Life after Love E-Book

Elizabeth Russo

• Herausgeber: Promo Records srl
• Kategorie: Gesellschafts- und Liebesromane
• Sprache: Englisch

Veröffentlichungsjahr: 2017

Beschreibung

When Lieutenant Jon Brody was wounded in action whilst on Duty in war-torn Sudan, his injuries were so bad that he decided to cut Michelle loose. What kind of life could he possibly offer her with the physical damage his body had suffered? She loved him. Regardless. But he told her to forget about him. To move on. She was young. And beautiful. She deserved more.  Michelle was devastated. Would she ever have someone to cherish her again? She had to leave her place of work. Just to get away from it all. There were too many memories of Lieutenant Jon Brody around this Military Base. Her Hotel career got off with a bang. She loved it. Being busy kept her sane. Then she met him. Gabriel. Her gorgeous “Gentle Giant”. Love had not abandoned her after all! Life with Gabriel was amazing. He adored her. He cherished her. He loved her. And she gave him her all. But his horrible mother hated Michelle. With a passion. That “crazy war” between his mother and Michelle tore at dear Gabriel’s heart.  Then Gabriel died. After locking her heart in an iron box and throwing the key into the deepest darkest Ocean, Michelle packed her bags and left for Germany. And though Germany was very kind to her, nothing lasts forever. She had to go back home. Just when she thought that love had absolutely given up on her, Michelle’s journey leads her to this most striking man. But would she have to pay yet another high price for loving?He smiled at her from across the room. She smiled back. He was worth it ...

Leseprobe

Elizabeth Russo

LIFE AFTER LOVE

© 2017 Elizabeth Russo

© 2017 Promo Records srl, Cugir

ISBN 978-973-0-23893-8



PROMO RECORDS srl

Preface

“Do not stop for no reason in making your project in which you firmly believe ... someone will tell you're crazy, you're wasting your time, that no one will care what you're doing .... but what you are doing is for yourself , and when your project will be born, the same people who criticized you now they will say: Bravo!

Do what you believe in, without hesitation, without thinking about the comments of others …”

Dedicated to the dreamers…

Elizabeth Russo

{Johannesburg, Friday 25th November 2016}

< The Beginning >

She’d always wanted to be successful.

But what is success really?

* To some people, success is being happily married to an attractive, kind and gentle person, and having a healthy and gorgeous family. Living in the perfect house in your dream location is simply the icing on that cake with a scrumptious cherry on top, too!

* To others, success simply means wealth. Money. And ship-loads of it. Plus lots of material things - So much so that you have to “keep some in your Aunt’s house!”

* Success, to many others, is totally not running for that Big Red Bus, but driving past it in a cool Super Car. That would be just awesome, wouldn’t it, people?! And hey, don’t forget to wave to that horrible and heartless Red Bus Driver while you’re cruising past his miserable old bus. Remind him, too, of the many times that he refused to stop and open the bus doors for you to get on, if only to get out of those cold, rainy and grey London mornings. This after you’d run your poor heart out with your various bags on your weary shoulders so as to get to the blooming Bus Stop before he did. But you did not. And with complete disrespect, he merrily sped on by. He didn’t even slow down, the mean nut! As a result of you missing that Red Bus, you got to work late. And had a really bad day, too.

Then go on home with some friends, or hangers-on, or even useless individuals, too, if you like, and “Cheers!” drink to your well deserved success! You’ve so earned it. Now own it.

* For some people, success is basically having just what you need to live a good and decent life with no financial worries. If you save enough to take your family away on a neat holiday once a year or so, well, that’s great!

* Success is also defined as spending quality time with your dear ones, and knowing that true love and hard work is all you really need to be happy in this life. Appreciating what you’ve achieved without going OTT (Over The Top) truly is a blessing.

< Just Google the people in the Amazon Rain Forest - They have very few material things. In all fairness, hardly any clothes at all, judging by those NatGeo TV Programs! However, do take a closer look at their Sense Of Community. Observe, and you’ll be both awed and inspired by how genuinely loving, considerate and caring these simple Amazonian people are towards their families, and most importantly, their sustainable environment. And hey, they are sincerely happy with their lot - or little - in this life. How bad can that possibly be?!

< Why can’t we all be happy with what we have? Darn it! Yes! That’s it! Duh! Of course! My apologies, I almost forgot that one - We’ve just got to keep up with those flipping Joneses and the Khumalos, as well, now, haven’t we?! Who the dickens are these people to dictate how others live their lives in the first place?!

* Being rich is an aspiration that lots of people have. Being “famous”, of course, is an even greater pull. That tops them all. Apparently.

“I want to be famous when I grow up!”

Famous?! What in the World is this “Fame” that so many crave?!

Just remember : Fame is not all that. Sure, everyone is entitled to their “15 minutes of fame” - and shame for many folks. All that can be said about that is, use your quarter of an hour wisely. And life’s good. You’ll be standing in the “Hall of Fame”! Blow it, and the Whole Wide World will remember you for all the wrong reasons on YouTube, and all the other crazy, wild and hurtful Social Networks out there, too. That’s the “shame” part of it. This big old World will so truly enjoy laughing at you, you poor soul.

< Haven’t you ever heard what they say, “Laugh and the World laughs with you. Cry, and you cry alone.” ?! That saying is there for a very good reason.

< Fame - Dear fame - The lengths some individuals go to in order to finally get there is quite simply insane. Yes - insane! Just take a trip to Essex! No offense intended. It’s as good a place to start as any. Most Reality Shows are a very close second.

* And so the Long Journey to “Success Land” begins.

Many years ago in a Far Away Land ... Just kidding!

Work hard. And play harder.

Surely that’s the better way of living, considering the total ridiculousness many face in today’s Big Bad World!

So what is success really?

In my opinion, success is a journey.

A long one.

Quote: “Success is like your own shadow. If you try to catch it, you will never succeed. So, ignore it. Walk in your own way. And it will follow you.” -Anonymous-

And what about love?

Well, that is another story ...

This book is a dedication to S.A.P.

“S.A.P., I will forever cherish the love that we shared. I’m truly sorry that our beautiful life together got cut short so very abruptly. So very brutally. But no matter what anyone says, I am wonderfully blessed to have loved you, and to have been loved by you.

I pray that you and I will be given another chance to love again. Yes. To be together. And to cherish each other. Once more.

Until then, you remain in my heart.

Forever always and a day.

Hello! The name is Michelle. Michelle Mackenzie.

My Book - Life After Love - is based on a True Story.

