Ivan was sitting very close to Kitt who was lost in thought. She was contemplating Ivans question and struggling for an answer that didnt sound contrived. Kitt hadnt allowed herself the opportunity for a meaningful relationship feeling unworthy of being loved or loving someone. Shed gotten used to short term and short-lived relationships in favor of saving herself from emotional attachments and hurt. Friendships with intimate benefits were more her current style or to avoid intimacy all together. Her father had done enough to make her feel unworthy and unappreciated, which was further compounded each time they spoke. Even her son had made her feel inferior and unworthy, so it was natural for her to retreat and seek solace in alcohol or meaningless liaisons. The only thing Kitt truly felt secure about was being a good singer. No one had given her any other reason to want to believe in herself, not even Bette. Bette only supported her after she said she was going to work with Slim Daddy regardless of what anyone thought. She longed for a true sister relationship with Bette. One where she could just be free, where having her flaws was acceptable because she was human. She knew she could never be an Ivy Leaguer, never meet their fathers standards, never be the mother she longed to be, and most of all couldnt be something she wasnt. She was a recovering alcoholic who made an untimely comeback. That would only last for a short time and when the hype was over, shed just be Kitt Porter.

Ivans attention made her feel vibrant and desirable, but her fears of being hurt and rejected prevented her from initially accepting it. She was too old for a whirlwind affair or to weather the storm of a roller coaster relationship. Shed acted with an innate response and that seemed good enough for her.

Truthfully? I really dont know. Kitt confessed. I really havent given it much thought.

Ivan turned slightly to face her. He didnt see all the negatives that Kittt tried to present prior to today. Shed done everything in her power to dismiss Ivans feelings toward her and now she seemed to have a change of heart. Ivan didnt mind. He just wanted to make sure that they continued cautiously and with understanding. He didnt want her to do anything she wasnt ready for and wanted her to be receptive to what was happening knowing it would be a big change for her.

Thats okay for now I guess. Ivan said holding Kitts hand. Im not like most people sweetheart. Im just lil old fashioned me who believes in treating a lady like a lady and making sure her needs are met. Are you up for that?

Kitt blushed and nodded. She felt like a schoolgirl with butterflies swirling in her stomach. Ivan seemed to be reviving a dormant spirit that had been ignored and defiled over the years.

Yeah, Im up for something new I suppose, she said softly in a near whisper. Ill admit Im a little nervous and even a little afraid of the unknowns, but Im willing to take a chance. Youre taking a chance on me too right?

Ivan chuckled and ran his hand up and down her hand and arm. She was very soft and he smiled at the feeling touching her gave.

Whats so funny?

Relax love, its nothing bad. I was laughing, not in a bad way, at your choice of words. Ivan extended his caressing to Kitts shoulder and neck. Kitt lowered her face to receive his touch. Im not taking chances. Im doing something I want to do and I enjoy your company Kitt. You have amazing strength and character. You have a beauty that you cant and dont see, and not to mention an incredible effect on me. Ivan sincerely stated.

Kitt leaned back completely in the couch feeling a surreal calm infuse her. For the first time in years, she felt completely secure with herself and with another person. She felt the weight of many years of self-hate and abuse shedding from her body and spirit. Ivans gentle touch innocently seduced her into an uninhibited disposition. An unfamiliar sexual sensation released itself and she felt a shudder run through her loins and stomach. It was an intoxicating and very stimulating feeling that she was having a hard time containing and found herself adjusting in her seat. Ivan continued to run his hand on her neck and moved his touch to her cheek and ear. Kitt closed her eyes and inhaled deeply with her mouth open. She felt the tension on the couch change and soon Ivan was face to face with her and she opened her eyes. Ivan leaned into her mouth and kissed her lightly on each lip. Then he sucked each one allowing each motion to out live the last. Kitts chest heaved exposing her ample cleavage and tender flesh. Ivan looked down and then up again.

So beautiful. He whispered and continued kissing her mouth.

Kitts breathing was hard, then shallow. Ivans kissing was driving her wild and she wrapped her arms around his waist and pulled him completely into her. He trailed his kisses to her ears, down to her neck, and into her cleavage, stopping shy of the line of her low-cut tee shirt. He felt her ***** against his chin, but left them unattended. Kitt felt herself falling backward and Ivan leaned into her until she did. He orally slayed her with kisses over her face, neck, and shoulders until she was gasping for air as her body involuntarily convulsed. She ran her hands through his hair and to the back of his neck, running her nails gently across his skin.

Oh, Ivan! Kitt moan, feeling another wave of excitement run through her. This is so, so

Ivan kissed her to ward off her words. He only wanted to feel them. He wanted no distraction other than the sound of her breathing and what he was doing to her. He wanted to ensure she received his undivided attention. He was for her benefit and there was nothing that needed to be said.

They continued kissing and touching each other topically. Kitt was burning and Ivan was her torch, he was infusing her with passion far beyond her expectations and into a dimension shed only dreamed about. She longed to speak, but her throat was now the Sahara, raw from her passionate moans. Slowly and with strategic movement, Ivan eased away from Kitt watching her body continue to heave and convulse. He ran his hand across her face and she kissed his fingers as they traced her mouth. She lay helpless, eyes closed, shaking her head. Ivan pulled her up and held her close to him, squeezing any remaining sensation from her. She let out a deflated breath and whispered into his ear.

You are the kindest, gentlest, and most passionate person Ive probably ever been with. Now, I know what Aretha meant when she said she felt like a natural woman.

I van pulled back and smiled.

You are a natural woman. Youre natures finest woman and Im so honored that you are allowing me to be a part of you. You have no idea how much that means to me.

Kitt blushed again and kissed Ivans mouth and withdrew.

Whats in your CD player? I feel like dancing.

Anything you want my dear. Anything you want.

They looked through Kitts CD collection and selected Nina Simone. Kitt put the CD on and Ivan extended his arm for her and with perfect timing of body and music, they began to dance.