The Morgans (Writing with Nyghtcaller)

[Vailyn]

Friday Night

"I can't believe it's happening in three weeks." Leslie whispered to Vivian. Just a minute ago, they were laughing until their chests hurt.

The past few months have been a frenzy of finals, wedding plans, graduation plans, honeymoon plans and what the hell am I going to do with my life plans. The last year of college has been surprisingly easy in parts and amazingly difficult in others. It would have been easier to manage the end of the year if Leslie had decided to get married in the fall or winter.

Neither of the girls thought that planning a wedding would take too much. Leslie had planned out her dream wedding when she was a little girl. She already confirmed with her fiance where the wedding would take place. He was totally okay with them getting married at the ranch, the home she grew up in. She's going to wear her mother's wedding gown. Various family members decided to chip in and do all the catering for food and provide live music. The preacher at their local church would conduct the ceremony. It sounded pretty easy and set to go. She had a plan.

Except it took forever to figure out who to invite to the wedding and how many family and friends they could actually manage to have there. Where to put all of their out of town guests. Food allergies. Food allergies created a storm of discussions on what to have at the pre-wedding parties and wedding reception. The wedding dress was gorgeous but it had not been stored well and parts of it was falling apart. They only found out about it a week ago. On top of finals, Leslie and Vivian scoured the city shops for a wedding dress. It was a lot of fun but time consuming and ate into the hours they needed for other matters like work.

"Who ever said getting married was easy?" Leslie asked rhetorically. It was after midnight on Friday. A lot of their friends were out partying it up because it was the last week of school, finals were over and graduation was happening in a week. Many of them were leaving for their own towns or new cities to start their careers. Plans to meet up and make lasting memories were also put into place for the next week. After graduation, the girls will meet up at Leslie's home to work on final touches for the wedding. Vivian had great ideas for the Bridal Shower and Bachelorette Party.

Vivian scoff-laughed and threw a couch pillow at Leslie's head. They started out as roommates in their freshman year at college. The usual random placement of new freshmen. It was the best thing that happened to either of them. Though they have very different temperaments and personalities, the differences made them more likable to each other. They quickly became best pals and decided to stay together as roommates for the rest of their time at college. For the past two years, they've rented the top floor of a renovated townhouse. It was two small rooms with a living room and kitchen. It wasn't amazing but it was perfect size for them. At the moment, they were bunking out in the living room and having an old school sleeping bag party. The kind that Vivian always wished she had as a kid.

"Hey! I have more you know!" Leslie mock cried. The next couple of minutes were full of them throwing pillows at each other and laughing until they couldn't breathe. "You're going to love my Dad, Viv. He's the most amazing man in the whole world and no one will make me believe otherwise."

"If you say so. I have my doubts. I think you're a classic Daddy's girl and can't see beyond your nose." Vivian teased Leslie. It's not that she didn't believe her. She just didn't make judgements about people until she met them in person. Based on all the stories Leslie has shared over the years, it did seem like Mr. Morgan was a good man. "Besides, what would I know about a best dad in the world? I had group parenting. I think that was even better!"

Leslie threw another cushion at Vivian. "Having more moms and dads doesn't make your experiences better than mine. The orphanage you grew up in sounds pretty cool though. I want to go visit it with you sometime."

"Oh my god, it's almost 3am. We have to go to sleep. You know you have the final fitting to do in like 4 hours. Then we have the group call with your Aunt about the food. On top of that, we're suppose to meet up with the girls and have your Bridal Shower tonight. Be ready to wear something shiny.

Leslie groaned. "Gah, why do you have to remind me! I HATE getting up early in the morning."

***​

8 Days Later, Saturday Afternoon

"Leslie, what do you mean you're not here!? I'm at the airport. You said you'll be here to pick me up!" Vivian grumbled into her smartphone as she struggled to get her luggage together. Normally, she wouldn't be traveling with two large suitcases, a carryon, backpack and purse but she would be staying at the Morgans' ranch for the summer. Most of her things were sold and what she had with her was all she owned in the world. It was hard to narrow down things that she had collected over the years to pile she had now but it was necessary. "I can't believe you're not here. How am I suppose to get to the ranch? Do I get a cab?"

"Sorry, Viv! We decided to go away for a short break together before the wedding. I know we'll have plenty of time to be together but everything has been insane lately and we needed to just get away by ourselves. Don't worry! My Dad is coming to pick you up from the airport. I gave him your phone number. He should be calling to let you know he's there. He should be there in 30 minutes. I just got off the phone with him and asked him to pick you up."

"Fine fine. When are you getting here? You know we have the Bachelorette party on Thursday right?" Vivian tried to blow an annoying lock of hair off her nose. It was tickling her and made her feel like she needed to sneeze. Irritatingly enough, the lock only fluffed away for a space before landing back near her nose. "I swear, if it wasn't for your wedding, I would chop off my hair today."

Leslie laughed. "Hey, I gotta go. Take it easy on my Dad. He's the best! We'll be back on Tuesday. You can ask Dad to teach you how to ride. Okay, gotta go. Bye!"