And it starts now ...

< The Early Days >

Michelle was eager to get on with life and be her own person. It had been a terribly rough ride finding the courage to go on once she’d returned home from Egypt. It was hard, too, to find a decent job considering the current dismal State of the Economy.

Her wonderfully loving parents had recently made their way to Heaven, and there was no one she could turn to for advise and support. Or even a hug. Really? I hear you ask. Yes, really!And why is that? you continue. The answer is simple:- Michelle trusted nobody.

Michelle swallowed her pride, and accepted whatever job she could get. One cannot live on pride alone, you know. And to live a decent life, one has to start somewhere ...

As a good Christian, Michelle attended Religious services twice a week. She liked it. Her fellow believers were mostly kind and genuine people. However, some were down right horrible creatures. So called “Christians for a Day!”

Michelle worked as a Nanny for the last five months left to complete her Clothing Design and Pattern Drafting Diploma Course. She needed the extra income. And the children she cared for were not that bad either. After successfully completing her Course, Michelle got a job as a Pattern Drafter and Seamstress at one of the Military Barracks.

She was very good at her new job despite her tender age, something which the handsome young Lieutenant, who was her Boss, did not fail to notice. And although the older more experienced workers in her Department were not amused by the praises she frequently got from their Boss, Michelle simply concentrated really hard on her work, and ignored all the Office/WorkShop gossip.

It had taken a whole year for the rest of the Team in the Sewing Department to sincerely welcome her into their fold. And Michelle was relieved, perhaps even a little happy. Despite that, she did not want to socialize with any of them. They had treated her poorly without first taking the time to get to know her. She’d be cordial to them. But that’s all. That, too, was well noted by her Boss, Lieutenant Alden Jake.

< Then Along Came Katie >

Katie worked in the main Secretarial Pool for the Officers in the Military Base. She was a wonderfully crazy girl, and enjoyed her life to the fullest! She dated the Military guys - A lot. In fact, she was well known for her “social skills”. And even though she’d had a baby girl when she was only eighteen years old, Katie worked really hard to be a good mother to her daughter.

*It’s really not fair to judge others, people!*

So Michelle ignored her Office/Workshop colleagues, and accepted Katie as her pal.

One day, Katie invited Michelle out for lunch. Working in that Military Base meant that you were not allowed to exit the Military Compound during working hours. In fact, all the civilian workers there were provided with daily transportation to and from work. It was for security reasons, the Military explained. That was fine because it saved the civilian employees a hell of a lot in transport money, since the Base was located quite a way away from just about anywhere!

And so Michelle met up with Katie outside the Officers’ HQ, and together they walked to a part of the Base that was relatively new to Michelle.

“Where are you taking me, girl?” Michelle asked her pal.

“To lunch!” Katie replied cheekily.

“I know that!” Michelle exclaimed. “But where exactly?”

“You’ll see!” was all Katie offered mysteriously.

Michelle gave up. She’d just have to wait and see. It was quite a lovely walk, even in high heels. Well, court shoes actually, not those killer heels, mind you. And both girls seriously liked their megalicious heels! However, those were strictly for Fun Nights Out in Town, not to work in a Military Base.

Rounding the bend, they came to a large Complex that had three lovely Diners, a cool Bar/Restaurant, and a large Convenience Store right next to a Duty Free Department Store. There was even a good size Square with benches shaded by lovely indigenous trees, and a cool water feature as well. It actually looked like a small Town Center!

Wow! Where on Earth did this spring from?! Michelle wondered as she took in all the new and splendid surroundings.

“You like?” Katie asked laughing at Michelle’s expression.

“I like!” Michelle said punching her pal’s arm.

“Hey! Don’t be mean! I won’t share my second surprise if you hurt me!” Katie exclaimed.

“Second surprise? What do you mean?” Michelle asked.

“Follow me. And don’t dare say a word until I wink at you. Okay?” Katie said mysteriously once again.

“Okay,” was all Michelle said, totally intrigued at this point.

They went into the Bar/Restaurant.

It was a very lovely space. The decor was very tasteful, too. Michelle had never been in a Bar before, and she felt a little out of her comfort- zone. She’d always had the impression that Bars were dark and dingy places for drunks to hang out in. But this one was far from that mental picture she’d painted. And as Michelle was up for new experiences, she simply followed Katie to a table by the window. It had soft maroon leather bench seats that were nice, spacious and comfortable. Not bad! Not bad at all!

A cute Waiter came up to their table and offered them the Lunch Menu. He smiled at Katie and welcomed her back. Back?! Katie thanked him, then happily ordered “the usual”. WTF?! Then he turned his cute smile to Michelle.

“And what will you be having?” he asked politely.

“Erm ... Let’s see ... I’ll have a toasted ham and cheese sandwich, please. Oh ... yes, and some Tonic water with ice. Thanks.” She handed the Lunch Menu back to him.

“I’ll be right with you,” the cute Waiter said. Then he excused himself.

“So, do you like this place?” Katie asked Michelle enthusiastically.

“I do. It’s really nice. I never imagined they’d have an Area like this in a Military Base!”

“Isn’t it just cool?! I come here often,” Katie offered.

“So I gathered!” Michelle responded. They both burst out laughing.

The Bar/Restaurant was not busy just yet because lunch time at this Base was staggered in order to have some employees covering the Work Stations at all times. It was a system that worked really well out here. No over-crowding. No long queues. No office spaces left vulnerable and unattended. Security was key. Obviously.

Just then Michelle’s Boss and another Lieutenant walked in. They headed straight to the Bar counter.

“They’re here!” Katie said softly, albeit excitedly.

“Who?” Michelle asked looking at her pal quizzically.

“Our dates,” Katie said simply. “At the Bar.”

Michelle turned around. OMG! That was her Boss! And another Ranked Officer. Well, he was fit and cute - But hey, who said anything about a date? She turned to her pal.

“Explain yourself, Katie. You have two seconds!” Michelle was not amused.

“Okay. I’m sorry I did not tell you earlier. Not my fault entirely. You see, your Boss asked me not to say a word about this to you. The Officer he’s with is Lieutenant Jon Brody. He’s seen you before, and he’s interested in getting to know you.”

Well, that took more than all of two seconds! But damn it! Michelle was not interested in going out or even dating. Not yet anyway. There was still a lot she needed to work on in order to get herself in an emotionally safe and secure place. Having lost both her parents, guarding her heart was paramount to Michelle. The grief that still gripped her whenever she thought of them left no space for any other feelings. And so, dating right now would only complicate the solid “Ivory Tower life” that she’d created for herself.

