Steve&Cassie(Closed)

[DeliciousMaiden]

Cassie

”Cassie, I do not regret kissing you.
I would have deeply regretted doing anything to cause you to mistrust me.
I want you to believe that someone does care about you, that you do have reasons to regain your health.”

I smiled as he spoke. He moved so we were sat on the bed facing each other.
I secured my robe, his robe, automatically and covered his hand with mine.

”I will not ask you to leave. If you leave this home it will be of your own free will.”

I said nothing. I didn’t believe that, but at the moment he did.

”It is obvious now that my feelings for you are deeper that those of just a Good Samaritan. I am probably as surprised about that as you are.
We should both take time to understand that.”

I watched his face carefully.
He thought he had feelings for me. He was attracted to me, but as to anything more…
I decided he was just too honourable to call it lust.

” I told you at the café, that I did not expect sex from you in return for favours, and I meant that.”

I smiled. He was still insisting that he wouldn’t be trying to get me into bed.
Then I started at the words he spoke next.

”I suspect that others have taken you, not in only in return for favours, but perhaps even against your will.”

I dropped my eyes from his, my cheek pinking in confusion.
What made him think that? How could he know?
He didn’t know anything about me, yet …
His voice continued, soft and earnest.

”You deserve better than that.
You deserve to decide who you will be with; where, when and how you will be with them.”

I looked up at him again, thinking about his words.
They were a new concept.
I didn’t think I deserved much, anything really.
Who was I to decide anything for myself?
Every decision I’d made so far in my life was a disaster anyhow!
But he smiled down and held out his hand.
I took it and stood beside the bed.

”You need to feel comfortable here if you’re going to get better.
I want you to be happy here.

I smiled. I could feel comfortable, there wasn’t much wrong with me, I could get better. The discussion was on safe ground again.

”I don’t know if you will ever be able to reciprocate my feelings for you.
I think you may need to come to terms with your life and I know that I have to continue the process of balancing my life before I would even have the right to ask you to consider your feelings for me.” “

He wasn’t asking, but he was hoping.
He wanted me to care for him.
I didn’t know what I felt at that moment:
Attraction, warmth, he made me feel safe, I trusted him …
I knew that I didn’t want to run out on him, on this, no matter how strange or scary it felt.

I turned as he moved the crockery together.
His head turned and his eyes captured mine.

”I think I can be happy here, for as long as we’ve got,”

I tell him, not accepting that I’ll be here long term.

”I really don’t deserve all this, … I’m … not what you think… if you knew…. “

I broke off unable to continue, remembering that he had guessed, some of it anyhow.

”I really am no good, Steve. I don’t want to mess your life up.
I’ve caused nothing but trouble since we met … just think about it.
I won’t hold any of your words against you, you owe me nothing, at anytime, you can just forget the whole thing … “

I sigh.
I so want it to be as he says, but I find I’m trying to drive him away with my words, to give him a get-out clause, even now.

”But… we’ll give it time… see how we feel… see how it goes… “

I look earnestly at him.

”But… I’ll never just take off, leave… I did that once before …
It’s never right, or fair… and… I care too much about you to ever do that to you, Steve.. “

I blush and glance at the doorway.

”I think I’d better go wash… “

I comment, drawing on the first distraction that comes to mind.

 

[waits2play]

The rest of the night was uneventful. As I showered I tried to make sense of Cassie’s remarks. It was difficult to imagine anything in her past that I would not have resources capable of dealing. I had been consumed with my business, but business was good and I had a wide assortment of associates.

Feeling refreshed from the shower, I ran upstairs and told Cassie I would leave her to sort through things in the bedroom while I prepared supper. After eating we shared the clean up duties. We talked for a while after dinner and I explained my morning conference call, before heading off to our bedrooms.

As I was lying in bed that night I reran the events leading to the kiss. Cassie was courteous in her response but obviously she was not sexually or romantically aroused. Perhaps she will have to resolve her own situations before she can have a meaningful encounter or relationship with anyone. Furthermore, I was probably foolish to think she would ever be interested in any form of intimate relationship with me. I did not fall asleep easily, and I when I did my sleep was troubled by nightmares from my past.

In the morning, I awoke in a cold sweat and rose early to exercise and shower before the conference call. I went for a run through the neighborhood. While running past the café, I recognized the same guy that was watching Cassie the day before. I nodded a greeting and determined to follow up on this seemingly chance encounter. Why I hadn’t I noticed this individual before.

Back at home, the conference call went well and everyone accepted my reasons for being away. Later in the day, I would need to pull some documents together to send to the office. Things were coming together so I would not need to personally attend to business issues for up to 2 weeks, if needed. After the call, I made a separate call and initiated inquiries about the stranger from the café.

These tasks completed, I sat in my office wondering how to approach the day and fortify myself for the reactions I know I would have every time I saw Cassie, every time she spoke. How do I achieve the plutonic relationship she feels comfortable with and demonstrate the concern and interest she seems to want. When I came out from my office, I called up to Cassie to see if she was up and ready for breakfast. If nothing else, I could make sure she had the opportunity to eat decently.

 

[DeliciousMaiden]

Cassie

The bath I luxuriated in soothed my senses. I could not remember the last time that I had been able to relax without cares or worries. As I soaked, I kept thinking about the things Steve had said to me. He seemed concerned about my health. He always quoted that as a reason for me to stay, but I realised there was so much he hadn’t said, hadn’t said until he dropped that tray and we…

I sighed softly. I had enjoyed his kisses.
It was the first time I had managed to trust someone, to let go and feel what it was like. It seemed stupid, ridiculous for someone like me, but he made me feel clean, new, worthy … something I hadn’t felt in a long time.

I lifted myself out of the bath and went to the bedroom.
Steve shouted telling me I should sort myself out, that he would make supper.
He’d left more items of clothes out he said.
Again I dried my hair and then moved to select the items.
It was late, so I chose a pair of white panties and bra, then donned on a pair of casual pyjamas, they looked more like a young girl’s than a grown woman’s, but they fitted and suited modestly enough.

