The Return Home

[Nyghtcaller]

Dan sipped his coffee reveling in its flavor for a few seconds, "I'm not sure though I'm not going to spend the day unpacking my apartment. I was thinking about taking a drive through some of the old dirt roads we used to travel maybe drive up to the cliffs."

"The Cliffs", were located at the top of large hill or small mountain that a narrow and rough dirt was used to access. Most of the towns population had been there at least once or twice in their lifetimes.

"I haven't been up there in years and the view was always nice." Dan snapped his fingers, "I have an idea."

He was grinning wickedly in that way that Leah knew all to well.

"If this isn't to much to soon I thought that maybe I can go home get a shower and something to eat. That would give you time to get some things done. Then I come pick you up and we drive up there together."

Dan held his hand up to stop her from speaking as he wasn't done.

"Then I will pick us dinner up at whatever restaurant you prefer on me and go back to my apartment and perhaps you can give me some ideas on where to put stuff and what furnishings I need to add. I promise to be a gentleman as I have already told you so no worries."

He looked at her with his best puppy dog eyes that he knew always got to Leah.

 

[cbelle02]

Leah started to interrupt Dan, hesitant to agree to the trip. But then he was offering her dinner and giving her that look that he she hated because she found it nearly impossible to say no to. And he'd offered a no expectations deal. So they could be friends. Last night didn't have to mean anything more than just two drunk friends having a little fun.

She sighed. "Alright. That sounds good." She said. "Do you want to pick me up around six, I guess?"

They agreed on a time, then finished their coffee. There was no mention of the night before. After a short while, Dan left.

Leah tried not to analyze what happened too much. After all, Dan hadn't pushed her into it and she'd wanted it just as much. But there was no reason to make a big deal out of it.

She went on with the rest of her day, but she couldn't deny that she was looking forward to spending more time with Dan. Finally, she dressed in jeans, a tank top and a light jacket as she waited for Dan to return.

 

[Nyghtcaller]

Dan drove home singing all the way. The little night spent with Leah had put him in a fabulous mood. His cell rang and it was Taylor checking in saying how much she missed him and it wasn't to late to join her. Dan politely declined saying he needed to sort out his apartment, which wasn't a lie, and that he needed the rest, also not a lie. He finished up with Taylor just before arriving home as she promised a big surprise when she returned.

Dan first showered and then took some time to nap on the couch before getting ready. He finally walked to his closet and selected a comfortable pair of jeans and tee shirt that was tailored and fit his body just right showing off his muscular frame without it looking intentional. Brushing his teeth Dan decided at last minute just to put dab of the most popular men's cologne on just for the hell of it.

Dan busied himself unpacking for a bit longer till time to go and headed out pulling up to Leah's a few minutes before six. He pulled up to the curb and got out and walked to her door taking a deep breath before ringing the doorbell.

 

[cbelle02]

Leah couldn't stop thinking about the night before. Surely, it was just a fun night, nothing more. That's probably all Dan thought of it as. Two drunk friends having a little fun together. Still, she was happy to be spending more time with him today. After cleaning up a bit, she showered and dressed in a white sun dress and white flip flops. It was a nice spring day, so she wanted to dress for it. She spent some of the afternoon outside, reading on her back porch in the sun, but soon it was about time for Dan to show up again.

When she heard him pull up, she walked back through the house and opened the door for him just as he rang the doorbell. "Hey!" She greeted, hugging him quickly. "Ready to go?" She pulled back and grabbed her purse and a lavender cardigan in case it got cool. Then followed him out the door.

 

[Nyghtcaller]

Arriving at Leah's front door right on time he pressed the lighted button beside the door. As soon as he pressed it the door opened and Leah was there smiling back at him. She looked beautiful in the white sun dress.

"Hi there, you look beautiful", it was a compliment but one that he was dead serious about. Leah was a beautiful woman and one that had only gotten prettier since they had graduated.

