Heir to the Empire (Closed for asetikish )

Another touch, so gentle and light, and yet it conveyed more emotions from him than he could ever say in words. The conflict of emotions were so raw, she didn't know how to handle it. She's never had to before. Of course, she heard about the news of his mother's death and in all honesty, she couldn't relate. She did not have an experience or a memory of a mother to draw on. Not even Sister Lisa was a mother to her.

"I'm sorry." It was all she could say, but it was not enough.

He forced a smile as he went to call for their food. It had been a long time since he lost his mother and his brother, and yet, there were still emotions inside him that have yet to be healed. Wounds neglected for so long and buried deep they never closed. She watched him talk on the phone as if he had not opened a deep memory. Again, pushed aside. Untouched.

He held her hand and waited for him to finish his call. She wanted to tell him something, but the words were gone from her head as soon as he wrapped his arms around her. All that existed was the moment. So close and yet, he didn't bridge the gap. She sighed, feeling him, knowing more about him in the few hours that they had been together. And his vulnerability, while it didn't break down her walls, created a door for himself.

She wrapped her arms around him opening the doors wide open for him to enter. Leaning forward she wrapped her arms around his neck pulling him closer, lips almost touching, she could feel his breath on her lips. "I'm here," she whispered and closed the gap between them. It was more than just their lips caressing each other. Their bodies pressed together, feeling every beat of his heart resonate with hers, it was intoxicating. Her right arm clung tightly onto his strong back pulling herself up to him, her left arm snaking up to the back of his neck, up to his head, fingers threading through his hair, giving it a light tug.

It was as if nothing in the world mattered but the moment they shared. As if she finally...belonged somewhere. She couldn't explain it--couldn't think. No. She didn't want to. In his arms, exploring one another. This was all that mattered. This was one of the few things that was right in her world. Something that actually made sense.

It wasn't until a knock on the door that they separated, breathing heavily. "I think that's our food."

Her kiss took him to a place he'd thought impossible to reach. A place where he couldn't give a damn about what happened an hour from now, tomorrow, or a week from now. Being with Jen erased that worry. Oliver concentrated on just her, just the feeling of her in his arms, the beat of her heart, and her breath. He'd never felt safer.

Listening for the knock and Jen's subtle comment he broke his hold on her, Oliver nodded and subtly agreed.

As he left Jen, his left hand held hers for as long as he could, fingers trailing from her wrist to the palm of her hand and lastly just the tips of her fingers, finally breaking well before he'd reached the door. Once he hit the leaver he welcomed an older woman in her 40's into the stateroom. Welcoming her in, she introduced herself as Melissa, one of the two cooks for the ships' crew of 30. Stacked In her arms were two covered trays, each had a solid cover on top. Watching with some anticipation, Oliver followed her as she walked over to the coffee table in front of the couch and placed both plates on the table.

Oliver tried to have a little fun with the situation, so while he thanked Melissa and she pulled off the lids he raised his eyebrows, as if he was expecting a golden egg to appear once the covers had been removed. Melissa looked at him as if he was acting weird. Oliver took notice and said "I'm sorry... but I get to have real food today, not rabbit food and kale." She chuckled, and commented "Well you are in for a treat Mr. Titan." Pulling the lids off, an amazing spread of breakfast foods, an omelette each, strips of bacon, two pancakes, with a small container of syrup each. and a couple English muffins. The aroma alone set his taste buds alight, with anticipation of devouring every bite he could.

As he shook Melissa's hand and thanked her, he began escorting her back to the door. When she was just about to leave, Melissa commented that there was coffee and a coffee maker in one of the cabinets. Oliver quickly found it and thanked her profusely. "Jen here becomes a bit of a zombie if I don't make sure she's had her daily cup of joe, so you probably just saved both our lives." Oliver made a playful smirk over at Jen as he said it, she'd get the joke, but he'd probably pay for it later. Clasping one of Melissa's hands in his he thanked her again, walked her to the door.

Closing the door, he looked over at Jen, and walked back to the food on the table. "I wasn't kidding, 'this' is heaven on a plate.. I've been forced to eat rabbit food for the last several months. I haven't had a pancake, or an english muffin in ages. if Cass saw this she'd scream bloody murder and throw it out the window. So... let's dig in."

The more they touched, the more comfortable she felt. And now, she stomped out her instincts and chose to believe him. Choosing to believe the lingering touch he gave her as a sign that he did want her as a person. That he did care. She felt it in her hands and it lingered on her lips.

The arrival of the food sent her stomach growling, thankfully, not loud enough for any of them to hear if they weren't really listening. So much had happened, she actually lost track of time. And with the selection given to them, it was an absolute fanfare! It wasn't that she couldn't cook. It was that she didn't have the time or the patience to when there were a thousand things needed to be done to make sure she survived.

"Jen here becomes a bit of a zombie if I don't make sure she's had her daily cup of joe, so you probably just saved both our lives."

"Forgive him," Jen rolled her eyes grinning. "Sometimes he needs to cover up his weaknesses by reflecting it on another person. You know how they need to keep up an appearance of being invincible." She winked at Melissa and the woman laughed as she left.

"I know this sounds crazy, but 'this' is heaven on a plate.. I've been forced to eat rabbit food for the last several months. I haven't had a pancake, or an english muffin in ages. if Cass saw this she'd scream bloody murder and throw it out the window. So... let's dig in."

Jen cocked her head to the side and scratched her chin. "Wait...I thought a powerful man like yourself can eat anything you want? What's up with the vegetarian diet? Suddenly found enlightenment in new age yoga?" she teased.

When he told her the reason, she laughed and shook her head. "Well, I wouldn't want to cross paths with Cass and ruin your diet. So let me save my ass, by..." she finished her sentence by taking his plate before he could stick his fork into it and took a chunk of his pancake stuffing it in her mouth with a sly grin on her face.

Oliver gave her an open mouthed look of shock.. then reached over and stole a piece of bacon from hers, playfully giving her a snooty look. "Lucky for both of us, and what Cass doesn't know won't kill me. Well unless you plan on telling her." He laughed... god he really really laughed.. and he smiled. truly smiled. Oliver kicked off his shoes, found his fork and knife, and took a bite of the omelette. It was amazing, a flavor explosion took off in his mouth..

with closed eyes and a smile he savored the bite then playfully and daintily dabbed at the corners of his mouth. Standing up he started getting the coffee maker out. It was some off brand single cup coffee maker with a water reservoir just big enough for a few cups of coffee,

"Can you find a few cups while I do this?"

When Jen got up to join him he peaked at her back side and just smiled. He began filling the reservoir to the coffee maker, flicking some of the water off his hands at her just to keep their playful banter going. With the reservoir filled he peered back into the cabinet finding two different kinds of coffee. "Glad to see someone in corporate sprung for two kinds as least" He did also find the instant creamer packets, and that was fine. He was on board a working ship, not a cruise line or a yacht, he'd make due with whatever they had and be thankful for it.