Fuck!Ah, well - At least the Officer was handsome, she mused. So, what would a simple lunch date hurt? Michelle closed her eyes. She slowly breathed in and out to calm herself down. She took one last deep breath, let it out at a snail’s pace, then opened her eyes and glared at Katie before offering her a smile. A small one.

“Don’t you ever do that to me again, Katie. Understand?” she warned.

“Okay. I’m sorry. I really am. Friends?” Katie apologized sincerely.

“Pals. For now. You’re on probation!” Michelle responded. They laughed.

It was a wonderful bonus that the civilians at this Base were all entitled to a two hour lunch-break as there were no Tea/Coffee breaks permitted. Happy days!

Shortly after they arrived, the Officers walked towards the table that Michelle and Katie were seated at. They had their drinks in their hands. Katie winked at Michelle. Michelle rolled her eyes at her. Okay. Here we go ...

< Meeting Lt. Jon Brody >

“Good afternoon, ladies,” Lt. Jake greeted them happily.

“Good afternoon, Sir,” the ladies said in unison.

“May we join you?” Lt. Jake asked politely.

As if the girls had any choice really!

“Of course, Sir!” replied Katie with a wide smile.

“Thank you. This is Lt. Jon Brody. And these are the prettiest girls around, Jon. Katie. And Michelle,” Lt. Jake introduced them before sitting on the bench seat next to Katie.

Lt. Brody shook their hands and smiled. Very nice smile! Beautiful green eyes, too, thought Michelle. This wouldn’t be so bad after all, she reluctantly admitted to herself.

Lt. Brody sat next to Michelle. Her heart rate increased. Oh, shucks!

The group chatted for a few minutes about this and that before the cute Waiter returned with their orders. The Officers had already placed their lunch orders at the Bar.

It was amusing to note that they’d all gone for the Sandwich selection.

Katie : Classic Club Sandwich

Michelle : Toasted Ham and Cheese Sandwich

Lt. Jake : Toasted Beef Sandwich with tomato slices and lettuce

Lt. Brody : Prosciutto & Salami Sandwich with soft Swiss cheese and slices of tomatoes

After the cute Waiter left, the group said, “Buon appetito” to each other, then dug into their sandwiches, all were well pleased with their choices. Lt. Brody asked Michelle if she’d like to try a piece of his sandwich. Michelle blushed a little before saying, “Sure! It looks too good to resist!”

They all laughed. Michelle’s response could so have had a double-meaning!

“Here you go,” said Lt. Brody placing a portion of his sandwich in Michelle’s plate.

She ate it. She closed her eyes as she chewed. The sandwich was out of this World. Shut the front door already! She swallowed it. Then she opened her eyes. Yikes! She blushed furiously. They were all looking at her. What now?!

Lt. Brody : You really liked that sandwich, didn’t you, Michelle?”

Michelle : Ummm ... Yes, I did. It was quite delicious. I’ve never tasted a sandwich quite that rich before -

Katie : You were lost in space for a moment, friend.

Lt. Jake : Yeah! It was amazing just watching you eat that piece!

Lt. Brody : It certainly was ... Would you like another one?

Michelle : Erm ... No. No, thanks. I guess I’ll go ahead and finish mine. Thanks again.

Lt. Brody : The pleasure was all mine.

He smiled at her again. Then he touched her lips with his right thumb to brush off some invisible crumbs. His hand trembled a little. He inhaled raggedly. Turning back in his seat, he got on with finishing his lunch. Wow! What just happened there?!

By now Lt. Jake had one arm around Katie’s shoulders. When did that take place?! What’s going on here? Michelle wondered. And he was now caressing her shoulders as if he had done that many times before, too! Had he?!

The cute Waiter came by to clear their table.

After he’d left to bring them Tea and Coffee, Lt. Jake turned his full attention to Katie. They chatted amicably about things that were common to both of them, which made Michelle think that there was definitely something more going on between these two than just an impromptu lunch date.

But before she could analyze that, Lt. Brody said, “I’ve seen you a few times walking to your Work Station. You sure don’t look like a Tailor, if I may say so.”

Michelle giggled. She’d heard that said so many times before. People said she looked more like an Executive Secretary or Chief Receptionist or even a Personal Assistant. Anything but a humble Tailor. And a Military Uniform Tailor at that!

After completing her College studies, English Literature and History, there weren’t too many options open to her in the City that she wanted to live in. And teaching, her second career, did not appeal to her at the time. So she’d diversified and taken a crash Course, six months, in Clothing Design and Pattern Drafting.

Michelle figured that this was a Craft which could be done from anywhere in the World, as long as one had a Computer and the required sewing material. Michelle truly valued her freedom and independence, so anything she could do without being tied down to one place was most appealing to her right now.

“That’s an opinion shared by many,” she responded smiling. “But I do more than just sew Military uniforms, Sir. I’m part of the Design and Cutting Team as well.”

“Oh, I see. That’s great! Listen, please call me Jon,” Lt. Brody said. “At least when we’re outside our Work Stations.”

Michelle looked into his beautiful green eyes. She smiled. “Thanks. I will. Jon. So how long have you been at this Posting?”

“About eleven weeks now. It’s good out here. Not quite as hectic as where I was before,” he answered her.

“And may I ask where that was, or will you have to “silence me”, so to say, if you tell me?” she teased.

“A girl after my own heart!” Lt. Brody said laughing. “I love your sense of humor, Michelle. And no, I will not “silence you” if I tell you.” Though he surely wouldn’t mind silencing her in another situation, a sweet one, he thought to himself. Like kissing her senseless ... Lt. Jon Brody was already thinking of nice ways to take her breath away, and that certainly did not involve physically doing away with her at all. To the contrary! You see, Lt. Jon Brody had been hit by that infamous “Thunderbolt” !

“Well, I was in Mogadishu for a three month Tour of Duty,” Jon continued. “And I hated it. But it was an honorable Mission. It was absolutely necessary to go in there, even if the Local Government at the time disagreed with the necessity of that Mission as it involved the International Community. Interference to their sovereignty, they’d said. In any case, the people of that country most definitely needed our help. They still do. All the help they can get, as a matter of fact, just so they can live as much a normal life as possible.”

