Paying Husbands Debts(Need 1-Female PM first)

[RLA68]

”... but already are, Ron .. “She told him softly, smiling

“Huh?” he said softly.

”This is ‘our’ time ... our first time together ... John has nothing to do with this, with us...” she said and he nodded.

She pulled back the bedding and invited him back into his own bed. Ron complied and crawled in next to her.

” ... I’ve been through hell with that man for way too long. The times I’ve wanted to talk to him, to talk things out, to get us to go for help ... and suddenly NOW he wants to talk.” She said giving mirthless laugh and snuggled against Ron.

” ... I have nothing left to say to him. If he manages to contact you again tell him I’ll see him in court. I’m not going to give him the opportunity to hurt me again ... whether that be with words, or violence, or by getting to you ... “

” ... John and I are over ... this is something new ... you didn’t steal me from John and I never cheated on my husband in any way. I figure now I’m free to do what I want with my life. And right now ... “She kissed Ron and ran a hand lightly down his body.

“I agree.” He added.

” ... I think ... I want you inside me again ... ?” Her hand had dipped between the fabric and Ron’s body.

“I agree with that for sure. I love you Em…you know that I just everything right for you. It is not that I want you to do anything you don’t want to…it is just I want you o do what you desire and feel safe and good about it.” He said as he got between her legs. He kissed her long and passionate wit his tongue playing tag with hers.

“You desire another round…my pleasure.” He whispered and slowly guided his member into her and waited for a moment to feel how great she feels squeezing his cock with her tight pussy. He then kissed again before long strokes in and out.

 

[DeliciousMaiden]

“I agree with that for sure."

Emma chuckled as he agreed with her wishes.

"I love you Em…you know that I just everything right for you. It is not that I want you to do anything you don’t want to…it is just I want you to do what you desire and feel safe and good about it.”

Emma looked up at Ron as he positionned himself.

" ... I'm past thinking things through, Ron ..."

She told him.

"I just know this feels right .. and it's what I want .... YOU are what I want ... "

The kiss he pressed on her was deep and passionate. Emma's pulses raced as Ron's tongue pushed into her mouth, her own tongue meeting and toying with his as his tongue explored and pushed and stroked fuelling Emma's arousal.

“You desire another round…my pleasure.”

The sexy huskiness of Ron's voice made Emma shiver.
As if they had been love making all their lives, Emma lifted her hips and allowed Ron to guide himself inside her. It felt so natural, so right!

"oh... God... "

Emma murmured softly, thrilling at how completely Ron filled her and how wonderful it felt feel him sinking slowly into her body until he was buried to the hilt.

Again a kiss, bodies pressed closely, breath ragged, adding suspense and then finally Ron drew back pausing fractionally before stroking long and deep inside her again.

"Ummm... yes... "

Emma groaned in satsifaction, her groans rising as Ron moved in long steady strokes making love to her with such a thoroughness that all made Emma moan and buck in response, driving them both on to an earth shattering release ...

 

[RLA68]

" ... I'm past thinking things through, Ron ...I just know this feels right .. and it's what I want .... YOU are what I want ... " she said

He kissed her full and passionately. He smiled as he told her another round was coming.

"oh... God... " she moaned.

He sat for a moment as the entire length of his member was inside of her. He smiled before going on with long deliberately slow strokes initially before increasing the tempo and pumping harder and stronger in and out. Their bodies were in sync like they had been lovers forever. Perfect rhythm just seems to come natural every time they made love.

"Ummm... yes... " she groaned.

“You are so wonderful and feel so fantastic Em.” He groaned with total satisfaction. He increased his tempo every so often but enjoyed how she felt so much he wanted to savor it.

 

[DeliciousMaiden]

“You are so wonderful and feel so fantastic Em.”

Emma clung to him as they melded together, their bodies in perfect union with the other.

She was amazed at how long he lasted.
The sensation was exquisite as he moved in and out of her, sinking into her very core as Emma's body sheathed and drew him into her centre again and again.

It was Emma who lost control first this time; the tempo having risen and risen until her whole body tensed until it became immobile ... and then the cry as her body convulsed in one massive contraction that seemed to run from head to toe as she collapsed against Ron with the power of that release ...

 

[RLA68]

Ron increased his tempo until he finally pumped at top speed and then four hard strokes in succession and he arched his back and stiffened up. He looked her in the eyes.
“EM…OH EM!” He shouted as he released his manseed into her. He clutched her and kissed her passionately before collapsing.

He took a deep breath before saying a word.
“I thought it was selfish on my part to want you to stay here. I have to admit…that desire has only increased. I know we are still in a messed up time…but I want to pursue us. I want to court you Emma.” He said in a somber voice.

“I know this might be wrong and I hope I don’t push you away but you know I will be good to you. I just can’t hide my feelings as they keep growing in that direction.” He states and hugs her.