Taking both cups from Jen, and making her coffee as she requested, Oliver brought her coffee over to her and set it down. Subtly, he moved his tray over and sat down next to her, they'd originally been sitting across from one another, but the side by side seating was a lot more intimate. Savoring the food, and the company, Oliver cut off a piece of his omelette and offered it to her, cupping the fork as he offered it,. and just as she finished the bite, he leaned in and kissed her. It wasn't a rushed kiss, he wanted to taste her lips, but slowly build the intimacy between them. It was a subtle stolen kiss, before she could completely say no. This playful part of his persona hadn't had a chance to truly materialize with any of the women he'd dated. When they'd first met, he'd tried to present himself as a stud to Cass, wearing suits, and an ultra expensive watch that were truly not him. All these attempts made him look like a fool, like some bumbling peacock displaying his feathers obnoxiously trying to impress his mate. Thankfully Cass had laid reality down on him, and their quick Brother/Sister banter had grown out of it.

But this, his easy quick laughter and smiles with Jen was.. new. New feelings that he had been too shy to ever let out to anyone. A more flashy routine had been given to the media, and the elite rich girlfriends that he'd dated years ago, but the mask always came off, and the relationship lasted weeks, if not days as soon as they found out the flash, wasn't really Oliver.

With their breakfast completed, Oliver gathered their plates, utensils, cups and napkins, carrying it all over the counter next to the sink and stacked it neatly. With his back turned to Jen, he asked "So.. would you like to see the rest of the ship? or relax here for a while?"

Jen moved over to him with a pair of cups in hand, leaning over the bar as she watched him work. In all honesty, Jen just usually had instant coffee. Having one actually brewed was a luxury she didn't usually drink. She told him to add more sugar and creamer, liking her coffee in the most pedestrian way possible, covering the bitterness of the coffee.

"One day, I'm going to learn to appreciate coffee like you connoisseurs. For now, let me enjoy ruined coffee," she chuckled.

They went back and she smiled as he scooted over to him. She grinned taking the bite out of his offer, before she could turn her head, he kissed her. It was a pleasant surprise, but she play-punched his shoulder anyway. In her history, she has had a few kisses. Him being one, and a couple of jobs that would be more efficient if she seduced the target, but none ever went further than that. And in those jobs, none of it was enjoyable, albeit her targets seemed to have the time of it. This wasn't a skilled kiss, just a stolen quick one, but it was a thousand times more pleasant than her targets.

It was like she was fifteen again. Carefree. Knowing that she was not truly in danger and that she could let her guard down when the were alone. For the first time, she was having fun outside of the orphanage. That she was actually having fun with someone around her age that wasn't a nun. It was strange having something this simple making her happy. But she was. She really was. It felt like it was years ago when he had been a target, faults long forgotten blooming into a friendship...well, if they were kissing, something more than friendship.

When Oliver started to gather their empty dishes, she offered to help, but he refused gracefully. Not knowing what to do, she checked him out. Even through his shirt, his back muscles were well-defined and not bulging, his ass was just right and his legs had a nice shape to them.

"So.. would you like to see the rest of the ship? or relax here for a while?"

"Well, I'm sure as the CEO, you need to be seen by your people, so we can walk around the ship. Or maybe not. I really don't know how this works, but we need to talk about you looking at my ass all day--or night. Okay, I don't know what the right time is but, oh yes," She said walking up behind him and putting her lips to his ear. "Don't think I don't see you doing that." She slapped him on his butt and smirked.

Admittedly, Oliver was a little embarrassed that she'd caught him. He'd been rather obvious about his admiration for her ass not more than a few minutes ago, but other times he thought he was a lot more careful about it. He had some sly comment that he was about to say, but when he felt her approach and the heat of her breath against his neck all of those thoughts came to a screeching halt. Jen's whispered voice sent a thrill through him, head to toe.

"Don't think I don't see you doing that."

His face flushed, and he turned to her, his right hand not so subtly reaching around her waist and cupping her ass. "So...let's talk, you do have a great butt Jen, wrapped in black spandex, cotton, a flight suit or khaki shorts, I don't care. I'll admire your best assets of which you have too many to mention..." His eyes did wonder to her chest for a moment but he made eye contact with her almost immediately. He followd up with a playful smirk. Speaking sincerely while he took her hand and pulled her slowly back to the bedroom, he whispered.

"Jen, you are a beautiful woman. I'll admire you no matter what you wear."

He wanted her, wanted to be with her in ways that he'd not been with a woman in years. but he had to make sure she wanted this too. There was no way he was going to push this, and if anything it would be at her comfort level.

"And, regarding making an appearance to the crew, they have a ship to run and we are an addition to that. I'd like to be present, but also stay out of their way. Besides, the boat ride is at least 5 hours, we can take a tour in a few hours...."

As they reached the bed, Oliver pulled Jen with him on to the bed. he scooted on, then pulled her right up and on top of him. Her long hair shrouded their faces. His first kiss was urgent, needy and filled with passion. His second was passionate but no longer urgent. His lips explored hers, teasing, and adventurous. His hands found their way to her body, wrapping around her, one hand deep into her dark hair, the other finding the small of her back just above the waistline to her shorts. Oliver was intent to listen to Jen, he'd hear her voice and her body talk to him. What he heard from her would guide their intimate moments, this would be their very first, of what he sincerely hoped would be many more to come.

Jen let out a small moan as he touched her ass. She always hated it when men did that. Their hands wandered where they shouldn't. She always pushed them away or swatted them when it was alright for her to be rude and mean. But with Oliver, she couldn't help but feel right about it. At first she thought because he wasn't a job, but that was not it. She found that she actually enjoyed it. Part of her wished he'd do more, while another part of her was a little apprehensive having never gone this far before. Usually, men were satisfied with kisses and promises until she left them, too late to catch her.

He pulled her to the bed with him, on top of him, bringing her lower until their lips touched and he kissed her. She straddled him, legs spread wide on either side of him, ass thrusting out as the tips of her breasts brushed against his chest as they kissed. She matched him, responding in kind with each taste, nibble and caress. She moaned at the feel of his lips on hers and his hands in her hair and her back, letting out little squeals of delight when he grazed at a sensitive spot on her lips or when his tongue brushed the roof of her mouth.

Jen pulled away breathing hard and for a few moments she just stared at him. His eyes were the same eyes she saw when she first met him, but somehow, they were more mature. Better. Like a barrel-aged whiskey. Her hand caressed his cheek, down to his jaw. Her finger traced up the side of his face, his brow, down his nose to his wet lips. She memorized him, not just how he looked, but how he felt.

"Are we really just friends?" She whispered, finger still gently gliding across his lips. "Because I don't think this is what friends do."

