An Idol with Feet of Clay

(Author's note: No characters under 18. All Rights reserved.)

An Idol With Feet of Clay

William Rogers

I first met Janet Willis and Walter Carmichael when we were all three freshman in high school. Soon we became best friends. We became known as The Three Musketeers, because we were always together. Even in high school we were computer geeks. All three of us loved video games and that was our major recreation both in high school and college. I felt like I won the most games, but Janet and Wally dominated some of the games we played.

When we were sophomores I started dating Janet. I was a little worried that our relationships with Wally might suffer, but it didn't seem to bother any of us. Janet didn't develop much of a figure until we were juniors. At that point her 35C-23-34 figure began to be noticed by male classmates and upper classmen, but Janet remained true to me. We both lost our cherries on the night of our junior year Junior-Senior Prom.

We all three went to the same university and majored in computer science and management information systems. Janet and I became engaged the summer after our sophomore years and were married the week after graduation. Even in college we were inseparable because all three of us were taking the same courses. We even rented a three-bedroom apartment together, although we used the third bedroom as a guest room-study hall. After college we all got jobs with an accounting software production company called Dugan Software, Inc. It was a small company and most employees called the CEO, James Dugan, Jimmy.

The programming staff was only ten professionals divided into Development and Maintenance sections. After a few months when a programmer needed help they would all come to me first, Janet second, and Wally third. It created a little tension with the section supervisors but the bottom line for seekers of help that the three of us were more likely to be of assistance than the section supervisors.

The three of us had been working at Dugan Software for about eighteen months when we were called into a meeting with Jimmy on a Thursday morning almost two weeks before Christmas. Jimmy wanted the three of us to help him close a major deal for the marketing of our software by a major force in the industry, Big Sky Computing.

The four of us were to be the Dugan team, snubbing the two section supervisors. The legendary founder and CEO of Big Sky, Roland Masterson, and his accounting supervisor, Ellen Nichols, were the client representatives. The three of us were in awe of one of the greatest names of the industry. Roland Masterson had started from scratch in college writing gaming programs and selling them retail from his dorm room. By the time he graduated from college he was having seven-figure sales, each year. It seemed that, although the industry was growing rapidly, Big Sky was growing even faster. Now in its twentieth year, Big Sky now had ten-figure annual sales

Our meetings started at ten on a mid-December Friday and continued until the six of us went to lunch. Throughout the meeting, I answered most of the questions and concerns of the Big Sky reps. Janet answered fewer questions but only offered comments on the parts of the software that she was very familiar and Wally followed the same approach but had fewer questions in the areas with which he was most familiar.

At lunch I sat beside Janet and I noticed that Rollie sat on the other side of Janet. On the other side of the table, Elly sat between Wally and Jimmy, which put Jimmy across the table from Rollie. It seemed to me that Jimmy and I were largely shut out of the conversation between Rollie and Janet. It seemed to be about fifty percent about our software and the other fifty percent was flirting between the two of them.

We resumed the meeting after lunch and finished up around three without a firm commitment. Big Sky would represent us with the major retail outlets in the industry. Jimmy invited the Big Sky reps to our Christmas party which was coincidentally that night.

Rollie and Elly seemed to be at loose ends for the hours from the end of our meeting and the start of the Christmas party. Wally suggested that they come workout with us. The three of us knew that we needed more exercise than what we were getting in college so we had taken PE courses. After college, we joined a fitness club and conscientiously worked out at least three times a week. With Jimmy's acquiescence the three of us took off early and agreed to meet Rollie and Elly at four at the fitness club.

We asked for some expert assistance at the club and two trainers joined the five of us for the first thirty or forty minutes. It seemed that most of Janet's and Rollie's interactions were with each other. Interestingly enough, Wally seemed to be trying to flirt with Elly, while she was paying a lot of attention to me. The five of us left the club about five thirty and Janet and I went home to dress for the party.

I asked Janet, "Honey, didn't it seem to you that Rollie was coming on to you?"

She replied, "We were flirting with each other a bit. Jimmie asked me to be nice to him, but I wasn't clear on what he meant by that."

Janet

I had idolized Rollie Masterson since high school. It did seem that he was interested in me. I was somewhat conflicted. I was a married woman. I knew that if anything happened Billy would be unhappy, even angry. On the other hand, Jimmy had asked me to be nice to Rollie without defining 'nice.' It was easy to be 'nice' to Rollie because he was a very attractive man. I enjoyed the flirting and other interactions with him, but I would never cheat on Billy, no matter how nice Rollie was. I didn't see anything wrong with being nice to Rollie so long as it didn't go to far. Besides, that bitch, Elly seemed to be hitting on my Billy.

Billy was right. Rollie was hitting on me. I was lightly flirting with him. Some of his innuendos were more than light. Anyway, it wasn't going anywhere. Just like I knew Elly would be better served by paying some attention to Wally rather than Billy.

Jimmy

Billy was the best systems analyst I had ever seen. I decided that I was going to create a new position of Chief Technology Officer. The CTO would be responsible for the programmers and the programming support staff. They would continue to report to line supervisors, but the line supervisors would now report to the CTO. I decided to hold off until the first where the first task of my CTO would be to hire two or three more programmers. Not only did he deserve promotion, but his wife, Janet, was almost as good an analyst as he was and she was a lot more attractive.

I didn't like leaving the contact with Big Sky in the hands of my programmers, but my wife, Mary, and I wanted this year's Christmas party to be the best ever. I hoped I would be able to spend some productive time with the Big Sky reps at the party, but I also needed to glad hand my many loyal and productive employees.

Rollie

I had to have her. Very soon after I met her I was attracted to her intelligence and personality, in addition to her scintillating. I planned to act as if a liaison between Elly and Billy was a done deal. The clincher would be spending time with one of the industry and leaders and getting a nice all-over tan on a private island in the Gulf.

I discussed my plan with Elly and she agreed to putting some moves on the husband. Elly was the best PA/paramour that a man could ask for. She changed roles quickly and easily. I had no doubt that she would be completely successful in her quest to distract a willing husband from what was happening to his wife.

Elly

It just seemed to me like good fun. I thought Billy was a fine programmer and good-looking as well. It was no punishment to come on to such a handsome man. I knew Rollie was going to make a play for Miss Perfect Programmer and his combination of charm, good looks, and fame was unlikely to fail. He almost always got what he wanted. I'm sure I could dance away with the husband at this shindig or Christmas party or whatever it was that Dugan was providing for its employees.

Billy

Janet and I had thoroughly enjoyed the first Christmas party. I was hoping that the shenanigans from Rollie and Elly would not prevent us from enjoying the second. It was becoming obvious that Rollie had his eye on my loving wife. Elly was supposed to distract me from what Rollie was doing with Janet.

Janet looked fantastic. She had bought a sexy ensemble just for this party. In some ways she had a split personality. She was an excellent programmer/systems analyst, and she had a very sexy model-type body. She epitomized the concept of brains and beauty. Only I knew what a passionate lover she was and I certainly intended to keep it that way.

Normally, I wouldn't be concerned about a party. Janet and I would mingle and then return to each other, then mingling some more, but always going home together. We both liked to dance although I think Janet enjoyed it even more than I did.

The fly in the ointment this year was that Rollie and Elly would be there. I knew I could withstand Elly's proffered charms; usually, I would have no concerns about Janet and whomsoever; however, throughout our meetings with the Big Sky reps Janet had seemed somewhat engaged and even flattered with the massive flirtation campaign being executed by Rollie. I had to think that she might not be completely immune to Rollie's blandishments. She seemed to be off her usual pattern of periodically returning to me and not concentrating on any one of the many guys enjoying her company.

I hoped my worries were for naught, but I felt like the behaviors of Janet, Rollie, and Elly had forewarned me troubled waters might lie ahead. Janet had spared no effort and she looked incredible. Sure I loved her with all my heart, but objectively she was a very beautiful woman. We were both a little quiet on the drive to the party venue. I knew I had a bit of concern that Janet would be tempted by Rollie's easy manner. I hoped Janet's quiet was not due to anticipation of seeing her potential lover at the party.

Once we were there, I began to feel that my concerns were well-founded. We greeted Jimmy and Mary. Then Janet went to find us a place to sit, while I went to the nearest open bar to get our initial drinks. By the time I got back to Janet, she was standing and preparing for her first dance with Rollie. She took a sip and asked if she could dance with Rollie, I had no choice but to acquiesce. By my second sip, Elly was asking me for a dance. I danced two dances with her and returned to our table to wait for Janet's return with Elly tagging along. I got her a drink and returned again to find no Janet. When the fourth number started I decided I needed to know where my wife was. I finally located her and Rollie. It was a slow number and Rollie had each hand on a buttock while she had her hands wrapped around his neck. Their lips were almost touching as they apparently conversed.

I reached their vicinity as the music was on its last chorus. Rollie gave me a smirk. As the music stopped, I stepped in and asked, "Do you mind if I borrow my wife. We haven't danced yet. The next number was a fast number giving us little chance for conversation. I think Janet could tell I wasn't quite in my usual party mode. When the song ended, I took her by the arm and guided her back to our table. Elly was sitting there alone. Janet noting my empty glass suggested that I get myself and Elly refills while she sipped her almost untouched drink. I hurried to the bar and returned with my and Elly's drinks to see Janet returning to the dance floor, arm in arm with Rollie. I decided to sit out one dance and then attempt to retrieve my very popular wife.