I padded down to the kitchen and smiled shyly as Steve turned from the stove.
I blushed… “Ohhh…”

He was fully dressed and I felt somewhat conspicuous.
He assured me I looked charming, then leaving me to tend to the pasta, he disappeared returning only minutes later in a pair of sweatpants and a top, which were obviously for lounging and sleeping in.

”I don’t think we got dressed today…”

I giggled, then blushed at the look in his eye.
There were many reasons for a couple not getting dressed, but ours had been totally innocent, even so, I could not ignore the thoughts we both seemed to share and noted that he hastily turned away, hiding any possible evidence of his thoughts.

The meal passed pleasantly.
I ate ravenously and giggled as he watched obviously pleased at my healthy appetite.
He had pulled out the filled pasta he had bought the day before and prepared a creamy sauce to accompany it. Only when he offered me wine did we suddenly remember our tablets. We were both on medication! Somehow it seemed funny.
We had glasses of water and pills for desert, finishing off with a coffee and a selection of continental biscuits, which we nibbled at as he asked if I’d enjoyed my bath and explained that tomorrow he would have to get up early and organise his work…

Even though we had slept late that day, it was only 10 pm when we eventually parted company. I slid into bed and glanced round the room that was “mine” for now.
I couldn’t believe I was so exhausted. I had been warm, safe and well fed.
I fell into a contented sleep, unaware of Steve’s early morning activities.
I slept deeply, peacefully …

 

[waits2play]

These tasks completed, I sat in my office wondering how to approach the day and fortify myself for the reactions I knew I would have every time I saw Cassie, every time she spoke. How do I achieve the plutonic relationship she feels comfortable with and demonstrate the concern and interest she seems to want, but won’t admit she cares about. In fact she goes out of her way to demonstrate that she does not care about what other people think of her. I smiled as I remembered telling how proud I was of her after she had used my card to pick up some personal items. She was obviously pleased to hear some encouraging words.

When I came out from my office, I called up to Cassie to see if she was up and ready for breakfast. If nothing else, I could make sure she had the opportunity to eat decently. If Cassie came down in those white pajamas again, I’d have to take another shower, a cold one this time. She was looking better each day; her hair had taken on a silky texture and glowed in the sunlight. Thank God this was my last day for the antibiotics. If I expect to get a decent night’s sleep tonight, I’ll need a glass of scotch tonight.

Cassie was warming up as a person. I enjoyed our conversation over dinner last night. She has the smile of an angel. At one point, I had made comment about how old my daughter would have been next month and how much she carried her mother’s looks and personality. I did not give Cassie any indication of how much of their lives I had missed while I was active in my former profession. I’d never spoken to anyone, outside of the company, about their deaths and that was only during my rehab and debriefing. Those thoughts led me back to the stranger I had spotted twice in as many days. I had made it my business to know the faces of the people in my neighborhood and this guy wasn’t one of them.

My associates should be able to spot my suspicious guy and start checking him out before the day was over. It’s probably nothing to do with Cassie. In fact, if anything he could be keeping an eye on me and I just happened to catch him ogling Cassie.

I was looking forward to spending the day with Cassie; I was anxiously looking forward to spending the day with Cassie. She had not responded to my call...

”Cassie, are you awake?”

Stepping on the first step I stopped when his time I heard movement upstairs.

 

[DeliciousMaiden]

Cassie

”Cassie…?”

It was Steve’s voice that woke me.
I looked at the clock and found that it was heading for 9 am already!
I slid automatically out of bed and went to the bathroom to freshen up and have a quick wash.
Coming back to the bedroom, I moved to the pile of clothes.

“Cassie, are you awake?”

I decided a quicker start was necessary today, afterall, Steve might be wanting to get to work, he might want me out of the house for the day, that would be understandable.
I knew he had responsibilities, but I didn’t know what to expect.
Monday was workday. I knew he had set up some calls, but he hadn’t gone into detail about what he expected me to do whilst he was working.

I’d donned a pair of jeans, white panties and underwear, a t-shirt, blouse over the top and tied a sweater about my waist. I moved downstairs to the familiar kitchen.

”Morning … “

I spoke shyly, moving to “my” seat and picking up the coffee, glad to have it enter my system and kick start my groggy body.

”Sorry I’m late … I can’t remember when I’ve ever slept so much, usually I barely sleep at all … I’ll finish this then you can tell me what you want me to do today, or where to go … I don’t want to disturb your work, Steve.”

I smiled and sipped the coffee, declining breakfast.

 

[waits2play]

Steve

I turned when I heard Cassie walk into the kitchen. Even though I tried to prepare myself in advance, I was taken with how good she looked. However, this time it more about how refreshed she looked, her color was already improving. She will break some guy’s heart, I wonder if it will be mine. As I was sitting down to the table Cassie said:

”Sorry I’m late … I can’t remember when I’ve ever slept so much, usually I barely sleep at all … I’ll finish this then you can tell me what you want me to do today, or where to go … I don’t want to disturb your work, Steve.”

I took a sip of coffee before responding.

”Cassie, I have realized I work with a great group of people, I just needed to give them more opportunities to step up to the plate and they’ve done it today. As, I’ve been trying to get you to understand you can help me at least as much as I can help you. You’ve already given me a reason to step back and look at how and where I spend my time. I need to spend less time with the business. The only thing I have to do for work is put together some documents and courier them to the office by tomorrow morning. That shouldn’t take 30 minutes. I was hoping to spend much of the day with you.”

I couldn’t really tell if that was a pleasant surprise or a disappointment. I could tell she had not expected me to be there for the day. Was she looking forward to spending time together? Was she looking for time away from me, from anyone looking over her? She is probably used to spending more time on her own.

”You look nice this morning, refreshed. If you are up to it, I can show you around the neighborhood. That way if you need to pick up any clothing items, etc. you will know where to find the shops. Oh, we should stop by the bank and get some cash for you, so you’ll have money when you’re shopping.”

She raised her head to watch me during those comments. I’m sure her next comment will be “I’m not worthy of your trust, your attention, whatever.