The soft caress of her hand made Oliver close his eyes, he was effected by her touch in ways that he’d only begun to comprehend. As her finger gently traced over his lips, he kissed her finger, then reached up and took her hand in his. Turning his head slightly, he kissed the palm of her hand, almost nuzzling his face against the skin of her hand. An inner voice was trying to get out, wanting to ask her to keep touching him. Jen’s touch was intoxicating, each soft caress was as if someone had reached through to his soul and shined a light on it. Smiling and looking sincerely into her eyes, he responded in a voice that was his own but expressed feelings that he’d long suppressed.

“Jen, we’ve never been just friends. You and I both know that. I’ve never wanted to be ‘just friends’ with you. I wanted to be many things with you, but it takes trust and time to get there. I know that. I realize that it’s going to take time for me to be someone you think you can trust. But I want to someday be a confidant, your constant companion, and your lover.”

Oliver turned ever so slightly, pulling Jen down to him closer, pressing her chest against his. His hands going to her hips and slightly turning so as to encourage Jen to extend her legs, lying with him not so much as on top of him. Their legs intertwined, Oliver kissed her warmly one more time. Holding her close. “But it doesn’t entirely matter what I want. What is it that you want? If you don’t know, that’s ok, just… tell me what I am to you, so I know where to start...”

Jen let herself be pulled in by his actions. Each kiss on her hand sent shivers through her and his words struck her heart like a master harpist playing on her heartstrings. Yes, she knew he was never just a friend to her and she was never just a friend to him. There was too much attraction beyond the physical. Somewhere deep within their souls, they pulled at each other that the longer they had been apart, the more she wanted to be with him, she realized. She loved the feeling. Love his touches and his gentle guiding. He never forced her. Never did anything unless her body told him yes. But did she love him? That she didn't know yet. But it was close.

And that scared her.

The part of her that had been a rogue outcast for a long time wanted to run. This connection felt like a noose. A trap. If things turned bad, she would not run. She'd be caught and face the consequences of a life she could not get away from in the first place. She would choose to stay and put that noose on her.

The thought scared her and she buried her head on his chest taking in his scent, his warmth and the beat of his heart. She was torn and confused. Usually this kind of fear would send her running, but already, she was choosing to stay, and there was the evidence. Her fears were not unfounded.

"I want to stay and figure everything out," she said into his chest. "But I'm scared. I don't think of us as just friends either. But what if I'm caught? What if I need to run again. What about you?" the moment the words left her mouth she realized she was scared of something else. Dragging him into her problems.

She shook her head and looked up at him. "What I can't understand is why me? There are millions of women out there who are like Cass, capable, pretty, kind, and even younger than her. Why me? Right now, I'm absolutely no good to you business-wise. If anything, I will only drag you and your company down if I'm caught. Shouldn't you be thinking about that too as the Titan?"

Oliver ran his hands over her back as she buried her face in his chest. She had good reason to worry, good reasons to be concerned. Many of which if he was anyone else she'd be worried about.

Thing is, he was prepared for such cases..prepared for when or if someone tried to take a shot at Jen. They'd have to find her first. They'd have to go through him.

"I understand why you are scared. but let me say this, who of your enemies do you think actually has a chance to come after you.. through me? Nobody. Chang, he's a punk, Leonev, once he looks at that disc you sent off to him, the ICJ will be on his ass before he has a chance to sneeze. Who am I forgetting? And... if necessary, I have a few tricks up my sleeve that'll keep them off you forever. To these men, and organizations, they fear exposure of their own worst nightmares. And I'll be honest with you Jen, Veribus is a two trillion dollar company, We have ways of protecting our own."

"So if there was a place you are most safe, it's with me. Now.. why you? Because Jen, we have something that I can't define, an attraction, a chemistry that defies what should be. When you connect with someone like we have, you hold on tight, grab hold with both hands and fight for what you want the most. I'm willing to fight for you, I'm willing to protect you and defend you. Now why not other women? I told you at the beginning that there be no lies, somethings I can't tell you but this isn't one of them.

"I've been with three women in my life, all of which wanted two things, money and fame. The money that they'd get for being associated with me because they ended up betraying my confidence and the fame that would come with being with the son of Jonathan Titan. You don't want my money, even when I give it to you freely. and you don't want fame, which is why... I feel safer with you than anyone. Because you will let me be who I am, you won't try to change me or show me off. The media...the media will find out that I'm dating a beautiful woman who's seen the world. I don't want it to sound like I'm going to hide you away, because I won't. But let them guess, they won't get farther than an international woman of mystery. The board of directors will be curious, but they are also respectful. Most of the people on that board have known me all my life."

"So...with what you know now. Do you still want me?"

"So, you want me for selfish reasons?" Jen sighed. "I do too. But I'm afraid my reasons are much more selfish than just mere wanting you. I want you because I want you. I know that being selfish is a bad habit of corporations, but I didn't stay because I wanted to see just how benevolent you really are or that I have to make sure you see through the end of your bargain. I stayed because I wanted you. Because I was scared if I lost you right then, I'd lose you forever. But I'm more selfish than that.

"I hate that Cass knows you better than I do, and that you have shared so many things together that I didn't. I hate that she can be useful to you while I'm merely ornamental, that I can be that easily thrown away. I hate that you hold all the cards in this relationship. I can't even catch you if you decide that you want to run away. I stayed because I want to replace Cass in your life even if I can't be her. Because she's so special to you and I'm scared that one day, I'd fade away. That the novelty of who I am and what I am won't be as exciting anymore and you would run back to your unrequited love for her because choosing her makes much more sense. Because choosing her means that you don't have to fight or be wary in your relationship and you won't be as tired.

"I know everything I'm saying is selfish and self-centered and nothing but pure envy, but just once, I want to have something for myself. Not because I need it to survive, but because I want it and it makes me happy. Now I want to ask you, with what you know about me, do you still want me? Do you still want to save someone whose reason for staying is so selfish?" Jen held her breath, getting ready for a rejection. For a shake of his head and say that he could not be so suffocated. Then she would run. She would have the strength to get out of this emotional hold that made no sense, too embarrassed to stay. She knew if he rejected her, it would crush her and she didn't know how she would get back from that, but she was a resilient girl. Somehow, she would be able to claw her way out of it and live like she always did. Back to running. Always running.

No amount of talk could convince Jen that he wanted her to stay for the reasons she is being selfish, for his own selfish reasons of wanting her there. He could go on some monstrous monologue that could driver her crazy and he'd tell her too much too fast, scare the shit out of her and THEN she'd really run.

Instead, he allowed his actions to speak for him. Oliver put both hands on the side of her head and kissed her, not a slight peck on the lips or a slight pull at her bottom lip as a tease. No... He kissed Jen as if his life depended up on it. As if both of their lives depended on it. He poured every emotion into it, his desire to never be alone again, to never feel the need to prove anything to someone again, to worry that he'd never measure up, or that she'd leave him because it was no longer socially advantageous for her to be with him. He kissed her for being selfish and wanting to be more important to him than Cass was, and to be invaluable to him. His kiss was every bit of chaos and passion that was smoldering inside him.