Vivian glared at her phone and sighed before giving in and smiling. It was hard to stay annoyed with Leslie. Leslie was the kind of bubbly personality that you read about and saw on TV but never believed would exist in real life. No one is that happy and good natured. But Leslie really was a nice person, who genuinely cared about people and found the good in every one and thing. Vivian was more practical, cynical and reserved but she had an impish childlike side that came out unexpectedly.

With Leslie, Vivian felt like she experienced all the childhood connections that she didn't really have a chance to make while growing up at the orphanage. The influx of children coming and going was steady at the orphanage. Most did not stay for longer than three years. For some reason, Vivian was never adopted and she was the only child to have stayed at the orphanage until college. She would not exchange her past for anything but that didn't stop her from wishing for things she didn't have back then.

Vivian checked the phone for messages and saw that there were new emails but no calls or texts. She dropped her backpack and purse at her feet. Pulled out the colorful scrunchie, caught her hair in a ponytail to the side, tied the hair up in the scrunchie and looped her hair a few times with it. She put the heavy backpack on her shoulders and slung the purse to lay across her torso.

[Text to Leslie] What's your Dad's number?

Vivian put the phone back into the purse and gathered her suitcases. She checked the map of the airport and found her way outside to the pickup area. It was a beautiful day outside with the sun shining and a cool breeze flirting with anything that could move or not. She smiled when she saw a pigeon swoop down and pick up a kernal of something off the ground. Aerial rodents are cute. The heat made her wish she had worn something lighter than a thick cotton shirt with a scoop neck, fitted blue jeans, black leather belt and dark brown leather boots. The outfit was perfect for traveling on the plane and kept her warm in the A/C but it was counter productive outside. Even the shade from the overhang was little deterrent to the rising temperature. Soon, beads of sweat covered her skin and she was wondering if she had time to change.

Dance Like We're Making Love, Vivian's ringtone started to play. She dug her phone out from the purse after searching the bottomless depths. "Hello?"

"Is this Vivian? I'm Leslie's Father, Jake Morgan. I'm here to pick you up if you'll tell me where you are." said Mr. Morgan.

"Oh! Hi! I'm outside of Gate 8 in the Arrival Pick Up area. I have a set of black suitcases. You can't miss me." Vivian replied.

 

[Nyghtcaller]

Jake Morgan sat on the couch with a picture album spread out before him. He looked at each page with a smile though he could feel some moisture in his eyes. One particular picture of a young girl standing along side him wearing a graduation cap and gown made him smile. This picture was of him and his daughter Leslie the night of her High school graduation. He turned a few more pages as the pictures of his daughter kept getting younger and younger. Jake Morgan's emotions were on the verge of getting the better of him as tonight he had just given permission to her boy friend Jason to ask for her hand in marriage.

Jake had done this without any reservations as he knew they were truly in love and Jason was a fine young man with a solid up bringing and good family. He was a hard worker and a gentleman and there was no doubt that he would provide for his daughter. As happy as he was for Leslie he was also a bit saddened as her Mother ws not around to see her wedding. In fact his wife, Beth, hadn't seen their daughter even grow up and start school. Beth had died when Leslie was only about six months old from a sudden illness. One of the last things he had told his wife was that he would always be there for their daughter and he always had been. Jake had taken her to school that first day and attended every school function she was ever involved in. He had driven her and her friends for ice cream, hosted sleep overs and even escorted her and her friends to several boy band concerts. Jake had been there when she needed to answers to questions his wife would have been better suited to answering. She had been the center of his life and now he felt as if he was being replaced. He knew that it was coming one day as she would meet a guy and fall in love and then that guy would be her provider and her rock. He had event tried to prepare himself for it but it still did not make it any easier. Jake knew that he would always be a very important part of her life but he would no longer be the one she confided in or that she depended upon. But the sadness of her Mother not seeing her wedding day, not seeing her walk down the aisle in the very wedding dress they had gotten married in almost brought him to tears. But the happiness he felt for his daughter finding true love was even greater and allowed him to hold back the tears of regret.

The wedding was getting close and he was ecstatic that she had chosen to have the wedding at their ranch house. Jake had served 4 years in the military as an M.P. and planned to make a career of it. But when his wife had gotten sick he decided not to reenlist and came home to take care of Beth and Leslie. After the death of his wife he got hired with the local Sheriff's department as a deputy due to his past experience in the military. A number of years later he got the chance to buy 2500 acres of property for a good price and then sold the timber which brought him a nice windfall. A few years later a development company wanted the property and he sold out for a big profit enough that he could retire comfortably if he wanted to. Jake then bought a 800 acre plot of land a little farther out from town here prices were cheaper and built a nice two story ranch house. He had grown up on a small farm and wanted to return to his roots so to speak. Leslie was begging for a pony and Jake built a barn and bought her a pony a long with several other horses. Leslie began to show them after a few years and Jake and his daughter trained them together. Leslie won state and regional shows and soon word got around that he had trained them. People began to ask if he would train their horse for them and before he knew it horse training, breeding and selling had become a full time job. Jake took early retirement to do just that breed and train horses and it was something that he and Leslie truly loved doing together.