She touched his left arm. She empathized with him. Why was there so much pain and suffering in the beautiful Planet of ours? Our Big Blue Marble - He placed his right hand over hers. They looked into each other’s eyes. His green ones. Her light brown ones. And something special passed between them. He squeezed her hand, leaned forward and kissed her forehead. “I’m melting like a candle wax!” Dear Michelle was so close to fainting point, it just wasn’t funny. What was happening to her? She generally did not like people. Especially at the very first meeting! Yet, here she was touching a man she’d only just met. Well, it was only his arm. But hey, that was not like her at all! They broke contact. It was better that way. They both needed some quiet time to sort out what had just taken place between them. And in the company of others, too! Blimey!

They chatted about this and that for a while, just to stay on “safer ground”. And then -

Katie : Michelle, we need to freshen up before heading back to work. I’ll show you where the Ladies Powder Room is.

Michelle : Right. OMG! Look at the time! Thanks, Katie.

Lt. Brody : I’ll be right here when you get back, Michelle.

Their eyes met and held for a brief moment in time. Then both of the Officers stood up and let the girls scoot off the bench seats.

In the Ladies Room, Katie hugged Michelle. “I’m so happy,” she said with sparkling eyes.

“Do share!’ Michelle responded.

“Lt. Jake, I mean Al, asked me to think about him and I going “exclusive”! Can you believe that? I told him that I’d love to. And who knows what will happen in the future?! This is so, so wonderful for me, Michelle!”

“Slow down, girl! Don’t you think you should have taken his generous advice and thought about it a little longer?” Michelle said worriedly.

“I’ve dreamt of this for a long time, girl. Over a year! So I presume I’ve had plenty of time to think about it, don’t you?” she responded.

“A year!” Michelle exclaimed. “Well, that sure is plenty of time to know if you want to be with the man or not. Alright, girl. If you’re sure about this, then I’m happy for both of you!”

They hugged. And as they were freshening up, Katie turned and asked Michelle what she thought of Lt. Jon Brody.

“He’s very fit!” Michelle started.

Katie laughed. “Everyone can see that, girl! What else?”

“Well, there’s something about him that I really feel connected to. I’m not quite sure what it is right now, Katie, but he sure makes my heart skip several beats whenever he looks at me. And when he touched my lips, I thought I’d died and gone to Heaven!”

“I noticed. So did Al! And you definitely looked like you were in a trance of sorts when you sampled his sandwich. Girl, judging by the way he was mesmerized as you ate, he sure wouldn’t mind a piece of you for Dessert at all!” Katie proclaimed tongue-in-cheek.

Michelle smacked Katie’s arm for the second time that day.

“Cut it out already, Katie. Lt. Brody and I have only just met,” Michelle said as she brushed her long lush hair. But the blush that creeped up from under her collar did nothing to throw Katie off.

“You like him, Michelle,” Katie stated. “Admit it! You’ll feel better, you know.”

“Katie, I’m not ready for anything just yet. Yes, he’s a “chuck-my-knickers-out-the-window-already” kind of guy. Obviously. But that’s probably all it is. I haven’t been ... Well ... I’m ... You know ...”

“Spank me all over! You’re a virgin?!” Katie exclaimed shocked to the core.

“Right! Just go ahead and shout it out from the mountain-tops!” Michelle shot back angrily.

Katie put her arms around Michelle’s shoulders. “I didn’t mean to hurt you, friend. It’s just so rare to find a girl of our age still a virgin. And in this Century, too! I truly applaud you, Michelle. I honestly do.”

Michelle smiled a small one. She looked at Katie through the mirror. “Don’t you dare say anything to anyone, you hear me? I mean it, Katie.”

“It’s not my secret to tell,” Katie said earnestly. “Come on. The guys must be wondering what’s taking us so long. Come to think of it, some young handsome Lieutenant might even be getting a little jealous of my time with you. Hurry it up, girl!”

Giggling like teenagers, the two girls glanced at themselves in the mirror one more time, then grabbed their handbags and headed back to their table.

The Officers had paid the lunch bill, much to Michelle’s dismay, and were ready to get back to their Work Stations when the girls returned.

Michelle thanked them for taking care of the Tab, but declared that the next one would be on her. Lt. Jon Brody could not have been happier. He liked the sound of “the next one” very much indeed.

As they had taken up most of their lunch-break in the Bar/Restaurant, the girls said they had to sprint back to their Work Stations, otherwise they’d be late. Something both of them detested. Tardiness was simply not on!

“Why don’t you drive back with us? We’ve got a Jeep. You’ll be at work in five minutes tops,” Lt. Brody said.

“Wow! We’re getting a lift! That’s awesome! Accepted. Lead the way!” Katie said relieved.

However, before they headed out, Lt. Jake pulled her flush up to his fit body and kissed her lingeringly on her lips. Katie pressed her body closer to his - if that were even remotely possible! Michelle fanned herself and turned away from that “love-scene”. And Lt. Brody was right on her flight path. She bumped into him. He grabbed her shoulders in order to steady her. Then as his hands went down her arms, he took her small hands in his and raised them up to his sensual lips. He kissed her hands. One by one.

Michelle’s heart-rate hit the “Red Danger Zone”. Her knees turned to jelly. She’d have hit the floor if the dashing Officer had not grabbed her waist. He steadied her as she did her best to catch her breath. What in the World was happening to her?

“Are you alright, Michelle?” Lt. Brody asked. He was visibly concerned.

“Yes, Sir. Thank you. I’ll be fine. I ... erm ... I don’t know what came over me,” she said quietly. Not entirely a lie, mind you. She’d never experienced these feelings before. And she most certainly did not know how to handle what her body was going through right at this very moment.

“Come. Let’s wait for Al and Katie in the Jeep,” Lt. Brody said. Then he casually slipped a hand under Michelle’s arm and guided her out of the Bar/Restaurant. It was a good thing she’d drank only Tonic water and not some wine, even though she felt like she’d drank a whole bottle. And straight from it, too!

Lt. Jon Brody opened the back passenger door of the Jeep and helped Michelle inside. She scooted over, making space for him to climb in after her. He did. Then he shut the door, turned in his seat, and looked at her. Would she always take his breath away? He wondered. She was so very beautiful. And not at all pretentious about her looks either. He liked that. A lot.

With him sitting this close to her, Michelle could only pray that he would not hear the loud drumming/thumping beat of her heart.

Lt. Brody asked her to tell him about herself, and by the time Lt. Jake and Katie showed up, they’d learnt a few interesting and likable facts about each other. In many ways they were compatible. Their chat flowed easily, and both discovered that they liked to playfully tease the other and joke around.