 

[DeliciousMaiden]

They both lay together, exhausted and satisfied.

“I thought it was selfish on my part to want you to stay here. I have to admit…that desire has only increased. I know we are still in a messed up time…but I want to pursue us. I want to court you Emma.”

Emma kissed Ron and gave him a smile. She had been 'pursued' by John, but never 'courted'.

“I know this might be wrong and I hope I don’t push you away but you know I will be good to you. I just can’t hide my feelings as they keep growing in that direction.”

Emma considered his words.

”There's nothing wrong with this Ron ... “

She answered softly.

”It took me a long time to leave John, but I always knew that when I finally did that I'd never go back … no matter what … “

She curled up against him talking quietly as they lay together.

”Whatever happens or doesn't happen between you and I … that's totally separate … “

Even though Ron had had feelings for her during her marriage to John, she had never had any ideas of that kind and been loyal to her husband in every way. Even when she'd asked Ron for help, she had never seen this coming; never imagined how he might feel about her or how she might begin to feel about him.

”The only plans I want to make for the future right now is to get the divorce started as soon as possible and then take time out for myself … for us … if you want … “

She sighed drowsily.

”Perhaps we could go away for a while... I need to recharge my batteries … and then I'll work out what I'm going to do with my life from then on … “

 

[RLA68]

”There's nothing wrong with this Ron ..It took me a long time to leave John, but I always knew that when I finally did that I'd never go back … no matter what … “She answered softly.

“I said in the beginning and will say again..I support whatever you want to do.” He stated and smiled.

”Whatever happens or doesn't happen between you and I … that's totally separate … “ Emma stated.

“I know Em but there will be some overflow. I already have made my decision when it hits me full force.” He said and squeezed her hand.

”The only plans I want to make for the future right now is to get the divorce started as soon as possible and then take time out for myself … for us … if you want … “ she said and sighs drowsily. ”Perhaps we could go away for a while... I need to recharge my batteries … and then I'll work out what I'm going to do with my life from then on … “

He smiles.
“I am happy with whatever you want Em. You know I want an Us…I even suggested that we can go away just for that purpose to recharge the batteries. You are correct to first get this divorce thing going and hopefully settled quickly.” He said and smiled.

“I will be here I am not going anywhere. Once the divorce is where you want it to be…you just tell me what you want next. I am too happy to turn the page and see just incredible Us can be. I have a suggestion or two for getaways.” He smiled and kissed her.

 

[DeliciousMaiden]

“I said in the beginning and will say again..I support whatever you want to do.
I know Em but there will be some overflow. I already have made my decision when it hits me full force.”

Emma wasn’t sure what he meant by overflow, but then realised that at some time John would realise that she and Ron had developed into more than a friendship, which would probably be more difficult for Ron as she could see no reason for keeping in touch with her ex-husband in the future once all this was over.

“I am happy with whatever you want Em. You know I want an Us…I even suggested that we can go away just for that purpose to recharge the batteries. You are correct to first get this divorce thing going and hopefully settled quickly. I will be here I am not going anywhere. Once the divorce is where you want it to be…you just tell me what you want next. I am too happy to turn the page and see just incredible Us can be. I have a suggestion or two for getaways.”

Emma chuckled as she snuggled down beside Ron, savouring how he held her close.

” ... suggestions..?”

She queried sleepily.

” .. to share now, or ..?”

Emma let her hand run lightly over Ron’s body as they lay together, enjoying just getting to know him, how he felt, how he thought and how they were becoming together. She did not know where this would lead, but knew that Ron accepted that her feelings were all over the place right now and was grateful that he would remain by her side whilst she worked out what it was that she wanted in the future.

For now, though, despite everything, she realised that she was content.

 

[RLA68]

” ... suggestions..?.... to share now, or ..?” She queried sleepily.

“I think we can discuss a getaway tomorrow morning.” He said and kissed her cheek.

“Em..just laying here holding you like this….I know our lives mainly yours is in quite a bit of disarray. I expect mine to hit some issues. But I gotta tell you that I have not been so happy and content as I am laying with you. It just feels so….right.” he says and smiles. He kisses her gently.

 

[DeliciousMaiden]

“I think we can discuss a getaway tomorrow morning.
Em..just laying here holding you like this….I know our lives mainly yours is in quite a bit of disarray. I expect mine to hit some issues. But I gotta tell you that I have not been so happy and content as I am laying with you. It just feels so….right.”

Emma sighed as she snuggled against him with a happy sigh.

"Me too ... feels ... right ... "

She murmured sleepily, her eyes closing as she felt sated and secure.

It was likely that Emma fell asleep first, but both of them slept soundly, curled around each other. Despite their previous hot love making, there was something almost innocent in the way they lay together obvlivious to the worries of the world that would no doubt put pressure on their developing relationship ...