Leslie had always talked about getting married on the ranch as it was a beautiful setting but he figured when the time came she would decide to use the church or maybe something exotic like a beach in Hawaii. So he was slightly surprised when she announced that they would be getting married at the ranch. He had spent the last few months fixing anything that needed fixing, giving everything a fresh coat of paint and he built a pavilion on the little 4 acre lake on the property. He even floored it with a small stage over looking the lake. This had been built without his daughter's knowledge as she was away at college. He thought it would be perfect for the ceremony and it was covered just in case it happened to rain. He had managed to find a white carriage that two of his daughters favorites horses could pull that would take them away after the wedding and receptions were over. He wanted it to be a wedding befit for a princess as she was his princess after all.

Jake stepped out of the shower and began to dress slipping his clothes on over his 6 foot frame which was larger and more muscled than your typical streamlined athletic guy though not as ripped. His muscles had been left over from the military and he had maintained most of that muscle through hard work. He wasn't hulking by any means but had that rugged outdoors look. His hair was mostly light brown though a few salt and pepper hairs were showing here and there. Over all most people found him to be a handsome guy with a kind face and the deepest blue eyes most people had ever seen. Most people would not of guessed his age of 44 if not for the hair He finished dressing and headed downstairs and grabbed his phone.

Jake looked at his watch and realized he needed to be on his way to the airport ten minutes ago as he had to pick up his daughters Maid of Honor who was flying in this afternoon. Originally Leslie was to pick her but she had gone out of town with Jason just to take a little break before the wedding. So he had been left with picking Vivian up though he didn't mind but he had never met the girl. She and Leslie had become friends in college and were seemingly inseparable but he had never met her. She would also be staying the summer at the ranch as well in the small guest house which also doubled as his office and work shop. He had tried to prepare it for a female guest and felt it was pretty nice though a little small. The house had it's own kitchen, bedroom bathroom, living room and laundry. The bathroom he had actually installed a Jacuzzi tub though it was smaller than the one in his bathroom.

Jake neared the airport and pulled out his phone calling the number Leslie had programmed into it. Pressing the send key the phone rang a few times and then he heard a young female voice answer. Jake identified himself and Vivian gave instructions to her location and that she had a set of black suit cases. Jake found her without trouble and stopped the Jeep in front of her and put it in park. Stepping out he walked over and stuck out his hand, "Hello I'm Jake Morgan and I hope you are Vivian", he said with a smile as he offered the young woman his hand.

 

[Vailyn]

Vivian was looking at her phone and checking emails when someone walked up to her. His shadow fell over her and sheltered her from bright sun light. She looked up but her eyes only landed a bit below his chest. She had to tuck her head back to get a look at his face. Her hand automatically took his and her smaller hand closed over a somewhat callous hand that held her firmly. Brown eyes widened in surprise as she looked into dark blue eyes that instantly drew her in...

"Oh!" She had no idea how long she was lost gazing into the stranger's eyes. What he said finally clicked and a blush filled the curve of her cheeks. "I'm Vivian Lancaster. Leslie's friend. I-I--" She waved the hand holding her phone. "I'm sorry if you had to change your plans to come get me. I..uhm. Thank you." she said it all in a tumbling rush. She couldn't help but stare into his eyes. This is the man that Leslie claimed to be the best father in the world. He didn't look like he was over forty. He had a handsome, rugged face, with short brown hair, a kind face that easily smiled and tall. Tall, dark haired, broad of shoulder and definitely thinking she was a freak because she couldn't stop staring at him.

She was still holding his hand from the handshake.

Vivian didn't want to let it go.

 

[Nyghtcaller]

Vivan's small hand seemed to disappear inside of his when he shook it. Her skin was smooth and felt nice in his own hand. The girl seemed to be a bit flustered as she introduced herself in a rush of words. Jake listened politely smiling a nice reassuring smile.

Jake could see this that this young girl was quite beautiful though not in the flashy movie star way. No, she was a real beauty that every guys fantasy over the age of 30 and most of the ones under as well.

Jake was suddenly conscious of the fact that he was still clutching her hand for way to long. Releasing it slowly, "It's very nice to meet you Vivian, Leslie has told me so much about you." Jake tried to give her his friendliest smile, "It was nothing and in fact I was more than happy to come pick you up."

Jake glanced over eyeing her two suitcases, "Here lets get you back to the Ranch I'm sure you could use some rest after that flight? Let me grab those bag and for you and put them in the back."

After he had gotten Vivian's suitcases loaded he opened the door for her and then climbed into the drivers seat. Jake had the top down but stopped before driving off and turned to look at Vivian. "I can put the top up real fast if you would rather travel in the A.C."

 

[Vailyn]

Vivian had to stand by and watch as Mr. Morgan took her bags and put them away. He wouldn't hear of her helping out. It gave her a chance to watch him without him seeing how she couldn't seem to keep her eyes off of him. He moved easily and sure steps. It took no effort for him to take her heavy suitcases and load the car. She could see his muscles bunch and release as he moved. She couldn't help but wonder what he looked like without his clothes on...

Her heart warmed when he opened the door for her and waited for her to get in the Jeep. He's gentlemanly actions really charmed her and she wondered if it was possible for him to be real. It's like he was straight out of a romance novel.

"Oh no! This is fine. I actually love the way the wind gusts over me during drives. I usually have the window open if I can. I'm not tired at all but I think I'm hungry enough to eat a horse. Can we stop by for food somewhere? If you don't mind?" Vivian asked. "I can't thank you enough. I really appreciate you letting me stay at the Ranch for the summer. It will give me some time to work on my book and figure out which way I'm going with work."