*There’s nothing like some good old wholesome and heart-felt fun times with a potential partner, I say!*

After Lt. Jake had helped Katie into the front seat of the Jeep, he walked around the car, smiling like a Cheshire cat, and jumped in. “Sorry for keeping you guys,” he apologized.

“No worries, mate,” replied Lt. Jon Brody. “Michelle and I are having fun getting to know each other.”

“And ...” enquired Lt. Jake turning around to look at the couple in the back seat.

Lt. Brody looked at Michelle. He smiled that gorgeous one. Michelle blushed and covered her face in embarrassment.

He chuckled softly. “I like her. Very much.” Lt. Brody responded, gently peeling her hands away from her face. He then covered them with both of his, even as he drank in her beauty. Help!

“Awesome!” exclaimed Lt. Jake. “So how about drinks after work? It’s Friday after all!”

“That sounds great!” Katie said enthusiastically. “Michelle, what do you say?”

Michelle had three pairs of eyes focused on her. Hey! Give a girl a break already!”

She turned her lovely brown eyes to Lt. Brody and said, “Alright. But I need to go home after work before we go out. There are some things I need to take care of.

“Fair enough. Give me your address and I’ll pick you up,” Lt. Brody said.

“I’ve got that covered, mate,” Lt. Jake said. I just found out that the girls live in the same Apartment Block. I’ve got Katie’s home address, so perhaps the girls can wait for us at her Apartment?”

“Cool! We can have some Cocktails before we go out,” Katie suggested.

“Sounds like a plan. Is that alright with you, Michelle?” Lt. Jon Brody asked.

“I ... Sure ... Yes. Shall we meet at Katie’s place at say half seven then?” Michelle asked.

“Okay. All set. Now let’s get back to work,” Lt. Jake said happily as he fired up the Jeep.

The drive back to their Work Stations was fairly quiet. They all seemed to have something or other on their minds. It was a good silence, though. Not at all uncomfortable. And as for Lt. Jon Brody? Well, he held Michelle’s right hand in his left one all the way back. Swoon!

< After That Lunch >

Work was as demanding as always for Michelle. And she got stuck in right away. There were new Orders for Military Uniforms all the time. It was wonderful working with capable Professional people, and not one moment was wasted on idle chit-chat during working hours. And especially not when an Order had to be completed within a certain dead-line. The Military was not forgiving at all when dead-lines were missed. No matter the reason.

At about half past four o’clock, the Tailoring Department started winding down. Tools were stored in their rightful places, Work Stations were cleared, cleaned and tidied up. The Workshop Supervisor, Musa, stood up and got ready to carry out his Daily Inspection.

The Daily Inspection was a routine that Musa thoroughly enjoyed. He’d always wanted to be in the Military, but a major motor-bike injury had put a lid on his ambitions. However, ordering people around in the Workshop, kind of nicely, though, checking that the work they were doing was up to standard, and sitting in as Co-Chairperson in the Design and Cutting Team Meetings made him realize his dream of “Commanding a Military Unit” to some extent.

The workers in the Tailoring Department had all heard about his dashed dreams, so they cordially put up with his ways, and basically “allowed” him to do what he had to do, in a manner of speaking. Musa was a hard-worker, and he’d earned his Colleagues’ respect through the years at this Military Base.

Musa requested that at the end of each work-day, the Tailoring Department employees stand behind their Industrial Sewing Machines {ISMs - He’d coined that!} and await his inspection. It usually took about fifteen minutes to get the whole charade over with. And as he went about his inspection, Musa always asked if there was anything, work-related, of course, that the Department needed to attend to or have purchased. He’d meticulously jot down each request, suggestion, opinion, in his Big Red Agenda, and type the Minutes out himself ready for discussion in their weekly Department Meeting, which he chaired every Monday morning.

Monday was the one day that the Tailoring Department commenced work at eight in the morning. The first thirty minutes were allocated for a Departmental Meeting, which their Boss, Lt. Alden Jake, at times attended. Musa had informed them it was expected that all the employees in the Tailoring Department actively participate in these Meetings. That was imperative. After all, he’d argued, they were a Team. And so everyone here was required to contribute something or other to the Departmental Meeting. Michelle thought that was a cool way to manage a Department. *Nothing on Earth beats being organized. At work. At home. At play.*

At the end of this inspection, Musa wished everyone a very nice weekend, and dismissed the Team. TGIF! Yeah X3!

< Heading Home To Start The Weekend >

A stream of employees made their way to the Bus Ranks where the Buses they used to get to and from work were parked. Each Bus covered a particular route, and the Bus Drivers dropped the workers off at convenient places so they could easily connect to their next form of transport, if need be.

Katie and Michelle got on the same Bus. Of course. They often sat together at the front of the Bus. Both girls were totally excited about tonight. Chatting about it on their hour-long Bus ride only got them more and more exhilarated. If that were even remotely possible!

They talked enthusiastically about what they were going to wear, and all that jazz.

As Katie had been out on the town with Lt. Al Jake, Michelle asked her about the kind of places they usually went out to. Katie described the three Night Clubs that they enjoyed going to. And that was especially because these Night Clubs had four dance-halls in them, some cool VIP seating Booths, plus the best Cocktails ever this side of Eden! Katie also informed Michelle that Lt. Jake always got a VIP Booth whenever they went out to these Night Clubs. Neat!

After they were dropped off at their usual spot, the two girls decided to pop into a nearby Supermarket to pick up some drinks for later. Michelle also bought some cold meat cuts, assorted cheeses, pitted green olives and some Italian bread. She wasn’t a good cook, but she could put a yummy platter of finger-food together. *Alright, alright - You are certainly most welcome to use the cutlery, or tooth-picks even, if the finger-food business is not your style!* And, of course, Michelle always had an array of rainbow colored tooth-picks, plus some which opened up into various forms like heart shapes, trees, parasols, different fruit, and a few as pretty peacocks, too! Cool!

Stuff paid for, Katie and Michelle walked home. It took them about fifteen minutes or so to get there. Window-Shopping took up some of those minutes! Girls! Katie’s Apartment was on the seventh floor. And Michelle’s was on the tenth. The top floor. There was one Pent-House Suite in their Apartment Building, which Michelle occupied. The other Deluxe Apartment was on the ninth floor. On the seventh and eighth floors there were two Three bedroom-Apartments. And the rest of the building consisted of four Two-bedroom units on each floor. All of the Apartments in this building had lovely spacious balconies.