"If you are ready we can go. I brought a cooler with a few supplies but if you need anything we can stop along the way."

Dan stood there resisting the urge to take her hand and head down the walkway. That would be overstepping boundaries he was quite sure despite the events from last night. His mind relived those moments for a few brief seconds. He could still remember exactly how she looked, smelled and felt. The taste of her was still fresh on his tongue and it excited him.

 

[cbelle02]

Leah blushed at Dan's compliment and thanked him with a smile. She locked the door behind her then walked with him to his car.

"Nah, I think that should be all we need." She said as she got in, making sure to tuck the bottom of her dress under her legs. It rode up a little, baring her knees and a bit of her thighs. It had been a long time since she'd been in his car like this, but it brought back a lot of memories. She had to resist her hand's muscle memory of reaching for his every time they rode together. She crossed her hands in her own lap and sat back.

They chatted about their days as Dan drove. It was a beautiful day and Leah loved the feel of the breeze blowing through her hair with the windows down.

It wasn't long before they arrived and drove slowly along the narrow dirt road to The Cliffs. It had been a long time since Leah had been and she was looking forward to the views.

 

[Nyghtcaller]

"Damn this road is a lot rougher than I remembered", exclaimed Dan as the were nearing the summit. He followed the twists and turns of the old dirt road avoiding as many hole as possible though hitting every hole would have been impossible.

The ride so far had been quite enjoyable and Dan almost felt as if they were in high school once more. That they were still a couple with their entire lives ahead of them as his eyes soaked in the familiar scenery Sure the trees had gotten larger and there were a few minor changes to the road but overall it was exactly as he remembered.

Dan negotiated the last curve and the road opened into a large flat cul de sac. The entire area was surrounded by a tall 40-50 foot rock wall on three sides. Maybe a bowl with a quarter section of the side cut would be more accurate. Water dripped down the rock walls creating mini water falls. The open side lead to numerous small foot paths that would take you to various cliffs and overhangs. People often came up here for the view but mostly teenagers to drink and indulge their sexual urges far from the eyes of adults.

The place was empty which wasn't totally surprising considering how rough the road had become. Anything but a 4-wheel drive would have a very tough time making the trek. Dan pulled to a stop and turned off the ignition.

Looking over at Leah, "So here we are wanna go find our old rock and take a look?"

 

[cbelle02]

The trek brought back lots of memories for Leah as well. She tried to push back the rush of emotion she felt as they approached the opening. As they came to a stop, she looked around. It was nearly empty and it seemed only the most devoted sight seers, or really horny and desperate teenagers made the effort these days. Strangely, she liked the idea of being alone up here with Dan.

He came to a stop and turned to her. "So here we are. Wanna go find our old rock and take a look?"

She nodded, opening her door and stepping out. "Of course." Perhaps she hadn't worn the best attire for a hike, but it would have to do. She slammed the door shut and joined Dan as he grabbed the cooler. Soon, the two were walking toward the opening toward the paths. They chose the one furthest to the right that would lead to the familiar landing.

The path wasn't as well kept as it used to be, and they had to climb over downed limbs and rocks several times. Dan always kept a firm hand on hers or on her back as they traversed any sketchy areas. They tried to chat a bit along the way, but most of their energy was dedicated to the effort of hiking the path safely. As they got closer to their destination though, the path smoothed out a bit.

"Wow..." She breathed once they'd reached the rock and cliff. The climb had been worth it. "Still such a beautiful view..."

 

[Nyghtcaller]

Dan came to a stop beside Leah as the breathtaking view came into full sight. It was beautiful and one could see the trees far below along with the interstate in the far distance. Looking to the right Dan could just see the town in which they lived though it appeared more as colored specs than actual buildings.

Dan wanted to wrap her arms around Leah and kiss her but stood his ground not wanting to break the spell.

"I had forgotten how magnificent of view we had from here." He swallowed hard, "I had also forgotten how wonderful it is to share it with you."