But words will only carry you so far, action must be taken to solidify your words, to make someone believe that you mean what you say, and your word is your bond.

His kiss was an attack on that boundary between them that existed, he knew of no other way right now other than to physically express his need, his want for her to be here.

Oliver kissed her until his lips hurt, only then did he stop kissing her. Rubbing his nose against hers, subtly and ever so carefully, Oliver smiled earnestly, and whispered.

"I can only prove to you how I feel through my actions, no amount of words will ever truly convince you otherwise. But you have something that Cass or anyone will else will never have. You have my heart. And that's the most priceless a commodity I have to give you."

Jen was surprised by the kiss. Overwhelmed as she felt herself pulled in. She grasped the back of his shirt balling his clothing into fists letting his emotions and his actions wash over her. She submitted herself to him. She returned his kiss just as hungry as she was. A tear ran down her temple as they parted, her own emotions overwhelming her.

She realized she was crying, but she wasn't sad. She laughed as she cried feeling a whirlwind of emotions she had never felt before.

"You drive me insane," she said in between laughter and sobbing. "Maybe we should get air." She wiped a tear. "Things might go too fast too soon. I don't think I'm ready for that yet. I don't even know where or how to start." She got up and disentangled herself holding out her hand to him. "Well Mr. Titan, don't you have a crew to check before we reach out destination?"

Sitting up, Oliver took her hand and slid his way to the edge of the bed.

"Why miss.. for what reason would I ever drive you insane?" The quip was of course a joke, he'd planned to venture out and show her the rest of the vessel once they were done eating and... playing if they did go that far. Looking at the condition of his shirt however, he thought it best to make it look like Jen hadn't accosted him. Looking at the clock near the headboard he nodded in agreement then spoke up, "Yea we've got a few more hours before we get there, but I think I better change my shirt.. Not a good idea to walk around the ship with a shirt on that could make everyone think you beat me up."

Giving Jen a light swat on the ass, Oliver got off the bed and quickly stripped off his shirt in front of her as he continued talking.

"Besides, friends don't beat up friends... Which leads me to ask you, when I introduce you to people, the less people know the better off we'll be, and if it's ok with you, stating that you a friend of mine here on an internal audit. It will raise less questions. At least by those who talk, and let's be honest, running a company with a pay roll that surpasses most first world countries. we have a lot of people who talk, and gossip.. which is sometimes useful, sometimes not so much if you understand what I mean. Are you ok with that?"

For 32 he was in excellent physical shape, well he had Cass to thank for her routine morning rituals of kicking his ass into shape, but truly he did try. His chest and abs showed the fruits of his every day labors, and as he crossed the room to where his suitcase was, which had been brought on board and placed in their rooms while they visited the captain. Oliver put on a lightweight sky blue t-shirt. Looking down at himself he tried to unrumple himself, and waited while Jen did the same. Once they were in some sort of presentable condition, he gathered the trays and left the stateroom. Jen holding the door for him as he carried the trays out.

The next few hours were an accumulation of saying hello to anyone they met and also checking out certain areas of the ship. Some areas which he wanted to show her he couldn't.. it would ruin the surprise. At some point during the next few hours they found themselves near the bow of the ship, watching as an island far off grew closer and closer, the ocean was a pristine blue, so clear schools of fish could be seen off in the distance, At one point a small group of dolphins could be seen following the ship. Eventually they got closer to the island and the ship slowly made it's way toward a cove entrance, which blocked the activity of the island from prying eyes of fishermen or wondering tourists who might make it to the island without getting intercepted. Once they were in the cove, the ship docked, taking twenty minutes to get the ship secured, and once completed, activity began again. two massive doors in the deck of the ship opened, a crane from the dock reached over and began to extract a rather large white metal cylinder about 10 feet tall by 30 feet wide. The thing was massive, along the length of the cylinder two logos were embossed upon it. One for Viribus Industries space division which was a V in shape of a space craft, and the massive 4 letters that anyone in the world would recognize, NASA.

As they watched this giant cylinder get removed form the ship and placed on a massive rail system that carried it into the depths of the island, they were next met by group of three people. Howard, Giles and Amanda, were reasonable for all stages of operations here, and as they ventured beyond the dock, reality of what the Island was started to form. The rode on a pair of large golf carts, Howard a tall older man in his 50's took Jen and Oliver as his passengers with Amanda, a shorter Asian woman and Giles who spoke with a German accent when he greeted them following after. They travelled through massive doors to a storage warehouse. However, once beyond the doors, the facade of the building gave way to something far more spectacular.

It had the makings of somewhere out of a James bond film, the outward facade of the island hid technology, a few doorways and walkways could be seen as they rode deeper in to the island until finally they came to a stop at a massive stone and metal wall. the Jen and Oliver were guided to a glass elevator which had only two buttons, an up and down arrow. With a bit of a smile on his face, Oliver hit the up arrow and the elevator slowly began a slow upward assent.

As they ascended the elevator cleared the landing station and headed up a long elevator shaft that was exposed to view the full expanse of what had been hidden behind the stone and steel wall. What appeared before them was a massive flat area, a few small vehicles were driving across, and there in the middle, was a massive rocket, which rested in a recessed area which took up most of the space of the room, five massive hallways stretched out of the recessed area, and it was safe to assume the and in the middle, attached to a skeleton like scaffold on both sides of it was a massive rocket.

"How long till lift off?" Oliver asked. Amanda replied, "We are looking at at least two hours sir. We've got the rocket almost ready, the crew are about thirty minutes from going into the capsule, so we are reaching final prep."

"Great, don't let us interrupt you then."

"Not a problem Mr. Titan, just glad to have you. It's been some time since you've been able to join us for a launch."

Nodding as they finally came to a stop as the elevator had reached top, now recessed inside of the mountain. The doors opened and they were in what looked like a control room. at least fifteen people filled the room, massive screens covered every square inch of one wall, showing the rocket, it's proposed trajectory, and several other cameras from around the facility.

Oliver motioned for Jen to join him at one of the control monitors. He pointed toward a diagram of the earth and a rotating orbit toward a construct in orbit, it looked very much like Titan One, a massive space station which had taken the place of the ISS when it's orbit had degraded in 2020. Titan One was in place and had only been open for true operation for about a year. But it took was an impressive station. An additional screen next to it showed time indexes and a group of 5 people in space suits preparing another rocket...

"Take one guess where that rocket is going.." Oliver whispered to Jen.

"A friend doing an audit eh?" she said looking at him change his clothes. Just as he didn't hide how he checked out her ass in the ship, she didn't hide how she checked out his well-sculpted body as he changed. Her gaze traveled from his shoulders to his chest and down his abs. "Well, if I'm pretending to do an audit, might as well do it like I do a con. I'll make sure no one knows that I'm just along for the ride." She winked at him and rummaged through the things Cass sent her. While the women thought of almost everything, she didn't think of work clothes, so she chose an off-shoulder blouse and a pair of shorts that didn't make her look like a slovenly vacation-goer.

