Its early and Marina is already up and about, her morning routine back in motion, Marina, I dont think Thomas was expecting you to come in today. Come back to bed please

Marina welcomes the invitation to join Jenny, she had wanted to spend time with her before leaving but hadnt wanted to wake her. She lays her top down on the edge of the bed as she walks around to sit by her.

Eyes half shut, Jenny traces the lace on Marinas two-tone purple bra, Mmm.. pretty.

Marina pulls the cover slightly back and off Jennys shoulders, replacing it with her warm hand caressing the soft skin of her back. Jenny, with the time youll need to pull yours and Amuras book together, I was thinking maybe you wouldnt be returning to the store. You had said you also wanted to move your belongings from the apartment to here. Then with the baby and all, I thought you may want more time for such things.

Jenny raises her head to lie in Marinas lap wrapping her arms around her, I need to make an income of some sort and the store provides that. Besides, the doctor told you I was fine and a normal life would be fine, you need to quit worrying.

She leans in and kisses Marinas stomach, You cant, well, I guess you could, but you shouldnt feel you have to do it all. You dont.

Jenny scoots closer to Marina keeping her arms wrapped around her, I am quite capable you know of lots of things she smiles as she leans to kiss the top of her breast peaking from the pretty bra.

Marinas soft smile forms as she blinks her eyes at Jenny, full aware her lover knows what their closeness stirs in her. Jenny rests her ***** lightly on Marinas legs, I like the brushed cotton, so soft Marina watches them contour to her leg, soft and full, nipples taunt and inviting. You like them dont you.

Marina rolls her fingertips across the nipple, cupping Jennys breast, Yes, very much. She gently presses Jenny back onto the bed, taking the nipple into her mouth, circling it with her tongue as her hand gently clasps around the other breast, squeezing. She moves her mouth under the breast causing a light gasp from Jennys lips as her mouth moves to her side under her arm trailing light wet kisses.

Jenny pulls Marinas head back with both hands, Stop, stop until you take your clothes off and come here. I want to feel you close to me, hot against my body, wet against my leg. Jennys grinning as she motions for her to get up. She sits up and reaches for the button on Marinas pants, helping her to remove them.

As Marina pulls them down and off, Jenny playfully reaches between her legs feeling the heat the wetness shes caused on her panties slipping a finger slightly inside, mmm. Still grinning, she helps her off take off the panties as Marina removes her bra and once again joins her on the bed.

Marina moves closer, lowering her body, as Jenny again reaches down and caresses her inner thigh brushing along the opening, Marina, I love making love with you, the feel of you so intimate, so warm and wet. Tell me Tell me what you want

Marinas soft smile is warm and entreating, you I want you Her lips at last resting against Jennys, their tongues glide slowly against the other, savoring the warm wet texture and flavor.

Jenny seductively leans up, motioning for Marina to turn over all the while her lips journeying, tasting every curve, every rise and drop of her beautiful lovers contour. Trailing ever downward, ever closer to that glorious flower of her hearts desire.

She gazes up at Marina, eyes hot and devouring, I love you. Looking back, slowly separating the lips, dips in for a soft quick taste, toying at the entrance with her finger, treasuring the soft velvet sensation and the low moans already escaping her lovers lips.

She takes the nub into her mouth, softly suckling, pressing and moving her tongue back and forth. Her fingers glide slowly inside, deeper and deeper, continuously repeating their movement.

Marina arches towards her, head curled to the side, mouth open, her face exalting in the pleasure being given to her. She feels the shudder building in her, finally surfacing, rippling again and again throughout.

She can no longer bear the distance from her lover and reaches for her, wanting her body shrouded by her. Jenny hesitates, leaving long loving kisses on her *****, before pressing her own against them.

Marina kisses her soft, then harder, bruising their mouths with her crushing desire as she reaches to enter her lover. Her hand presses against her lovers nub with each rotation, harder and faster. They move to a shared rhythm, patiently reaching that destination, that place of ultimate delight.

Exhausted, contented, they lay in each others arms. Jennys goal to calm nearly fulfilled, Ill take care of the publishers, getting a doctor appointment, and moving the stuff over from the apartment.