Vivian flashed a half smile at him as she laid a hand on his forearm and squeezed it in thanks.

 

[Nyghtcaller]

Jake smiled at being able to leave the top down as he rarely had it up unless it was raining. When she asked if they could stop and eat he felt a bit embarrassed that he hadn't offered first.

"Vivian I'm so sorry I should have offered without you having to ask. Yes, lets get something to eat and I think I know a little place on the way you will like."

Jake felt Vivian's hand grab his forearm and give it a light squeeze. The contact wasn't electric but it did make him feel appreciated and it was just nice. He glanced over at Vivian and was unable to keep from noticing how the seat belt lay snugly between her breasts making the fabric of her top fit tighter and accent her young breasts. His eyes didn't linger even for a second though it wasn't because he didn't want to.

Jake let off the clutch and the Jeep began to move away from the curb and out of the airport parking lot. "Feel free to play something on the radio if you feel like it."

As Jake turned North along a county road he looked down at the time and saw that after eating they should have enough time to get back to the ranch before dark.
"So you ready for the big wedding", Jake inquired?

 

[Vailyn]

They set off and the wind blew strongly against her. Vivian loved the way it pressed her into the seat. Though having the loose pieces of hair flick like tiny whips on her face was somewhat disconcerting.

"I can eat anything! Well. I try to eat healthy and stay away from processed foods, but other than that--I can eat anything! What about you, Mr. Morgan? What do you like to eat?" Vivian asked.

The heat was starting to get to her and she could feel her perspiration dampen her clothes and stick to her. The whooshing wind pouring over the Jeep was a welcome relief from the small torture of her clothes.

"The wedding is going to be wonderful and just the way Leslie always dreamed it. I can't wait to see the Ranch. I've heard so many stories about it and you. Did you know that you are the most perfect man on the world, Mr. Morgan? Leslie always calls you the best father anyone could have."

Vivian propped herself against the Jeep door, tucked one leg on the seat and rested her chin on her knee. She resumed her greedy observation of Mr. Morgan. Happy to be a passenger and free to fill her curiosity without him being too aware of if.

 

[Nyghtcaller]

Jake turned and looked over at Vivian, "I'm not sure that I would call myself perfect but I have always tried to be a father that Leslie would look up to and be proud to call Dad."

He was unable to keep from noticing how the clothes were sticking to her body as it was a warm and humid day. They accented her curves and when he looked her in the eye she always seemed to be looking back at him with a, hmmm, almost hungry look?

There was no denying she was a desirable young woman but he was his daughters best friend, her Main of Honor, and the same age as his daughter. What the hell was he thinking? It had been a long time since he had shared a bed with a woman but she was to young and innocent and he shouldn't be having these thoughts.

Jake forced his eyes back to the road, "Well, I hope she likes my part as I have a few surprises for her. I also hope you like the ranch and your accommodations since you will be staying the summer. If not let me know what I can do to make you more comfortable my home is yours and whatever you need don't be bashful."

Jake wanted to wink when he said the last sentence but the feeling of her being to young took over once more and he quickly became quiet.

Jake turned off the road and into a parking lot where what looked liked some sort of fish house sat on the edge of a pristine lake. A sign read, "The Lake House Bed and Breakfast" a second sign read "Edge of the Lake Restaurant".

Jake parked and held a finger up forestalling Vivian from exiting the vehicle. He ran around and opened her door this time paying particular interest as how her jeans fit not to tight but just right.

Jake led her to the front door and held it allowing her to pass in first. He requested a table overlooking the lake. A few minutes later with menu's in hand Jake looked over at Vivian, "The fish and chips are great or the Chicken and pasta or if you want something spicy try the Fish Tacos."

 

[Vailyn]

Vivian liked the way Mr. Morgan wasn't afraid of taking a compliment but didn't hold too much to it either way.

"What kind of surprises have you got in mind? I need to know so I can make sure our plans don't conflict. I'm basically Leslie's wedding planner. I'm going to be running everything so she can relax and just be a part of her wedding. I love how the whole family has gotten together and helped to make it happen. I can't wait to eat at the tasting and hear the band that I've been hearing about."

She almost hopped out of the car on her own when Mr. Morgan stopped her and she waited patiently for him to open her door. It made her heart flutter. He walked close to her, held the door open for her and requested a table with a view that she loved.

"I'm starving! I hope you don't mind but I'm going to order several things." Vivian warned Mr. Morgan with a smile. When the waiter came, she ordered a cup of New England clam chowder, small house salad, spicy tacos and the fish and chips. She looked at her phone to check the time.

"I know it's a little early but I would like to celebrate meeting you with a drink. I'm going to get a Firefly. Let me treat you to a drink, Mr. Morgan. Please. You've been wonderful to come get me from the airport and stay at your home. I would really love to get you a drink."

 

[Nyghtcaller]

"Well, I built a custom pavilion with wood flooring and a stage for the ceremony that has the lake as a back drop. It is not nearly as breath taking as this one but still pretty nice. Will make for some nice pictures I think. Leslie used to like for us to take the row boat out into the middle at night under a full moon lay back and just stare at the stars and talk. It always made her feel better if anything was bothering her."