”Trust me on some of these things, or at least just humor me. I’m willing to take a chance or two here. You won’t disappoint me. My only concern is that I create a situation for you to disappoint yourself. I have a lot of experience with people. A lot of experience with judging their motives, it’s what I do. I trust you. I have been a failure when it comes to the emotions and feelings of others, and I believe you can help me.”

Leaning back in the chair and stretching, I realized I wanted to relax, to play. But, I wasn’t sure Cassie would be up to a bike ride or some extended activity.

”I don’t know about you, but I’m ready to relax. Is there something you would like to do? Would you like to spend time together this afternoon?”

 

[DeliciousMaiden]

Cassie

I wrapped my hands about the steaming cup sipping and watching Steve. He seemed to approve of my outfit. He sipped his coffee, pausing before speaking:

”Cassie, I have realized I work with a great group of people, I just needed to give them more opportunities to step up to the plate and they’ve done it today. As, I’ve been trying to get you to understand you can help me at least as much as I can help you. You’ve already given me a reason to step back and look at how and where I spend my time. I need to spend less time with the business.
The only thing I have to do for work is put together some documents and courier them to the office by tomorrow morning.
That shouldn’t take 30 minutes. I was hoping to spend much of the day with you.”


I looked at him, wondering what it was that I could actually help him with.
Perhaps he really did need a rest to? He had certainly seemed stressed that evening when I’d tried to steal his wallet. The more I got to know Steve, the more I realised how out of character it was for him to have responded so aggressively, even if he had imagined me a street thug.

”You look nice this morning, refreshed.
If you are up to it, I can show you around the neighborhood.
That way if you need to pick up any clothing items, etc. you will know where to find the shops.
Oh, we should stop by the bank and get some cash for you, so you’ll have money when you’re shopping.”

I stared at him dumbly. Clothing? Bank? Money?
He was acting as if I’d be there long term!
I had promised not to leave, to let him ask me to go, but by the way he was talking it didn’t sound as if he had plans to do that for a while yet.
I blushed, wondering just how serious he was about this and finally realising that maybe this wasn’t just going to be a haven for only a week or two.
Could I let myself get used to being treated like this though?
And why on earth did he think I was worth it?
It was as if he read my mind.

”Trust me on some of these things, or at least just humour me.
I’m willing to take a chance or two here. You won’t disappoint me.
My only concern is that I create a situation for you to disappoint yourself.
I have a lot of experience with people.
A lot of experience with judging their motives, it’s what I do. I trust you.
I have been a failure when it comes to the emotions and feelings of others, and I believe you can help me.”

He was asking me to trust him. I trusted him already.
Far more than he realised perhaps.
I couldn’t remember when I had last stayed in one place for so long.
I’d kept moving initially so that I couldn’t be found and after then it had become a good habit, a good way of avoiding trouble.
Stay too long in one place and you become vulnerable.
That was true even now!
I eyed him carefully.
He was taking risks, financially, but emotionally? Yes, he cared.
But it was risky for me too.
He was beginning to change the whole way I thought, about myself, about what I wanted out of life, about what I’d done in the past.

I would trust and humour him, but …
Somehow I still had to hold back … He would be so easy to … care about … to really care about … I didn’t want that complication … I would be hurt … he would be hurt … it would just …

His voice pulled my attention back to reality.
He looked happy and relaxed. I could not help but smile as he spoke.

”I don’t know about you, but I’m ready to relax. Is there something you would like to do? Would you like to spend time together this afternoon?”

I felt my heart skip at the idea of spending time alone with him once more.
Damn! So much for those intentions!
It was going to be hard work to remember that I was just some useless waif and not the houseguest he seemed to want to make me.

”I don’t want to mess up your work, Steve, but … it would be great to have company today. I’d like to look round the neighbourhood, but … “

I didn’t want to hurt his feelings or throw back his generosity.

”I don’t need money or new clothes. This stuff is fine … really nice … and it fits … and … no matter how long I stay, I don’t want you wasting more money on me than you have to … it wouldn’t be right … “

I blush and look away quickly, not meeting his eyes as I add softly.

”… and I do trust you, Steve … I don’t understand why you’re being so kind, so good to me … but … I enjoy being with you … it’s not just your house, your food, the clothes … I … like… you … “

I glance up at him, speaking, admitting to him and myself as I add;

” … you make me feel safe… as if you give a damn about me … perhaps I feel worth something for the first time in ages … but it makes me realise how bloody stupid I’ve been, how bloody-minded … “

I give a forced laugh, almost hiding behind my “Caz “ persona as I comment harshly:

”Takes some talent to totally fuck up your life before you’ve got past your teens doesn’t it? “

I drop my eyes, shoulders drooping as I discard the tough exterior.
I shake my head incredulously, wondering how I ever let myself get into all this.

”Let’s go for a walk or something, shall we..?”

I suggest softly, trying to suppress the guilt and regret. I still felt, knew I was a bad person, no matter how much Steve told me otherwise … he didn’t know …

His words, though kind and well intentioned, made little sense, little impact, but as his hand closed about mine as we walked out of the house I knew that that was all the comfort and reassurance I needed.

He squeezed my hand gently and I moved closer to his side.
Why I found the feel of him beside me comforting, I did not know.

I couldn’t expect him to be “home” with me day in and day out, but ...
Out of his presence, the intimacy, our ... situation ... scared me, making it dififcult not to be "freaked" and take to my heels again, but ... I had promised and no matter what I couldn't do that to him now.
When he was with me, though, that instinct seemed alien to me:
Then I knew that I didn’t want to run away again, that I never wanted to leave.

Everything about him challenged my perceptions.
Words in isolation were easy to reject, but everything about the way he treated me, told me that he trusted me, that he wanted me there, told me that he cared, way beyond anything I could accept …
The way he looked at me, touched me, the tone of his voice,
They seemed to get through, to make sense, to go beyond meaningless words.

His undemanding presence that totally threw me.
I knew I could and would deny, argue against his words.
I felt totally out of my depth here.
I was struggling to maintain distance, between me and the world, between myself and him!