Elly said, "You know Rollie and Janet make a nice couple."

I replied, "I noticed that!"

Elly continued, "They're just dancing."

I responded, "Oh, is that all? It looks to me like they're trying to do the horizontal mambo vertically."

She chuckled, "That's a good one! I wouldn't worry if I were you. Janet loves you and will always come back to you."

I said, "In hours, days, weeks, months, or years?"

She took my question seriously, "Billy, the worst case is a couple of days.""

I replied, "Seriously. I thought a night of passion would be enough for both."

She said, "He has done this before. He has an incredible success rate. He usually takes them somewhere exotic for the weekend of a lifetime. Worst case would be early Monday morning, but it'll probably be Sunday afternoon."

I inquired, "You're talking about it like it's a done deal."

She explained, "He's really good. He will do this. He'll make sure you and Janet get full credit when the deal closes Monday. He'll sign it. He always makes sure the husband gets something out of it."

I said, "Thanks, but no thanks. I really don't want any favors from him. We have a great product. If he doesn't want to market it - that's on him!"

Elly was not happy with my response. She went over and talked to Jimmy while Janet and Rollie only danced more intimately. In a few minutes Jimmy came over to me.

He opened with, "Are you enjoying the party?"

I replied, "Actually, not. You see there is this guy trying to put the make on my wife. I'm not enjoying that at all."

Jimmy asked, "Is it really that bad? You can tell that Janet isn't complaining. I'd like to have Big Sky as a marketing agent. They could increase our market penetration dramatically. It would likely result in a major expansion of Dugan, including lots of promotions and pay increases. You would be in line for a much bigger role in management of our software production."

I inquired, "Jimmy, am I hearing that you're willing for my wife to be the key to company expansion by closing the deal on her back. That doesn't sound like the Jimmy Dugan I've been working with for the last few years."

He responded, "Billy, I would never ask Janet to do something like that; however, I am not opposed to reaping the benefits if she wants to enjoy some time with a major business partner."

I said, "Jimmy, it seems to me like choosing sides. I don't think you can be neutral on this. You're either on Rollie's side or my side. Which is it?"

Jimmy explained, "Ok, Billy, I hoped you wouldn't be difficult but maybe I needed a push in the right direction. Having you as an employee, is more important than a good Big Sky marketing deal. I also have to tell you that you'll be getting a good promotion and a pay increase after the first. I also have to state that the promotion will likely mean more, and the pay increase will be larger if we close the deal with Rollie. I can tell you're upset about Rollie's interest in Janet. What do you want me to do?"

I told him, "I hope I am man enough to handle this. All I ask from you is that you don't aid and abet Rollie where Janet is concerned."

He stated, "That's easy enough. I'll be strictly hands off."

I said, "Thanks, Jimmy!" and immediately began looking for the couple that I was trying to break up.

That was not easy. After carefully searching the dance venue, I decided to head for the parking lot, although I didn't think Janet would allow herself to be led out to the parking lot. Wrong! I was still about a hundred feet from the parking lot exit when who should come strolling in but Rollie and Janet. To complicate matters further, Elly grabbed my arm and asked me to dance with her. I told her, "No, so far tonight, I've only had one dance with Janet. We have a lot of catching up to do."

Janet was looking a little less neat than when we arrived at the party. Not messed up as in after sex, but definitely the condition of her hair, lipstick, and makeup suggested a make out session.

I told the pair of them, "I've only had one dance tonight with my wife, I'd like to try to rectify that."

Janet stepped up into my arms. However, there did seem to be a little bit of reluctance. Before I could question her, she asked me, "Have you been enjoying your time with Elly?"

I replied, "Elly is a fine woman, both intelligent and beautiful. However, I'm not in love with her, or even in lust with her. You're the only woman for me."

She continued, "Still, you must find her attractive."

I responded, "Janet, she doesn't hold a candle to you in my world. However, you seem to be somewhat interested in Rollie. What were you doing on the parking lot with him?"

She explained, "He was showing me some of the features of his limo. It really is a fantastic vehicle."

I inquired, "I suspect his private plane is even more tricked out."

She admitted, "It probably is, although it's not his plane. The plane he and Elly flew in on belongs to Big Sky."

I continued interrogating her, "Rollie is Big Sky. Back to the parking lot: Were you more interested in Rollie or his limo?"

She replied, "Of course, I'm more interested in Rollie than his limo. I can't believe you have no interest in a woman as attractive as Elly. She's smart, too."

I explained, "If I were single I would probably be begging for her phone number. However, I'm married to a pretty wonderful woman, and why should I settle for hamburger when I can have steak every night?"

She responded, "You don't think a different kind of steak might be a nice change of pace? Maybe a T-bone instead of a sirloin?"

I said, "Janet, you knew when I married you. I'm a one-woman man. I have always thought you were a one-man woman!"

She told me, "Normally, I might prefer a sirloin to a T-bone, but if the T-bone was cooked perfectly with shrimp, mushrooms and caramelized onions, I might want a taste of the T-bone."

I was beginning to get desperate. I didn't believe she realized what was at stake here. "Janet, I only want you. Elly's a very attractive woman and I'm sure, quite skilled in the bedroom. It's you that I love and I hope you're my woman, my only woman."

It seemed that I wasn't accomplishing what I had hoped. Rollie came over to us. He smiled at Janet, stuck his hand out, inviting her to frolic once more on the dance floor. I was disappointed to see her give him a big smile and offer him her hand, which he quickly took, leading her back to the dance floor. I was stunned. Elly took that opportunity to accost me, saying "It looks like you don't have a partner for this song. Please allow me to fill that gap."

Although challenging I figured that I could dance and think. So I danced the next two dances while trying to figure out my next step. It took one dance to get over my anger at both Rollie and Janet. I figured my anger was about to break ten on a ten-point scale. I wasn't sure if I was angrier at Rollie for tempting her, or Janet for seeming to lean his way. I decided that I would grab Janet and demand that she go home with me. When the music stopped I thanked Elly for the dance and turned toward where I thought Janet and the pompous asshole were.

They weren't there. I then spotted them leaving by the parking lot exit. I hurried after them, but they quickly climbed into Rollie's waiting limo and were gone. By the time I got to my car, their taillights had vanished. I thought they were most likely headed for the airport. But I had no idea which terminal or hangar. There were many hangars and even several civil aviation terminals. I had no idea which one. I tried to catch them by going after them with my car, but I never caught sight of the rather distinctive limo taillights.

I didn't know what to do. I didn't know what I could do. I called Wally. He told me that Jimmy was looking for me. I called Jimmy. Jimmy wanted me to come back and talk to him and Wally. I considered them both to be my friends although I was a little uncertain about Jimmy. Wally, Jimmy, and Elly were waiting for me. My thoughts were, "Oh, shit!" I was afraid that Elly had not only turned Jimmy but possibly Wally, as well. No, not Wally. That was paranoia. The four of us sat on the steps between the parking lot and the party venue.

Jimmy spoke first, "Billy, I'm sorry to tell you this, but Janet and Rollie are a done deal. You can try to call her but Rollie will have convinced her that you are with Elly and she should just turn her phone off. Unless you've got an F-18, there's literally nothing you can do. I know this is upsetting to you, and I'm sorry about that."

Next up was Elly. "There's nothing you can do as far as Janet is concerned but wait for Sunday afternoon when she'll return to being your faithful wife. In the meantime, I will be happy to make your next two nights a little less lonely. I know you consider me a poor second to Janet, but I'm not chipped beef."

The only one here I really trusted was Wally. His comment was, "This really sucks big time. If we can figure out where they went, we might be able to break up their little party. Unfortunately, I suspect most of the damage will have already been done."

I replied, "Too true, Wally. I really loved that woman. I guess the song in Porgy and Bess is true. A woman is a sometime thing."

Elly said, "Please don't be sad, Billy! I can promise you, Janet is having a wonderful time! She'll come back to you better than ever. You should be glad for her."

I was ready to cry. Something that hadn't happened to me when Janet was with me nor for years before that.

Elly continued, "It's only two nights. Then it'll be like before. I'm sure she will be even better. Come with me, I'll help you pass the time until she gets back."

I said, "I don't see how it could ever be as good as it was. I'll be wondering is she thinking of me or Rollie"

Wally said, "I know how much you love Janet. If Janet knew how much you're hurting, she would be heading back already."

Elly added, "I'm sure that Rollie convinced her that you were happy to be with me. That's the way it usually works. You have a couple of nights with me. She has a couple of nights with Rollie. You get back together and things are even better than before. Really, you could be enjoying me for the next forty-eight hours. I guarantee that you will enjoy me, even I'm not quite as good as Janet."

I explained, "For me, no one was as good as Janet was."

Elly asked, "What do you mean, 'was?'"

I replied, "After this, I don't want her back. You guys need to excuse me. I've got things to do!"

