnant. A certain level of competition keeps us sharp. Wouldn't you agree?"

I shrugged a shoulder. "I don't know a whole lot about the business. I'm still a novice."

"But you are her assistant, are you not?"

"Yes. But the only illusions I know anything about are the ones she performs. I haven't seen any other magicians -- I mean, illusionists, in action."

"I see."

Francois rested his arm along the back of the sofa, his hand lightly stroking my shoulder. "You are very delightful company, Carla Monroe."

"And you are a very handsome man, Francois. But I have to warn you, I'm already taken."

"Oh? I do not see a ring on your hand."

"It isn't official like that. I'm in love."

"Ah, love," he sighed dreamily, caressing my shoulder. "I have been in love many times."

"I can imagine, a handsome, smooth talker like you. I'll bet that French accent does wonders for getting ladies into your bedroom."

Francois smiled with amusement. "You suspect me of being quite the womanizer."

"Aren't you?"

"Perhaps a little."

"Oh?"

He chuckled and admitted, "Perhaps more than a little."

"I thought as much," I replied casually. I took a sip of my wine. "I'm not going to sleep with you, Francois."

"I am not asking you to. However, now that I have met you, I must say I am very pleased with Jennifer's choice in her assistant. You are a very lovely girl."

"Thank you."

"As you know, I am in the illusionist business as well, and I can use a lady like you in my stage act."

Aha, I nodded with a wry smile. That was what this visit was all about. Francois LeBeau heard Jennifer hired a new assistant and wanted to check me out. By hiring me away from her, he'd effectively sideline her in her having to find a replacement. "I'm perfectly content with Jennifer Prescott," I replied matter-of-factly. "But thanks for the offer anyway."

"I can make it worth your while," he responded without the slightest emotion. It was plainly obvious the man was used to getting whatever he wanted. "Let's say, triple what she is paying you?"

I didn't flinch. I was quite sure the offer would only last a week or two. Until he was certain Jennifer was in a fix. Then he would cut me loose and both Jennifer and I would be screwed. "It isn't a matter of money," I smiled cordially. "It's a matter of loyalty. Jennifer put her trust in me and I have no intention of betraying that trust. I appreciate the offer, but the answer is still no."

The man regarded me thoughtfully. "You must really care for her to be so loyal to her."

"Yes. I care for her a great deal."

"Indeed." He finished his drinks and rose to his feet. "I thank you for a very pleasant evening, Carla Monroe."

I rose and stood beside him. "The pleasure was all mine." I gave him a playful grin. "Too bad that the pleasure was not all yours."

LeBeau chuckled with genuine humor. "You are a very charming woman, Carla. If you should ever fall out of favor with Miss Prescott, you can always come join me as my assistant."

I offered a wry smile. "I can imagine one of the first tricks you would show me was how to make my clothes disappear."

The man laughed. "You cannot blame me too strongly. You are a very pretty woman, after all."

"Spoken like a true gentleman." I led him to the door. "I will be sure to tell Jennifer you stopped by. She'll be sorry she missed you."

"And I her." He paused. "May I be allowed to give you a kiss for good luck, Miss Monroe?"

I grinned at my guest. I had a pretty good idea that kiss would be intended as an invitation as a tour of the bedroom. "Why certainly, Mister LeBeau." I extended my arm and offered him the back of my hand. "Knock yourself out."

Francois chuckled and kissed the back of my hand. "A real charmer, this lady is."

"Consider this as simply one more way for you and Jennifer to share some friendly competition."

My guest smiled up from kissing my knuckles. "With you as the prize, Miss Monroe, I am certain I will not abandon the pursuit so easily." He nodded cordially and stepped to the door. "A pleasant evening to you, my dear."

"And to you too, Mister LeBeau."

He turned to me. "Francois, please."

I gave him a playful wink and a smile. "Of course. Toodle-oo!" I blew him a kiss and closed the door. I could hear him chuckling to himself as he walked away.

I laughed and shook my head as I crossed back to my wineglass. He started it. A man shouldn't set out to capture another woman's prize without facing a few challenges along the way. A little bit of friendly competition, as it were. I picked up my wine and the romance novel. I suppose I should retire to my room and relieve myself with visions of how sensuous and satisfying it would be if I had given in to Mister LeBeau's arduous advances. Not that I would ever consider the man's offer and hurt my darling Jennifer.

I snapped off the lights in the living room and headed off to bed, wondering if Jennifer truly realized what a lucky lady she was.

The next morning, Jennifer called me from Las Vegas. "Hello, Carla," she lilted brightly.

"Hello, lady!" I beamed into the phone. "How are things going?"

"Things are going great! I miss you, sweetie."

"Not as much as I miss you."

"I think we can call it an even tie."

"Are you accomplishing what you set out to do?"

"Very much so. I should wrap things up today and head back home sometime tomorrow."

"I'm getting all tingly, just thinking about what I am going to do to you when I get you alone in our bedroom."

The woman laughed over the phone. "Oh?"

"It involves naked bodies and lots of hot female sex."

"I can't wait."

"Neither can I."

"I'll call you when I get a flight so you can pick me up at the airport."

"Sounds like a plan."

"I'll see you tomorrow."

"Okay. I love you, honey-bunch."

"I love you too, Carla."

"Wait! Say that again."

Jennifer laughed. "I love you, Carla."

"You just made my day! Love you lots! Take care, honey."

"You too. Bye."

Shortly after seven that evening, my cell phone rang and I picked it up. It was my friend Sandy Fulton. "Hey, girlfriend!" I lilted happily. "What's up?"