 

[RLA68]

"Me too ... feels ... right ... "

Ron slept well with his arms around Emma. He did wake at the crack of dawn and kissed her cheek as he got up and dressed. He put on his running shoes and hurried out the door to run his normal route of 5 miles. It helped him clear his head and focus. He wasn’t doing as regular as he liked with all going on lately.

After just under 30 minutes he returned home and came in the front door from his brisk run.
"Damn...I am getting to be an old man. 30 minutes to run 5 miles." he said half out of breath.

 

[DeliciousMaiden]

Emma was up and dressed. Her hair was brushed and pinned neatly. She wore a smart navy shift dress and a matching jacket was hanging over the chair as Ron walked into the kitchen. Smooth dark stockings and kitten heels completed the look.

"I need to head out today ... "

She told Ron as she offered him orange juice and coffee and popped bread into the toaster. A glass and plate were already in the sink and she stood sipping at her cup as she watched him respond to her offer of a light breakfast.

" ... I have things I need to sort ... and ... if you could arrange for me to meet with a lawyer ...?"

She asked, hoping he wouldn't be offended or insist that she did not leave the place without him. It wasn't that she was shutting him out, she just needed to get a reality check and get some perspective as well as setting out plans for her future ...

 

[RLA68]

"I need to head out today ... " Emma said.

He took a long good look. He whistled and kissed her cheek.
“You look absolutely fabulous Em…Not sure when the last time I told you how gorgeous you are but wow.” He said and smiled.

She offered him orange juice and coffee and popped bread into the toaster.
“Thank you dear.” He replied.

" ... I have things I need to sort ... and ... if you could arrange for me to meet with a lawyer ...?" she said.

He picked up his phone in the kitchen and dialed a number.
“Tom…I need a big favor. I have good friend that will be coming to your office. Please make sure she is taken care of. Oh..I anticipate 8:00ish I imagine and yes I owe you one. Bye.” He said and hung up.

“Sounds good sweetie. The law office on Main and 16th is where a friend of mine works. Ask for Tom Carlson and identify yourself as who I called about, my friend. If you need anything I will be at work but can break away.” He says and smiles.

“I am going to shower then need to run.” He states and kisses her cheek.

 

[DeliciousMaiden]

Emma Grendel

“You look absolutely fabulous Em…Not sure when the last time I told you how gorgeous you are but wow.”

Ron’s complement about her appearance drew a smile from Emma and boosted her confidence as did his acceptance of her needing to do things for herself.

“Sounds good sweetie. The law office on Main and 16th is where a friend of mine works. Ask for Tom Carlson and identify yourself as who I called about, my friend.”

She smiled her thanks amazed that he had gotten her an appointment so soon.

”If you need anything I will be at work but can break away.”

Emma forgot the last time when she had felt so supported. It really did seem that whatever decisions she made, Ron was happy just to be there for her.

“I am going to shower then need to run.”

His kiss was so natural and so caring. She let him go into the shower and then tidied up in the kitchen and seeing Ron off to work before finally picking up her bag and heading out of there.

The appointment with the lawyer was at 8 am. Emma hadn’t even expected that Ron would be able to arrange anything for the same day, but as it was, it suited her very well. She was in the right place to do this and after dealing with the divorce issue then she could follow the plans she had made for the rest of the day.

She had plenty of time, so selected to walk across to Main and 16th, making her way through the park and taking the time to clear her head and plan just what she would say to the lawyer. Perhaps it was just as well that the appointment had been so quickly arranged. It had at least prevented her from worrying and agonising about it all night. She smiled as she walked towards the office, recalling that the recent evening had been far from ‘restful’, but she had slept so well and so deeply wrapped in Ron’s arms ...


Tom Carlson was much younger than Emma had imagined! Although dressed in a light grey suit, he had an unruly shock of dark hair and animated dark brown eyes that gave him an air of friendliness, even mischief.

”Emma ... thank you for coming ... do call me Tom ... you’re ... Ron’s friend ... “

He stated with no hint of innuendo waving her into a seat at the other side of his desk.
Emma nodded and responded softly.

”Ron and my husband have been best friends for years,”

She informed him.

”Which has made all this very ... complex... “

She didn’t elaborate how potentially complex her personal life might become in the future.

”Mr Carlson ... Tom ... I actually have no idea how to go about this, but ... I need a divorce, as quickly as possible.”

Tom showed no reaction and merely nodded, the outwardly calm demeanour of the young woman seated opposite him contradicted by the way she clasped her hands together and the tell-tale trace of unshed tears as she spoke.

”You are sure that you are unable to reconcile your differences, Emma?”

His voice was softly sympathetic causing her to bite her lip and lower her head focusing on the navy fabric just above her knee as she fought for the control to allow her to answer.

