Flip. Flip. Flip.

The hangers clicked by one by one. A closet full of clothes and yet, Dana could not find a thing to wear. She hadnt had this much trouble picking out clothes since . . . well, her first date with Lara. She smiled as she recalled the events of that evening – the sweet kiss as she picked her up and the feel of Lara on her arm as they made their way to the car.

Lara would be here soon and then they were heading to the hotel to pick up her sister and mother. Dana was standing in her closet in her underwear when she heard the keys in the lock downstairs. *****, *****, ***** – she shook her head – Lara was early.

Hi, babe. Lara greeted Dana. She came up behind her in the closet – wrapped her arms around her, pressed into her bare back and kissed her neck. Not that I mind this look in the least, but it might be a bit much for the other patrons. Lets pick out some clothes to go with this beautiful body.

Dana blushed a bright pink, motioned to the clothes racks and whispered, I couldnt decide. She turned into Laras arms and kissed her lips softly. Dana stepped forward and began to peruse the closet once again. Lara reached around her, selected a very nice outfit and held it out for Danas approval. She nodded.

Lara pulled Dana into her embrace once more. Lara kissed Danas neck, nibbled gently to her ear and smoothed her hands down the length of Danas arms until she moaned her approval and melted into Laras arms. Lets get you in this outfit before I refuse to allow you to leave the house until you are thoroughly ravished and we are really, really late.

With that, Lara pulled back, tapped Dana on the behind lovingly and walked away. Mission accomplished – Dana had relaxed if only for a moment.

Lara sat on the edge of the bed in Danas room and settled into some light chatter about her day and then Danas day. Mr. Piddles not wanting to be completely left out, emerged from under the covers and greeted Lara with a head nudge before plopping unceremoniously down next to Laras lap with a purr of contentment. Lara stroked him absent-mindedly until Dana emerged from the bathroom ready to go.

Dana stopped in her tracks as she took in the site of Mr. Piddles and Lara. Everything about the scene just seemed so right.

Whats the matter, Dana? Lara inquired out of concern.

Nothing at all. Dana responded with a small smile. Its just, well, umm, I love you, Lara. You fit so well into my life and I cant imagine it any other way.

Lara gave Mr. Piddles one more head stroke and the stood and pulled Dana into her arms and kissed her passionately. She pulled back and whispered I love you, too before fusing their mouths once again. Laras tongue stroked Danas lips gently, seeking entry. With a moan of approval, Dana obliged and their tongues tangled erotically. When both were breathless, Lara pulled back and stared into Danas eyes.

And here I thought putting clothes on you would make this safe. Lara quipped with a ***** grin. We better go, for real this time. Hand in hand the pair made their way to Danas new car.

_____


The drive to the hotel was relatively quiet. Danas nervousness was building to a feverish pitch, manifesting itself in her tapping on the steering wheel as she drove. Lara allowed her to stay within herself, but reached across and placed her hand on Danas thigh.

As they headed for the lobby of the hotel, Lara decided to break Danas anxiety one final time. Just outside of the door, Lara pulled Dana firmly to her body and whispered, One more thing as her mouth descended in a soft reassuring kiss. As if on its own accord, the kiss deepened until Dana forgot where they were and why.

Ahem – do you ladies need a room? The raspy voice penetrated the moment and the two lovers pulled apart. Lara looked toward the voice and squealed in response. She pulled the petite brunette into her arms for a hug before looking back at Dana. Dana stood there in stunned silence. Her face a deep shade of purple. This was not how she had intended to meet Laras family.

Dana, this is my sister, Rachel. Rachel, this is Dana. Lara introduced the two.

Nice to meet you. Ive heard so much about you. Dana said as she extended her hand in greeting.

Likewise. But dont believe everything you hear, big sister here seems to think that all I did was torment her. Rachel deadpanned. Lara playfully punched Rachels arm.

Wheres Mom? Lara inquired.

She is still getting ready. I needed some fresh air. Ill go get her. You two think you can keep your hands off each other for a few seconds while I am away? Or do I need to call the fire department? Rachel teased and then ran into the hotel before Lara could smack her again.

A still thoroughly embarrassed Dana went to get the car as Lara waited for her sister to return with her mom. As she pulled into the circle drive, Lara and Rachel were standing out front with a very attractive older woman, her hair graying slightly, but it only added to her regal appearance.