But unlike Oliver, she didn't work out on a daily basis, but she did parkour which was a necessary skill when running away. It was a skill that banked on agility, and flexibility more than strength which left her firm and tight where she worked her core and her arms, but still leaving her curvy where it mattered.

Looking through the room, she found one of Oliver's hand computers complete with a stylus and showed it to him. "You don't mind if I take this, do you? To complete the look, of course. So, password, please?" As soon as he unlocked his device, they went onto different parts of the ship and she played her part perfectly, pretending to take notes and ask questions. The questions were easy. She had no idea what people were talking about, so she pressed on whenever they said something and looked on as if she evaluated their answers.

Needless to say, Jen was more than impressed at the island as they approached. When they unloaded, she realized what the island was for ans was all the more impressed. Where did the waste go? How was the area so pristine with such a huge operation? It was amazing, and the view, breathtaking!

She came down with him shaking the hands of his employees. Introducing herself only as a newly on-boarded staff, she covered up what she didn't know about the new identity he gave her. At the thought, she reached into her pocket and plugged the disc into the hand computer as they drove through the island and checked on her file.

Her name was still Jen, but now she had a family name: Wright. She also was supposed to be a performance auditor, which was good, since she had no idea how to do it in finance and tech and keeping up appearances there would be very challenging. She was supposed to have done external audits for different major companies, all connected with Viribus and was hired by the company indefinitely as its internal auditor. As for her background, it just stated that she had been in most parts of the world, but left most of it blank. With most unknown, she could spin any story she wanted. And apparently, she had a place just beside Central Park. She grinned and shook her head. Later she would take it up to Oliver that she did not want to stay there if she was going to live this way. It was too flamboyant for her. But maybe she could pretend to go every once in a while.

Oliver and Amanda led them to the control room and she had to say that she was impressed at how everything seemed to work like clockwork.

"Take one guess where that rocket is going.."

His breath tickled her ear and she couldn't help but grin. "My safe answer would be space. It's ultimate destination could be anywhere from the moon to Mars, but you just asked me where it is going so..******." She put her lips closer to his ear and whispered back, "Don't tell me I have to live in that New York apartment all by myself?"

She observed the launch and was surprised that she felt nervous. These things usually go so smoothly with only one launch failure in thousands of launches. At least in Veribus' records. Still, creating such a marvel of technology that shot up through the earth made her hold her breath and finally breathed normally when it cleared the skies. She wondered if Oliver still felt the rush and anticipation even after seeing these launches countless times.

"I have to say, that was pretty exciting," she smiled at him. "Do we have more work to do?"

Oliver chuckled... "Yes... space, but where in space.. It's headed to Titan one, then the capsule will get attached to a secondary module which will go to the moon."

Oliver said all of this while the sound of her voice, and her breath made the hair on his arms stand on end. Jen had an effect on him that nobody else did. Her natural sensuality made it increasingly difficult to not take her in his arms and ravage her. Ideas floated in his head, none of them appropriate for this audience, and none of them appropriate at least for a while. He'd have to focus that energy on something else.

He was a fly on the wall at this point, watching all the moving parts working in unison. watching the small beehive worth of activity going on, and once the additional payload had been added to the rocket, they were ready.

From the distance, they watched as a loading ramp, unfolded itself from the far wall, extended out and lightly docked against the exoskeleton that held on to the rocket. From this loading ramp they could see the six crew members slowly one at a time get into the capsule and get strapped in for launch. After 30 minutes of full prep, the rocket was fully sealed and ready for launch.

As the count down proceeded and each group gave their 'go/no go' confirmation the hair on the back of Oliver's neck started to stand up, it was always like this, everytime these men and women performed this well practiced routine he started getting jazzed by the anticipation that came with the launch.

"5....4....3...2...1.. Final ignition... Launch launch launch!!!"

The ground, the walls everything reverberated from the power that was unleashed by the three boosters at lift off. Screens quickly went to a separate mode so as to track for any heat plumes that were abnormal inside the launch bay. Very quickly the exoskeleton fell away, as the rocket left the ground, rocketing into the sky....

A round of congratulations went around the room while everyone still had a job to do, watching as it gained altitude, eventually exiting atmosphere and headed to Titan One.

"It's always exciting.. least to me.. to these people behind us I'm sure its a thrill to watch the work they put in get sent up there. Eventually the hope is that everyone in this room will get a round trip ticket to the moon and back. I think when I was a kid I listened to Kennedy's speech about getting a man to the moon, and seeing the successes and failures of NASA played out in the papers, how we all go lost in the routine space fights. My dad use to tell me how in the late 60's and mid 80's the space program in the US had lost it's appeal, nobody was watching the launches on a regular basis anymore, and how it took private investment to get the program back on it's feet. When tragedy struck, Apollo 13, Challenger and Columbia, as well as our own tragedy with Aldrin 5 Everyone was talking about the cost. It got especially bad after the US and Russia had their little quibble about who gets to send who and from where after the Space Shuttle fleet was scuttled. That's when my father stepped up, my mother being a former astronaut really pushed for NASA to get off their ass. But with budget cuts, Viribus had no alternative but to go it alone. So here we are, 30 years later, and we are pushing the envelope. We have the colony on the Moon, and we beginning the further exploration of Mars, within the next oh say, 10 years.. we'll be there, permanently. Viribus has invested a lot in the future, and every time I'm here. or in the Caribbean I can see that the answers to what troubles us here on earth reside out there."

Reaching for her hand, Oliver squeezed it just once.. "This is what so many dream of, dreams are made here, the future is here, and I wanted to show you the tip of it, but no. our work isn't quite over, I've got the rest of the Island to show you..."

Turning to the team that was still hard at work watching as the latest group of astronauts made their way to Titan One, Oliver nodded at the three lead operators and waved for Jen to follow him to the elevator.

As they got in, he clicked the down arrow and they descended, the launch pad had nearly completely aired out, it appeared as if the 5 tunnels, or exhaust ports were pulling the exhaust through the floor, "Those are deep ocean tubes, they'll vent the exhaust harmlessly out into the ocean, we did extensive tests before we started launching here, and basically the same tech that's used to clean the exhaust here into harmless vapor is the same that's used to recycle the air in space to make carbon dioxide breathable."

Oliver went over a ticklist of technological breakthroughs that has made the entire island possible, and self contained. everything from the power plant which helps keep the platform operational to making sure that competitors like Arcade and a number of others from getting in here. it was all revolutionary stuff. The rest of the afternoon was spent touring the Island and it's self contained nature, Quietly this place had been built out of a dormant volcano, they'd mined the whole place, carved out the rock inside and used it to build out the island structure on the outside. it was a project that was at least a decade in the making. He was expecting her to question just about everything, and he answered as much as he could, without giving too much away, because even he didn't quite understand how everything worked in fine fine detail.