She lies across Marinas chest, planting baby kisses wherever she can reach, You can check on The Planet and do whatever is needed there. Later, tonight, if you want, we can pay bills. Hows that, will you quit worrying so much?

Marina look is of feigned seriousness, quickly the smile compels itself to surface, You wanna take a shower?

*************************************

Youve captured all limitations on how monies are drawn against the trust? Never to be given directly to her, only to whom she must make payments, correct? You have all of the conditions included and this will all be there waiting for her? Marina is dead serious about her approach to keeping her word, but more intent is her desire to protect Jenny.

Yes, the conditions will be included in the trust documentation. Well have it drawn today and forwarded to be on record when she arrives. The only thing left is the name of the person this is all directed towards? Oh, and, we need to setup your auto-payments to the counselor.

I have my bank information for the payments and the name on the trust is Sandra Schecter.

*************************************

Thats my favorite. Here, lie down on the bed and pretend your waking up and its the first thing you see. Jenny plops on the bed, motioning for Shane to join her.

Naa, I get the picture. She chuckles at the double meaning, feeling a little uncomfortable with Jennys invitation to lie on the bed.

Dont be silly, you have to try it, so you really know what I mean. Come on Reluctantly, Shane lies down, shuts her eyes, relenting to the play acting she fakes a yawn and a stretch.

Now as you raise up, you have to sit on the side of the bed and look up. Shane follows her instructions, then opens her eyes and loses her self in the painting. It has the look of early morning, two girls walking through a park, both of dark hair, one taller and older than the other.

*************************************

So whats your name? Marinas voice is low, deep and soothing.

Shane. Shane McCutcheon. You? Shane glances up at the gorgeous woman walking beside her, wondering what luck what karma could bring this woman to her side.

Marina Ferrer. How about some coffee? She motions up some stairs to the side of a building.

Sure. You live here, in an abandoned building? Shane is certain the locale, the building, none of it fits the classy woman in front of her.

Its not abandoned, I own it, she smiles as she opens the door for Shane to enter. Inside the dcor is of a neo-modern design and obvious that little expense had been spared in its setup.

Wow, is all Shane can say as she gawks about, awesome.

Marina grins and begins to prepare their coffees, regular or espresso?

Double espresso.

Tell me why you were out there and why that man was trying to hurt you. Marina hands Shane her espresso and they sit on the couch.

You know gotta make a livin Shane is almost ashamed, not accustomed to being ashamed for what she felt shes had to do, having had no choices. But with Marina she wishes she had a more attractive story to tell.

Marinas eyes are narrow, dark and piercing. Suddenly Shane realizes she knows why she was out there, she knows what she is, oh sorry, did you want to

Shane changes into her street girl, her girl-boy act that so many of the rich ladies love. She stands and straddles Marina on the couch, grabs a handful of the thick dark brown hair, pulling her head slightly back, I think were both gonna enjoy this.

Her thick pouty lips cover Marinas for several warm quick kisses as her tongue flicks at Marinas. Marina pulls back from her, get up Both standing, Marina towers over the young street urchin, takes her face in both her hands and strokes back her hair. Shane pulls her close and subjects a second onslaught of kisses on her lips, her neck, down the center of her chest and back again.

Marina pulls her close, forcing Shane to stop, she leans her face back out of Shanes reach, Slow slow Marina kisses her, soft and tender, soothing. I like you. Because I like you, I wont do this with you. Marina brushes her hand against Shanes face one more time then kisses her forehead and steps away.

*************************************

Did you know it was Marina who helped me get off the streets? Gang doesnt know that, they just know I do hair. I love Marina, not like you do, but I love her.

Jenny sits beside her on the bed, brushes the hair back enough to bestow Shane with a soft kiss to the cheek, I know. They both sit a while looking at the painting and sharing little stories of the woman they love.

*************************************

She sees him come in looking around for her, Tim. She nods, You wanna sit down?

Hes always amazed by her, never missing anything, ever aware of all thats happening around her. He follows her to the table, trying not to be obvious about his notice of the grace in her step, the appeal she creates in anyone watching her. The soft bounce of her hair, the gentle sway of her hips, the long strides never seeming in a hurry and always ensuring her arrival is perfectly paced.