But as he moved his hand to my elbow to guide me across the street and smiled down at me, I forgot why that distance was necessary.
I had always been stubborn, but look where stubbornness had gotten me!
As I smiled back into his eyes, I realised again what it was that truly scared me:
That I might begin to feel something for him …
I faltered, almost tripping as the truth hammered home.

I couldn’t let that happen… for his sake, more than mine!

 

[waits2play]

Crossing the street, Cassie tripped. I reached to catch her and accidentally caught her breast in my hand. She regained her balance immediately. It wasn’t until I saw her staring at me that I realized it was time to let go of her breast. I was a miserable failure at keeping things in a non-sexual context. As with the kiss, she did not stop the moment, as she had said she was not uncomfortable with it. On the other hand, she did nothing to encourage further action. I had previously determined to respect her feelings so I smiled stupidly and dropped my hand.

Cassie’s demeanor was relaxing, and she was acting more comfortable in this new environment. But she was still reserved about any commitments that suggested a long stay or a willingness to open up about her past. She was an enigma.
We stepped onto the curb and I set a path to the park. It was a beautiful day, but clouds were gathering on the horizon. We were walking around the lake, when I sensed that Cassie was starting to get tired. I knew she wouldn’t admit if something were too much too soon. I was thankful I had not suggested the bike ride; it’s a ten-mile bike path. The sky darkened and the first raindrops began to fall.

Within seconds the rain was falling heavily. I started to run for a gazebo but Cassie could not keep up. I scooped her into my arms and dashed for cover. We stayed in the gazebo chatting for 5 to 10 minutes until the rain slowed to a drizzle. Cassie’s sweater was still wrapped around her waist, and her t-shirt was soaked. She sipped the sweater over her head, with her arms inside like a strait jacket. Moments later her arms slipped through the sleeves and she pulled the t-shirt from under the collar of the sweater. How do women do that? The rain shower had also lowered the temperature.

”Well so much for a walk in the park. I can’t remember the last time I went to a movie, how about you?”

 

[DeliciousMaiden]

Cassie

The touch of Steve’s hand on my breast brought me crashing back to reality!
I looked up at him dazed. Belatedly I realised that he had caught me, stopped me falling, but in doing so had made contact and was now holding my breast.
I looked up at him flushing aware of his strong hand on my delicate flesh.
As if suddenly aware of the compromising position we found ourselves in he moved his hand away quickly and smiled in embarrassed apology.
We walked on, but I could still feel the heat where his hand had touched me.
I looked round at the neighbourhood as we walked along, trying to ignore the reaction to the accidental touch. I commented on places I knew. I had only been around here a few times before and never like this.

It was lovely to be able to stroll, to be at ease, not worry about the law moving me on, other street people keeping me away from their patch, not worry about avoiding anyone. The park was beautiful. I had never been here before at all. I sighed and looked around, enjoying the walk as Steve pointed out the lake and the benches and the children’s playground. I nodded and walked beside him, finding that it took more and more effort. I couldn’t understand it. Usually I walked for miles, ran through subways, over bridges, always kept on my toes and away from trouble. Already I was getting weary. I remembered suddenly that I hadn’t taken my pills yesterday or that morning … still… pills … what good would they do anyhow? I was eating better, that’s all it would take to put me back on my feet.

The fall of rain drew my attention skywards. Gone were the white fluffy clouds, black ominous looking cumulus replaced them. Steve grabbed my hand and began to drag me along shouting to head for the gazebo. I nodded and took off after him, but the combined exhaustion and the heavy rain made it impossible for me to keep up with him. Reluctantly I slowed and struggled to get my breath. I was getting soaked, but that couldn’t be helped. I cried out in surprise as Steve pulled me to him and picked me up, carrying me at a run towards the shelter.

Far from objecting I was content to be in his arms, and even more content to be out of the rain driving round outside.

”I thought you’d left me… I would have got here eventually…”

I joked and shivered.

”You didn’t think that likely did you Cassie?”

He asked gently. I looked into his eye and smiled.

”No … I couldn’t see you really doing that Steve,”

I admitted.

Deftly I pulled my sweater over my head and wriggled out of the wet t-shirt beneath.
I caught Steve watching and smiled shyly, knowing that there was no need for such coyness, but still, here out in the open … the modesty was more for the benefit of any stray passers-by than because I wanted to prevent Steve from seeing my body.
Seeing his concern, I tried to hold back a shiver.

”Well so much for a walk in the park. I can’t remember the last time I went to a movie, how about you?”

I looked at him, uncertainly.

”A movie … I don’t know … I .. don’t really like movies…”

I explained lamely.
There was only one movie theatre round here and I didn’t really want to be seen round there.

”It’s just round the corner, Cassie, why don’t we go to see what’s on… we don’t have to go in … “

Steve coaxed as the shower ended.
I looked at him and bit my tongue.
What could I say? He seemed so keen.
Maybe it would be alright. Maybe we could just look at the advertising boards and then head homeward. I nodded my assent, making sure I did not communicate my lack of enthusiasm.

We continued to walk through the park. Steve explained that we could cut through there, which would avoid us walking through the square; the square was “ a bit rougher” he told me, much safer to go this way in daylight.
I nodded. I did not comment.
I knew it was rougher.
I knew some of the guys who hung out there.
Rough didn’t even begin to describe it!

As we left the park, we crossed the road.
There it was, as I remembered it, remembered it from only a few weeks back.
It had been a short-lived haunt of mine.
I had moved on after only a few days, moved on to the area where I had met and attacked Steve. How ironic that he should bring me back here.

”What type of film do you like Cassie…?”

Steve was enquiring.

”Do all girls your age still like the romantic dramatic sort of film, or do you like a bit of action…?”

He was chattering on, obviously keen to give me a treat.
He hadn’t noticed my silence.
Hadn’t noticed the youth stood at a distance, at the corner watching us.

”Steve … ?”

I spoke his name quietly, trying to attract his attention before there was trouble.
But he didn’t hear me.
He threw a glance back at me and smiled.

”If you want to get back, I’ll just get one of their “what’s showing” leaflets, then we can go over the details and times at home.. OK?”

I nodded dumbly as he disappeared into the entrance and I prayed he wouldn’t be gone long.