As soon as he said it Dan wanted to take it back not because he didn't mean it but because he didn't want to make her feel uncomfortable. Dan didn't allow Leah to immediately respond but instead took her hand leading her towards the large flat group of rock where they often had sat, laid out, and made out.

 

[cbelle02]

Truth be told, all kinds of memories were flooding back as Leah stood, looking out over the cliff. She didn't look at Dan as he started talking but his last words sent an odd shiver down her spine. She wasn't sure how to respond but it didn't matter, Dan seemed to have moved on, taking her hand and leading her to the big flat rock. She remembered sitting, laying on the rock often with Dan. They'd share lunch, talk about their days, and end up making out. She felt a pulse between her legs, remembering the first time Dan had touched her there was on this rock.

She cleared her throat and lowered herself down, careful to spread the bottom of her dress over her thighs. "It feels really nice up here." She said softly, the cool breeze brushing her hair from her face. "So peaceful..." She reached for a bottle of water out of the cooler Dan brought and took a long sip.

"What else did you bring?" She asked, rifling through the cooler as Dan took a seat next to her.

 

[Nyghtcaller]

Dan reached into the side pouches of the soft sided cooler and pulled out a bag of trail mix, some granola bars, and some real beef jerky that was made locally.

"It's not exactly a five course meal but thought it would provide a bit of energy as I figured we might need it considering where we are today."

Dan laid the items out on the rock before her and looked for a second into her eyes. It was brief but he liked what he saw there. Dan saw peace, serenity, happiness and joy. Dan collapsed back onto his elbows staring up at the sky watching a hawk far above ride the updrafts of the wind effortlessly. He watched as the graceful flyer glided up and down and thought of his relationship with Leah. It was much like the bird up and down seemingly on a course of random events that were not set by either of them. Now they seemed to be cruising slowly on calm seas.

"You know Leah I'm one lucky man. The fact that I'm sitting with you here now is proof of that. After all we have been through, after all I have put you through. After being an ass to you numerous times you are still here sharing this view of mother nature with me. Regardless of where your life leads you from here don't ever forget how special of a person you are."

Dan swallowed thinking that perhaps he was allowing his mouth to spill a little to much information. He looked over at her with a big smile on his face. "But don't forget I still think you make the best sandwiches known to mankind. In fact they are so good that they could bring about world peace."

This last bit was mean to lighten his statement something he often did whenever he though things might be getting to serious. It had been a running joke for years that he needed more sandwiches and would often tell her to get to the kitchen and make him one. He didn't mean it mean or cruel or demanding but he was totally teasing. In fact Dan loved to cook and loved to cook for people and especially Leah.

 

[cbelle02]

Leah grabbed a granola bar and tore it open. "It all looks good to me." She assured him, taking a bite. She relaxed back as well, making sure to keep her legs crossed at the ankles as they extended in front of her. They were both quiet for a while before Dan finally spoke again. She smiled at his words and laughed a little at his typical attempt to make light of the situation.

She met his eyes briefly. "Thanks, Daniel." She whispered sincerely. "I'm glad you think so highly of my sandwich making skills." She added her own snarky comment at the end and laughed.

The two ate for a while, talking and laughing, as if nothing had changed. But things had changed, seemingly for the better, however. At least she hoped they had. She didn't know where they'd end up, but she was happy to have back some of the old ease and comfort she felt around him.

She didn't know how time passed so quickly but it soon grew later and cooler. After a moment's hesitation, she slid over closer to Dan for warmth. She liked the feel of his arms around her, so she figured there was no harm in being close to him. Just for a little bit anyway.

 

[Nyghtcaller]

When Leah scooted close to him Dan instinctively draped his arm around her. Lightly at first but soon had pulled her in close to him. He inhaled deeply smelling the light scent of her shampoo from her hair. Leah's body felt good and comforting beside him and as the sun set it was a scene made for lovers.