I dont have a lot of time, but I was wondering if you were able to do everything we talked about, or if you need help with anything. Tim is genuine in his offer, surprised at him self to be so willing to work with her, wanting what she wants.

I took care of it this morning, Ill confirm with my attorney tomorrow morning that everythings in place. Marina drifts off for a moment into her doubts, her uncertainty as to the outcome, her doubt-ridden hope their plan will work, given time.

Tim sees the concern wash across her face, instinctive to his nature, enemy to the hurt still harboring within, Marina, I want you to know how great I think what youre doing is. I never really thought about it. Guess I figured if I didnt think about it, it would just go away, never really considering how it hurt Jenny. How it would always hurt her.

Tim, we all do the best we can do, you did other things for her. You helped her get away from it, see a different world, a warmer world with you there to help her along the way.

As much as I dont want to, I understand. He looks at her long, contemplating the reason he feels so compelled to share with her, I understand how Jenny fell in love with you. I was there, but you were there for her. I was but I dont think I was paying attention, not really.

Jenny sees them talking, wondering what on earth Marina and Tim would have to discuss, with the exception of her mother, Is there something I should know something about my mother?

Both of them scramble in their minds for some response, something that will explain their sitting together, talking, I just wanted to apologize. I should have known not to bring her to Bette and Tinas. I had no idea about the baby, Im sorry.

Tim stands up, finding it hard to look at Jenny, ashamed with his actions, not only today but in the past. His newfound realization, that he hadnt been there for her really, has him doubting himself. If only hed paid attention, this could be their baby shes having, when did you get pregnant, did you do the whole artificial insemination thing like Bette and Tina?

Its a long story, one Im not sure I want to share right now. Youre apology is accepted. Jenny is uncomfortable with his question, with his presence in their life, uncertain how to feel about him being involved in her life without him, with Marina.

umm, Marina, Shane and I are taking a load over to the house. I thought we would just store them in the garage for now, until you and I can go through things.

Jennys discomfort cannot be hidden, Marinas discern grows, Jenny She stands and takes Jennys arm leading them away from the table to speak privately, Are you okay? Is something wrong?

Jenny stares into her eyes, darkness clouds them, her frown fixed, Im not sure I like you and Tim being so cozy.

Marina is now the one uncomfortable, she doesnt understand Jennys meaning, Were not cozy, he told you why he was here, to apologize to you.

Then why was he sitting with you Marina. Shanes waiting, I have to go. With that said, she walks away leaving Marina gaping disquieted by the exchange.

*************************************

Ready? It shouldnt take but a couple trips and well have you all moved in with your woman. Shane grins. She had never pictured Marina settling down with anyone, let alone with a woman and a baby. The idea has grown on her, she sees the calm and the comfort it has brought to her friends, and their happiness has become an extension of her own.

You know Jenny, I cant tell you how happy I am for you and Marina, that you found each other and were able to make it work. You make me smile.

They drive to the house in quiet solitude.

*************************************

Marina walks back to Tim, shifting uncomfortably in his seat, Tim, I have to get to some paperwork. Was there anything else you wanted?

Tim is thankful for the reprieve and the open exit hes been provided, No, um, just that, if you need any help with anything, Id like to help out. Guess Ill see you around.

Bye. Marina heads for the office, her hideaway, her escape whenever her mind is troubled.

Jenny and I dont fight but this felt like a fight. What could she possibly be thinking? Does she think I would do something with Tim, thats ludicrous, Ive never been with a man, never wanted to be with a man. Or, does she still have feelings for him, that has to be it. She hasnt come to terms with loving him and leaving him.

*************************************

Shane realizes the playful mood Jenny had earlier has been replaced with something dark, withdrawn, uncomfortable, Jenny did something happen back there?

Why would Marina choose to be friends with Tim? What is she thinking, that my ***** lover and my ex- male lover can be friends? Why? What purpose would there be, do they wanna start a club, then why doesnt she call Robin and Gene, they could have real gatherings then and share all their little tidbits about me. Maybe she wants to ***** him, Im sure he would her, who wouldnt want Marina, right?