”Caz!… hardly recognised you … you’ve scrubbed up well… “

He was at my elbow now and pulled me to him.
I didn’t object, just looked up at him.

”Martin … “

I greeted him hesitantly.

”Mr Michaels to you, sweetheart .. “

He growled and twisted my arm painfully.

”Ooww... OK... Mr… Michaels… “

I knew he wasn’t someone to mess with, we had not … got on … when I’d last been here. I didn't like his type of business.

”So.. what’s the deal with the old guy … I’ve been watching you sweetheart .. quite an item you two … you put out for him, he's paid for you and had you, but you wouldn’t let me sell you to the highest bidder would you honey … guess you had it all planned … you could have said, but you just didn’t want to give me a cut huh?”

I struggled as he dragged me closer to him.

”You mean little bitch … you know what that means though, don’tcha?"

He brought his face close to mine.

"No pimp, no protection!”

He flung his hand out.
I gave a cry and reeled as his hand hit out at me.
I went flying against the wall.

”Cassie!”

It was Steve’s voice.
I wasn’t sure where it was coming from.
I didn’t know if Martin was still there.
I curled up against the wall, trembling.

Steve wouldn’t have anything to do with me now.
I didn’t know how much he had heard, but he must have the impression that I had been a prostitute at some time.
It was my refusal to join Martin’s list of hookers that had got me into so much trouble!

”You little tramp … you owe me Caz!”

Martin’s words were thrown at me from a some distance away and echoed through my ears as I began to sob.

 

[waits2play]

Cassie grew quiet as we left the park she was withdrawing again.

As we got closer to the theater, I spotted the guy from this morning. I wanted to put some distance between Cassie and I, in case he was trailing me. I asked Cassie to wait while I checked on the movies, as I rounded the corner I stopped immediately.
The stranger walked directly to Cassie and spoke.

”Caz!… hardly recognized you … you’ve scrubbed up well… “

”Martin … “

”Mr. Michaels to you, sweetheart .. “

So, our friends name was Martin Michaels, the hunt just got easier.

”Ooww... OK... Mr… Michaels… “

”So.. what’s the deal with the old guy … I’ve been watching you sweetheart .. quite an item you two … you put out for him, he's paid for you and had you, but you wouldn’t let me sell you to the highest bidder would you honey … guess you had it all planned … you could have said, but you just didn’t want to give me a cut huh?”

He had no idea how far from the truth he was. Wrong about me certainly, and little did he know Cassie hadn’t touched me or made any attempt to. If she really was as he indicated, she’d had every opportunity to proposition me. Cassie didn’t know it yet, but she’d erased any doubt in my mind. She may not be drawn to me romantically or sexually, but she did use me, even when she had the opportunity to.

”You mean little bitch … you know what that means though, don’tcha?"

"No pimp, no protection!”

A pimp, this gets easier and easier. My associates will know how to deal with this guy.

I heard a slap and Cassie’s cry. It’s time to end this now.

Stepping around the corner I called: ”Cassie!”

The thug took off immediately. He shouted back:

”You little tramp … you owe me Caz!”

Cassie was slumped against the wall, trembling. I flashed back tour original encounter in the subway and how familiar the scenes were. No wonder she was so slow to accept her new opportunities.

I spoke softly, calling Cassie’s name and letting her know it was me. I wanted her to know she was safe before I touched her.

She was in no condition to walk, and we should be off the street. Speaking loudly, for the benefit of anyone in earshot, I acted as though Cassie had sprained her ankle and picked her up.
As we walked home, I kept whispering in her ear.

”Everything is OK now Cassie, you’re safe, we’re going home. I heard everything. Martin Michaels will not hurt you anymore. You’re alright now.”

We arrived at home, went inside, and I laid Cassie on my bed downstairs. I pulled the comforter over her and told I had to make a quick call. I passed on the name; the people on the other end would do what was necessary.

As I filled a glass of water for Cassie, I noticed her pills on the counter. Returning to my bedroom, I sat on the side of the bed and offered the pills and water to Cassie.

”Take these pills, how do you expect to help me if you don’t get better.”

I chuckled, hoping she realized I was trying to lighten things up.

”Cassie, when I was in the military, their tests indicated I had some unique talents. After I left the military, I continued to use those talents in government service, after the death of my wife and daughter, I was my value in government service was gone. I moved on to the private business. I have a number of professional and casual associates who will deal with Mr. Michaels, as he prefers to be called. He won’t be hurt, but he will not bother ever again.”

He could be hurt if he didn’t cooperate, but I did not think that would be necessary.
On the other hand he did call me an old guy, yeah I will ask them to slap him around a little before getting down to business.

I soften my posture now and picked Cassie up, hugging her to my body.

”You know you don’t have to tell me anything, you don’t want to. Is there anything you want to share with me that will make it easier for me to help you?”

 

[DeliciousMaiden]

Cassie

”Cassie … cassie… shhh… “

I heard Steve speaking my name and turned burying my head against his chest.
My cheek was stinging, but I was more frightened than hurt.
His arms wrapped around me, but I staggered as I tried to stand.
I looked up puzzled as Steve began talking about my ankle, and oh dear, that sprain again, I’d best help you home, you don’t want to do further damage do you?

I looked at him questioningly and he merely gave me a look.
He thought it would be safer, no doubt and I was too incoherent to make any comment to the contrary.
Again, Steve picked me up and carried me the relatively short distance home.
I looked up at him as we walked. It was as if I was weightless.
I trembled in his arms, unable to protest that I was OK.
He knew me by now and could clearly see that I wasn’t alright!
I threw a nervous look over his shoulder, wondering if we had been followed.
Steve leaned forward and whispered.

”Everything is OK now Cassie, you’re safe, we’re going home.
I heard everything. Martin Michaels will not hurt you anymore.
You’re alright now.”

I nodded, wanting to believe that it was so, but knew that no one angered Martin and got away with it!