Wally interjected, "Billy, outside of Janet, I think I'm your best friend. Don't do anything you'll regret later. At least sleep on it, before you do anything."

Jimmy added, "Wally's right on. I know how close you and Janet are. I'm absolutely certain that for this is nothing more than a minor bump in the road for you guys. I can tell you're hurting. I'm sure that that was never Janet's intention."

Elly changed her tone, "Billy, I am so sorry. Rollie and I have both misread you. I'm really worried about you. Someone needs to stay with you tonight. I'll stay with you but I'll sleep in a different room."

Wally made a similar offer, "If you'd rather I stayed with you. I will. Elly's right. Someone needs to stay with you tonight."

I decided, "I'm sorry, Elly, but I've known Wally a lot longer. I'll let him sleep on my couch. Well, Wally, you've been my friend for a long time. I guess you rate the guest room."

Jimmy commented, "I'm glad that's settled. Again, Billy, please don't do anything that you might be sorry for later."

I concluded, "Thanks, all of you, for your concern. Let's go, Wally!"

Elly

After Billy and Wally left, I called Rollie. I told him Billy is talking like he and Janet are over. He told me, "That's an unusual reaction, but it's happened before. I'm glad I took her cell phone. Janet is a very accomplished woman. She'll bring him back in line when she comes back."

I wasn't sure about that. Billy seemed different than any of the other husbands Rollie had cuckolded. I wasn't used to any man being completely disinterested in me.

Billy

Because of what every one had said, including Wally, I decided to sleep on the plan that was already germinating in my mind. I felt like Janet's betrayal was too serious for me not to react. I think worse than her infidelity was the lack of respect she had shown me. By Monday, everyone at Dugan would know that she had left the party with the asshole, even the people who hadn't attended the party. Janet and I were through. My biggest question was whether I was through at Dugan. I didn't think I could stand the looks of pity from my coworkers. Janet would probably be angry and bitter. I didn't want to deal with that, either. I knew I was through at Dugan and with Janet, as well. I didn't want to work with any more with the asshole or his company, either. I considered him even more responsible for this disaster than Janet. He was the one that set things up so Rollie could do his Thinking it through I decided it was time to change my domicile. I didn't want to be constantly running into any of my former coworkers, including especially Janet, and even Jimmy. Even though I didn't ask him to do any more, he should have had my back on this one. I didn't expect to change any of my decisions but I wouldn't start implementing them until tomorrow as I had given my word to sleep on it. I would also discuss them tomorrow with Wally before doing anything. He could be a big help if he was willing. In this whole disaster, the only one I wanted any future contact with was Wally.

Elly

What had gone wrong? I decided I needed to give my assessment of the situation here to Rollie. This would not be a fun call. I would have to wait until he landed. I actually didn't know where he was taking Janet, but I knew it wouldn't be much more than six hours away. I called him at about six am local time. Rollie answered immediately.

I asked, "How's it going, boss?"

He replied, "It couldn't be better. She is a fantastic lay. We did it on the plane. As soon as we got to the house, she was ready to go again. She was very enthusiastic. I might want to come to next year's Christmas party, as well. How's hubby doing? He must be pretty good in the sack, too."

I admitted, "He's being difficult. He promised he wouldn't do anything until he'd slept on it. I'm planning to make another pass at him in a couple of hours. I'm concerned that he's not knuckling under like your previous cucky boys."

Rollie responded, "I actually like him. I was looking forward to working with him. I'm not going to tell Janet that he's being troublesome until after you've made another run at him in the morning. Do you think he'll actually try to burn the house down."

I told him the truth, "He's considering it. He promised not to do anything until he'd slept on it. I have to say that I am concerned, although I will do my utmost to convince him to play ball."

He explained, "I'm disappointed in how things are going. I don't blame you. I know you're giving it your best shot. I just didn't realize what a hot head hubby was. Concentrate on at least not doing anything rash until Janet gets back. If you can't do that, our last defense will be to get Janet to talk to him. She loves him even though I've been enjoying the depth of her passion. She really is a fantastic lay. I'll let you go. Are Jimmy and Wally being any help?"

I told him, "Jimmy is sympathetic to Billy but wants him to not torch Janet. Wally is even stronger over for Billy, but he is an ally, because he thinks the worst outcome for both Billy and Janet is for Billy to blow their marriage up. Billy feels like we've embarrassed him in front of the whole company. If he goes off which is a real possibility, he may blow off Dugan as well."

I replied, "That's my assessment, too. I'm sorry I haven't been able to do more with him. Worst of all, I like him! It would be a pleasure to do him. I'll do my best to at least minimize the damage here. I wish I was more optimistic about the outcome."

He responded, "I know you've done your best, and your best is pretty damn formidable. All I can ask is that you do your best and keep me informed. Thanks for your effort."

I rung off with, "Thank you, boss! Bye now!"

I called Wally, "Wally, could you do a big favor for me?"

He replied, "Hello, Elly! What's up?"

I told him, "Could you call me when Billy wakes up. I'd like to talk to him one more time before he does anything irreversible."

He responded, "Will do! I don't agree with your motives, but I agree with your objectives. I don't think Janet deserves wine and roses, but I think it will make both of them very unhappy if they go splitsville."

I told him, "Thanks, Wally. Bye for now!"

He said goodbye and hung up.

Three hours later he told me that Billy was up and fixing breakfast. I hurried over to Billy's place. Wally had told me his address.

I rung the doorbell, and Billy answered. He told me, "I've already decided what I'm going to do."

I asked him, "Please do me the courtesy of at least telling me what you have decided."

He invited me in and for breakfast. I quickly accepted. We soon sat down to French toast and bacon.

I inquired, "What are you planning to do?"

He quickly told me, "I'm planning on leaving town after I talk to Janet, provided she shows up Sunday afternoon. In this way I leave Janet, my coworkers, and this town behind. Jimmy already offered me a promotion and a salary increase, which changes nothing. Although I don't think she necessarily deserves it, I plan to do the best I can in giving her closure. She needs to understand that there is no coming back together after what she did."

I told him, "Billy, you realize you're going to break her heart."

Billy replied, "She's already broken mine, in addition to embarrassing me in front of the whole company. The three hallmarks of a marital relationship are fidelity, trust, and respect. I no longer trust her to do the right thing. She's probably already practiced infidelity, and she clearly has disrespected me in just about the most embarrassing way possible. It will likely take great restraint on my part to not give her the treatment she deserves."

I asked, "Billy, don't you love her?"

He responded, "I used to, but not anymore. She has just plain hurt me too much." A few tears fell. "Before last night I would have bet a million dollars she would never pull a stunt like this."

I inquired, "How long have you two been together?"

He replied, "We've been friends for ten years, lovers for eight years, and married for two years. I wouldn't have believed that she'd do me this way, unless I saw it for myself. How could she?"

I said, "She's been with you a long time. Do you really want to throw that away?"

He explained, "It's Janet that threw it away."

I defended Janet, "Rollie thought you would be with me. I'm sure that he convinced Janet that you were okay with what she was doing because you were with me."

He replied, "I can't believe that Janet would think that poorly of me."

I told him, "It's not that. She believed you both were having a fling, and Monday everyone would be back together, including Rollie and me. I wanted you and I never thought for a minute that you would turn me down. I'm sure Rollie thought the same thing. Please try not to judge Janet too harshly. She thought that you and she were going on similar adventures. I know Rollie very well, and I know Janet a little, and I don't believe either of them would have gone off on this adventure without believing that you and I were doing something similar."

He said, "I agreed to wait until Janet came back to respond to her stepping out on me. But that's all that I promised. Wally and I are still packing my stuff up, because I don't want to stay around if we don't reconcile. If we reconcile, Wally and I can put everything back in a few hours."

I explained, "I'd like to hang out until Rollie and Janet come back. I know that you're a man of your word, so if I can, I will help you pack. I'll even make a beer run, if that's desired."

Janet

I saw Billy and Elly dancing close together, and so I was glad to hear from Rollie that Billy was on board with the plan of both of us having weekend flings before we returned to married life and went back to work Monday morning. Rollie was taking me to his own private island near Sarasota. He asked me to leave my phone in the limo as part of the fun of going to an island retreat was no intrusions from the outside world. When I told him I had nothing to wear as I certainly didn't want to spend the weekend in my cocktail dress, he assured me we would find something in a store on the way to the island. After he calmed me down from my excitement and uncertainties, he showed me the bedroom and we began to make out. Ever since the first couple of dances at the party I had been horny for Rollie. Now flying with him to his private Gulf island was adding fuel to the flame. I was a little embarrassed that my panties were soaked when he pulled them off. At least a major portion of my panties were dripping wet. After a few minutes of making out with fewer and fewer clothes I was getting unbearably hot. I wanted him inside me. When I noticed that he was both longer and thicker than Billy, I wanted him even more although I was a little concerned about whether that would make his entry painful. Billy is seven-and-a-half inches long and about two inches in diameter. It looked to me like Rollie was close or maybe a bit longer than nine inches and around two and a half inches in diameter. His penetration didn't hurt. I just felt fantastic to be so full and when he began the sliding in and out, it was beyond stimulating. A tight pussy not only feels better to a guy. It feels better for us girls, as well. Rollie not only felt better but his technique made clear that this was his first rodeo. I suspected it was more like his twenty-fifth at least.