Jake adjusted his legs and they brushed against Vivian's and he attempted to move but then the other one made contact with her other leg. "Sorry about that" he told her almost blushing. But honestly he actually found he enjoyed it but what if she thought he was trying to hit on her that would be very awkward and might make her really uncomfortable.

"You get whatever you like Vivian", he said with a smile glad to see her excited about eating.

"Sure you go ahead and order a drink and I will make you a deal", he said with a sly wink. "You call me Jake and I will let you get me that drink. I enjoy bourbon and they have a good bourbon here that goes down quite well called Makers Mark..

A few people in the restaurant had looked their way probably trying to figure out if Vivian was his daughter or his date. A table of guys about Vivian age were seriously checking her out.

"Vivian I think you have some admirers over there." Jake had ordered the fish taco's and the trout but the waitress brought Vivian's soup out first. Jake nodded in appreciation as she returned for the rest of their order.

 

[Vailyn]

"I can't wait to see it!" Vivian exclaimed when Mr. Morgan described the pavilion he had made for the wedding. "I bet it's beautiful!"

His long legs nudged hers when he shifted in his seat and she thought it was cute the way he became somewhat bashful about it. It was odd to have someone be considerate about everyday things and make an effort to be so mannerly. It was old fashioned and charming.

I could easily get used to this.
Wait! What am I thinking? This is Leslie's Dad!
... He is awfully handsome for someone who is old enough to be my father...

"Oh! I'm not sure if I can do that, Mr. Morgan! It would be odd to call you by your first name. I don't want to be rude." Vivian politely declined. "But, I do want to get you a drink and I will call you Jake just during our meal."

She flagged down a server and asked them to get a Makers Mark for Mr. Morgan.

Vivian turned her head to see what Mr. Morgan was talking about. A table of guys that looked like college students were looking at her and talking avidly amongst themselves. She shrugged and half-smiled at Mr. Morgan. "Maybe I look familiar?"

She shrugged. "It doesn't matter. I'm here with you and I'm starving! The food is great. I'm glad you brought me here, Mr. Morgan. I mean, Jake. Thank you, Jake."

The food came out relatively fast and they enjoyed a leisurely meal. Vivian found herself opening up to Mr. Morgan and told him about how she grew up in a group orphanage. It was the only home she knew and getting out to an out of state college was one of the best experiences she's had. She's kept in touch with her old friends and foster family, but the relationships she's made at college have made a deep impact on her. "Leslie is my best friend. It feels like we've been friends forever, and I always feel like she's the sister I've dreamed about having. Oh! It's getting later. We can be on our way. I think I'm having fantasies about the swimming pool. It's so hot! I would love to cool off with a dip in the pool."

Mr. Morgan insisted on paying for the meal despite Vivian's protests. He did let her pay for the one drink that she ordered for him. He held the doors open for her and helped her get seated into the Jeep before getting in to drive them home.

 

[Nyghtcaller]

The drive back only took about twenty minutes and followed a small river making the drive rather scenic. The river itself was the one that fed the lake that the restaurant had been built along it's shores. Vivian and Jake made small talk about school, Lesley's wedding and some of the things Vivian might want to do this summer.

Jake turned into his drive way hitting a button that would open a rolling gate. He had installed this gate after he had caught some kids riding 4-wheeler's and partying on his land numerous times. All he needed was one of them getting injured and their parents suing him because of it. The driveway was almost half a mile long and the ranch could not be seen from the road as he had left dense trees along the edges of his property creating a natural barrier or privacy fence.

The main house came into view and then the guest house which doubled as a work shop which sat just to the right and slightly behind the main house. There was a small area of grass that surrounded the living structures which was nicely manicured while the rest of the cleared property was fields which were fenced.

"Well, home sweet home", Jake announced as he slide out of the Jeep once more opening the door for his guest. "Lets get your bags inside and you can change and take a swim." Jake grabbed Vivian's bags and and led her inside the guest house .

The guest house was a small apartment in the front while the back half which had its own entrance was his work shop. The interior of the apartment was cozy but small with a rock fireplace as the center point of the living room. A bar separated the kitchen and living room and a short hall way lead to the bedroom and bathroom. It was completely furnished along with a flat screen TV mounted to the wall in both the living room and bedroom.

Jake placed Vivian's bags just inside the bedroom door. "Oh I need to give you this before I forget", Jake handed her two keys. The silver one is the key to the guest house and the gold one will get you into the main house. I'm going to let you freshen up and change and go do the same. Anything you need don't be bashful just ask. I will meet you at the pool which is just behind the main house and I think you might be a bit surprised when you see it I had it custom built."

The pool was a rock laid pool not just a concrete bowl in the ground. The rock had come from his own property and there was a waterfall in the pool as well. The waterfall fell into a smaller pool that was only 3 foot deep then ran off into the main pool 5 feet below. One could stand under the water from the fall if they desired. At one edge of the pool was a little tiki hut which served as a bar when he entertained guests. There were tiki torches surrounding the pool as well which were gas fed numerous other little details that made it one of a kind.