They sat in silence watching the sun slowly dip lower and lower when Dan dropped his head a bit and gently nuzzled her neck. He wasn't sure why he was doing this as it would have been something he would have done when they were dating. His lips barely grazed her skin but it sent tingles through all of his nerve endings when he did so and he hoped she wouldn't pull away.

Dan waited for her reaction ready with an apology if she got angry or pulled away from him. The one funny thing that occurred to him however was that it had been many years since he had been nervous about the act of putting his arm around a girl and nuzzling her neck. Even after the recent experience with her the though of actually kissing her gave him butterfly's. But more importantly for once he wasn't looking at a kiss as a potential gateway to her getting into her pants. His thoughts were on enjoying this closeness and moment alone and nothing more.

 

[cbelle02]

Neither of them spoke as they watched the sun slowly set. They knew the path back well so the dark didn't worry them at all. It was all rather romantic, even if that wasn't the mood they'd intended. She was just enjoying the feeling of Dan's arms around her, his body strong next to hers. She felt his nuzzle her neck and it felt like the most natural thing to happen. Still, her breath hitched slightly when she felt his lips graze her neck. Just that light touch sent a tremor through her. It was different than the night before though. Last night had just been two drunk, horny friends. Tonight, though, it was different. She couldn't quite explain it, but it didn't matter.

She took his hand, gripping it tightly, taking a breath before tilting her head slightly to the side, wordlessly encouraging the action.

 

[Nyghtcaller]

The invitation was clear to Dan and he gently pressed his lips to her neck. He barely sucked on her skin but it was hard enough she would certainly feel it. His tongue snaked out and made contact briefly as he continued down to her shoulder.

Dan moved the fabric of her top just a few inches as he kissed her shoulder slowly taking his time and enjoying the feel of her skin on his lips. He stopped and looked up at her as he leaned forward his lips pressing to hers. He didn't move to a open mouth with lots of tongue.

Instead it was a slow kiss where he sucked her top lip then her bottom lip. It was slow, soft and tender. He held her close to him his breath all but caught in his chest and Dan enjoyed this moment more than anything in a long time.

 

[cbelle02]

Low moans escaped Leah's lips as she felt Dan's lips and tongue move along her flesh, down onto her shoulder. When he met her eyes again, her lips parted, eager for the kiss. It was heavenly, to feel his lips on her again, clear of any alcohol clouding the sensations. He tasted familiar and comfortable. There was no urgency, at least not yet, just sweet, gentle, languid kisses.

She pressed closer into him, her hand resting on his chest, feeling his heart beat beneath her palm. Then the hand slid upward, over his chest and then to caress his cheek before pressing up through his hair. She was the first to deepen the kiss, pressing her lips more firmly to his before prodding with her tongue until he parted them. She dipped her tongue in, brushing his as the kiss became more passionate.

 

[Nyghtcaller]

Leah's return of his kiss came with passion and intensity that sent his senses reeling. Had their kisses always been this passionate, this raw, this emotional? "No", Dan thought at least not for him as his entire thought process had been about getting her to give in and sleep with him.

He eagerly accepted the probing of her tongue sucking on it gently at first then a bit harder. He allowed his own tongue to dance with hers as he scarred her shoulder with one hand the other placed firmly behind her head.

Dan slowly pushed her back easing her down softly on the rock upon which they perched. He slipped his hand up her arm intertwining his fingers with hers as he kissed her deeper. His tongue probed her mouth now but there was no sense of urgency despite a growing sense of sexual tension. He didn't even have to fight it away but instead that intense sexual side of him seemed more than willing to take a back seat to the passionate romantic side that was leading the way.

Dan finally broke the kiss looking down at Leah his mouth turned up into a smile not one of playfulness but one of happiness. He wanted to speak but wasn't sure what to even say to her.

 

[cbelle02]

Their lips never parted as Dan lowered her onto her back. Her arms moved above her head and his hand traveled upward to intertwine his fingers with hers. It was such an intimate position. This was different than anything she'd ever felt with Dan before, he was taking his time, not pushing for anything but still keeping things passionate and intense. And damn if it wasn't turning her on more than ever.