Michelle had always worked hard, so she did not feel guilty at all for spoiling herself with a nice living space. She had spent a part of her inheritance on furnishing it, and invested the rest in a Savings Bond. Most importantly, it was hers. All hers! Just hers. No sharing. It has to be said that their Landlady was a good and decent person, too, and Michelle made sure that she always paid her monthly rent on time - through a Standing Debit Order.

The fourth floor consisted of a good size Family Cafe`, a lovely and spacious Lounge Area with multiple flat screen televisions, a most delightful Library, and a regular-size covered swimming pool with deck chairs well placed around it.

There was also a Snooker table, two Dart Boards, and a Mini Golf area. The Grand Piano at one side of the Lounge was not foreign to the Apartment Block’s residents either. A posh well-stocked Bar located at the far end completed this delightful Entertainment Area. With all these great amenities, the residents of this Block regularly frequented and enjoyed their communal space a great deal.

The girls parted ways in the elevator and agreed to meet up at around half six at Katie’s place. Katie lived with her Mum and daughter, Karina. Her mother did not mind baby-sitting for her daughter one bit. She accepted that Katie was still very young and had her own life to live. Their small family unit was all that they shared, which was in effect a hell of a lot more than what Michelle had.

Anyway, this family loved each other to pieces. Katie, her Mum and little Karina had built a very happy home for themselves. Katie’s Dad had passed away some years back during a Tour of Duty. Her Mum had been so devastated by the loss and she had never considered re-marrying. Even after her heart-break had subsided somewhat, she couldn’t bring herself to be with another man, despite being a very beautiful and young Nan.

Annabel, Katie’s Mum, worked as a part-time Piano Teacher and often volunteered to help raise money for the Military whenever she could. Katie was very proud of her mother. And it’s no small wonder that Katie found herself working for the Armed Forces. Katie honestly believed that somewhere out there, her Dad was watching over her, Annabel and Karina. They all truly missed him. So very much.

Back in her PentHouse Suite, Michelle stored away her purchases before heading to her Master Bedroom Suite. She’d take a nice warm shower, then decide on what to wear once she was done.

< Getting Ready For The Night Out >

In her walk-in closet, Michelle browsed through her impressive wardrobe. She selected a sky blue just above the knees Cocktail dress that had thin-criss-crossed-straps all the way down to her lower back. She’d accessorize that with a pair of matching high-heels, and a silver box evening Clutch. Her Tanzanite jewelry set would go very well with her outfit.

Standing in front of the full-length mirror, she brushed her hair until it shone. She then let it hang free, down to the small of her back. Minimal make-up on, some Nina Ricci perfume dabbed in “allthose strategic places”, and she was ready to go.

Michelle’s Mum had always told her that if ever anything happened to her and she needed some assistance, nobody would help her at all if she smelt “not so nice”. Having said that, Michelle’s Mum had diligently taught her only daughter all the right places on her body that simply had to be perfumed, no matter what! And as time passed on by, Michelle developed a “perfume-dabbing-routine” which had totally grown on her. So much so that she’d wear her perfume without paying much attention to it, really. Basically, her “perfume-dabbing-routine” became second nature. Oh, but how desperately she missed her parents :( ...

Michelle prayed for them. Every single day.

At Katie’s Apartment, the excited girls got stuck in with preparing some Cocktails. Annabel was delighted that Michelle was finally doing more than just work, work, work. Michelle just rolled her eyes when Annabel exclaimed, “Me oh my! You look like three million dollars, my dearest Michelle! And about time, too, I might add!”

“Thank you kindly, Annabel. That’s very generous of you,” Michelle responded.

“It’s true, my dear. Just you wait and see the reaction your man’s going to get when he sets his eyes upon you!” Annabel added, not at all deterred by Michelle’s polite, but cool response to her compliments.

“You look stunning, Michelle. But I don’t need to tell you that,” Katie joined in.

“Alright, alright already, ladies,” Michelle said. “I believe you both. And thanks. Again. Now let’s get on with the preparations. The guys should be here soon.”

By a quarter past seven, the girls had everything set on the dining table for their dates. Annabel had fed Karina. And Katie said she’d tuck her daughter in bed. It was as Katie was reading her daughter a bedtime story, that the Inter-com buzzed. Annabel answered it.

“Hello! It’s me!” said Lt. Jake.

“Well, come on up, “me” !” responded a laughing Annabel as she let the men in. She had met Lt. Alden Jake a few times before, and she liked him. Annabel was happy that Katie had finally found a decent man who treated her like a lady. He was also very good with Karina - something both Katie and Annabel appreciated a lot. And being that gorgeous was simply the icing on that cake! An Officer and a Gentleman! Well - I - never!

She waited to greet the two men as she’d never met Lt. Jon Brody before. Greetings and brief introductions done, Annabel welcomed the Officers to her home, then headed to her grand-daughter’s bedroom. Annabel told her daughter Katie that her guests were in the living area.

“Do I have to greet them, Mama?” asked a decidedly sleepy Karina.

“No, Honey. Just close your eyes and have sweet dreams. Mummy will see you in the morning. Okay?” Katie replied, smiling at her sleepy daughter whilst tucking her in.

“Will we have breakfast together by the swimming pool?” Karina asked hopefully.

“We most certainly will, darling. Now go to sleep. Nan will stay with you for a while.”

“Okay, Mommy. Good night,” Karina said very sleepily.

Katie leaned down and kissed her daughter’s cheeks. “Good night, my angel. Sleep well.”

Turning the lights low, Katie hugged her Mum, and thanked her for looking after Karina.

“Don’t be silly, child. We are family. Now go see to your visitors. I’ll catch up with you all in the morning. Have loads of fun!” Annabel said.

“Thanks Mum. You’re the greatest!” Katie said as she left Karina’s bedroom. She closed the door softly behind her. Annabel’s Bedroom Suite connected to Karina’s, so she could easily check on the little one during the night without much fuss.

As she walked down the corridor, Katie could hear her guests already happily chatting away. Awesome!

“Hi, guys!” she greeted them cheerily.

Lt. Jake met her half way and gave her a big hug before kissing her passionately.

Oh, for the love of Mike! groaned Michelle silently. There are other people here, you know!

Meanwhile, Michelle had been a very good Co-Hostess. She’d served the guys drinks, and escorted them into the open plan living space to wait for Katie to join them.

Katie appreciated that, and said so. Michelle just smiled and shrugged her shoulders like “That’s what pals are for, girl, right?”

“Mum says to have loads of fun and that she’ll see us all tomorrow,” Katie said. “She’s in with Karina right now. She says she’s looking forward to joining us for breakfast poolside tomorrow morning.”