They'd completed their tour by finding their way to new quarters, the company apartments were built into the Island on the opposite side from the launch pad, The views were amazing as the executive suite had their own access and lots of privacy. The space hadn't been used in ages, and while the rooms did look well kept, there was a subtle musty smell that was in the main rooms. Oliver didn't mind all that much, after all he'd sort of sprung it on everyone that they'd be coming in just a matter of days. The space, or really living area was one grand living space, 4 rooms, 2 on each side of the living area were ample in size. A full kitchen, while empty looked spacious as well, To the right centered between two of the rooms was an entertainment center, three massive couches filled the right side with a large, or rather extremely large screen mounted on the wall. The decor was a little dated, probably 5 years old really but nothing that was in need of being replaced by any means. Out beyond the living area was an empty patio, no pool but there looked to be a trail that wound down a short slope leading off to a beach. When they'd come through the main doors, The patio doors were open bringing fresh air through the rooms, and sitting stacked off to the side were their bags, along with two baskets of fruit and snacks. An envelope rested with all of it which Oliver opened, and he read the message inside, nodding to himself and putting it on the table where the baskets were.

"Looks like Cass made them aware we were coming while we were in the air, They were kind enough to tidy up the place but, as you can tell it's.. been a while since I've last gotten out here. Probably a year since I've actually stayed more than an afternoon. I wasn't going to assume sleeping arrangements so I had them fix up the rest of the rooms so, you have your pick." Oliver pointed to the left door of the entertainment center. "That's been mine since we built this place." Oliver would like nothing more than to share his bed with her, but that would be presumptive...

Once he'd moved his bag to the room he kicked off his sandals and went looking through the bar. "Can I fix you a drink? We left the place pretty well stocked, so let me know if I can get you something."

He'd address the apartment in Central Park, and one other item once he knew Jen was sitting comfortably.

Jen smiled at him as she squeezed her hand. "Well, if this is any indication of how exciting this place is, I can't wait to see the rest." She noted that he didn't say anything about "her" new apartment, but she let that slide for the moment.

As they toured Jen couldn't believe how much Oliver trusted her with all the intel he was giving her. It didn't make sense how he could trust a known criminal like her just like that! She had a record. A valid reason why he should stop telling her all these, but he didn't hold back. What he didn't tell her were things he truly didn't know. Part of her still thought it was a dream. Oliver did come back for her. He promised he would and he did. That part of her was also scared that she would wake up from the dream and find herself alone in a cell.

But then again, all those kisses were more than just a kiss. They were rife with passion and need. Like he would fight the world just to be with her.

But then again, all her experience in kissing consisted of a 17-year old puppy love and using her womanly charms to con her targets. Not really a good base to work with, though she couldn't deny that she felt something so strong in the way he held her. Something that wasn't just lust. And the touch of pure lust was something she knew too well. It was part of the job hazard. Funny how she considered kissing more of a hazard that jumping off buildings.

Jen looked on at the facility in awe, showing complete admiration for the thought that went into the complex. Not only was it caring for the environment, its security was top notch! Oh, of course, she could still break in. After all, the human factor could always easily be cheated. But if she got caught on this island, there was nowhere to run...or more like, everywhere to run but nowhere to go. But no, she couldn't be thinking about that. But then again, it was a testament to how awed she was at the place.

Soon, the tour was at an end and they entered his room. It certainly showed signs of non-use, which was strange. The island was so beautiful and untarnished by the mass of people that littered such beautiful locations that if she had work here, she would definitely stay.

"I'll have water for now. Not much of a soda person. Maybe we can get proper drinks tonight. And let's worry about rooms later. Let's enjoy this first!" She walked out to the patio smiling as she took in the breeze and the views. "I don't get why you don't like staying here. It's amazing! Look at how beautiful everything is! You don't get this from the city. Honestly, if you ask me, I'd ditch the city to stay here." She looked back at him leaning on the railing, the sun gleaming behind her. "But then again, your Manhattan empire needs you. But still, why not stay when you do have work here?" She blushed realizing she was too loud for her voice to carry inside the house, so she walked back to the bar and sat on one of the stools, taking a banana and munching on it. "I hope you don't mind," she pointed at the fruit she was peeling.

"Have at it, eat as much as you like..." He wasn't immune to watching Jen take the banana in her mouth, He'd have to be blind or just crazy to not think of her with him... in other erotic situations, and as much as the thought of stripping her out of her shorts and having his way with her right here was very.. very appealing, he was just too worried about going to far too fast. It was his way, in public, he could be as alpha male as there was, but in private, Oliver was... very reluctant. It wasn't that he didn't want to.. god he did.. but he was also afraid of rejection if he moved too fast. And he didn't want to lose her.

Oliver thought about her question for a moment about this place, why couldn't he stay here? Why didn't he come more often? Memories ruled this place, his family in happier times, before cancer.. before.... He brought himself back to Jen's other questions, and tried to answer as best he could.

"Regarding Manhattan, it's the corporate headquarters, with my father now gone, I might be doing a lot more traveling, I dunno yet. The estate in upper New York has been our family home for well, probably two hundred years now. The place is my home. Since my father moved most of his operations to the moon. He was overseeing it all from there. You'd brought up the place in Central Park, if you don't want to stay there, where would you prefer to be? I wasn't going to assume anything, I figured giving you your own space would be a better idea. But correct me if I'm wrong.."

He thought he'd heard her include 'alone' in her statement, but Oliver wasn't going to read into anything. this was so quick..and he didn't want to assume that she'd want to stay with him.

"And this place, I come here when there's a major launch. But due to the international concerns of the company and face time required, I don't get out here as frequently as I'd like. I can never seem to get time to relax. It's not that I don't want to, but this place, these rooms hold a lot of memories."

He croaked on his words, he was having difficulty expressing himself, and with his father's death just yesterday he was having an even rougher time of it especially here.

He could feel the emotion welling in him, so he turned toward the sink, reached under and into the cabinet where all the glasses were. He pulled one out, looked it over and found it to be dusty. Setting it on the counter Oliver spoke. "Hang on, looks like the maid forgot to wash the glasses too."

He searched for a towel and couldn't find one, then turned and searched the drawers, growing mildly frustrated that he couldn't find one. He'd have to not just wipe it off but he'd have to clean it too. Which meant he'd need to find the dish soap. Opening every drawer, every cabinet in the bar he found nothing.

Muttering under his breath he said "Let me check the kitchen.... Now where would mom have kept...."

But she'd been dead for years. Will was dead, and now so was Dad. He was alone. And while Cass was as good a friend as he could ever ask for, she wasn't his. He was clinging to hope that all this, the trappings, the travel, the trips to the moon, all of it might encourage Jen to stay. But he'd missed something she said. Something that hit him in the gut. She wanted him because she wanted something for herself, not to have to share him with anyone, to feel like she was the most important thing in the world above everyone. Here in this room, where his family had once been whole he felt the parts of it fall away. And that's why he couldn't stay here. Because he had nobody that made him feel as Jen desired...