"Daniel..." She whispered softly as he pulled back from the kiss. Her voice betrayed emotion but also desire, need. It was a strange combination. She reached for him again, touching his face and leaning up to kiss him once more. She breathed him in as they kissed, filled with intense passion and raw desire that came naturally, not forced.

 

[Nyghtcaller]

The sound of Leah calling his name was breathy and betrayed some of the emotion that she was feeling. It also made Dan's heart thud in his chest. He lost himself in her kiss and returned it in kind allowing his own pent up emotions to flow through his lips and tongue to her own.

Dan clung to her as much as held her almost as if he let go that he would be forever adrift at sea. It was such a strange sensation and one that he had never experienced before. He pulled his lips back from Leah's one more time and wiped a lock of hair from her forehead.

He cradled her head in his arms just staring at her or into her would be a more correct description. Dan kissed her once more on the lips this time just allowing them to stay firmly upon hers for a long 15 seconds or so. He didn't want the moment to end afraid that he might never capture this feeling again.

Finally, Dan sat up and pulled Leah up with him. He gazed out from the cliff as twilight had begun the sun no longer visible as a lone hawk made a long caw somewhere out of sight.

"Maybe we should head back before it gets any colder?" It sounded lame in his head but he was honestly on uncharted ground here and had no idea what to say or do next. What did this all mean? It was different from the other night when they had pleased one another spurred on by alcohol and wanton needs. Sure they had shared something intimate that night but tonight it was so much more and all they had done was kiss.

Dan had kissed many girls in his life and not a single one of them had made his heart flutter the way he had just experienced.

 

[cbelle02]

Dan broke the kiss and slowly sat up, pulling her with him. She was a bit surprised, not wanting the moment to end. He suggested heading back and she knew that he was trying not to come across as only wanting one thing. It was kinda cute, and sweet, to be honest. And not at all what she wanted in that moment. But maybe it would be good to take a breather, before things got too out of hand.

Something was happening between them, that much was clear, something more than just a rekindled friendship. But just what that was remained to be seen. Finally, she nodded. "You're right. It's getting late." She sighed and straightened her dress, heat still coursing through her body. They sat quietly for a moment longer, and Leah could still feel and taste him on her lips.

Finally, they gathered up their things and carefully made their way back down to the truck.

 

[Nyghtcaller]

Dan guided them back towards where they had parked as his mind tried to digest everything that he had just felt. When they came to a few of the areas that were a bit treacherous he took her hand and placed his other hand on the small of her back offering support.

They arrived shortly back at his vehicle and he stowed their belongings in the back. As they began the drive back to town Dan wasn't sure what to say so instead he just let the radio play and sang along with a few songs.

As they neared the black top he looked over at Leah, "So whats on your agenda for tonight? You have plans or would you care to join me for dinner or maybe a night out on the town? We could order in and watch movies your pick unless you just want to call it a night now. If you do I totally understand and will take you home."

A mile down the black top Dan's phone chirped indicating he had a voice mail. He picked it up realizing that he had been out of cell service for most of the time after they had left the pavement. Glancing at it he saw that he had missed three calls from Taylor and he had a voice mail. He also saw where she had sent him multiple texts.

"Taylor can wait", Dan thought and laid the phone back in the console. He started to explain to Leah who it was but decided it was best to leave her out of their conversation and evening. He was starting to dread her return and wondered why had even agreed to go out with her to start with.

 

[cbelle02]

Calling it a night was definitely not what Leah had in mind. Dinner sounded nice. But so did curling up on the couch with pizza and movies. Would it be a date though? Or just two friends hanging out? He hadn't specified the first, but after what just happened could it really just be the latter? Things were happening kind of fast. Just a few days ago she thought she hated him. But now...maybe she was overthinking things.

"Well...I haven't seen your place yet so why don't we go there and order pizza and watch a movie?" She suggested. That seemed pretty tame.