”No ... that won’t happen ... “

She murmured finally lifting her eyes to meet his.

”My husband is ... physically abusive ... “

She managed to tell him.

”He’s been aggressive verbally for a long time, but over the past months ... “

She opened her back and drew out a card, her hand slightly unsteady as she handed it to the lawyer opposite.

”These are the details of my current specialist. They can provide you with an up-to-date medical report ... “

Tom could tell that she had no wish to go through the events of the marriage breakdown, but he needed dates and details.

” ... I know this is hard ... but if you could just answer a few questions Emma ... ?”

He took up his pen and jotted notes as he asked the pertinent questions, the half hour ending as he clarified that her husband was still resident in the marital home and that she was currently at Ron’s address.

”Do you expect Mr Grendel to file a counter suit?”

He asked delicately wondering if the issue of adultery or desertion might be made in response to Emma’s petition.

”I have no idea how ‘Mr Grendel’ will respond, but I suspect that aside from being angry at Ron for helping me that he won’t give a damn.”

She forced a laugh.

”As far as I know, my husband is constantly drunk and frequenting strip joints.
He’s accusing Ron for breaking us up when Ron in fact had been the one who helped us stay together over the past 18 months. I doubt he’s even sobered up enough to consider that I might divorce him, so I have no idea how he might react to my doing so.”

She sighed wearily.

”We have very few shared .. assets ...that I’m aware of. About a year ago we got heavily into debt which took our joint savings and the majority of my savings to keep our heads above water. Over the past year I’ve managed to put money aside in my name with the intention of having something to fall back on if he went back to gambling again. I’m living on that currently and my share of funds from our current account.”

He nodded and made a note of all she said, asking then about their ‘marital home’,

”A lot of my money was sunk into buying it in the first place ... but ... if I forced the sale of our home that would leave John with nothing ...

She faced him frankly.

”I don’t know if I can do that to him ... “

She told him apologetically.

In all it was 9 am when she left the office, although it felt as if she had been there hours!
She had been assured that everything could be set in motion immediately and as to the house, Tom Carlson had advised that they wait to see what her husband’s response was to the divorce papers being served and that she take the time to consider her own plans and needs for the future.


All in all, though emotional and traumatic,it hadn’t been quite the ordeal that she had thought it would be.

Emma crossed the park once more and headed for a coffee house she had spotted earlier. She intended to clear her head and then review her schedule for the rest of the day.

It was 10 am when she put a call through to Ron.

”Hi, it’s me ... sorry to disturb you .. no .. no nothing’s wrong... Tom was ... really helpful ... I just wondered .... whether you fancied meeting up for a late lunch ... around 1 or 1:30 pm? ... As long as you’re not too busy .... ?”

 

[RLA68]

Ron got dressed after showering and gave Emma a hug and kiss. He was hoping she would be able to make some good progress with her divorce. This was destined to not be pretty but at least it had to run its course.

Ron didn’t want to be selfish but he was hoping after the ugliness to court Emma the right way and really start a relationship. She was a keeper. He just didn’t want the whole John and divorce thing hanging out there while trying to lay the groundwork for a relationship. No, first thing is first. He was proud of himself to be a friend to her and support her first long before their relationship became more…much less physical.

Ron went his way onto work. He led a sales meeting of his real estate agents. He was all too happy to do some coaching and fire up his team to do some prospecting. He did think about how things were going for Emma but he knew Tom Carlson was a friend. He met a lot of people in the real estate industry. He went above and beyond for people to gain a reputation and be able to call in favors much less ask to put a favor on his credit account.

After the meeting he visited with most every team member. He finally made his way back to his office. He looked a picture of John and himself in their dress green uniform while in the Army Rangers. He also looked the wedding picture of John and Emma when he was the best man and the maid of honor in a picture altogether. He had the thought of happier times. How could life take such of an abrupt turn. Sure he desired Emma but this was a pretty major cost.

His hand shook a little as he opened his rolodex and picked out a military business card. He dialed the number written in pencil on the card.
“Colonel…it is Ron Anderson…Sergeant Anderson. No sir I am not interested in coming back. Civilian life suits me fine. I have a big favor to call in. I need your help to get my buddy John Grendel back in. I do think he will need some alcohol treatment before he can go but..” He said and continued the conversation until another call came in. He said his goodbye and picked up.

It was 10 am when she put a call through to Ron.

”Hi, it’s me ... sorry to disturb you” She said

“Em..everything okay?” he asked.

“no .. no nothing’s wrong... Tom was ... really helpful ... I just wondered .... whether you fancied meeting up for a late lunch ... around 1 or 1:30 pm? ... As long as you’re not too busy .... ?” She asked.