I loved Billy, but Rollie was not only bigger, but he had superlative technique. By the time we finished our first engagement I was fully in lust. I must have come between ten and fifteen times and they were mostly big ones. Unfortunately my desire was greater after our first event than before. I now had no trouble wanking him with my hands and even my mouth. As soon as he was hard, I was climbing on top and fucking my brains out. I loved fucking his cock. After another double digit climax session I was still a bit horny but at least the edge was off a little.

Rollie suggested we have a drink. I wanted to at least put my undies on but he said, the only other people on the plane were trusted employees so neither of us need to be hindered by clothing. The stewardess also prepared some snacks for us. Assortments of fruits, cheeses, and crackers. After watching the Mississippi River pass below us, we returned to the bedroom and he did me again. I was really getting used to his cock and loving it. Again, I wasn't counting, but looking back in retrospect, I am sure that our third effort resulted in my cumming double digit times, at the very least!

Rollie took me to a window and we were flying over the Gulf. As we approached Sarasota-Bradenton Airport, he pointed out his island. To go through the civil aviation terminal he allowed me to put my cocktail dress on but with no underwear. The helicopter that would take us to his island then took us to an all-night boutique clothing store where he bought me a sun dress, jeans with wrap-around blouse, and a very small bikini, as well as some very exciting underwear. He even bought me a small suitcase for my extra clothing. The helicopter then picked us up for the ride to his island.

As soon as we were at his island 'cabin,' which was, in reality, a small mansion, he asked me to take my clothes off. We went to bed. Apparently he wanted to demonstrate his control, as he fucked me for about forty-five minutes and to an unknowable number of climaxes - I just know that it was many. We kissed and tongued and soon we were doing it again. This time he only fucked me for about thirty minutes before spurting semen on the walls of my vagi. Without either of us dressing we walked through the house and onto a sunshiny patio. I had never felt so wonderful. The world was my oyster and had just had my fill.

We then had brunch served to us by fully clothed servants, even though we were nude. After brunch we walked to a nearby beach. Rollie pulled a blanket from a large wooden chest, apparently always on the beach. We sunned for a while. Then we took a dip in the Gulf surf. We played and splashed for a while. That was enough stimulation for us to make out and then fuck some more. I can't remember ever fucking outdoors before and certainly not in broad daylight. I enjoyed it thoroughly. Frankly, Rollie fucked the shit out of me. I knew this was an experience I would like to repeat many times with Billy. Afterward, we returned to the 'cabin' and showered. Then we returned to his bed. I was starting to get a little sore, but I still thoroughly enjoyed being banged. After that we took short naps. Of course, Rollie followed that up with another sex session. I had never ever been fucked so thoroughly. Then it was time for dinner.

The brunch had been very nice. Dinner was beyond fantastic. The meal consisted of a salad and biscuits as the first course. The second course was the main course, and it included an entrée of steak with mushrooms, caramelized onions, and grilled shrimp. The side dishes were baked potato and asparagus. It was a very nice combination. Our desert was cream Brule, which was beyond heavenly. We then went into a living area that had a large window looking out onto the Gulf. We had after dinner drinks and watched an adventure movie. We screwed on the sofa cushions spread on the floor. We then watched another movie while we cuddled and kissed. After that we went to the bedroom where we made out for a while before trying to fuck each other's brains out.

When I woke up in the morning, I wanted to call Billy and find out if he was having as much fun as I was. I guess that was the only time I missed my cell phone while on the island.

Rollie woke up soon after that and we went at each other like big cata after prey. Again, Rollie did a very good job of giving me a good reaming. I felt like I was in a dream-like state. It would be fun to discuss with Billy, the adventures that we were having. We had a brunch similar to the day before. We fucked ourselves almost to comatose states, and then I had to put my clothes on for the helicopter ride to the airport. Back on the plane we fucked our way through three more sessions. I was feeling utterly fantastic. I was starting to think of Billie and hoped he had enjoyed our time apart as much as I had.

I told Rollie that if I wasn't starting to miss Billy, I would be begging him for another day or two together. I was surprised when Rollie got the most serious look I had ever seen. Even when looking into the details of a product or contract, he didn't look so serious. He told me he had some very bad news. I wondered what it was. Had somebody launched a war or what? He said it was none of that. He said Billy never hooked up with Elly and he was very angry with both of us for taking off for most of the weekend.

Oh, God, no! This was the worst case. Somehow I doubted that very angry was an accurate representation of Billy's state of mind. I hoped he only bit my head off. This meant instead of a somewhat shared experience I was a cheater. Billy had probably been trying to reach me, which was impossible because I had Ieft my cell phone in Rollie's limo. Rollie told me that Billy had agreed to wait until he had talked to me before he would do anything irreversible. It sounded like I had a very small window of opportunity to save my marriage.

Not knowing what to say, I still called Billy as soon as I had my cell phone in my hand. He answered, "What?"

I started my apology, "Billy, I'm so sorry. I thought you were on board with what I was doing. Rollie said you were with Elly. This was a massive screw-up. Please don't leave before I get there. Rollie's coming also."

He said, "I said I would wait until you got here before I left. I made no other promises. Get here as soon as you can. I'm not looking forward to seeing you and I want to see Rollie even less!"

All I could say was, "Please, Billy, you're the only one I love. It was all a big mistake."

He replied, "It sure was," and he hung up.

I told Rollie, "This is really bad. I'm in big trouble. I love him. What can I do?"

Rollie said, "I'll go with you. I'll try to explain that it was my mistake. What about Wally? Can he talk some sense into him."

I called Wally, "Wally, what's going on?"

Wally replied, "It's pretty simple. You cheated. He's out of here."

I pleaded, "Wally, I love him. You know how much I love him. This is sounding like the end. Try to keep him there until Rollie and I arrive. Wally, what am I going to do? He's the love of my life. I can't live without him."

Wally responded, "I think he'll at least stay until you get here. But Janet, I've never seen him this angry. It's going to be a hard sell."

I continued, "Wally, just remind him that I love him so very much. I can't live without him. I'm desperate. Please, Wally!"

Wally told me, "I'll do the best I can, Janet. I know how much you love him." He hung up.

Wally

I decided that being a good friend meant telling Billy what he didn't want to hear. I thought he was making a mistake dumping Janet without hearing her side of the story. I started with, "Hey, man, you've been with Janet a long time. You love her even if she did act like a slut. If you guys split, I think it's going to make two people very unhappy."

He replied, "I'm already very unhappy with her choosing Masterson over me. That really hurt. Not only that but she embarrassed me in front of the whole company. She didn't even talk to me about what she was doing. She just did it and went incommunicado. She didn't care about our relationship over the weekend. That was her decision. My decision is to not go through the looks of pity by my coworkers. She made her choice. She will just have to live with it."

As I had told Janet, I had never seen him so angry. I told him, "I'm sorry she did what she did. I think she may be sorry, now. I'm just saying you guys have been together a long time. At least, listen to what she has to say with an open mind."

He told me in no uncertain terms, "She chose what to do with her weekend. Now I choose how to respond. I'll listen, but I don't thing she will have anything to say that will change the basic facts. I'm going to have to listen to her bullshit. Don't make me listen to your version, as well."

I admitted, "I've had my say. If you are determined to go through with this, let me know where you land."

He replied, "I'll do that." We bumped fists just as Rollie's limo pulled into the driveway."

Janet

It took a long time for the airplane to land and a long time for the limo to arrive at what had been our happy home. Billy's Jeep was already packed with what looked like all his stuff. I ran to him, "Oh, Billy, I am so sorry!"

He allowed me to hug him, but otherwise, stood stoically and did not respond.

I told him, "Billy, Rollie and I thought you were with Elly. Please don't be mad at me!"

He replied, "I'm beyond angry. I never believed you would cheat on me."

Rollie interjected, "Say, Man. I thought you were with Elly and on board with what was happening."

He responded, "You guys had two days to see what was going on. Neither one of you gave a shit. Now I don't give a shit."

I explained, "Billy, I would never had gotten on Rollie's plane if I had known you weren't on board with the idea. I thought you were having a great time with Elly until this afternoon."

Rollie said, "I should have checked but no one has turned Elly down before you did."

He said coldly, "Rollie didn't really know me, but Janet, you have known me for ten years. When did I ever give you the idea I would go for something like this. Now, when I think of you, I think of Rollie's hands on your naked body and worse. I don't want to have anything else to do with you. You disgust me."

I told him, "I wanted to call you, but I left my phone in Rollie's limo."

He replied, "When you walked out with Rollie in front of me and most of my coworkers, we were through. This little pow-wow is a waste of time."

Jimmy drove up in his Mercedes, "What's this about you quitting, Billy? I just offered you a promotion and a raise. Now you're quitting with no notice."

Billy explained, "I was finished at Dugan when Janet walked out of the party with this asshole. I'm planning on starting over with a new cast of characters. Sorry, Jimmy."

Jimmy continued, "Can't you at least give me a couple of weeks' notice. You're leaving a big hole in my organization."