 

[Nyghtcaller]

"I have a better idea than pizza but I would love to give you the grand tour of my place. Perhaps even get a few suggestions on decor as it is slightly spartan at the moment. Plus it probably could use a woman's touch. In fact you will be the first female to even step foot in the place."

Dan reached up and pressed a button on the steering wheel activating hands free calling.

"Call Ricardo's", Dan said and a electronic voice replied, "Calling Ricardo's".

The phone rang three times before a heavily accented voice that sounded Spanish but not Hispanic answered.

"Thank you for calling Ricardo's how may I assist you?"

"This is Dan Carson could I speak with Ricardo." It was more of a demand than a question and Dan knew the restaurant owner would take his call.

Ricardo's was a restaurant in the next town over about 40 miles away. They were known for their Spanish style dishes especially their steaks. The restaurant was not quite a suit and tie affair but it was very nice offering numerous dishes from the mainland of Spain. It also took weeks to get a reservation unless you were someone of note. During Dan's NFL days he would often fly down with friends during the off season and there were even a signed photo of him posing with the owner along with one of his old jerseys hanging on the wall.

Less than a minute later Ricardo's voice echoed through the Hummer's speakers.

"Mr. Carson, what a wonderful surprise how might I be of assistance", came a accented voice though not quite as heavy as the original one.

"How are you Ricardo I hope that I didn't catch you at a bad time."

The voice answered without hesitation, "I'm well and No No never a bad time for you busy but I always make time for friends."

"I have a little request, I need two orders delivered to my apartment and I know you don't offer delivery but I would really appreciate it and the driver would be well compensated as would you. How about 2 VIP tickets to a game of your choice to see your favorite team? Plus I will get you that autographed football signed by Peyton Manning you have been asking for."

Dan knew the offer of the football would have been enough but he sincerely liked Ricardo and getting the tickets was only a phone call away.

"Mr. Carson that is to much but yes I can have whatever you need delivered. Is it going to your new apartment?"

Dan gave Ricardo his address and ordered them both the Matador Steak and Shrimp plate which was one of the signature items on the menu. The beef was imported directly from Spain and was one of the finest cuts around. Dan had not forgotten exactly what Leah liked and how she took her steaks and ordered for her with a small smile as he did so. Concluding their business and Dan promising to come visit very soon he ended the call.

He turned towards Leah, "Better than pizza", he inquired?

They arrived at Dan's apartment 15 minutes later and he parked in the secure lot and lead her upstairs.

Opening the door she was confronted with a few boxes scattered here or there but he had managed to get most of put away. The living room was a sunken living room with a fireplace and a large flat screen television dominated the room along with what appeared to be a very expensive sound system. The furniture was all leather and blended well with the carpet and color of the walls.

Dan stepped in through the small foyer and into the living room. He picked up a remote from a nearby table and pressed a button and recessed lighting lit the room not brightly but gave it a nice cozy feeling.

There were French doors that lead out to a balcony over looking the city to one side of the room. Four steps lead up and to a small dining alcove which also held a large window with a view. To the other side was the kitchen separated by a bar as it was a very open floor plan. The kitchen was spotless almost sterile with nothing on the counters or walls to make it appear more personal or homey.

A hallway lead to a small full bathroom, guest bedroom, office larger bathroom which had a huge marble Jacuzzi tub. The tub filled from above as water ran down from the ceiling into the tub. A large marble shower was on one side of the bathroom with multiple shower head and jets that moved automatically up and down almost like a car wash.

At the very end of the hall and also connected to the bathroom was Dan's bedroom. His bed was a four poster bed sitting on a raised dais. The room had multiple floor to ceiling windows which offered another stunning view. The windows were tinted and there was a control by the bed that would lighten or darken the tint along with a control to close the blinds completely. There were various sports pictures and memorabilia scattered throughout the apartment from Dan's days of high school, college and professional days.