Jake was in his own bathroom and changed into a pair of shorts and tee shirt. Jake's legs were still tan and muscular to the point that some 20 year old guys would be envious. The tee shirt was sleeveless and his muscular and tanned arms were clearly visible. But Jake was totally oblivious to how he looked sure he knew that he was in decent shape for his age but not to the degree.

Jake walked out back and into the pool area looking around to see if Vivian had found here way yet.

 

[Vailyn]

Vivian loved the scenery that passed by as he drove them to the Ranch. The ranch itself was amazing. She didn't realize how much land that the Morgans' owned or the size of the house and grounds. Mr. Morgan had been humble in his description of his home and it was far beyond anything she could have imagined. Just a glimpse of the pool was enough to make her go back instantly to see it up close. The design used natural elements and it was utterly beautiful.

Mr. Morgan showed her the guest house and it was better than anything Vivian had ever lived in her whole life. There was a door that connected the guest quarters to his work shop. A cozy living room with a cheerful fireplace. The bedroom was decorated like the rest of the place in dark, warm rosewood furniture and dark green and blue accents.

"This is amazing, Mr. Morgan! I mean, Jake. I love it. Thank you so much for letting me stay here. Is there internet? I'm going to need it to do my work." She listened as he rattled off the password for the internet. Apparently, the guest house had it's own router and access. She wrote it down on her smartphone. "I'll meet you out at the pool, Mr. Morgan. I can't wait to get a closer look at it!"

Vivian quickly pulled out her toiletries and the bikini she had packed away. When she stepped into the bathroom, she gasped. The whole thing was tiled in a soft orange-yellow-brown. It was larger than she had expected. There was a walk in shower with three shower nozzles: one from the ceiling, a second from a little over 5' and a third at about waist level. There was a deep, jet installed tub that took up the far wall. She could easily lay out in the tub and not reach the other end with her toes stretched. The whole place was like a dream. Vivian wondered if she was going to wake up.

She pulled off her sticky, sweaty clothes and left it in a pile as she walked into the shower. She yelped and laughed as the cold water hit her from everywhere. She did a quick rinse and stepped out to use a fluffy royal blue towel to dry herself. She didn't think about it when she put on her favorite bikini. She managed to get the white and blue crocheted bikini set on sale and she loved the way the soft net felt on her skin. It was the one thing she had splurged on the year before and she loved the way it fit. It hugged her curves without being too showy.

Humming a tune that's been stuck in her mind, Vivian went looking for the pool. She didn't want to admit that she was more excited to see Mr. Morgan than the beautiful pool she glimpsed earlier. She wondered what he would look like in swim trunks or would he wear a speedo? Mr. Morgan in a speedo?

She blushed at the thought.

 

[Nyghtcaller]

Jake was leaning back on a sun chair with his sun glasses on his arms bent and folded behind his head. he had left his shirt on despite the fact he normally would not have done so. The reason for this decision was that he was afraid that it might make Vivian feel uncomfortable and that was the last thing he wanted.

Hearing someone approaching Jake opened his eyes and looked in the direction and what he saw took his breath away. Vivian was wearing a rather skimpy bikini that left enough to the imagination to drive one crazy and showed enough skin to do the same. He was very glad he had worn shades or else she would have noticed how his eyes roamed over her body.

Jake tore his gaze from her, "You can't look at her like that she is way to young and your daughters best friend."

Jake stood, "I see you found your way not that it is that hard to find. There are drinks in the little fridge under the bar." Jake suddenly decided he needed to cool off and turned and dove head first into the deep end of the pool.

 

[Vailyn]

Vivian watched Mr. Morgan dive into the pool. He made a hefty splash as he threw himself into the pool with his shirt on. She barely had a glimpse of his muscular form before he became a disjointed blur of crystalline waves.

She looked around the pool and found the bar. Licked by the hot sun, she looked in the frig for a drink and grabbed a cold bottle of water. She drank almost half the bottle before she closed the bottle and put it on the bar.

The pool design was amazing and utterly enchanting. Her eyes went immediately to the waterfall. It looked rather natural. Like a grotto hidden in the middle of civilization.

Vivian stepped beneath the fall of the water and smiled as she felt it's tumultuous weight press and mold around her. She raised her hands up high and spun beneath the waterfall with her eyes closed. A smile of careful, childlike delight on her face.

She didn't realize that one of the straps holding the bikini top on was coming undone. Two straps were tied behind her head and two straps were tied around her chest. The ones holding the bottom of the top loosened and the triangular crocheted pieces moved eschewed as she turned slowly in the waterfall.

 

[Nyghtcaller]

Jake tried not to stare as Vivian stepped into the pool and moved to the water fall. He swam in place his head just above the water line. She seemed entranced by the water fall spinning in place and Jake noticed her eyes were closed. He was unable to stop himself from taking in this young sexy girl standing in his pool.

Jake was about to turn and swim to the other end when he saw one of the straps on her top coming undone. He called out, "Vivian, uhh, your about lose your top", his voice trailed off as the top didn't fall off of her. He was actually relieved by this but was momentarily puzzled as to why it seemed to stay in place. Then he realized that ones that came loose held the top down but the top straps kept it from falling away.