"I was sitting home bored and all alone and was wondering what you were up to."

"Not a damn thing."

"What? Why?"

"Jennifer is out of town for a few days."

"Sorry to hear that."

"Me too."

"So, how is show business?"

"It's great!" I sat on the sofa and tucked my legs under me. "Jennifer is fantastic. She's a great friend and a wonderful -- " I hesitated.

After a moment of silence, Sandy asked. "A wonderful lover?"

"Well... yes. Jenny's a fantastic bed partner."

"Good for you. And for her."

"Thanks. You know, I was never into women until I met her. We share everything and have become very close. Jennifer is very secretive about her act and she worries that someone will discover her illusions and steal them from her. As a result, she and I spend a lot of time in each other's company. We work and live together, but we have plenty of sex to make up for not having any relationships with other people. Having another boyfriend or girlfriend may prove to be too much of a distraction, you might say."

"Well, at least one of us is getting some."

"Not for a few days."

"Days! Try going without it for months!"

"I've been exactly where you are, Sands. But for me, the dry spell is over. And now that I've gotten some, I crave it more than ever. Here I am, sitting here drinking wine all by my lonesome and getting horny as hell."

"Where is your lady friend now?"

"Jennifer is out of town. So here I am, bored and drunk."

"Awww, you poor baby," Sandy pouted into the phone. "But I'm not one to talk. Hell, I'm horny and frustrated most of the time anyway."

"Why don't you come over and we can commiserate together?"

"That won't help my horniness."

"Perhaps I can help you with that as well."

"Wait! What?"

"I now have a lady lover. She taught me a few things about how to satisfy a woman in bed."

"I'm totally sure!" Sandy laughed. There was a moment of silence over the phone. "Hold on. Are you suggesting we get it on together?"

"Only if you want to. We're both hot and horny and it would be a shame for the two of us to suffer needlessly."

Sandy hesitated. I think she was taking another healthy gulp of booze. "So how does this work exactly?"

"You mean, lesbian love?"

"Yeah."

"A lot of kissing and licking and fondling. A warm naked body, kissing and groping and probing -- "

"Whoa! Stop there! I told you I'm already horny. You're not helping matters."

"Why don't you come on over and let mommy take care of you?"

Sandy laughed. "You're shitting me!"

"No, I'm not. Jenny has been gone for a couple days and I'm all alone. I've had a half a bottle of wine and I started reading a steamy novel, so I'm getting horny as hell. I could use the company and the relief of pent-up sexual tension."

My friend giggled into the phone. "Such a wild woman you are!"

"Seriously, if you take an Uber or a taxi over here, we can find a solution for our mutual frustration."

"I think I'm drunk enough, so I might just consider it."

I expelled my breath in a loud guffaw. "Are you saying the only way you'd have sex with me is if you were drunk off your ass?"

Sandy laughed. "That isn't it. You're the most beautiful woman I know, and sexy as hell. It's just that I never thought of doing it with you or any other woman before."

"Before? You mean you're considering it now?"

Sandy laughed again. "You know what I mean!"

I thought for a moment. "Do you close your eyes when you kiss someone?"

"Well, yeah. I guess so."

"Then it wouldn't matter if the person was a man or a woman."

"I suppose not."

"And if you felt hands on your body, touching you all over..."

"You better stop now," Sandy giggled. "I really am getting horny listening to your naughty talk and imagining you having sex with your lady roomie."

"All I'm saying is; there's no point in both of us sitting around feeling frustrated and bored. As long as you keep your eyes closed or we turn the lights off, what does it matter whether your partner is a female or not?"

Sandy hesitated a long time. "I can't believe I'm actually considering this."

"I never thought about it before I met Jennifer. I mean, doing the wild thing with a chick was not one of my sexual fantasies. But I can tell you it is definitely better than any sex I ever had with a man. Making love with Jennifer is sometimes romantic and tender and sweet, but it can be wild with animal savage passion too."

Sandy laughed. "All right! You sold me! God, I can't believe I'm actually doing this! It must be the booze talking."

"Tell you what; take a cab over here and we'll get drunk together. If it progresses to sex, that's up to you. I don't want to force you into anything you aren't ready for. In fact, it was the same way with Jennifer and me that first time. She didn't try to seduce me. She let me choose if I was ready for it."

"All right, I'll be right over. Do I need to bring any booze? If we're going to do this, I need plenty of alcohol in my system."

I grinned into the phone. "I don't know if I should be excited or insulted."

Sandy laughed. "I'll be there in a bit with a bottle in each hand. And if you rape me, I swear I won't enjoy the first half hour of it."

"Fair enough. I'll uncork a nice Cabernet. I know you have no resistance after a glass or two of that."

"What an evil woman you are! I'll be right over! Love you, Car."

"Love you too, honey."

I hung up the phone and sat on the couch sipping my wine. This should be interesting. I always thought Sandy was a lovely black girl with a nice figure. But now that I think about it, she can be pretty sexy as well. I'll bet she's a real animal in bed once she gets going. Maybe I should change into one of my skimpy magic act costumes to help persuade her.

I rose to my feet and sauntered to the bedroom. I'll wear a sexy red sequined number baring plenty of skin. What woman can resist that? After a glass or two of wine I'll caress my fingers along her arm and accidentally brush against her titties. Oops! Pardon me! What's that? You say you like that? Here, let me touch you some more.

My heart began to flutter with excitement as I fantasized about getting laid with my dear friend. This night would be a night neither one of us would soon forget.