In the living room was one set of shelves that held trophies from several games and championships along with a few corresponding pictures. There at eye level was the State High School trophy from Dan's senior year. Beside was a picture of Dan and several team mates, a few framed press clippings and a picture of Dan and Leah standing on the field kissing after the game. Dan was dirty with grass stains and mud on almost every part of his uniform specs of mud was stuck to his face. He had Leah in his arms delivering a very happy kiss. Their eyes were closed and you could almost feel the excitement and joy radiating from the photograph. In front of them was the trophy that now sat beside the photo.

"So what do you think", Dan asked?

 

[cbelle02]

Leah had to admit she was pretty impressed by the strings Dan could pull. Hanging out with him the past couple days, she'd nearly forgotten about his status. He acted like a normal guy, not one with that much notoriety and accomplishment. But he didn't throw it in anyone's face either. And she was glad for it right now because Ricardo's was definitely much better than pizza.

After they arrived at Dan's house, she walked inside behind him. It was a huge apartment. She stopped once inside and scanned the place. The living room was big and well furnished with high quality leather pieces. She whistled softly as he showed her around, through the kitchen, bedroom, bathroom and back to the living room. She walked around it slowly, admiring all the trophies and photos. She was surprised to see the picture of the two of them from high school, post game, amidst all the others. They both looked so happy and young.

She turned away from the photo at Dan's question. "It's awesome!" She grinned. "Huge. I'm impressed." She didn't mention the high school picture but instead walked toward his kitchen. She opened doors until she found a liquor cabinet. It wasn't entirely well stocked since he'd just moved in, but she did find a bottle of whiskey. She held it up. "Shall we?" She didn't intend on getting drunk like the other night, but a drink or two was definitely in order.

 

[Nyghtcaller]

Leah seemed impressed with his condo and that sort of embarrassed Dan a little bit. He hadn't really expected that many people to see his condo and certainly not Leah. He had made good money actually a lot of money while playing professional football and had invested well. But impressing people with money or things just wasn't Dan's style at all. He saw her looking at the photo of them together but she didn't say anything about it.

"I'm glad that you like it. I know it might be a bit over the top but it's comfortable I have to admit."

Leah headed into the kitchen and came back with a bottle of whiskey and Dan had to laugh just a bit. He grabbed the remote and turned on the television along with the surround system. The entertainment set up was the most expensive thing in the place and the picture and sound was amazing. The company that installed it had custom pieced it together and strategically placed the speakers for the best acoustics. The sounds seem to come from all around you, behind you even above. Dan brought up the on demand menu and handed the remote to Leah as he took a seat on the couch.

"Take your pic find us a movie to watch while we wait on the food." No sooner had the words left his mouth a buzzer rang announcing the arrival of the food down stairs. Dan buzzed the driver in and went to the door waiting. The small Spainish looking man smiled when he saw Dan.

Dan let him in and he placed the basket of food wrapped in linen cloth on the coffee table at Dan's direction. He reached into his wallet and pulled out 4 100 dollar bills and handed to the man.

"Keep the change and thank you for doing this tell Ricardo I owe him big time and will get the rest of what I promised in a few days."

The man smiled as he pocketed the money. "No thank you Senor but I was wondering if I could trouble you for picture with you?" Dan laughed and said, "Sure why not."

The man pulled out a cell and handed it to Leah whom he seemed to notice for the first time. His eyes didn't roam her body but there was no doubt from his look he could see she was a beautiful woman. He looked from her back to Dan and then moved beside him. Dan turned to one side putting one hand on the mans shoulder while shaking the mans hand.

They posed for several photo's before Leah handed the camera back. "Once more thank you Senor thank you very much!"

"Its no problem at all and be safe going back." Dan closed the door behind the man and turned back to Leah. "I never get used to people I don't know wanting to take pictures with me but I always try and indulge them cause without the fans we would have no football and hence no job."

He joined Leah on the couch and began to unwrap the food, "Did you find anything good to watch?"