Shane is shocked by her outburst, completely taken off guard by the subject and the ridiculousness being spouted. She scratches the back of her head, her eyes squinted, This loads done, wanna go for the next one? Shane heads for the truck not wanting to comment, not wanting to get in the middle of whatever just happened.

Jenny calls out, No, I think Im done today. I dont want to go back there.

*************************************

Shane walks up to the counter to Thomas, Marina? he motions towards the office. Why dont you fix up a couple cappuccinos and Ill go see whats up with my friend.

She taps lightly on the door and then invites herself into the office, Got some fresh caps here. Marina only glances at Shane, her face not too happy, she returns to the paperwork. Shane grabs her cup and heads for the couch, sitting staring at Marina, waiting.

Finally, Marina slaps the pen on the desk and begins to rant in Spanish, hands motioning, face racked with emotions. Shane nods waiting patiently for Marina to realize she has no idea what shes saying. Marina takes a breath, rolls her eyes, sorry.

Shaking her head, is she still in love with Tim? Shes jealous of him, thats obvious. She must still be in love with him. Im certain hes still in love with her, so why doesnt she just tell him. Why keep up this faade with me?

Isnt there some saying about a straw and a camel, umm, how’s it go? Oh yeah, the straw that broke the camels back. Shane nods at Marina fully expecting her to understand the point shes made.

Marina narrows her eyes and shakes her head, What are you talking about? Youre not making any sense. A smile burst on Shanes face and she chuckles.

What, do you think this is funny? That Jenny wants to be with Tim after all this.

Nooo, actually, I think you and Jenny are funny. Not talking sense? That would be the two of you, from what I can tell. Shane gives her a warm knowing look, unaffected by the glare in her friends eyes, a glare that would cause most to cower.

Did Jenny say something to you? Marina suddenly hopeful that some light may be shed, something that can relieve her of her doubts her fears, strange and dangerous to her.

Yeah, you could say that. Although, it made about as much sense as what just came out of your mouth. Shane waits for a moment before going on, Ya know, you two have had a lot happen, and so far youve done great with it. But theres always a limit, maybe you reached it, ah ***** maybe you both jumped right over the top of it. You just need to calm down and talk. Isnt that what you do? Isnt that whats made the two of you so strong together?

*************************************

Marina walks into the house heading for the stairs, she hesitates only for a moment, seeing Jenny sitting in the middle of the bed. She proceeds on to the stairs to the roof, walking along the railing overlooking the canals.

She hears Jenny stop near the door, Do you still love him?

Do you wanna ***** him?

Marina turns almost amused by the words just heard, Dont be ridiculous? Answer my question.

Do you love Francesca? Jenny hands on her hips, stance proclaiming the profoundness of the mirroring in their questions.

Of course I do, but it has nothing to do with you and me. Marina begins to see the reflection of her answer in the obvious answer to come from Jenny.

Well, I feel the same way. Jennys eyes wander about in her thoughts, Then why are we fighting.

Marina shrugs, I dont know.

Maybe, weve just had too much. Lets face it we have been on an emotional roller-coaster ride. Maybe we need to get off for awhile, smell the trees.

Roses

What?

Roses smell the roses

Marina bursts out laughing, What did I say?

Jenny begins chuckle, You said trees.

They laugh, tears streaming, when suddenly they both stop, staring into each others eyes. Simultaneously they both simply state, I love you. They walk to each other, wrapping their arms tightly around their love, and they begin to speak.

I guess it was leftovers from that night I found you and Tim after playing pool. I was so jealous not of him, but over you, thinking he wanted you but you were mine. I wondered if you might want him, instead of me.

Ive never been with a man, nor have I ever wanted to be.

He was there to find out about some things I was doing related to your mother. I had thought it best not to tell you, but now I know I was wrong. Marina shares the details regarding Jennys mother, the trust, the counseling.

Marina, I dont know if it will work, but I know its the first time anyone has done anything like that for her. I think its a wonderful thing youre trying to do, but its up to my mother now, not you. Ive come to understand, theres only so much we can do. A person has to want to be helped before they can be.

Jenny, I think Tim just wants to be friends, I think we can do that, for him.