“Sounds perfect Em…I am looking forward to meeting you at 1. The bistro on Main and Turley good? I imagine you are still around downtown. By the way...I want to thank you for instantly putting a smile on my face by just calling. You are a wonderful lady Em.” He replied.

 

[DeliciousMaiden]

“Sounds perfect Em…I am looking forward to meeting you at 1. The bistro on Main and Turley good? I imagine you are still around downtown. “

Emma smiled hearing Ron’s voice and his eagerness to meet.

”That sounds idea, Ron. I’ll be there ... “

She was about to hang up, not wanting to waste his valuable work time.

“By the way...I want to thank you for instantly putting a smile on my face by just calling.
You are a wonderful lady Em.”

She chuckled.

”And you Ron are totally biased ... “

She responded. He too had put a smile on her face, the small call having proved an effective anti-dote to the meeting she had just had.

”I still have a few things to do, so I’ll head off. See you at 1.”

She told him, her voice more upbeat that it had been at the beginning of the call.

Filled with fresh determination, Emma headed to the nearest coffee house and armed with a cappuccino made a few notes and a few calls. By 10 she had a list of ideas and was heading further downtown to meet up with an old friend and colleague ...

Having effectively dropped off the face of the earth for the last 3 months and having effectively cut her ties with those she had once had at least a working relationship with, Emma had no idea as to how her call might be received. Even walking into the building after such a long time, Emma was unsure as to what welcome she might, or might not receive.

”Emma! You look great! Sandra’s expecting you ... you know where the office is ... “

She was greeted, yet made her way quickly to the room at the end of the open plan work area.

”Come on in ... “

The elder woman waved Emma into her domain without preamble. Only once the door was closed did she enfold Emma in a hug, drawing back with a trace of a frown.

”You’ve lost weight ... not that you don’t look great as ever, but ... “

She waved Emma towards the sofa area even as there was a knock on the door which opened to admit a young girl Emma did not actually know carrying a tray with coffee pot and pastries.
Only when she had left, did Emma comment.

” .. already trying to fatten me up, San?”

Sandra laughed and commented unceremoniously.

”You need it ... now sit down and eat already ... “

Pouring coffee, she handed it and, taking no risks loaded a plate with a pastry and handed that too across to Emma. With a smile, Emma obediently took a bite.

” ... well that’s step one ... now ... I guess you’re finally ready to tell me what’s been going on with you since you went AWOL on us...?”

Emma flushed and nodded hesitantly.

”... I think so ... and ... I could use some advice ... “

Emma responded.

”Sure, honey. Whatever you need ... “

Sandra dropped her brash manner and watched the younger girl carefully.
She had known instinctively that the ‘personal reasons’ for Emma to request working from home together with a progressive cutting down of her hours wasn’t for any good circumstance, but had respected her inability to give any more specific reason .... Sandra had even contacted Emma about ‘jobs’ that might be of interest to her when she had gone ‘Free-lance’, but even that small contact had broken down over the past 5 weeks or so. She was just pleased that Emma had actually contacted her and amazed that she was actually ready to confide in Sandra now.

Over 2 hours later, Emma was taking her leave not only of Sandra but renewing acquaintances with many of others in the department. The farewells taking more time than she predicted, Emma grabbed a taxi to head towards the Bistro, arriving just after 1, looking forward to meeting up with Ron after such an eventful morning ...

 

[RLA68]

“And you Ron are totally biased ... “ She responded

“I am entitled to my bias.” He responded laughing softly.

”I still have a few things to do, so I’ll head off. See you at 1.” She added

“Alright Goodbye Gorgeous Lady.” He said and hung up.

Ron called the Colonel back to work on finalizing John’s return to the Rangers. He wanted it to be low keyed as in John not knowing he made the call.

Ron worked quickly on his broker responsibilities to get real transactions moving. He had agents needing to get paid so he had to get paperwork completed and escrow checks deposited.

It approached 1pm before he could barely look up but he was excited to see Emma. He hopped up and told his secretary he was off to lunch. He just found a parking space about 10 minutes to 1 pm. He strolled inside and said hello to some people that knew him including the owner of the shop.

He gave her a hug and kiss as she walked inside. It was a bit of a public display but he figured he was in love with her. He was never going to be ashamed or afraid to show or say that he loved this woman.
“I am so glad to see you. Crazy morning…but just seeing you makes the entire world just seem right.” He says to her and walks her over to a table and they sit down.

“So how has your morning gone Em?” he asks and smiles.

 

[DeliciousMaiden]

Emma had not expected the hug and kiss that Ron gave her in greeting. She flushed in pleasure, but could not quite prevent herself from glancing round to see if there were any of her, or rather John’s friends around as she took her seat.

“I am so glad to see you. Crazy morning…but just seeing you makes the entire world just seem right.”

She nodded, brief concern crossing her features.