Dana left the car running, but got out and came around to greet the women. As Dana approached, Lara placed her arm around Danas waist and pulled her to her. Mom, this is Dana. Dana, this is my mom.

Mrs. Perkins, it is nice to meet you. Rachel rolled her eyes, reminding Dana of Howie. She swallowed hard at the memory of her little brother.

Please call me, Viv. Laras mom said as she reached to pat Danas hand noticing the flicker of sadness in Danas eyes.

Shall we go? Lara steered the group to the waiting SUV. Dana held the back door open for Viv before proceeding to the drivers seat. The drive to The Summerhouse was filled with endless chatter. Lara and her sister teased each other lovingly. Viv admonished the girls as only a mother can do and Dana just smiled at the exchanges. Lara reached across and once again, placed her hand on Danas thigh for the duration of the drive.

Arriving at the restaurant, they were seated right away. The group settled into a comfortable silence as they perused the menus and decided on what to order. Once the meal was set, Lara proposed a toast – To family, love and most importantly, new beginnings. Lara smiled at Dana and took her hand under the table. She just held it and gave it a re-assuring squeeze.

The conversation was light. Filled with stories of the sisters growing up, tormenting each other. The hilarity of hiding each others toys and then forcing the other to pay to get each one back. Laughter filled the table. Viv and Rachel asked Dana about tennis, her training, the tour.

Conversation turned to how the two had met and Lara told the story of Dana and her friends staking out the country club to determine if Lara was a *****. She giggled at the memory of tricking Danas friends. Danas mind flashed to the kiss later that week in the locker room and she began to get warm.

Viv and Rachel laughed at Laras boldness and enjoyed the tale. As Rachel began to talk about graduate school, Lara slid her hand up Danas thigh. Dana clenched the muscles in her leg. Not wanting to make a scene, she tried in vain to ignore the sensation of her lovers hand. Lara continued to move her hand until it rested at the juncture between Danas thighs. Dana choked out a groan and gave Lara the patented What the ***** are you doing? look. She clenched her thighs together tightly and made a move to push Laras hand away.

With a giggle, Lara moved her hand back to a much less exciting, but definitely safer, place. Viv and Rachel looked up at the two and Viv asked Dana innocently, Is everything alright, dear?

Dana had been sipping her water and promptly choked. Thoroughly embarrassed once again, she could only nod. Luckily, the waiter picked that time to bring the dessert tray. Subject closed.

After dessert, Viv and Lara excused themselves to go to the ladies room. Rachel moved into Laras seat next to Dana. Dana was a bit taken aback by this, but she really liked her and thought the evening had gone well.

Dana, my sister seems very happy with you. Rachel began. She has been hurt before and while we have accepted who she is, there are other so-called friends who have not been so inclined. For her to invite you to dinner with us, I know you are special to her. Promise me something?

Dana looked at Rachel – who had seemingly gone from laughing to serious in a matter of moments – and nodded for her to continue.

Be good to her and dont hurt her on purpose.

Dana closed her eyes for a moment and wrung her hands – trying to find the words. I would never again hurt her on purpose. She means a lot to me too. I will do the best I can to earn her love and understanding. Thank you for caring about her so much to say these things to me. And with that, Dana reached over and touched Rachels hand gently.

Ahem – little sister, unhand my woman. Lara interjected playfully as she returned from the rest room. They all laughed. The moment lightened.

The group drove to back to the hotel. Plans were made to get together the next day for brunch before Viv and Rachel headed home. Lara was sad that their visit was so short. She missed seeing them more often. She had Dana now and that helped, but there was just something about being with people who have known you your whole life and love you anyway.

Dana stopped the car in front of the hotel entrance and got out to assist Viv. As she took her hand, Viv pulled her into her embrace and hugged her. Dana stiffened at first and then relaxed. It felt so good to have someone motherly just hold her tight as if everything was going to be alright. Viv whispered to Dana I have really enjoyed meeting you tonight. You are a lovely woman. Take care of my baby – she really cares for you.

Tears threatened as Dana nodded. These two people had taken her into their family element with such ease – as if she belonged with them and with Lara at her side, she just might.