Billy responded, "Jimmy, I thought of you as my friend. I thought you had my back. You did nothing to stop this asshole from wrecking my marriage."

Jimmy replied, "I wasn't completely aware of what was going on, Billy. I'm sorry I didn't do more to stop it. If you give me two weeks' notice I can at least, in good conscience, give you an excellent recommendation."

Billy asked Wally, "What do you think, Wally?"

Wally explained, "I don't think you should burn all of your bridges. Jimmy has been a good guy. I know it's hard but two weeks seems reasonable. You might want to get Jimmy to agree to minimizing contact with Janet, if that's what you want."

Billy told us, "I guess you're right, Wally. I do want minimal contact with the slut. No contact would be the best."

I started crying, "I'm so sorry, Billy. I wish I had never met Rollie. Please think about the last ten years and not this horrible weekend."

He said, "Someday I might be able to forgive you, but I don't think I ever will be able to forget you blowing up all my future dreams in forty-eight hours."

I fell to my knees, "Billy, I will do anything for you to not dump me. Please don't do this to me. I really do love you."

Billy said, "Everything you guys do seems to be delaying the inevitable. A week from this Friday, I'm history to all of you except Wally. Now, I've got to unpack enough stuff for two weeks. Everyone, please leave except for Wally."

Rollie said, "It looks like you consider this a done deal. If you ever have any second thoughts, please let me know. I think you're making a bad decision professionally and personally, but I think we all have to agree that it's your decision."

Billy concluded, "Goodbye, everyone. Thanks for stopping by."

I got back in Rollie's limo and was joined by Rollie and Elly. Jimmy drove off in his Mercedes, after us, leaving Billy and Wally to themselves. I called Jimmy to verify that I could have a few days off in the next week to pick up my stuff from the house that Billy and I had bought. Billy was very generous in splitting up our property, but he was adamant on leaving me, Dugan, and our town.

Fortunately, Rollie and Elly were there to help me through picking up the pieces of what had been an idyllic life. Rollie offered me a job with his organization. I gave Jimmy my notice. He agreed that I wouldn't work while Billy was doing his two weeks' notice. I gave Jimmy a month before I would start full-time with Big Sky.

I started out at Big Sky as a manager, which kept me busy. Rollie and Elly kept pulling me into major decisions. Before I went back for my last four weeks at Dugan, the three of us partied and I ended up being intimate with both Rollie and Elly. It didn't bother me. At least I got some physical release. Emotionally I was a mess. I knew I had lost the love of my life for a few hours of ecstasy with Rollie. It was very difficult for me to deal with. I felt like I would be dealing with our breakup for years. Rollie and Elly were there for me almost 24/7. I would never have gotten through the first few months of separation from Billy without their care and support.

Rollie was a great lover. I wouldn't say he was better than Billy but he was decidedly different. I had never been with a woman before Elly. I felt so close to her after she stayed by my side for the first few weeks after my breakup with Billy. None of us had any idea of what had happened to Billy or where he was.

About two months after the big break-up. Wally gave notice at Dugan and called and told me. I asked, "You're going to Billy, aren't you?"

He replied, "Yes."

I inquired, "Wally, tell me where he is!"

He responded, "I'd like to tell you but he made me promise not to tell anyone. I can tell you it involves an international company."

I commented, "Wonderful. Is that all you can tell me, Wally?"

He answered, "I'm sorry, Janet. I promised him I wouldn't tell anyone, especially you."

Another dead end. I was despairing of ever being with Billy again. How had I been such a fool? I did want to go with Rollie, but why didn't I see that Billy would never go with Elly, nor tolerate my going with Rollie. I had traded a roll in the hay, well, a few rolls in the hay, for a lifetime with the love of my life. Maybe I could love again, but I would never have what I had with Billy with anyone else.

Billy

I am a professional so I worked hard for Jimmy the last two weeks, but I was eager to put Dugan, Jimmy, Janet, and everything else, except possibly, Wally, in my rear view mirror.

Pursuant to that I filed for divorce. I let Janet have everything, except for my pension, my clothes, my truck, and a few other personal items. She wanted us to try counseling, but I convinced everyone that it was a waste of time. Especially since my plan was to leave town when my two weeks' notice was up.

In a nearby larger city, I found a job in a nearby medium-sized city working with the owner of a small computer shop. He sold hardware, software, and service on both. I worked there a few weeks, taking off to go to a major west coast computer conference.

At the conference, I was intrigued by the booth of a company I hadn't heard of called K4 Games. I met one of the principals named Kenji Kimura. He explained that K4 was trying to break in to new markets including the western United States. I told him about some of my ideas for games that could be marketed in the western United States. He was very interested in some of my ideas but pointed out that his business currently was primarily in Japan. This seemed like a win-win for me. It would take me to the other side of the world from the aforesaid, Dugan, Jimmy, and Janet.

Kenji and I hit it off from the very first. We had a lot of similar philosophies on life, gaming, and constructing games. He asked some insightful questions about some of my games that he had just been introduced to.

We negotiated the terms for me to work in Japan for six months. He extoled the virtues of Osaka as opposed to Tokyo. His feeling was that Osaka was a typical Japanese city, while Tokyo was not typical of Japan, urban or otherwise. I liked the Osaka vibe. These were Japanese who knew how to live, keeping their traditions intact. After two months I gave Wally a call and asked him to join me for the last three months of my contract.

By this time I had met not only the other principal in K4, but also Kenji's younger brother, Akiro. Kenji's partner was Kanesuke Kato, which explained the K4. Kenji called him Suke. Akiro ran a accounting software production company. This was very close to what Dugan Software was doing; however, Wally was more than happy to work on games with me. Kenji hired Wally as a programmer supervisor, whereas, I wanted to keep title to my games, and collect royalties, so I only worked with K4 on a consulting basis. When I did work with them it was usually with Wally. Akiro was a nice guy, too. He was very happy to utilize my knowledge of accounting software, so I began consulting with both companies.

Wally met an American expat and soon was involved in a love affair. Sharon liked Japan and Japanese culture. She was a much better speaker of Japanese than Wally and I put together. Wally didn't seem to be very successful with women. My impression was his long-term relationships lasted three or four dates at most. Then he met Sharon and it was like everything changed, and suddenly he was a stud. At least that seemed to be Sharon's impression of him. Suddenly it was three months, not three dates. A few more months went by and he and Sharon became engaged.

It was not too long before Wally's wedding, when Kenji asked me if I could help his sister with a Python problem. It was a state problem arising from using Python to access non-Python objects. I fixed it in a few days while spending some quality time with Rina. Her company sold industrial control systems. In a good-sized company her systems could save millions of dollars. Her systems controlled continuous processes. Although very pretty, she was quite technically adept, aided by her dual major degree in Mechanical and Electrical Engineering.

She was the first woman since Janet that I had felt like we could be friends. The more time I spent with her the better I liked her. Finally, my attraction for her became strong enough that I asked Kenji, "I'm unfamiliar with the Japanese custom. How would I go about asking Rina for a date."

Kenji replied with a chuckle, "It's not that much different than the western custom. Give me a day or two to talk to her."

That evening I was cleaning up from my supper when I heard a knock on my apartment door. I went to it and there was Rina, dressed in a kimono. It was awe-inspiring. She looked fantastic. She quickly explained, "I brought my work clothes for tomorrow," indicating the bag under her arm.

I was almost overwhelmed by her forwardness. I asked if I could get her something.

She said, "I'll take a few kisses."

We kissed. Her lips were very soft. Like Janet, she wasn't stacked but still had nice boobs, likely B or C cup. I felt her tongue touching my lips. I opened them for her and soon we were kissing open-mouthed with our tongues entwined. I began squeezing her boobs.

She said, "Oh, that feels good!"

I began reaching for third base. Her respiration was increasing. Abruptly, she told me, "You know I'm divorced."

I replied, "I didn't know that, but it doesn't matter. I'm divorced, too."

Then she asked, "Shall we go to your bedroom?"

I responded, "I'd like that."

I couldn't believe it. I had been admiring her ever since I met her. She seemed to have similar feelings for me. We started taking our clothes off.

She said, "It's been a while. I'm a little shy."

I replied, "It just keeps getting better. I've had feelings for you almost since I met you. They just kept growing and growing, so finally I asked Kenji what to do."

She admitted, "I'm so glad you did. In Japan, the woman is not supposed to be forward, but I was more than ready to do something. My feelings for you have also been growing. I've never been attracted to a non-Japanese before. Whatever it is, you seem very attractive to me. I decided that as a Westerner, you might appreciate me being more forward than Japanese custom."

We continued kissing. She was a little like Janet in that she was petite, but she was shorter than Janet. I began to work my way down her body, kissing her as I went.

When I started licking her vagi, she asked a bit startled, "What are you doing?"

I informed her, "I want to taste you. Your taste is very good. This is a Western custom.

She answered, "My ex never did that. It feels very good. Don't stop!"

I licked and sucked her for a few minutes, while she moaned and groaned. Suddenly, she was crying out in between panting, "Oh, my! Oh, my! Oh, I can't stand it! It feels so good!