If he couldn't convince her to stay, he'd be alone again. Alone more than he thought ever possible. Oliver realized then that he wanted what she did too... just had a very difficult time saying it in words that anyone could understand.

Walking across the room to the kitchen Oliver had his back to her and hadn't faced her the entire time Jen had been talking. He could feel his eyes water, then get blurry. He reached the kitchen, opened the left cabinet door and found the container of dish soap that had been put there years ago. He found a roll of paper towels right where they'd been left the last time Oliver and his father had ventured out here. Quietly he washed the glass put too much dish soap on it as was common for him to do..The glass slipped and before he could catch it, it had tumbled, hit the counter and shattered against the stone floor. The noise reverberated through the room.

His hands grasped the counter, his eyes closed. The tears started, and wouldn't stop. His voice lost to the emotion of it all. He'd kept it together, done a fine job of boxing it off and compartmentalizing it. But here with Jen he couldn't hold it together any longer.

He had to choke it back, get is emotions under control. He had too.

"I'm sorry Jen..." He nearly whispered.

"Figures," Jen shook her head grinning. "Fine, if your idea of protecting me is putting me in some high tech condo, so be it. If I get kidnapped, that's on you." She masked her disappointment with a joke. He said all those things about being with her and yet, he was going to put her in a luxurious prison at the heart of a bustling city where she could feel alone in a sea of people. In a way, it was worse than her tiny run-down hovel. She knew the building. Its tiniest unit was more than a thousand square feet, and the large empty space would make her feel so alone. And if the tabloids were to be believed, he took some of his girlfriends home with him.

She wanted to be with him, but she didn't want to impose. He had already given her more than she could ever ask for, she would not ask him for anything else. The feeling that he was giving her the world and she had given nothing in return felt like a noose around her neck. If Oliver was still the man he used to be, he would not ask for anything in return, but that did not stave off the growing guilt inside her that she had to give something too.

So she did not ask to stay with him. His ancestral home was sacred ground. It was like a tourist barging in a temple while it was holding its solemn services just to take photos. Such an imposition would be overstepping her bounds. And asking him to stay with her? He had work. Things to do. She was already being selfish wanting him for herself. She could not ask him to abandon things for her. It was just not right.

It was strange having to deal with another person other than a client--or another member of a gang that she had to put up a tough and bad appearance all the time. She didn't know how to navigate being with another person. It was all so complicated and it was making her head spin.

She listened to him as he spoke about this place. But...something was off. She watched him as he moved with frustration. While she did not really deal with people, she knew an emotional ticking time bomb when she saw one. It was a tool of the trade to draw it out so she could take advantage of it, but she didn't want to do that to him. She thought on her words. Thought on everything she said that could have triggered him.

"Let me check the kitchen.... Now where would mom have kept...."

It dawned on her. Of course, you idiot! The last family he had died and you just had to go and ask. He knew what he was missing. She didn't. And that was probably what made life harder for him now. People left him while she never had anyone to begin with. For him, there was an overwhelming sense of loss unlike she had ever felt in her life. She wracked her head with anything to say that could make him feel better, but she came up with nothing. She thought and thought until the silence was broken with a crash and a splintering of glass.

"I'm sorry Jen..."

She got off the counter leaving her half-eaten banana and came up behind him wrapping her arms around him. "No. I'm sorry for asking you. That was insensitive of me. I'm sorry. I know I can't be your mom or your brother or your father, but I'm here. If you need me, I'm here. I don't know what I can do, but..." she held him tighter. "You haven't really properly mourned yet, have you, tending to the company and all? It's okay. No one's here. No one will judge you for loving your family. Let yourself heal. If you want me to get Cass to help...?" She brought the older woman up because she felt like she was floundering. She didn't know what to do. Cass would. She knew him like she didn't. It grated at her that she might have to call the woman, but she wanted to do something for him.

Her hands snug around his waist anchored him, held him in place while his emotions swirled. He had to get a grip, had to put his game face back on because Jen was dealing with her own issues. She didn't need him to dump on her,

This is where he retreated, he'd go inside himself, find the will to go on by diving deep into the work and getting past it. That worked, until the subtle reminders came up, until you are flipping through your phone and stare at a number that you haven't called in years. The tears would come, they'd wrap you in ice and you'd grow cold again. Refusing to let anyone in. He could do that. it would be easy.. and expected. But then why was Jen here.
She was here... because he was tired of drifting without an anchor. Tired of watching everyone else have the one thing he most wanted, someone who was more important than the job, or the moon, or anything.

She was holding on, anchoring him. Enough hiding, they were both running their entire lives, Jen from the law, Oliver from his emotions and happiness. It was time for both of them to stop...

He clasped her hands in his, turned around and brought her face to his. He kissed her without saying a word. "No.. no calling anyone. I have who I need right here."

Careful of the glass, Oliver picked her up and sat her on the kitchen island not far from them. Looking up into her eyes, he spoke from the heart.

"Jen, I.. I don't want to be alone anymore. I know what you are thinking... 'Oliver Titan, alone? No way.' Yes... I've been alone my entire life. I couldn't run, there was nowhere to run that I wouldn't get recognized, but I was alone. My parents, bless them, were wonderful people. But they had no clue how to raise kids. When we first met, you knew I ran away, but do you know what happened afterward? I was watched, every hour of every day... it is a terrible thing to live under that microscope. Especially when the people who are looking down on you are your parents. They feared so much that I'd run again they doubled my protection detail, and eventually they hired Cass. Now don't get me wrong, Cass is a great person, but the way we talked to each other wasn't always brother and sister. No, she was my 'bodyguard' and she reported to my old man. It made me reluctant to trust anyone because I could never be sure, were they around me for me, or were they hired by my father to keep an eye on me. So all the stories the media tells about my latest tryst, or the last girl I was involved with, it's all bullshit and rumors. I haven't dated in so long I can't remember when. I also.... can't remember the last time I had sex either... "

"So you see, I was alone just like you. I just had nowhere I could run. But now.. right now with you, I don't want to be alone anymore. I wanted to show you all of this because I want to share it with you to make new memories to visit these places and want to come back.

"So I have to ask you.. my idea of protecting you.. would be both of us protecting each other...Not from across town or across the hall, but from arms reach..well, so long as you can stand me.."

Oliver was vulnerable. The big man on the news who always seemed to have the perfect life had shed off his layers and showed her the dried up bones he had become inside. Outwardly plump and gregarious, he showed her how shriveled and alone he was without the world watching. She ran her hand through his hair as he spoke and bared his soul to her.

All these years, she thought that after he ran away, his parents would have paid more attention to him. That was why he ran, he told her. He ran fro home to make his parents regret how much they neglected him. Teenage rebellion had its reasons, and his dug deep. It was one thing to not have parents, but quite another when you do, but you're starved for affection. They had been both alone, but she didn't know what she was missing and he did.