Not you too, Mom. What is it with you guys, cant you keep your hands to yourselves? Lara teased in between giggles. Viv and Dana each turned slightly pink and broke their hug. Viv walked over to Lara and hugged her too, kissed her forehead and softly said, I like her, Lara. She is hurting so much. Be careful. In a slightly louder voice, she added, Sleep tight, baby, and well see you tomorrow.

______



The front door barely closed, when Lara pushed Dana back into it. She took Danas head in her hands and kissed her hard before whispering in her ear, You make me so hot. I have been thinking about having ***** with you since I walked in tonight with you nearly naked.

Dana flushed a hot pink, but grinned at her lovers words. Lara had a way of making Dana feel so special – wanted. Dana stared at Laras mouth wanting to kiss her, but knowing they needed to talk. I want you too, but can we get ready for bed and talk first?

Puzzled, Lara pressed a soft kiss on Danas forehead and nodded. Lets go up.

I am going to get some water. Go on. Ill be up in a minute. Dana replied. She needed just a moment to collect her thoughts. She was excited but unnerved as well. Meeting Laras family had been incredible. They were so open, inviting – they made Dana feel welcome. Between that and the image of Lara with Mr. Piddles and she was convinced it was time to take this to the next level.

___

Upstairs, Dana found Lara sitting on the bed, covers to her waist with the tv remote. Dana gave her a quick smile and walked into the bathroom to change her clothes and get ready for bed.

Dana slid under the covers and reached for Laras hand. She pressed a quick kiss to her palm before settling their joined fingers on the bed. She took a quick breath and looked into Laras beautiful blue eyes.

Uhmm, Lara. I have been thinking about this for a bit and it really hit me tonight as we were getting ready and you were with Mr. Piddles. It struck me again as we talked with your mom and sister over dinner. Dana paused nervously. How to say this? Deep breath.

Would you like to, err, uhmmm, move in together? Exhale. She closed her eyes as she waited for Laras response. Dana felt Laras hands move in hers.

Open your eyes, Dana. Look at me. Slowly, Dana raised her head and looked into Laras eyes. I love you so much. You mean the world to me. I would love to move in with you. Lara smiled at Dana. A shy smile began to spread across Danas face.

But, are you sure? Lara asked nervously. You are going through so much. I will be with you every step of the way no matter what, but if you are not ready, we can wait.

A tear escaped Danas eyes and she quickly swatted at it before it ruined the moment. I love you too Lara. When I am with you, I want to be a better person for you. I have never been more certain. I know we have a ways to go with us and then there is my family and this whole Subaru campaign. But I want you by my side. I want you to share this with me.

Lets seal it with a kiss. Lara said as she pulled Dana closer and dropped a sweet kiss to her lovers lips. Dana deepened the kiss, nipping at Laras bottom lip. Surprised, she groaned at Danas boldness. She ran her tongue first over her own tingling lips and then across Danas seeking entry. Dana eagerly opened her mouth to Laras explorations.

Mmmm Dana moaned as the flames of desire claimed her. Lara kissed Danas shoulder, skimmed her hands down Danas side until she found the hem of her tank. Gently, she pulled the shirt up to reveal her beautiful body and then assisted Dana with the rest of her clothes. Lara stilled a moment, taking in the sight – Dana took her breath away. She would never grow tired of just looking at her.

Dana flushed at the attention and moved to remove Laras clothes as well. The stunning pair was lost in each other. They reveled in the feel of their warm skin touching, their bodies pressed together. Leg to leg, hip to hip, breast to breast.

Their mouths fused together. Their bodies rocked. Open your eyes, Dana. I want to watch you as we make love. Lara breathed.

Dana struggled to open her eyes, the sensations coursing through her made the task more difficult. She peered into her lovers eyes as Lara took her over the edge.

Much, much later, once both were sated, Lara pulled the covers up over their damp bodies and pulled Dana into her arms. With a light kiss on the temple, she whispered, I love you – you are mine. Dana rolled further into her embrace and responded, Ditto with a small grin.

Tonight belonged to them. Life would intrude on its own terms, but for now together was all that mattered.

__



Authors note: This is the end of this particular story. I am going to give them their honeymoon period. Let them sort out whos toothbrush goes on which side and just enjoy being together. Perhaps Ill pick them up again and shake up their worlds, but for now I am going to let them be.