Since her body was shaking, I assumed she was having an orgasm. I went back to mouth-to-mouth kissing as she came down from her high.

She said, "Oh, Billy, that was so good."

I replied, "It was my pleasure!"

She looked at me with that million dollar smile, "Now I'd like something else."

I told her, "I hope it's the same thing I want."

She said, "Why don't you try what you want and I'll tell you if it's the same thing."

As I rubbed my manhood back and forth along her slit, she encouraged me with, "Oh, Billy. You're so close to what I came for."

As I slowly began sliding into her sheath, I was amazed at how fantastic it felt. I thought to myself, 'Janet who?'

I stroked her in and out slowly at first, then gradually increasing tempo and power. It seemed like this woman was only getting better, or maybe I was just getting hotter, but it felt fantastic. Her moaning and groaning were getting louder and louder as I continued stroking her faster and faster. It was looking like she was only going to cum once before I came. I hoped hers was as big as mine was going to be. Faster and faster and closer and closer and finally I could hold off no longer. I kissed her as we came together.

I rolled over beside her, rubbing her breasts and tummy, and summed up my experience with, "Wow!"

She flasher her fantastic smile at me and replied, "Billy, that was incredible. I can't believe how wonderful I feel."

I said, "That goes double for me!"

For me, it was almost too good to be true. After thinking bad things about Janet for months, it was like Janet who? for me.

Rina

I had effectively sworn off men after my painful divorce. I dated some, once or twice a month. I just didn't have any motivation to go much beyond kissing and necking. It was maybe once or twice a month that I would go all the way. None of those experiences justified a repeat.

At my company, we were having a problem with some object calls and my team didn't seem to have the answer. I mentioned it to Kenji, and he told me he had a programming ace, and he would see if he could help me. He was a white guy. I thought he was cocky but doubted if he could be of any help. He did ask the right questions, and I couldn't believe how fast he was reading the code. I took him to lunch and he told me that he had found the problem and thought he would have the solution in an hour or two. My staff had been working on this for days so I was prepared for a letdown when Mr. Arrogance failed to deliver.

It was well less than two hours when he announce his solution was ready to go. I turned my quality control team loose on it, and they could find no cracks. This guy was the real deal! I made a standing date for lunch once a week so I could pick his brain if we were having issues. I found myself becoming attracted to him. He was the first occidental that I had ever thought of that way.

I began to wish he would be a little more brash and make a move, but he didn't for weeks. Finally, Kenji called me and said, "Billy asked me what he should do to get a date with you." He chuckled. My elder brother thought this was a joke.

All I said was, "Really?"

Kenji continued, "Be nice. He's my good right hand. He also helps Akiro from time to time."

A plan began to form. "I'll be super nice!" I assured him.

My plan was simple. I wanted him. After work today, I would give him everything and hope he was appropriately appreciative. It was not in accordance with Japanese tradition, but we had wasted weeks on softer approaches which didn't get us anywhere. I think it was one of my bravest moments. I said if I offer him everything and he doesn't jump on the chance, it's all on him.

After work, I put my next day's work clothes into a bag, dressed in my sexiest kimono and headed for his house and I hoped a date with my destiny.

He seemed glad to see me. I used the direct approach to explain why I was here.

After making out for a while, we went to his bedroom. First, we too off our clothes. We laid down in the bed and started making out again. I knew what it meant to have a man go down on you, but I had never had it done to me before. Apparently, Billy was a master. It only took him a few minutes to guide me to my first orgasm. I knew that this was something I wanted to enjoy many times in the future.

Next, we went to actual intercourse in the missionary position. Billy was even better at that than at oral-genital sex. It was memorable. I had the biggest orgasm ever in my entire life. I decided that my instincts regarding Billy were right on, and my decision to come to his place was one of the best of my life.

Within a week I had Billy moved into my house. Another brilliant move on my part. I had the very best loving a woman could ever want on site in my home, almost every night. My brothers were laughing at me because I was head over heels in love with a round eyes. I could care less. It was almost shameful to be so happy. Of course, I was a little frightened but every indication was that Billy felt the same way I did or at least close enough.

Billy's friend, Wally, had found an American expat and my family was enjoying planning the wedding as Wally was a senior programmer in Kenji's company and he had no family in Japan. Sharon wanted a Japanese wedding, and Wally agreed. It ended up being a little bit of a mixture as both sets of parents wanted an American style wedding. Wally was beginning to think like Sharon. I didn't care as long as Billy and I could be there as a couple. The marriage went off without a hitch. It was beautiful and romantic and joined two people who were deeply in love. The only hiccup was at the reception. As best man, Billy gave a toast. He went on and on about what a great friend Wally had been, even coming to Japan with him. He said there was one thing Wally hadn't done yet. He paused. Then he said, "He hasn't agreed to be my best man when I marry Rina Kimura. Oh, I forgot one detail. I haven't asked Rina." He fell to one knee and pulled a diamond ring out of his pocket and said, "Rina you would make me the second happiest man at this reception if you will agree to be my wife."

I was shocked into speechlessness. Then I was crying I was so happy. Wally, sensing my momentary loss of control of my emotions, proclaimed, "I agree if she agrees." That was the moment I needed.

I proclaimed, "Billy, you have made me the second happiest woman at this wedding. I love you, and of course, I'll marry you, as long as Wally agrees to be your best man."

Everyone thought that was a fitting end to the speeches, and Wally and Sharon danced the first dance. Then, Wally and Sharon danced with the proud mothers and fathers, respectively. Finally, I got to dance with my brand new fiancé, as the dance floor opened to everyone. Everyone thought it was a wonderful wedding, and I thought it was by far the best wedding ever.

Janet

It was almost two years since I had heard anything about Billy or Wally. In spite of my screwing up my marriage to Billy, I missed my two best friends. The top Big Sky new business team of Rollie, Elly, and myself went to Japan to meet with Kenji Kimura and Kanesuke Kato, the principals of 4K games. Rollie had met Kenji at a conference and felt like his company would be a great partner to start our push into Japan.

Our plan was to pursue a contract with 4K. We were surprised when four men showed up. Kenji introduced them as his partner in 4K, Kanesuke Kato, his brother, Akiro, the owner of AK Accounting Systems, and Wally Carmichael, Chief Technical Officer of 4K.

Wally said, "Long time no see, Janet."

I had to ask, "Is Billy here, too?"

Wally replied, "He is, we see him almost every day. Janet, Billy is engaged to be married to Kenji's sister."

I said, "Oh. I gave up on reconciling with Billy a long time ago; however, I missed my two best friends."

Wally apologized, "I can't speak for Billy, but I've missed you. Are you with Rollie?"

I admitted, "Professionally I'm with Rollie. Personally, it's a bit complicated."

Wally replied, "Billy's in town. He is a consultant now to all three Kimura companies if you count 4K as a Kimura company. Rina, Billy's fiancé heads a company called Professional Solutions. They specialize in industrial process control systems."

I exclaimed, "I've heard of her! There was a blurb about Rina Kimura in "Women in Technology" magazine a year or so ago."

Wally suggested, "If you like, I'll call Billy and Rina, and the four of us can get together and talk about old times are whatever. Sharon, my wife, could cook dinner for us."

I said, "That'll be great, Wally!" Moreover, it will give me a chance to assess the women that captured the hearts of the two best men in the world.

Surprisingly, Akiro interjected, "I don't want to be a fifth or sixth wheel, but I would like to talk accounting systems with you, Janet. That's your specialty, right?"

I said, "Yes, Our first jobs after college were Wally, Billy, and me, working for Dugan Systems, a specialist in accounting systems."

Akiro continued as Rollie, Elly, Kenji, and Suke conversed on specific contract terms, "I've heard so much about you from Billy and Wally, that I'd like to hear your thoughts in several areas. I wouldn't mind talking to you without Rollie and Elly."

I'm usually pretty loyal to Rollie and Elly, particularly since we have a personal relationship, as well as professional, but for some reason I was intrigued by Akiro, the in-between sibling of Kenji and Rina.

After we said goodbye to Rollie and Elly, Sharon cooked a fantastic dinner, a fusion of Japanese and American dishes. Everyone was convivial, including the lovesick pair of Billy and Rina. They literally couldn't keep their hands off each other.

After dinner we got down to the nitty gritty of our previously three way friendship. Janet took the lead and told me, "I'm so sorry I screwed up with Rollie. You were right on both counts about us being sure you were actually going with Elly. I know that you can never forget that weekend fling. Billy, I know our love is ancient history, but I've missed your and Wally's friendship. Can you forgive me enough for my stupidity that we can be friends again? To me, that's the maximum. I remember the good times the three of us had, and I'd like to have that kind of relationship again, even if it's now four of us or five of us or whatever."

Billy responded, "Janet, I forgave you a long time ago. My life now is here in Japan. You know that Rina and I are engaged."

I told him, "Billy, I know that you and Rina are a couple. I know that you and I will never have that kind of relationship again. I am just hoping that we can be friends again. What do you say?"

Billy thought a minute, then said, "I think Rina and I need to hash this out. I don't see a problem; however, Rina may not be comfortable with my having a friendship with my ex-wife."