”I hope I didn’t add to your workload by suggesting we share lunch ...?”

She murmured, but Ron seemed more than happy to be spending the time with her.

“So how has your morning gone Em?”

She picked up the menus and seemed to consider.

”Good I think ... well... at least I got a lot of ... practicalities dealt with ... “

She ran her eyes down the list of appetitising dishes until she had decided what to eat and then put it down in front of her.

”Tom Carlson is a nice man ... “

She confirmed.

”He’s very .... thorough ... but efficient ... it wasn’t an easy appointment, but being so business-like helped us work through the details quickly ... “

The waitress came and Emma ordered a pasta dish with side salad and requested a glass of wine.

”Not that he’s at all ‘cold’ she went on to explain. He was very understanding about my ... circumstances ... he has all the details he needs to start the process in motion, but there are a few things I need to consider and get back to him about ... within the week ideally... but that’s just a phone call .... “

She gave a sad laugh.

”In fact, given my situation, it’s surprisingly easy to sue for divorce ... “

She shook her head almost not believing that her marriage was about to be over.

 

[RLA68]

”I hope I didn’t add to your workload by suggesting we share lunch ...?”
She murmured,

“No not at all. I am thrilled to meet you for lunch.” He replied.

They looked at the menu in front of each of them.

”Good I think ... well... at least I got a lot of ... practicalities dealt with ... “she said in reply how her morning went.

Ron looked on intently.

”Tom Carlson is a nice man ... “ She confirmed. ”He’s very .... thorough ... but efficient ... it wasn’t an easy appointment, but being so business-like helped us work through the details quickly ... “

“He is young for some in his profession but he is very good and most importantly a decent man.” He replied.

The waitress came and Emma ordered a pasta dish with side salad and requested a glass of wine. Ron ordered a pasta dish as well but chose the soup of the day and a diet soda to drink.

”Not that he’s at all ‘cold’ she went on to explain. He was very understanding about my ... circumstances ... he has all the details he needs to start the process in motion, but there are a few things I need to consider and get back to him about ... within the week ideally... but that’s just a phone call .... “ She gave a sad laugh. ”In fact, given my situation, it’s surprisingly easy to sue for divorce ... “

He took her hands.
“Emma it is a sober decision divorce. You and I already talked more than once. I think that sober decision should be made with less road blocks than just two people that don’t want to be married for no particular reason. You deserve that much.” He said and smiled.
He watched her shake her head a bit.
“I know this is still tough but as I said since day one…I am here and will be there every time you need me. I made a call and in a round about way am helping John get back in the Rangers without him knowing I helped. I know he would turn it down if he knew I called. I told the Colonel to screen him as he goes in and get him help with alcohol and his other issues once he is in.” He added.

“Trust me that things will turn out. It just takes patience and perseverance.” Ron states and smiles as the drinks, salad and soup arrive. He kisses her hands. “Love you.” He says softly in a whisper almost.

 

[DeliciousMaiden]

“Emma it is a sober decision divorce. You and I already talked more than once.
I think that sober decision should be made with less road blocks than just two people that don’t want to be married for no particular reason. You deserve that much.”

She knew he was right, but divorce felt like such a failure somehow.

“I know this is still tough but as I said since day one…I am here and will be there every time you need me. “

Emma smiled her gratitude and eased back sliding her hands from Ron’s listening as he continued.

”I made a call and in a round about way am helping John get back in the Rangers without him knowing I helped.”

His words surprised her; despite everything Ron’s friendship to her husband was truly unwavering. Not that John would see it that way!

” I know he would turn it down if he knew I called. I told the Colonel to screen him as he goes in and get him help with alcohol and his other issues once he is in.
Trust me that things will turn out. It just takes patience and perseverance.”

She laughed.

”Which you seem to have boundless amounts of, Ron...”

She commented as the drinks and first course arrive.

“Love you.”

Again she glanced around, though thrilled by his words Emma could not help but worry about being seen together displaying a closeness beyond that of wife-of-husband’s-best-freind.

”Ron ...?”

She started hesitantly as they tasted their food approvingly.

”Were you serious ... about perhaps getting away for a while...?”

She asked, putting down her fork and sipping her drink nervously.

”It’s just that ... I went into work today ... well the publishing house where I used to work ... “

She smiled telling him in advance that the meeting had gone well.

”... with this situation with John ... I had to keep cutting down my hours ... until I worked free-lance from home ... and then... well even that was impossible to keep going ... “

She refused to dwell on that and continued on.

”No one had any idea of why I just disappeared... and for all I knew they’d never want to see or hear from me again, but ... I contacted them this morning and went round to talk with Sandra, my ‘old’ boss ... “

She sipped her drink once more.