Both girls looked extra lovely tonight. Michelle in her sky blue Cocktail dress, and Katie in a short beige number with matching strapped high heels. She, too, had opted to let her hair hang freely over her shoulders.

The Officers complimented the girls, and could barely take their eyes off of them.

“I’m not sure it’s a good idea to go out tonight,” Lt. Jon Brody said darkly as he continued to admire Michelle. “I just might punch someone if they so much as look at you, Michelle.”

“Oh, please, Jon! There will be lots of other pretty girls at the Club, I’m certain,” Michelle responded smiling, yet secretly thrilled at Lt. Brody’s ominous compliment of sorts.

“But none who stand out like you two do,” Lt. Al Jake said softly. “None at all.”

“Why, thank you kindly, Lieutenant!” exclaimed Katie happily . “A true Officer and a Gentleman, I do declare!”

Lt. Brody raised his glass. “Here’s to an amazing evening.”

“To an amazing evening!” the others said in unison. They all drank their lovely Cocktails.

“I’ve prepared some light snacks, if you’d like. They’re in the kitchen,” Michelle said putting down her glass.

”Great idea,” Lt. Brody said. “I’m kind of peckish.”

Michelle laughed as she silently admired Lt. Brody. He sure looked very dashing tonight! And there was a certain sparkle in his eyes that Michelle could relate to. She, too, was so happy to see him again. Their evening out certainly promised to be a fun one.

“Right ... I’ll go get the platter and some more Cocktails, too. Be right back,” Michelle said as she stood up to head to the kitchen.

“I’ll help you,” Lt. Brody said. “Lead on.”

Their eyes locked. Briefly. Michelle blushed. Then she led the way to the kitchen. Lt. Jon Brody followed her. He was totally enjoying the beautiful view in front of him. “Oh, hell yeah!”

Meanwhile, Lt. Jake and Katie were showering each other with love as they waited for the snacks to be served. The two lovers were so not bothered about anyone. Or anything. Just those deep emotions that they were sharing with each other. Heaven help us all! prayed Michelle silently.

In the kitchen, Lt. Brody just could not help himself. As Michelle went about removing the foil wrapping from the snack platters that she’d prepared earlier, he stood behind her and hugged her tightly. He’d been looking at her lovely butt for way too long, and his raw carnal desire to feel her body up close and very personal to his was more than he could stand.

Michelle instinctively tensed up when he wrapped his arms around her. It was the first time she had been this physically close to him. Lt. Jon Brody rested his chin on top of her head, and just breathed in her essence. “Don’t move, Michelle,” he implored hoarsely. “Just for a moment. Please.”

She froze. OMG! Fuck! Could he get more erotic using only those words?! Just asking ...

Michelle placed her shaky hands on the marble counter-top. She did not move. But she so did feel Lt. Brody’s arousal on the small of her back. Her body trembled against his. Oh, for Heaven’s sake! It felt really good, though. So right. So ... Wow! Why did she have to be a virgin right now with zero experience at pleasuring an amazingly fit man like Lt. Jon Brody? Oh, God! Why? she screamed at her inner-self. But deep down, Michelle knew that she was still not ready to have an intimate relationship. With anyone. Not just yet. But hell, yeah - this felt so sinfully good!

Lt. Brody bent down, pushed her hair to one side, and kissed the nape of her neck. Then he turned her around to face him. “You are so beautiful, Michelle. I’m not sure that I can control myself around you, my Little One. There’s something about you that tells me you and I are meant to be together. I know we just met. But this feels so right.”

Now hold on a New York minute! Did Lt. Jon Brody just read her mind or what?!

Michelle lay her head against his thumping heart. Her arms around his waist. She liked the way he called her “my Little One”. It did feel right. It was as if they had some deep and genuine connection of sorts. But she was also so confused about the crazy emotions and feelings that were ravaging her body right this minute.

“I’m afraid. And slightly confused,” she whispered.

“So am I,” Lt. Brody responded equally quietly. “But we don’t have to rush anything, Little One. Just being with you fulfills me in ways I’ve never experience before.”

Then he cupped her face and kissed her lips ever so tenderly. Michelle grabbed his strong arms and held on to them for dear life. She let herself go as the kiss deepened. Then it got ever so passionate. And it was glorious. Michelle leaned back against the marble counter just as Lt. Jon Brody pressed his fit hot self even closer to her body.

And after what seemed like a Light Year, their first kiss ended. The Earth had moved. At least it felt that way to both of them ... Oh, shucks! Both Michelle and Lt. Jon Brody fought to get their breath back. Wow! Well, they have sung about it, claiming that “If you really want to know if he loves you so, it’s in his kiss. That’s where it is”!Slap me twice! That sure was a kiss well worth waiting for!

They looked into each other’s eyes for a long while. And then ...

“Hey, hey, hey! What’s up, you two? And where are the snacks?” Lt. Jake broke their trace-like state as he and Katie walked into the kitchen. Hand in hand.

Michelle quickly disentangled herself from Lt. Jon Brody, and turned back to getting the snacks ready.

“Coming right up!” she said shakily.

Lt. Brody also turned around and leaned back against the counter-top that Michelle was working on, his hands on his sculpted hips. He’d put a little distance between himself and Michelle because he was having a hard time trying to act casual whilst willing his erection down at the same time.

It’s a good thing that he’d worn his crisp white shirt untucked and buttoned down over his perfectly tailored black trousers. He would not want to shock anyone by displaying his need - his very strong need - for his date at this moment. And he’d be loathe to embarrass Michelle, too.

A few minutes later, Michelle presented them a most delightful platter of assorted cold cuts, cheese, pitted green olives and some warm bread which she’d cut up. She set the platter down on Katie’s oval dining table along with some side plates, and invited them all to dig in. Michelle also grabbed the second jug of that wonderful Cocktail, which she’d made earlier, from the Fridge. She handed it to Katie. Katie squealed in delight. She simply loved Michelle’s Cocktails! Michelle laughed and shook her head as she turned to get them fresh glasses. The Officers, too, were in “very-happy-mode”. Excellent!

Katie proceeded to pour out the delicious drink in the glasses Michelle had placed on the oval dining table. They toasted to fun and happy days, and drank to that.

About forty five minutes later, the Taxi driver buzzed Katie’s inter-com.

“Hi! We’ll be right down,” she said to him. “Dancing Time!” Katie declared excitedly to her friends, smiling from ear to ear.

All were in happy agreement. Grabbing their evening Clutches and doing a little bit of freshening up, the two girls said they were ready to go. Great!