But the force of the water pushed her top to one side as she turned exposing part of her breasts. He wanted to look away but he couldn't her breasts were beautiful and he was transfixed. He didn't even realize that he had closed part of the distance to her as if he could help in some fashion. Jake was now only about three feet away from Vivian as he stood just at the edge of the water fall.

 

[Vailyn]

When Vivian opened her eyes as she came back around from spinning under the waterfall, she saw that Mr. Morgan was only a step away from her. She smiled brightly at him. He looked captivated. Could he be captivated by her? No way!

She pushed her face out from beneath the fall and said happily, "This is so amazing, Mr. Morgan! It's so beautiful and the water feels wonderful!"

Vivian raised her hands high up into the air as if she could reach the heavens, closed her eyes and beamed beneath the waters for a moment. "I could stand here forever. I love the way this feels. Come on, Mr. Morgan! I'll race you to the other side!"

She splashed water at Mr. Morgan, whooped with glee and dove into the water. Somewhere during the swim, the top came undone and drifted towards the bottom of the pool. Vivian didn't realize what had happened. She reached the other end of the pool and touched the side. She jumped and shrieked a laugh when Mr. Morgan suddenly popped out of the water next to her. Vivian laughed as she splashed him.

 

[Nyghtcaller]

Vivian twirled and turned giggling and smiling oblivious to the fact she was close to becoming topless. Suddenly she challenged him to a race and was swimming towards the other end of the pool.

Jake dove into the water his arms already reaching out to propel himself through the water. Vivian was no slouch when it came to swimming and she beat him to the wall though not by much.

His head broke the surface of the water and he was once more standing but he had come up less than arms length away from her. He wiped the water from his eyes and when he opened them what he saw made his jaw sag. Her bare breasts were only inches from his face as her loose top had come off during the swim. She still didn't seem to register this fact as she splashed water at him playfully.

Jake did not want to embarrass the girl though he wasn't sure she wanted to swim around topless. Jake returned the splash drenching her as she sent a second wave of water immediately after. He knew that she was very ticklish due to an overheard conversation between Vivian and his daughter.

"I know your ticklish don't make me play dirty." His own bare chest brushed hers as he moved in like he was going to tickle her.

 

[Vailyn]

Vivian laughed as Mr. Morgan returned fire by splashing her back. She turned her head to the side and worked hard to return fire at him. When he threatened to up the stakes by tickling her, she didn't think twice before firing a challenge, "You have to catch me first!"

She took a large gulp of air, pushed strongly off the side of the pool and shot her body into the water to zoom to the other side. Vivian took swimming lessons with the other children as a child and always loved the way water felt. The way it would hold you up and dance along your skin as you swam. There was nothing like it. Sometimes, she wondered if she was part fish because she loved to soak in a tub, linger in a shower and swim to heart's content in a pool.

Mr. Morgan kept surprising her. She didn't think she would get along with him so well. Somehow, the two of them clicked and he made her feel alive, desirable and totally at ease. It was like they had known each other forever instead of a few hours. She really liked him.

Oh... she really liked him...

 

[Nyghtcaller]

Jake watched as Vivian laughed and shot away from him moving gracefully in the water. Her challenge to catch her still rung in his ears and he intended to do just that. For the moment any trepidation's he had over her age and her friendship with his daughter was gone. He was totally at ease and enjoying the game his thoughts no further than this girl which had announced herself as his quarry.

Jake paused only a few seconds allowing her to get some distance before he began swimming after her. He didn't rush but stayed in the middle of the pool where he could move side to side and cut her off. The plan was to corner her and not out race her.

Jake was well over half to the other end before she had turned back and looked his way. "I'm coming for you", he called to her in a pleasant and very playful voice.

Jake had positioned in her in the corner and was ready to dive down, right or left if she chose an underwater escape route. She had tried to put a few fake moves on him but he had stuck right with her.

"I've got you now", he exclaimed as he moved with arms reach of her. His hands shot out one grabbing her wrist though it was a gentle grip it was also firm and unrelenting. His other hand reached down to her waist spinning Vivian around and he pulled her to him. His legs were against the back of hers and she was fully trapped. Jake moved one hand down to her ribs and began to tickle her fully. The other one was now around her waist from behind with his hand spread out across her bare flat stomach.

As Vivian struggled her hips grazed a now large bulge that had appeared in his swimsuit. The realization that she had excited him in that way caused his face to flush red. But he had to admit that the feeling of this young, fun, and sexy girl against his body was a turn on. But he knew that he was way to old and that she would never see him as anything more than a father figure at best.

"STOP", his moral side screamed back at him. You can't think of this young girl in that way especially the girl who is to be Maid of Honor at your daughters wedding.

But then her hips moved against him hard once more causing his manhood to pulse and throb. "Oh please don't notice". For once in his life he wished his manhood would fail to rise to the occasion or was much smaller. But it felt so good and he was having trouble keeping from pushing back against her.

 

[Vailyn]

Vivian felt like a kid as she raced around the pool, called out ridiculous taunts, splashed around and played with Mr. Morgan. It's been a while since she's been able to just cut lose and be silly. With finals, graduating and planning the wedding, there hasn't been a whole lot of down time to enjoy the simple things.