I told him, "I get it! Rollie and Elly and I will be here for another day or two. Perhaps, we can talk again."

Billy replied, "I'd like that. I think Rina and I need to head home." He shook hands with Wally and gave Sharon a hug. He then shook hands with Akiro. He and Rina then left. She had said her goodbyes in parallel. I thought Billy had found a fine woman. Akiro then asked if he could have some of my time. I wasn't sure what he was after, but I felt like it wouldn't hurt to find out. He was a potential client, after all. He was very straight-forward in his approach.

He said, "I wanted to talk to you informally about the possibility of a marketing agreement with Big Sky. I think we're doing okay in Japan, but I would like to have some penetration of international markets. I wouldn't mind an increased presence here, as well."

I told him, "An arrangement with your company would be similar to the one with 4K; Big Sky has strong interests in both the gaming and accounting system areas. Today, we are concentrating more on gaming, but historically, we have been stronger in accounting systems. What is your portfolio like?"

He replied that their portfolio was concentrated on small businesses, particularly in the farming and handcraft areas. He explained that his biggest products currently are in rice farming. He would like to move into the smaller manufacturing concerns."

I told him, "I think we will need more time to examine your portfolio, I'll talk to Rollie and Elly tomorrow morning. We should have a plan by ten, if that's all right with you?"

He responded, "I'll be looking forward to your call. I enjoyed our evening. Good night!"

I answered, "Good night, Akiro!"

The next morning we had a brief meeting. We decided to go ahead and make Kenji an offer for marketing K4 products. I told Rollie and Elly about Akiro's interest in marketing his company's systems. Elly pointed out that if we didn't show respect for AK Systems, it would likely upset Kenji. Rollie explained, "Respect is one thing; our meeting Friday morning with the top executives of VGW is another. If we can work out a merger that would be a game changer for each of us financially, as well as for Big Sky's market share."

Elly then suggested, "Clay Armstrong!"

Rollie said, "What's your idea, Elly?"

Elly explained, "There are three parts to it! First, in terms of titles, Clay would be an OK addition to our team at the meeting with VGW; If Janet can deal with Akiro, she doesn't need to attend the VGW meeting since Clay will give us three senior executives; Finally, we can get the benefit of Janet's wisdom teleconferencing with her Friday night. Then, Saturday morning, we will be ready with our final offer."

Rollie asked, "Janet, are you comfortable with going solo in the meetings with Akiro?"

I replied, "Yes and Yes. I'm comfortable going solo with Akiro; I can update you at our Friday night conference. Actually, I can update you as to where we stand with Akiro, Thursday night, which will be Friday morning here."

I called Rollie and Elly and Clay and told them what I had learned. They agreed that we should proceed with trying to sign Akiro's company up.

So, I was set. I called Akiro, "I discussed the situation concerning AK systems and received a green light to a review of your products. Rollie and Elly have to be in New York for an extremely important meeting; however, we are all very interested in doing busing with AK. I'm ready to review your portfolio. I can do it with lower-level people, if you're busy."

Akiro responded, "You can come over anytime and someone will be available to work with you. I'll be involved as much as possible doing whatever percent I can. As much as possible, I'd like to work with you. I may be your best resource for some of our older systems."

I replied, "That's great! I want to get as early a start as is possible." Although unavailable in the morning, Akiro was able to spend almost four hours with me.

At six, I told him I'd like to do more, but I thought that what we had covered on this day was enough for us to act on. I summarized my findings to Akiro as, "You have many good products. We'd like to work with you. Tomorrow, I'd like to discuss with you some ideas for product improvement. At this time your Rice Grower's Solution is the only one we see as immediately marketable in North America."

At seven, I called Rollie and Elly and Clay. This was Clay's first decision in new customer acquisition, and he committed himself favorably by following Rollie or Elly's lead on everything. We decided to proceed with AK Systems, with me being the point person. The decision was based on two things: It fit with our corporate objectives, and it had an excellent technical staff.

Thursday morning I met with Akiro and offered him our standard terms. He asked if there were any discounts based on Kimura family business. I said we would talk about that when Rina came on board. I finally agreed to a three per cent discount on our commission schedule. We were both satisfied it was a good deal. I pointed out that it would have to be ratified by Rollie and Elly. He said that he understood.

Friday morning I again teleconferenced with Rollie and Elly. Clay also sat in. They ratified my preliminary agreement with Akiro. Then they updated me on the VGW negotiations. They were going very well and Rollie and Elly both thought a major agreement was in the works.

Later in the morning, I met with Akiro, and executed our marketing agreement, as we had discussed the previous day.

The rest of the day, Friday, I spent going over my notes on the software we had looked at. He brought in a couple of senior programmers and the head of his sales staff. All of them seemed quite attentive and made relevant comments. They concurred in most of my recommendations. Akiro asked me to excuse myself temporarily as he wanted to meet with his guys. About twenty minutes later they asked me to return and Akiro surprised me by offering me a job as head of his technical staff, both maintenance and developmental. I was surprised as I hadn't even thought of any such thing. He pointed out that Osaka was different from US cities, but that Wally and Billy seemed to like it, and I also had at least two friends here to help with the transition. He said it's an open-ended offer, and if I reached the point of discussing terms, he would be generous. I said I wasn't ready for a move at this time but would certainly consider it

Friday night Wally and Sharon and Billy and Rina and I partied at Rina's house, which was where Billy was living now. Akiro joined us and spent a lot of time extolling the virtues of life in Osaka. With Wally, it was just like the last two years hadn't happened. Rina was also very friendly and didn't seem at all threatened by my presence. With Billy, we were getting along okay, but it wasn't quite the good old days. Akiro was very friendly and likable when he wasn't wearing his Osaka chamber of commerce hat. I thought about his programmers and head of sales, who also seemed very friendly and seemed to speak excellent English. Osaka was not without its charms.

I was back in New York on Monday morning. Normally, signing up two companies like 4K and AK would have been a big deal, but the negotiations with VGW greatly outweighed that in importance. At ten o'clock we opened the meeting with the top three executives of VGW. On our side were Rollie, Elly, Clay, and me.

From the beginning, even when I was introduced to the three VGW executives, something seemed not quite right. They were cold, and whenever I made a comment during the meeting, they looked askance at me, like 'Who does she think she is?'

When we broke for lunch, I noticed the three executives pigeonholing Rollie and looking toward me. When we arrived at the luncheon venue, Rollie pulled me aside and told me, "The VGW guys are uncomfortable with you being added to our team. I explained that you were our CTO and an important member of our management team. They became argumentative and I decided not to push your inclusion, as I didn't want to queer the deal."

I said, "I'm disappointed that you're willing to go without me on the biggest deal in the company's history."

He said, "I'm sorry, Janet. Elly and I will try to communicate with them about your importance going forward. We'll brief you tonight on what happened this afternoon."

I replied, "Whatever. You know how to reach me."

Rollie, Elly, and Clay continued to brief me on the progress with the VGW negotiations. I reviewed VGW's portfolio and said, I thought a merger should be 60-40 in favor of Big Sky. As the negotiations continued, Rollie was arguing for 50-50. As the negotiations concluded on the next Thursday, Rollie caved to 40-60. That was disappointing enough, but there was more to come.

Rollie explained the new organization to me. The VGW President and CEO would continue to be CEO. Rollie would be President and COO. The VGW Executive Vice-President would continue his role in the new organization. Elly would be Senior VP of Finance, Clay would be VP of Planning. The VGW CTO would continue. I would be Vice-President of Software Development. Rollie added, "I know you are disappointed, Janet, but Elly and I will continue to support you. I'm sure things will get better.

I thought about it all weekend in a suburban hotel, away from Rollie and Elly, who I thought were my friends. Monday morning I called Akiro and asked him if his job offer was still open. Akiro offered to pay my expenses back to Japan for me to take another look at Osaka and discuss compensation.

I called Rollie and asked for a week off to thing about my future. Rollie told me that my future was with him and Elly. I doubted that but said nothing.

After hanging up, I scheduled my flight to Osaka. Wednesday morning I met with Akiro, and he made me a very generous offer. I had researched Osaka living expenses and so recognized his generosity.

Again I socialized with what became a gang of eight, including Kenji's wife, Hiroko. Sometimes, SuKe and his wife, Kaiko, joined us. Although I didn't know much Japanese, Osaka seemed like a fun pace to be.

Akiro took me to some parties and clubs to show me that Osaka indeed had a different vibe. I was also coming to the conclusion that Akiro also had a different, but pleasing, vibe.

I felt like I had mostly mended the bridges with Wally and Billy and seemed to be finding new friends with Rina and Sharon. Before saying goodbye to Osaka Sunday evening, I accepted Akiro's job offer and e-mailed my resignation to Rollie.

I spent all Monday morning going in circles with Rollie and Elly. They repeatedly told me that my future was with them and the new VGW-Big Sky entity. I repeatedly told them it looked like a demotion to me and that I had no rapport with the top brass of VGW. They finally decided to try a new tack when I moved out of Rollie's house to an extended stay apartment.