I was relieved to get through the doors and see the door close behind us.
I expected Steve to put me down or carry me upstairs, but instead he merely strode into his own room.
Before I knew what was happening I was tucked in and he had rushed off to “make a call”! … Business I assumed and closed my eyes.
He was back almost immediately.
Glass of water and my pills in hand. Sitting on the bed, he held them out to me, scolding as I mechanically followed his instructions and took them:

”Take these pills, how do you expect to help me if you don’t get better.”

I laughed as he chuckled.

”Yes… I’m a real help to you aren’t I? If every time I go out I get attacked, I’m not going to be any help ever … I told you I was trouble.. I … did warn you, Steve … “

My tone was light, but that was my fear:
That as long as I stayed round here, I would bring trouble in some form or other.
I thought that even now Martin could be out there
Lurking and watching and waiting.
I shivered.

Steve continued to speak reassuringly.
He told me about his military career and connections.
It didn’t make much sense to me, until he commented.

” I have a number of professional and casual associates who will deal with Mr. Michaels, as he prefers to be called.
He won’t be hurt, but he will not bother ever again.”

I looked at Steve questioningly.
He was in earnest!

”Are you sure that can be done? … He could be watching the house, outside all the time … and he’s mad as hell now… he’s not someone you cross in a hurry…”

I added, touching my bruised cheek lightly.

”I’m sure Cassie. He’s history. He won’t be there to bother you.
You’re safe, just forget about him.”

History … ? It seemed in that one phonecall, Steve had dealt with Martin for me?
I nodded still amazed.
I was sure whatever Steve’s connections were, they weren’t criminal, yet Steve it seemed could handle himself and protect his own.
I watched him curiously.
I had thought he lacked any sense of being street-wise, thought him naïve even.
I was beginning to change my thinking.

Again his arms were around me as he held me to his body.
I trembled against him, no longer from fear, but in a totally unexpected reaction in being in his bed and pressed against him.
His voice was soft, coaxing.

”You know you don’t have to tell me anything, you don’t want to.
Is there anything you want to share with me that will make it easier for me to help you?”

He released me and took my hand looking into my eyes as I nodded.

I looked up then blurted out.

”I was never a hooker, would never do that no matter how bad things got.
Martin wouldn’t accept that. I stumbled on his turf one day and he thought I’d be easy pickings, easy to enrol … he was wrong… “

I dropped my gaze and focused on his hand around mine.

”He’s a mean individual, notorious apparently, someone you don’t say no to…I didn’t realise how close to his haunts we were until we got to the park.”

I offer by way of explanation.

”Cassie … those bruises … was it him who … ?”

I looked up startled by the question. Steve hadn’t commented on them before.

”No… they’re from still longer ago, besides, Martin’s got a good business head, he knows not to bruise what he terms “merchandise” … he knows how to … hurt a girl in a way that doesn’t leave marks… “

I look down again witholding a shiver.
"... testing the merchandise ... " Martin had called it!
Keeping my eyes cast down, I shrug dismissing the episode as if of no importance.
Steve thought he'd accept anything, but if he knew ...

I tried to keep my expression casual, but my voice shook as I continued.

”… I was only here a couple of days … about a month back … I moved on pretty quickly … I’d hoped it was over … I’d intended to put more distance between us and then …. “

I looked up to see the expression on Steve’s face.
I paled.
Had Steve guessed what he'd done to me, or was he just angry because Martin had caused such trouble in his neighbourhood?
What did Steve really think of me now?

I just wanted to curl up and let it all go away.

 

[waits2play]

Cassie

”No… they’re from still longer ago, besides, Martin’s got a good business head, he knows not to bruise what he terms “merchandise” … he knows how to … hurt a girl in a way that doesn’t leave marks…

Steve

I didn’t hear anything else Cassie said after that. That bastard had taken advantage of Cassie and probably half of the runaways in this city. I would be making another call, all I needed to do was share what Cassie had told me (directly and indirectly). I would not have to suggest any specific forms of communication with that scum.

”Cassie, you know you’re not the only runaway that’s fallen into this guy’s clutches, or others like him. Yes, I said runaway, that’s not something we have to talk about until you want to, if you ever want to. We have both have things from our past to come to terms with. You’ve learned more about my past today than I thought I was ready to share, but I will always answer any question you ask.”[/I”]

I let Cassie rest her head back on the pillow, running my fingers through her hair, and caressing her cheek. How could anyone take advantage of such innocence? “Old man”, that’s what he’d called me. That certainly put everything back into perspective for me, he wasn’t much older than Cassie, that’s what I was to her an old man. At 35 (alright 36 last week) I was almost twice her age.

"Heavy sigh'

Taking a deep breath and putting on a reassuring expression.

”Well since we can talk about those bruises now, let’s take care of you. I’ll run a hot bath for you here downstairs. You'll find it larger and more comfortable than the tub upstairs. While you get settled into the tub, I’ll put together a little herbal mixture a Shaman made for me a number years ago when I needed some similar care.”

I helped Cassie to her feet before heading off the run her bath.

”You can get into the tub when you’re ready, I can knock on the door and pass you the herbs as soon as I blend them. I know it sounds crazy, but they work.”

 

[DeliciousMaiden]

Cassie

”Cassie, you know you’re not the only runaway that’s fallen into this guy’s clutches, or others like him.”

My head shot up as I met his eyes, shocked by his words.

”Yes, I said runaway, that’s not something we have to talk about until you want to, if you ever want to.
We have both have things from our past to come to terms with.”

I looked away, knowing he was right, but not wanting to admit it.

”You’ve learned more about my past today than I thought I was ready to share, but I will always answer any question you ask.”

I nodded and let him ease me back onto the pillow.
I smiled watching him as his eyes ran assessingly over me.
The feeling of his fingers in my hair, smoothing across my cheek made me sigh softly. His touch felt so good.
I wondered what it would feel like if he touched …
I stopped the train of my thoughts.
I mustn’t allow myself to even think that.
I sigh and close my eyes feeling his hand caressing lightly.

”Well since we can talk about those bruises now, let’s take care of you.”

I open my eyes and listen as he begins to explain.