He finally managed to corner her and grabbed her around her middle. She thrashed her body in his hold in hopes of breaking lose but he got a good grip on her and pulled her back against his body. Laughing and splashing around, Vivian didn't think about how they were practically strangers or that he was old enough to be her father. She just lived in the moment and ended up laughing hysterically when he tickled her.

Her ribs were the most sensitive place and the slightest touch could make her laugh out loud. It didn't take much for her to end up laughing hard and beg Mr. Morgan to stop.

"Ok! Ok! You win! I give up! OH my god! AHAHAHAHAHAHHA!" She laughed as she flailed in his arms and marveled at how strong he was. She could feel his body holding hers in a secure embrace with just one arm as he used the other hand to move diabolical fingers to torture her sides. She squirmed against him, trying to get free and her breath caught short when his arm brushed against her chest. She could feel his bare arm against her body.

Wha-what?!?

She looked down and realized that she lost her top somewhere in the pool and she's been playing around half naked. "OH my god! Let me go! Let me go! I lost my top!" Vivian cried out. All laughter gone from her voice as shock and embarrassment twisted inside her. His hold on her loosened just enough for her to pull free. Vivian threw herself to the edge of the pool, jumped out and ran to the guest house. She slammed the door closed and leaned against the wooden door dripping water on the floor. Her heart thundered loudly in her chest and she felt oddly exhilarated and ashamed at the same time.

"How long was I half naked..." she wondered out loud.

 

[Nyghtcaller]

Vivian was suddenly pulling away from him screaming for Jake to let her go. At the very moment he began to release her she was free and climbing out of the pool heading back to the guest house. It was also then that Jake realized he had a raging hard on.

It then struck Jake that she had never realized her top had come off. Jake smacked his head against his forehead, "You idiot, now she will think you are some creepy perv for not telling her. How in the hell will I explain this to Leslie?"

Jake looked across the pool spotting her top floating half way between the surface and the bottom was her top. He dove down and retrieved it before exiting the pool himself. Jake toweled off and walked laid her top over a wooden railing around the little tiki hut.

"Well I gotta eat even if she is to scared to come back out." Jake considered calling Leslie first and explaining but decided that might make matters worse.

Returning from the kitchen with shrimp, steak, chicken, sausage and veggie skewers Jake stood behind the grill. He had changed into a pair of dry shorts, sandals, and muscle tee.

Jake had pre-lit the grill and it was hot and the skewers sizzled as he placed them upon the grilling surface. Smoke instantly began to rise and soon the backyard was filled with the smell of grilling food.

Jake took a seat in the chair beside the grill as he sipped on a cold beer trying to figure out how things had gone so wrong.

 

[Vailyn]

Vivian took a cold shower and shivered her brain back to working order. Her thoughts ran over the past few hours. Logically, there wasn't anything wrong or bad. Yet there was a nagging uncomfortable guilt that prickled her conscience with irritatingly sharp claws.

Maybe the problem is that she's never felt as comfortable or drawn to a man like she has with Mr. Morgan. But he's Leslie's father and twice her age. Age isn't really a factor against him. He's handsome, funny and thoughtful. Although they haven't spent a lot of time together, between all the stories she's heard about the man over the years and seeing him for herself... Would it be so bad to give in to the attraction that flares between them?

Vivian shook her head. The damp locks of her dark hair flying around before smacking herself into a standstill.

"Mr. Morgan is Leslie's DAD. I'm here for Leslie. She's getting married. I need to focus on that and think about whatever this is with Mr. Morgan later." she said out loud. Sometimes, saying it out loud, even if she was by herself, made the thought more concrete.

A peek out between the window blinds showed Mr. Morgan grilling food out on the patio. "I can't hide from the man. He's Leslie's Dad and I have to work with him on the wedding..."

Needlessly, she plucked at her simple black tank top and adjusted her jean shorts before taking a deep breath of courage and walking out to join Mr. Morgan by the grill.

"This looks great. I'd like to join you for dinner if you don't mind?" She gave him an awkward smile. "Uhm. Sorry about earlier. I... I didn't know that I lost my top. I yeah uhm I'm sorry about that."

 

[Nyghtcaller]

Jake heard the door to the guest house open and close and he lifted his gaze from the grill over the lid. He saw Vivian walking towards him now fully clothed though she still looked amazing.

He said nothing as she approached and took at look at the food cooking on the grill. Vivian asked if she could join him for dinner and gave him a smile that almost seemed forced.

"Well, I can't eat all of this by myself and took a chance you would find something to your liking here."

His voice was calm and steady and he took care not to betray any of the misgivings he was feeling after the debacle in the pool. He figured she would allow the entire matter to drop and he could only hope that she could start to feel comfortable around him once more. He would hate for her to think he was some sort of perv or creeper that she would have to worry about peeking through her windows.

But Vivian surprised him by apologizing stating what he had already assumed.

"There is no need to apologize at all. In fact I should probably be the one to apologize. I saw it come off and tried to tell you but we got so involved in our little game that well, things just happened so fast."

Jake was the one to flash her an awkward smile, "I just don't want you to think I'm some sort of pervert trying to take advantage of you. I'm not sure how to convince you otherwise if that is what you feel. But I will sure as hell try my best to make you feel safe and secure this summer."

Jake turned his attention back to the grill rotating the skewers 180 degrees thankful to have something else to look at besides Vivian.