Her finger curled around his hair and she smiled at him. "Then let's stop running." her other hand fiddled around his collar. "Oliver, I can't understand the pain you've been through, but I know what it's like to be surrounded by people but still feel alone. Mine can never compare to yours. I've never had a family, you did, but that's behind us now.

"Right now, right here, I don't feel alone. And I don't ever want to feel that way again. This is...I can't explain it," she sighed. "But I don't want it to end. I want this to go further. We'll probably fight and disagree, but if this is what I can get in exchange for that, I don't ever want to part. I don't want to give up on this. I've never had this before. When you find that pearl of great price, you give up everything for it. I..." she couldn't believe she was saying this. "I'm willing to give up everything for this. For you. It scares me. It feels like I'm imprisoning myself. But if this is prison, then I don't mind if you lock me up, as long as you promise not to let me out."

Her hands crept up to his shoulder as they stared at each other eye to eye. He stirred up things inside her that she didn't know were there. Trust. Safety. A closeness she had never shared even with Sister Lisa and the children whom she always put up a wall from for fear of their safety. But with Oliver, she didn't need the wall. He can protect himself better than she ever could. And protect her. Viribus was not just a company that transported inter-space, it had interests and assets in every major industry in the world and beyond. Even the toughest problem could be solved with a wave of a wad of cash in the right direction. Or a pull of its gigantic influence. She needn't fear for Oliver. With him, she didn't need to be wary. There was no reason to. No more since he completely surrendered all of his bravado and showed her his weakness without her prying. He gave her a weapon she would never want to wield against him.

"I want to get to know you more. All of you. I want to know the superstar CEO who faces the world and the vulnerable, gentle man hiding behind him." She kissed his forehead. "I want to know every small detail about you." She kissed the point on his neck just beneath his ear. "And I want you to know me too." She kissed the point between his neck and shoulder before retreating to put her forehead on his. "I...don't have any experience," she said blushing, "But I'm quick to learn."

"If you are gong to prison. it better be co-ed.. because I'd be sharing the same cell with you."

Oliver looked into her eyes, and appreciated her kisses, a slight smile broke across his face which eventually grew ear to ear.

"I...don't have any experience, but I'm quick to learn."

"I can't guarantee that I'm much of a teacher, but I think we can find our way."

From where he stood in front of Jen while she was sitting on the island, Oliver moved just enough to spread her legs just so he could to stand between. There was no rush here, so his movements were slow. He took Jen's hands and put them on the bottom of his shirt as he reached for the bottom of her blouse slightly beginning to lit it up and off. He kissed her then, his lips finding her chin, then to the nape of her neck. As he did this, he concentrated on where his lips were, and as he lifted off the blouse exposing her bra.

In a warm voice, Oliver asked.."If I'm going too fast, just.. stop me.. if you like what I'm doing.. tell me..."

As his lips covered the top of her breasts with slow kisses, his hands found her hips. Slowly he left her chest and reached behind to try and unclasp her bra... Fumbling, he smiled...

"could you..?"

Jen felt Oliver's clothes slide against her parted thighs making her shiver. A primal stir rising from the pit of her stomach making her heart race. Her hands guided to the edge of his shirt snaked under to touch his skin underneath, feeling his back muscles on her palms. She bit her lips as she felt his hard muscled ripple under her hands as he moved, gliding around toward his abs and back up to his shoulder blades. She sighed feeling his lips dipping lower, arching her neck to give him more access.

She had never been shy of her body, but for the first time, she felt beautiful as she let go of him to shrug off her blouse. She opened her mouth to answer him, but before she could, another sigh escaped her lips as she felt his lips on her chest. "Mmm...yes. I like it."

"could you..?"

"You can run an insanely large empire and a little bra baffles you. You're so cute," she teased. "Slide the straps off my shoulder, will you?" She grinned and held her hands pulling them to the back of her bra, as she guided his hands to unlatch the clasps, causing her chest to arch toward him even more.

She found that she was breathing a little heavier than normal as she kicked of her sandals and let her feet glide on the back of his legs. She opened her thighs wider as she wiggled to the edge of the counter closer to him.

At the edge of her mind, she could imagine what Sister Lisa had to say about this. But she had always been a bad girl. And maybe she could just confess later to satisfy her. But for now, she wanted this.

She wanted Oliver.

With her guidance, Oliver finally got her bra unclasped. gliding it off her shoulders his fingers teased her sides. Surely Oliver admired her bare chest now, he watched as Jen breathed deeply as her breasts were now exposed to the cool air in the room.

"Cute?" was his only comment as he tossed her bra over her shoulder across the room...

"Take that ..." Oliver snorted.. giving a half laugh. Done having his fun, Oliver returned to Jen and looked her in the eyes, then gazing down at her now bare chest.

"My god you are beautiful Jen..."

No further words were said as Oliver leaned in as she scooted forward, capturing her right nipple in his mouth. Gently, he twirled and licked around the areola, eventually nipping and sucking lightly. Oliver concentrated, his efforts on bringing her right nipple to a delightful erect condition and when he was done, he flicked his tongue across it just a few more times before he kissed his way across her chest to her left one. Repeating his appreciation for her chest upon her left nipple, he made sure to keep her right nipple in an erect condition, softly running his thumb across it. Only when he was satisfied, and he received validation of his efforts from Jen did he stop.

Coming up for air, Oliver kissed her intently, then passionately smashing her breasts against his chest. His hands went to her hips as he felt her legs wrap around his waist nearly at the same time. His growing erection pressed against her, and a deep primal groan escaped his mouth between each kiss.

"bedroom... hm?" escaped his lips...

Jen arched her back as his lips came into contact with her breast. Her eyes fluttered letting out little moans running her hand through the back of his head tugging at his hair urging him on. She mewled when cold air replaced his hot mouth as he shifted, her nipple stiff and ready as soon as he left it. Desire and fire flared inside her as both her breasts were stimulated.

And then he stopped and she let out a sigh as he pressed against her. Without any idea what she was doing, she let her body tell her. She moved her hips to slowly grind her mound against his hardness as they kissed. She wanted more. More. And she was disappointed when he tore himself away.

"Bedroom...hm?"

Jen smirked. "I really don't care where." Her hands went back to the edge of his shirt bringing them up to remove them from him. With his shirt removed she grinned at him licking her lips. "I have to thank Cass one of these days for making you look like this. You're so perfect." She let her hand glide down from his chest, down his torso and abs to the waistband of his shorts and then to his erection. The other hand went to his chest and gently pushed him away as her other hand rubbed him through his clothes.

"But you said bedroom, so..." she let go of him and got off the counter and headed for one of the rooms, taking a glance back at him with a smirk that told him to follow. She really didn't care which room she picked, as long as there was a bed and Oliver was there with her to quench the growing fire inside her, that was all she needed.