The two Officers had arrived in Lt. Al Jake’s white BMW X5, and he’d parked it in Katie’s parking space in the underground facility. The men planned on having loads of fun with their dates tonight, so drinking and driving was definitely out of the question. They’d drive back to the Barracks in the morning. It was a mighty good thing that there were some nice Hotels in this area, too.

As the four rode the elevator down, Katie and Lt. Jake stood at the back smooching and teasing each other all the way to the Front Entrance. Lt. Jon Brody quietly held Michelle’s hand in his, squeezing it every now and then. That gesture in itself sent the most delightful and thrilling shock waves up and down Michelle’s almost jelly spine.

It was a twenty minute or so Cab-drive to their destination. And the Club was fantastic! Of course the two couples were escorted straight upstairs to one of the VIP Booths. A chilled bottle of Sparkling wine - KWV Brut - was sent up to them right away. The Bouncers did not hide their admiration of the two beautiful girls. They smiled broadly at Michelle and Katie. Much to the disdain and ire of their hot dates.

The girls liked the view of the dance floor from up there. It was simply awesome! And after sipping on that divine Sparkling wine, plus chatting a bit, Lt. Brody asked Michelle to dance with him. They’d just started playing some romantic tunes, and Lt. Jon Brody really wanted to hold Michelle in his arms, just to feel her body close to his. Again. She accepted. Why ever not?! She was already so turned on by him that she’d do just about anything for him if he asked. But she kept that to herself. For now. Naturally.

Lt. Jake and Katie stayed behind and got cosy with each other. Do these two love-birds ever stop? Michelle wondered as she took Lt. Brody’s hand.Oh, whatever! Whatever!

Hand in hand, Lt. Brody and Michelle made their way through the sea of revelers to the dance floor, and every time another man looked at Michelle “in thatway”, Lt. Jon Brody tightened his grip on her hand. Ouch, already! She’d have no bones left in her hand if he continued doing that! But she smiled. In her heart she knew that Lt. Jon Brody was a good man. Jealous? Hmmm ... Not sure how she’d handle that. To Michelle, jealousy was a truly wasted emotion.Totally! It used up way too much energy which could be put to better use. Like loving on each other. Among other more positive things. Michelle was very attracted to Lt. Jon Brody, though, so she earnestly prayed that all would go well for both of them. She counted this as their second date. And hoped for lots more in the future.

Dancing this close to Lt. Jon Brody was Paradise. Michelle lay her head against his oh so fit chest, and he in turn lay his chin on the top of her lovely head. Even in her “killer heels”, Michelle only just about reached his shoulders. No wonder he’d settled on that very apt and cute nickname for her, i.e. Little-One!

Lt. Brody pulled Michelle even closer to him. He placed one hand possessively around her waist, and the other entwined with her left hand. He led her in a most sensual slow dance. Michelle wrapped her arm around his waist, and tightened her grip on his hand. The two gazed into each other’s eyes. She prayed that this dance would never end. Please make it last forever! She was in Seventh Heaven.

He sure felt very good this close. Michelle had never allowed any other man to hold her so intimately. Just feeling Lt. Jon Brody’s excitement on her belly made her tremble with some unknown emotions. He caressed her bare back, sending more shock waves through her already highly strung-up body. She sighed. Lt. Brody then tilted her chin and looked deep into her eyes. Oh. My. Word! Michelle almost swooned. His gaze traveled her body. Then he bent his head and kissed her forehead tenderly. She smiled. This precious zone that she was in felt so right. She caressed his lower back. He liked that. A lot. And she had already felt his hot reaction in the region below his waist - if you know what I mean - when she had touched his firm backside.

Lt. Brody groaned. “I’m not sure I can behave myself with you this close to me, Michelle,” he said hoarsely.

“Oh ... I ... I’m sorry. I ... ,” Michelle stammered.

Lt. Brody chuckled softly. “Come. Let’s get to safer ground.”

Taking her hand into his once again, he led her off the dance floor and back up to their VIP Booth, where he poured drinks for them. Lt. Brody sure needed something to distract him from dealing with the feelings that were running amok and awol in him right now. He seriously needed to regain control over his body. Especially the lower half of it! He knew that what he was feeling about Michelle was special. Very special indeed. And he hoped that she felt the same way about him.

The girls were having a ball. And when they finally hit the dance floor together, it was really great! It was fantastic watching their dates dancing, too - Not bad at all! they declared. And after some fun times of getting down and “dirty dancing” with their Officers, the girls said that they needed to use the Ladies Room. It was almost comical when Lt. Jake said that he and Lt. Brody would escort them there. WTF! Since when?! Katie and Michelle looked at each other. They giggled. However, those serious looks on their dates’ faces brought the two girls crashing back down to Earth. With an almighty thump.

“Alright. You may escort us,” Katie said softly to Lt. Jake.

He simply nodded. Taking her hand in his, he led her off the dance floor. Lt. Brody held his hand out to Michelle. She gladly placed hers in his. His action was so different from that of Lt. Jake’s. Whereas Lt. Jake took Katie’s hand into his, Lt. Jon Brody offered his hand to Michelle. She understood that he was giving her a choice. And she appreciated that.

When they’d had their bathroom-break, Lt. Alden Jake stayed behind with the girls while Lt. Jon Brody went into the Gents. And when he came out, Lt. Al Jake had his turn. Talk about being possessive! Although the two Officers were getting some serious “come-get-me-now looks” from lots of girls at the Club, they ignored them all. The Officers had their girls. And that was that. In a strange way, it made Katie and Michelle feel very special. On the other hand, though, Michelle hoped that this possessiveness would not change the brilliant dynamics of their budding relationship.

Back at their VIP Booth, Lt. Jake ordered another bottle of KWV Sparkling wine - Brut. The girls squealed in delight when he popped the cork. “Let’s pop them bottles!” the girls chanted very excitedly. Drinks poured, Katie proposed a toast.

“To many more happy, happy days together!” she said raising her glass.

They all drank to that. The bubbly was lovely! Simply divine!

It was just after half past one o’clock in the morning when the group decided to call it a night. They’d had a most amazing evening at that Club.

When their Taxi-cab pulled up at their Apartment Building, Michelle invited them all up to her place for a night-cup. They all readily accepted. Of course. Anything to prolong this awesome night! Katie said she wanted stop by her Apartment to check on her Mum and her little girl, and that she’d join them shortly.

“That’s fine, Katie. See you in a bit,” Michelle said.