Tuesday Rollie asked me as a personal favor to fly to London to meet with the VGW top brass. I asked them about the bonuses I had been receiving from Big Sky. They explained that that was not in the job description of my new position. They said they would up my compensation by ten percent and were looking forward to my doing great things in my new position.

I said it sounds to me like a demotion and a cut in pay. They accused me of not being a team player. I said it's hard to be a team player when you get kicked off the team. Things seemed to go downhill after that.

After I got back, Rollie said the VGW people thought I had a bad attitude. I explained to him that he was supposed to be a super salesperson, but he couldn't sell them on me. The best he could come up with was that he tried his best. I said I thought my best years were still ahead of me but they would not be with the newly merged company. He asked if I was going to move back in with him and Elly. I told him I thought we had a good run, but it was time to part ways. I said my good byes to Elly. We hugged and cried, but she understood that it was over, and she understood why.

The VGW guys said I could leave without the full thirty days' notice I had offered. After all I had a bad attitude. Akiro was happy to hear I could start earlier.

Things worked out well in Osaka. I learned some Japanese and with our parties of eight and ten, Akiro and I kept being thrown together. He started taking me out when the others weren't going with us.

One night after a party where we both got somewhat tipsy, we ended up at his place. He was acting a little funny. He said, "I'm not sure about the American way, but I really like you. Rina pretty much went over to Billy's apartment and crawled into bed with him. I'm ready to do the same with you, but I don't want to do something wrong in your eyes."

I said, "Why don't we start off slow, like with a kiss, and then just see where it goes."

Akiro's mouth was very soft, softer then Billy's or Rollie's. It was more like Elly's, although hers was softer still. Here I was at 27, and I had only had four lovers, if you count Elly. Still, Akiro was getting the job done. I was a little surprised; I had actually become quite attracted to Akiro. When he kissed me, it reminded me of some of the moments we had shared both at work and when we were together socially. He was a very nice, steady sort of guy. As he kissed me again and again, I was enjoying myself more and more. I suppose Akiro was the kind of guy that slowly grows on you.

We started using our tongues and fondling our upper bodies. I was really enjoying this but I didn't want to go too fast for Akiro. I told him, "Akiro, I like you a lot, but I think we've gone far enough for tonight. He seemed a little disappointed but seemed to have enjoyed the night. He asked me for the next night, which was a Saturday, and I acquiesced enthusiastically. After that, he took me home. If we weren't a couple yet, we were well on our way.

Saturday night, we ended up at Akiro's place again. This was a little embarrassing for Akiro. We were just rounding third base when he ejaculated. He apologized profusely. I told him, "Don't worry. We'll make up for it when you come to my place tomorrow night."

I got some help from Rina, Hiroko, and Kaiko in preparing a traditional Japanese dinner for Akiro. Sharon also came over, but she came to learn, rather than help. The four wives left about fifteen minutes before Akiro's arrival.

It seemed to work to perfection; Akiro was amazed at my mastery of Japanese cuisine. I admitted that I had had some help from his sister and his sister-in-law, as well as Wally's and Suke's wives. He replied, "Everything is wonderful!" He smiled. I don't know what it was but that smile made me feel really good. He said, "I'm glad you're getting along so well with my family." I felt that Rina, Hiroko, Kaiko, and Sharon had been very welcoming and we were becoming friends.

I have never really thought of myself as being sexy, but that was what I wanted for Akiro. I poured him some after-dinner tea and that I asked to be excused. I put on the negligee that I had bought for this occasion. It had panties but I left them off. I interrupted Akiro's tea and asked him to move back from the table. I knelt between his legs and went to work on his pants. He said he was afraid I would get him off too soon. I said I would be happy with his second effort, giving him my most wicked smile. His baby juice had a slight sweet taste. Of course, the only comparisons I had were Billy and Rollie. After he came, I continued licking and sucking to clean him up. As I hoped he soon started to become aroused again. I suggested that we take it to my boudoir. He agreed. I loved his smile. He seemed large by Japanese standards but what's in an average? By the time we reached my bedroom, he was naked and almost fully erect. I was nearly naked with my see-through negligee. That soon was on the floor and I put myself into a position to impale myself. I was very ready and he smoothly slid in. We both moaned and we began to make love. That's what it was - an intense encounter between two lonely souls, who hopefully would not be alone in the future. He was kind, gentle, and warmly loving. As I raised and lowered myself on his shrine to Aphrodite, it was a moving experience. I wasn't experienced in lovemaking but this was different - gentle and loving but intense, nevertheless. A few minutes of this was all I could take and had a resounding orgasm, my entire body shaking in ecstasy. I realized that he hadn't come, so I resumed my arduous pounding and soon I was approaching climax again. It seemed that he was also reaching intensity, and we moaned and groaned our way through the ecstasy of orgasming together.

As we lay side by side I wished I could come up with something pithy to say, but all that came out was, "Wow! Akiro! Wow! That was worth waiting for."

He seemed to enjoy it also. His comment, "Janet, you are the most fantastic woman I have ever met."

I knew what I wanted, so I asked him, "Are you staying over?"

He replied, "Until you run me off!"

We spent the next half-hour or so cuddling, embracing, and kissing. Before we went to sleep, we took advantage of his third erection of the evening. It was again intense, engaging, and fantastic. We woke up with light streaming through my windows. I kissed him and inquired, "Did last night happen, or was it a dream?"

He told me, "If it was a dream, I hope we have many repeats." Just like that we were an item. I felt like Akiro was the man for me. He was different from Rollie and Billy, but I felt for me, he was the best - simply the best!" We didn't move in together for a couple of weeks. Then everyone became very busy preparing for Rina and Billy's wedding. Akiro manned up and asked me to marry him at the rehearsal dinner. My life became totally wonderful. I had a great coterie of friends. I was enjoying my work with Akiro, as well as our love. We really had a 24/7 relationship.

Billy

I was very happy to see my friend Janet so deliriously happy. Of course, I was even happier with the wonderful relationship I had with Rina. I think both Janet and I had found something better after our unfortunate split. We thought it couldn't get any better but it did.

As far as I was concerned there was only one thing left to make my happiness complete. I still wanted to get some revenge on Rollie. We already controlled four companies. Wouldn't four companies be sufficient to start a marketing organization? I broached the idea with Kenji, Suke, Akiro, and Rina. Of course, my company was still very small, but it looked good on a list of clients.

We had four assets that we underestimated at first. The first was Kenji, who was highly respected throughout the Japanese markets. The second was me. I had an excellent reputation in the American market. The third was Janet, who through her association with Rollie was well known throughout America and Europe. Finally, we had Rina, who quickly showed an uncanny ability to sell. She was pretty much the proverbial salesperson who could sell iceboxes to Eskimos.

Janet seemed to hate the VGW part of that marketing entity as much as I hated the Big Sky part. Rina and Kenji weren't quite as enthusiastic, but they were soon on board. The four of us considered each contract to be another nail in the coffin of VGW-Big Sky or whatever name the merged company wanted to operate under. Our forty-third client was the thirtieth former client of Big Sky or VGW.

Rollie called Janet.

Janet

When Rollie called I knew what it was about. He started, "Can't you find any clients that aren't stolen from us. That's not very friendly!"

I replied, "None of them were stolen. It was purely offering them a better deal that than what they were getting from you. As far as friendly is concerned, I didn't consider it friendly to let those VGW bastards shit all over everything we had developed before they entered the picture."

He inquired, "Are you still bitter about that? If you hadn't rushed off to Japan, Elly and I could have fixed that. The VGW CTO was a light weight and couldn't cut the mustard!"

I told him, "I'm not at all surprised, I knew that almost as soon as I met the horse's ass."

He responded, "I'm sorry that Elly and I were so slow on the uptake."

I explained, "You and Elly knew how good I was. The VGW crew wanted to clip my wings permanently."

He added, "They seemed to dislike you immediately. They weren't real high on Elly either, but we managed to dodge that bullet."

I summarized, "Well, it's all water over the dam, now. Rollie, we're trying to become an industry leader, plus we don't care for VGW. I don't think I can help you, Rollie!"

There was a long pause, and I knew he was unhappy with my response. He became unhappier still in the ensuing months as our new concern, All World Products, slowly overtook the reconstituted VGW. Before that happened Rollie and Elly left for greener pastures. They started a consulting firm, which made use of their skills in product evaluation and improvement. VGW never went away completely but they eventually shrunk to where their annual revenues were less than VGW had been alone before the merger with Big Sky. I didn't hate Big Sky the way Billy did, but neither Big Sky nor VGW were among my favorites. The ten of us were riding high with our four predecessor companies still doing well and AWP becoming the industry leader in worldwide marketing.

It's hard to say that my fling with Rollie was the start of my life becoming truly wonderful. There were a couple of bad years afterward. If and if and if Billy and I had stayed together I'm sure we would have had a great life. On the other hand, it is hard to believe that I could have a more wonderful life than my current life with Akiro. I'm pregnant with our first. Billy and Rina already have two children, but life is a marathon, not a sprint. Akiro and I will be happy doing our own thing. Right now, all five marriages seem to be rock solid. The ten of us socialize almost every weekend. Osaka feels like home. I think Wally and Billy and I have all found great places to be and mates to share them with.