”I’ll run a hot bath for you here downstairs.
You'll find it larger and more comfortable than the tub upstairs.
While you get settled into the tub, I’ll put together a little herbal mixture a Shaman made for me a number years ago when I needed some similar care.”

I grin, mocking myself for my thoughts.
He was all concern, almost paternal.
He would have a fit if he realised the track my thoughts took sometimes …
He helped me slip out of the bed and get to my feet.

”You can get into the tub when you’re ready, I can knock on the door and pass you the herbs as soon as I blend them. “

I giggle, realising just how ridiculous any romantic or sexual notion is.
Fortunately he mistook my laughter and assured me:

”I know it sounds crazy, but they work.”

I nodded, not convinced, but did not want to appear ungrateful.

”OK… I’ll try them … as long as I can have bubbles aswell … “

I joked, playing up the little girl act.

”Maybe afterwards … “

I hesitated, but continued.

”I got some stuff for bruising at the pharmacist’s the other day.
I’ve put it on a few times, but … I can’t reach my back … would you mind… ?”

I look at him, trying to judge his reaction and try not to blush, telling myself that it’s medical provision and he is so concerned about me being well again!

 

[waits2play]

Cassie looked doubtful about using the herbs, when she said:

”OK… I’ll try them … as long as I can have bubbles as well … “

I can’t seem to get my mind away from my continuing lust for Cassie, thinking to myself; OK you can call me bubbles.

She added a little tease, as if I needed any encouragement:

”Maybe afterwards … “

I know I blushed. Thank God, she changed her line of conversation, with:

”I got some stuff for bruising at the pharmacist’s the other day.
I’ve put it on a few times, but … I can’t reach my back … would you mind… ?”

Damn it, I’m a dead man. Or at least I might as well be. I do care about Cassie’s well being. I do want to help her. I keep reminding myself that she does not see me in a sexual or romantic way. But I keep getting drawn by her charms. She could melt hearts and make grown men weep. How am I going to rub my hands across her bear back and refrain from making a fool of myself, or worse yet, an old fool as I heard just a short time ago.? Snap to fool, Cassie asked you a question. I knew my lips were moving, but I hadn’t heard a sound until I finally formed some words:

” S, Sure Cassie I can help you with that. I’ll run upstairs and grab the medication. Yeah, that’s what I’ll do. Right after I bring you’re the herbs, I’ll run upstairs and grab the ointment.”

Could I have sounded any more adolescent? I walked into the bathroom and started the tub before going to the kitchen to prepare the herbs.

 

[DeliciousMaiden]

Cassie

I watched as Steve seemed indecisive. I didn’t want him to feel obligated. It would be real easy to just “forget” about the ointment after the bath, I decide. I won’t bring it up if he doesn’t.

” S, Sure Cassie I can help you with that. I’ll run upstairs and grab the medication. Yeah, that’s what I’ll do. Right after I bring you’re the herbs, I’ll run upstairs and grab the ointment.”

I look at Steve quizzically. I can’t quite make out his mood.
He seems wary and enthusiastic all at once.
I have no time to work it out because he instantly does as he has said and he turns.
I hear him run upstairs. I hear him run down.
I here him go to the bathroom next door and turn on the taps.
Then he goes to the kitchen.

I stand, locked in indecision.
I go to the bathroom and peel off my clothes, leaving them folded in a neat pile.
I look round and see his robe and an collection of towels that seem to have been laid out specially. I smile and watch the water pouring, noticing a frothy array of bubbles foaming eagerly beneath the force of the rising water.
I look again at the tub and dip a hand in.
On first perusal, it had not looked bigger, but it was indeed so much deeper!
I couldn’t wait to get into it.

Forgetting to lock the door, no longer worried about Steve making “improper” passes, I let the towel slip from my body and step carefully into the deep hot tub.
The water rises as I sit and I turn off the taps, sinking back with a sigh of satisfaction.
I close my eyes and relax.
The heat and the masculine aroma of the bubbles fills my senses.
The bruising on my body is merely discoloration now, but my cheek, though blemish free, tingles and feels sore after the unexpected slap from that afternoon.
I sink back submerging and slip slowly upwards, my blonde hair now slick against my head and adorned with fluffy white throth.
I feel so tranquil in the heady steamy atmosphere of that bathroom …

”Cassie…. Cassie…?”

My eyes go to the door and I realise Steve is calling.

”Yess.. Steve… it’s OK … I’m decent .. come in… “

The words are out before I even think!
My body is fully covered with a thick blanket of foam.
Only my head is visible as I sink carefully below the waterline.
After all, I tell myself, if I stand and get out of bath now, I could well slip.
I smile shyly as Steve slowly pushes open the door to his own bathroom.

 

[waits2play]

Call it nervous energy, but I was up and down the stairs, in to the kitchen and back to the bathroom in no time. I called:

[?]”Cassie…. Cassie…?”[/I]

Cassie responds.

”Yess.. Steve… it’s OK … I’m decent .. come in… “

Good, I was back before she got in the tub, I was wondering how I was going to get the herbs into the water or pass them to her. I stepped into the room, expecting to see Cassie standing there. When I did not see her I turned to the tub. She is already in the tub! Granted her body is fully covered with a thick blanket of foam. Only her head is visible as she slides below the waterline. All of the thoughts and temptations I have been struggling with, trying to keep in check, rise to my consciousness as I look at her demure smile.

”I’m sorry; I didn’t realize you were already in the tub. I wouldn’t have come in if I realized….”

Cassie’s laughter interrupted and relaxed me at the same time. She asked if those were my magic herbs. I indicated they were and offered them for her inspection.

”You can see there’s no weird looking stuff and they have only a mild scent, which is actually pleasant. The scent reminds me of Vanilla .You merely add them to the water and rub the affected areas. As they begin to work you will feel your skin soften and muscles relax, your skin will take on radiance as the discolorations diminish”

Cassie was probably just humoring me when she said I could add them to the water. I made an elaborate gesture of spreading the herbs over the bath water, and we gasped simultaneously. Immediately on contact with the water the herbs reacted with the bubbles which then completely disappeared. In fact the water was crystal clear.