”If I’m setting up on my own, I have to work and ... I thought ... I didn’t have anything to lose so ... I told her everything ... well ... about John.. not about ... us ... “

She blushed hoping he didn’t feel offended by his words.

” ... and it seems she’s willing to give me another chance ... to do some free-lance work ... then perhaps later ... be more office based... just depending on how it all works out for both parties.... “

It hadn’t been an easy morning, but Emma was obviously pleased with herself for having grappled with that particular aspect of her life.

” ... anyway ... as a way of getting back into things I said I might be able to do some photography ... article writing ... holiday themed stuff ... to add to their image archive or travel supplements ... the pay wouldn’t be good, but ... it means that I ... we ... could get away from things for a while ... “

She watched Ron carefully uncertain as to his reaction to her news and suggestion ...

 

[RLA68]

”Ron ...?”

“Yes darling.” He smiled as he replied.

They tasted their food approvingly.

”Were you serious ... about perhaps getting away for a while...?”

She asked, putting down her fork and sipping her drink nervously.

He looked up and was drinking his refreshment.

”It’s just that ... I went into work today ... well the publishing house where I used to work ... “

He had an answer but waited for her to finish, so he was nodding.

She smiled telling him in advance that the meeting had gone well.

”... with this situation with John ... I had to keep cutting down my hours ... until I worked free-lance from home ... and then... well even that was impossible to keep going ... No one had any idea of why I just disappeared... and for all I knew they’d never want to see or hear from me again, but ... I contacted them this morning and went round to talk with Sandra, my ‘old’ boss ... “

She sipped her drink once more.

“Yes that is very good sweetie.” He quickly added.

”If I’m setting up on my own, I have to work and ... I thought ... I didn’t have anything to lose so ... I told her everything ... well ... about John.. not about ... us ... “

She blushed hoping he didn’t feel offended by his words.

” ... and it seems she’s willing to give me another chance ... to do some free-lance work ... then perhaps later ... be more office based... just depending on how it all works out for both parties.... “

“That is great Emma.” He said encouraging her. “I am happy your old employer wants you back.” He said smiling.

” ... anyway ... as a way of getting back into things I said I might be able to do some photography ... article writing ... holiday themed stuff ... to add to their image archive or travel supplements ... the pay wouldn’t be good, but ... it means that I ... we ... could get away from things for a while ... “

Ron smiled and set down his cup of tea.
“A couple of things. I want you get back out there and work. It is good for you. It builds the inner strength every person should experience in my opinion…stay at home parents likely not included. I can’t say for them. You are smart and have a personality that needs to this.” He adds and smiles. He pauses.

“As for out on your own….You have to make your choices and I won’t…I will try not be a roadblock for any. You are more than welcome to stay at my place for as long as you like. That includes even if we some how stop our relationship that has developed. That spare room is your Emma…and I would suggest in a friendly manner to save your money during this. You know the best case scenario out of all of this…but if you move out I want you make sure you financially okay. I love you and that won’t change even if somehow our relationship does.” He states.

He takes her hands.
“Now would I be interested in going on a holiday with you? Nothing else on this planet has even close the interest to me. I have a number of ideas but am open for yours…all that matters is being with you. At this moment…I consider myself courting you Emma. All that has concerned me is doing it the right way for you as well as it just being right overall. I will do anything to continue to show you I love you.” He states kissing her hands.


"Ideas?" He asks smiling.

 

[DeliciousMaiden]

“Yes that is very good sweetie... That is great Emma..
I am happy your old employer wants you back.”

Emma smiled at Ron’s encouragement. She knew he would be supportive, but she appreciated the reassurance. Once she had finished her little speech, Emma waited for Ron’s response.

“A couple of things. I want you get back out there and work. It is good for you. It builds the inner strength every person should experience in my opinion…stay at home parents likely not included. I can’t say for them. You are smart and have a personality that needs to this.”

Once again she was reminded of the difference between him and John. John had not valued her work, even though much of her wage had been used to bail them out at times. He had made it impossible for her to continue with her working and she had missed the creativity and challenge of a job, not to mention the planning of a career in future years.

“As for out on your own….You have to make your choices and I won’t…I will try not be a roadblock for any. You are more than welcome to stay at my place for as long as you like. That includes even if we some how stop our relationship that has developed. That spare room is your Emma…and I would suggest in a friendly manner to save your money during this. You know the best case scenario out of all of this…but if you move out I want you make sure you financially okay. I love you and that won’t change even if somehow our relationship does.”

Emma appreciated what Ron was saying and was grateful for the offer of the spare room, though she hadn’t quite intended him to assume that she was calling a halt to any potential relationship they might have.

“Now would I be interested in going on a holiday with you? Nothing else on this planet has even close the interest to me. I have a number of ideas but am open for yours…all that matters is being with you.”

He continued making it impossible for Emma to clarify his misunderstanding.

” At this moment…I consider myself courting you Emma. All that has concerned me is doing it the right way for you as well as it just being right overall. I will do anything to continue to show you I love you.”

Again, he seemed oblivious to any potential scandal as he kissed her hands and asked her for her ideas ...

” ... our ‘relationship’ is a separate issue, Ron ... “

She began picking her words carefully.

”When I spoke of setting out on ‘my own’ I meant as a single woman rather than a married one ... “

She clarified hoping he would understand.

” ... today was about getting my divorce sorted, getting a way of earning enough money to make me financially independent ... about breaking free of John ... “

She halted as the waitress came to clear away the first course.

”I’m not writing you out of my future ... likewise, I can’t become dependent on you just because it’s easy to let you ‘take care of me’, attractive though that might be ... “

She gave him a smile and sipped her drink.

”... as for courting me ... “

She smiled then, but glanced around.

” ... being out in public like this is ... difficult ... for me right now.
I just don’t want tales getting back to John or to give him any ammunition to complicate the divorce proceedings...”

She sighed, but continued.

”That’s what made me think again about the holiday idea .
If we get away we could just be ourselves, get to know each other all over again... away from this situation.”

The next course was served, again punctuating their conversation.

”I’m not keen to move out from your place any time soon ... as long as you don't mind having me around, but if we went away somewhere, we wouldn’t just be in a place that was 'your home' and my ‘safe house’. It would just be easier away from all this to find out how we really feel about each other, by choosing how to spend time together and not having to worry about anyone watching and judging us ... and it doesn’t really matter to me where that place is ...”

She finished wondering how he would react to her words.

 

[RLA68]

” ... our ‘relationship’ is a separate issue, Ron ... “

“Yes of course it is dear.” He said smiling.

”When I spoke of setting out on ‘my own’ I meant as a single woman rather than a married one .. ... today was about getting my divorce sorted, getting a way of earning enough money to make me financially independent ... about breaking free of John ... “

“Oh yes I get it. I am proud of you and your strength Em.” He replied.

She halted as the waitress came to clear away the first course.

”I’m not writing you out of my future ... likewise, I can’t become dependent on you just because it’s easy to let you ‘take care of me’, attractive though that might be ... “ She gave him a smile and sipped her drink.

“I respect that Em.” He replied

”... as for courting me ... “ She smiled then, but glanced around. ” ... being out in public like this is ... difficult ... for me right now. I just don’t want tales getting back to John or to give him any ammunition to complicate the divorce proceedings...”

She sighed, but continued.

“Okay I understand.” He said still smiling understandingly.

”That’s what made me think again about the holiday idea . If we get away we could just be ourselves, get to know each other all over again... away from this situation.” She stated.

He looks up as the next course was served, again punctuating their conversation.

”I’m not keen to move out from your place any time soon ... as long as you don't mind having me around, but if we went away somewhere, we wouldn’t just be in a place that was 'your home' and my ‘safe house’. It would just be easier away from all this to find out how we really feel about each other, by choosing how to spend time together and not having to worry about anyone watching and judging us ... and it doesn’t really matter to me where that place is ...”

“Well I do want you to stay at my place as long as you like. I am fairly open to holiday anywhere you want to go. I have heard good things about the Bahamas and couple private resorts.” He responded.

 

[DeliciousMaiden]

Ron was not only understanding, but he was encouraging.
As they began to eat their main course, conversation turned to possible holiday destinations.

“I am fairly open to holiday anywhere you want to go. I have heard good things about the Bahamas and couple private resorts.”

She seemed to consider.

"That sounds very exotic, but also expensive...?"

She queried, but did not dismiss the idea.

"Then again, photographs in those type of locations might be more desireable than the usual holiday resorts ... "

More exclusive locations would attract a better price for her photos and she might even be able to write a few specialist features at the same time.

"It might be worth the investment, work wise of course ... "

She considered aloud ...

 

[RLA68]

"That sounds very exotic, but also expensive...?"

“You would be surprised. I can write most of it off on my business with taxes as you would by taking pictures and doing your article I take it. There are always specials love.” He said and smiled.

"Then again, photographs in those type of locations might be more desireable than the usual holiday resorts ... "

“Yes great photos and a nice focus on a good couples retreat. Romance is not the only that those places offer. Good relaxing atmosphere and an opportunity to spend quality time together.” He added.

More exclusive locations would attract a better price for her photos and she might even be able to write a few specialist features at the same time.

"It might be worth the investment, work wise of course ... " She considered aloud.

“Every angle is a win-win scenario Emma. Professionally and personally. I know I am ready for a holiday with some time away from work and respectfully get away from any drama that John might muster up before he leaves the area for the Rangers.” He added and smiled sipping his tea.

“Would you like me to get prices and choices for your consideration?” He asked smiling.