Looking back now, I realize that when this same remedy was used on me, I was in a make shift tub, in the jungle, in tepid stream water, no soap, no suds. I would be desperately trying to convince Cassie of this in the following moments.

I stared, first at the water unable to comprehend what had just happened. I think we’ve experienced those moments when something happens faster than we can comprehend what has transpired. Usually it is an unfortunate accident, such as a cut on the finger, or a broken vase. A millisecond later I was mesmerized by what lay beneath the water. Cassie’s beauty surpassed all of my fantasies. Her breast were flawless; the perkiness and firmness of youth. The nipples nested in the small areola.
Cassie’s body may be recovering from the effects of Anemia, but her stomach is firm and flat, momentarily flawed only by the unfortunate discoloration. Her legs were similarly lightly muscled and silky smooth, also flawed only by the discolorations of the abuse she had been subjected to. Nestled between Cassie’s stomach and legs was perfection, partially shaven leaving just a small reminder that she was a true blond. How long had I been transfixed by what lay before me? Was the expanding bulge in my pants betraying me? How was I going to explain this? What should I be doing?

”Cassie, I had no idea. I had no idea about the bubbles. I did not know the bubbles would disappear. Please believe me. But. But, it’s really important for the herbs to work, to rub them into your skin as immediately. If they are going to work you have to rub them into your skin right now. Can I help?”

I asked that last question without thinking. Before I can take my next breath she will be telling me I’ve already done enough damage, sending me from the room. But once again the gods have blessed me, or more accurately this goddess has blessed me. Cassie is laughing.

 

[DeliciousMaiden]

Cassie

I smile as I see Steve’s shocked face.
He stutters an apology.

”I’m sorry; I didn’t realize you were already in the tub.
I wouldn’t have come in if I realized….”

He looks so funny! So embarrassed! It was me who was naked after all!
I can’t hold back a bubble of laughter.
I try to keep my face straight as I speak.

”Are you going to show me your magic herbs or not?”

I teased softly. Finally he stepped forward and showed me the herbs he’d prepared.

”You can see there’s no weird looking stuff and they have only a mild scent, which is actually pleasant. The scent reminds me of Vanilla .
You merely add them to the water and rub the affected areas.
As they begin to work you will feel your skin soften and muscles relax, your skin will take on radiance as the discolorations diminish”

They seem harmless. I’m not totally convinced about the healing properties, but I knew they couldn’t do any harm.

”OK… I love vanilla … would you add them Steve … as you’re the expert…”

I smile as Steve puts on his “professional” persona and makes a big show of distributing the herbs carefully around the tub.
The herbs land on the foam; sink into the water, then as there is a soft fizz of reaction.
The bubbles begin to break down.
The reaction is so quick; there is no time to think.
I gasp and look up at Steve, shocked, realising that the water is totally transparent now. I’m laid back in the tub; his eyes stare in bewilderment at the water.
My naked body is totally visible.
For seconds, that seem to stretch forever, Steve’s gaze is locked, incredulous.
Then I see his eyes move along my body, taking in the detail, he swallows, give a strangled exclamation then, his eyes studiously focusing on my face now, he begins his apologies.

”Cassie, I had no idea. I had no idea about the bubbles.
I did not know the bubbles would disappear. Please believe me.”

And I do believe him. Never has a man looked more shocked.
But I can see the tightness in his pants.
Cannot help but notice how hard he has become.
My eyes widen realising that Steve is aroused, despite his lack of intent.

”But. But, it’s really important for the herbs to work, to rub them into your skin as immediately. If they are going to work you have to rub them into your skin right now.”

I smile. He has taken refuge in medical overdrive.
Then his words make me gasp.

”Can I help?”

He looks shocked at his words.
He holds my gaze, partly shamefaced, partly brazening it out, knowing that his offer was spontaneous and meant.
The whole situation seems hilariously funny somehow.
I burst out laughing sending the water splashing around me.

”Ohh.. god.. Steve! … your face! … “

I sit up in the bath and lean forward modestly.
My knees raise slightly, enough to shield my breasts from his gaze and not enough to expose anything more intimate.

”I don’t think I have any secrets from you now… “

I tease gently.

”If the herbs are strong enough to deal with all those bubbles, they might just work on these bruises … you can help me… if you want to … “

I offer and smile with a faint blush.

”You know I trust you … “

I add softly.
I feel safe with him, but part of me is happy that he’s not totally immune to me.
I peek at his pants again and am gratified to see the fabric still straining.
He sees my glance and looks confused.
I half expect him to turn away or hide himself from my gaze .

”It’s ok… “

I tell him softly.

”If girls had hardons, I’d have been embarrassed before now too … “

Surprise registers on his face. Then I realise the admission I’ve made.
My cheeks go scarlet.

”The.. the herbs Steve..?”

I prompt, avoiding his eyes.

 

[waits2play]

Cassie sat up just enough to shield her breasts from my view. She was not amused by my dilemma, she was enjoying it. I relaxed and enjoyed the humor of the moment. She still had the secrets of her past, but certainly no more physical secrets. I could tell from her quick peeks that I also had no secrets about my arousal.
Everyone knows the tagline from the movie Jerry McGuire, something to the effect “You had me at Hello.” Cassie had me when she said:
”You know I trust you … “
My world stood still for a moment when she said:
”If girls had hardons, I’d have been embarrassed before now too … “
In my mind everything began to move in slow motion as I kneeled and began to rub Cassie’s leg. She could keep her legs tucked up as my hands slide over each of her calves, the tone of her skin beginning to change at my touch. The urge to move up to her thighs was almost overwhelming. The herbs were taking their effect as Cassie body began to relax; I knew the herbs were euphoric.

I moved now, so I could rub Cassie’s lower back, moving up her back my hands rub her sides, brushing against her supple breasts. As I was rubbing Cassie’s shoulders, she raised her head to look at me. Drawn by her gaze, I leaned forward to kiss her. This time she responded with an emotion she had not shared before now. I held her head on my shoulder and spoke:

”Cassie, the herbs cause a type of euphoria. They won’t cause you to do anything you wouldn’t do otherwise, but they do lower your defenses, your inhibitions.”