Chapter 51
Natalie woke to the feeling of John's lips pressing soft kisses into her tummy. She sighed and moved her hands into his hair and she felt John smile against her. He moved up on the bed so they could lay side-by-side, facing each other, and her eyes fluttered open and met the blue gaze shining in the soft light.
"Hey" she said sleepily.
"Hey yourself…" he said in a low voice.
"That was a sweet wake up call…"
He smiled and tucked a lock of her hair behind her ear and looked at her for a long moment as if he was considering whether to tell her something. Then he said, "I had this dream…"
"Yeah?"
"Yeah. It was…well in it you told me… you… that you were pregnant. You were going to have my baby…"
Natalie looked at him carefully for a second and her heart squeezed when she realized he didn't look freaked out about it - that he was smiling.
"Really?" she asked.
"Really."
"And you didn't wake up in a cold sweat? It wasn't a nightmare?"
John's face now took on an air of seriousness and he gently rubbed her cheek. "No. It wasn't a nightmare, Natalie. Not at all... I woke up - happy. Kind of a new feeling for me, and I don't think it's a coincidence that you happened to be beside me when I did. I looked at you sleeping, and I could picture it, like it had been real. A baby growing where I come to rest so deep inside you… I know this is going to sound totally ridiculous but I'd never really given any serious thought to the connection between the sexual act and making a baby. Except to fear an 'accident' with everybody else…" He chuckled a bit.
Natalie smiled at him but said nothing. She was touched by his words and sensed he had more to say… more she wanted to hear.
He continued softly, "But now… well when we come together like that it isn't just sex… it's not just the physical act… it's bigger… more. We… we connect, and I realized that connection has the, the power to create a life… I get it now. Why it's a big deal, beyond how it makes you feel… the pleasure. The power of that act and when it's right… when it's more… I guess I always feared it because I didn't want to share that with anyone I'd been with - because I'd never felt that connection. Until you…"
Through tears shimmering in her eyes she said, "You know, if you keep saying such amazing things to me, I'm not going to be able to see you as the big, tough agent any more".
He kissed her with great tenderness and said, "You now all my secrets now, Natalie. You have open access to places no one ever has - places even I didn't know about… " John swallowed hard and continued, "The truth is, sweetheart, you can end me… or at least take my very heart and soul with you… if I ever lost you…"
A tear slipped down her cheek and she said in a thick voice, "God, there you go again… "
He cupped her face and brushed her tears away, kissing her softly and then saying, "Blame the wee, small hours of the morning… or the fact that we're away from everyone and everything… or what it felt like to wake up beside you… But really, I just want you to know how I feel - which is COMPLETELY unlike me, so really I just need to blame you… it's all you…"
It was her turn to caress his face and she said, "I feel the same way… that's what makes this so unreal sometimes, that I need to pinch myself… I can't believe that you feel the same way about me that I do about you… I love you, John. Being here with you… it does something to me… my heart… my insides… About your dream, though… I am using birth control, so I don't think it's coming true…"
"Well, maybe not right now… but then again, accidents do happen, don't they? Before my dream, I could never see myself as a father… picture my children, but now…I can see them, with you…"
Natalie looked at him with a burning intensity and said, "I'd love to have your baby some day, John…"
John felt that surge of tenderness that was all hers, and he said seductively, "Perhaps we need to practice some more… or up the odds of an accident…"
She smiled at him and asked, "You really wouldn't be upset if that happened?"
"Honestly Natalie? No. But what about you?"
She thought about that for a moment. She had not exactly been the type to sleep around, but underlying the relatively modest experience she'd had was the concern about an unwanted pregnancy. But now…"I wouldn't be upset either… it might not be the best timing, but I wouldn't be upset…"
John pulled Natalie closer to him so their bodies were completely aligned against each other and she could feel his desire for her. He pressed his hardness into her stomach and asked in a soft purr, "Care to live dangerously with me, Natalie?"
She smiled and pressed back, asking "Is this a stick up? That's quite a big gun you have… is that thing loaded?"
"Cocked and loaded" he whispered against her neck, smiling at the shiver he felt run through her entire body.
Natalie placed an open-mouthed kiss at the base of John's throat then whispered there, "I surrender…" and rolled flat onto her back, opening her legs wide for him. He slid right in, a steely sword returning to its scabbard… the sheath made just for him…
John and Natalie made love until the sky was turning purple and pink with the first light of dawn. Then he spooned her from behind, holding her tight against him, his warm palm at rest on her stomach. They drifted to sleep, knowing they still had several more hours before they had to part.
Chapter 52
John had to leave the Excelsior by 10am to return to the villa and clock in, only to head right back into the city and to the Accademia Gallery - where he'd once again see Natalie of course. Before he showered he made love to her once more, but this time just using his mouth since he knew their repeated and lengthy activities of the night and morning had taken a toll on her body. The tight way she held him and pressed against him when he was inside her was something he'd grown addicted to, but it felt that way because he essentially forced her to make room for him, and as much as he knew she also enjoyed the sensation, the physical reality was it would eventually have another sort of impact on her. She needed a break, but he wanted to be with her one more time, and he loved doing it this way because without him weighing her down at all she was able to give into her natural instincts and move freely in her response to his touch, to her need. He loved to see her helpless against that need to move, to see and feel her writhing uncontrollably.
At first, John held tightly to her ass so only her upper body and legs could move, along with her hands which she buried in his hair, pressing him even closer against her. But when he felt her start the climb to where she'd peak, he let go of her and by the time her orgasm ripped through her she was moving rhythmically against his face as his tongue slithered deeper and deeper inside her. He was so aroused by her response to him that when he felt her fluids pour over his chin he came with a shudder into the linens beneath his overheated body.
Natalie was an incoherent mess by the time he was done with her and as he left their bed to shower she slid back into a deep sleep. Since she only had to make it from the hotel to the Accademia a few blocks away, she could stay a good bit longer in their room. When John returned from the shower he stood looking at her for a minute, then got dressed, finding he enjoyed doing such a mundane thing with her sleeping in "their" bed. Finally he sat on the side of it, rubbed her naked back and she moaned a bit as she woke up, turning to face him, her breasts now exposed since the sheet hovered at her waist. He could see her nipples had already puckered in response to his touch, but he also noticed the markings their passionate night and morning had left, her sensitive skin falling prey to his ardent mouth. God forgive him, John thought, but he couldn't help feeling a he-man-sized sense of pride and accomplishment that she'd feel him - his impact - all over and that he'd be leaving her one very satisfied, if in places tender, woman. All he needed was a loincloth and a Tarzan yell and he'd be fully embracing his inner caveman.
For his own preservation John pulled the sheet up and tucked it under her arms, and she laughed at him.
"That lacking in control, are you McBain?"
"Yeah, I admit it - and I didn't sense too much resistance in you all night and all morning - in fact one time I remember being totally asleep until I felt your mouth grab hold of me…"
She winked and said, "Well, not all of you was asleep - and I couldn't leave the poor guy hi and dry…"
"No, that you didn't."
They smiled at each other and though they were sorry their Florence sojourn had ended, it had been so special on all levels that it bolstered them - it wrapped them in its embrace and they couldn't find it in themselves to let any sadness take root. They'd still see each other… there'd be more stolen moments and more 'clandestine meetings'… and they'd make it through the in between times. Somehow, after last night and this morning - especially their talk - they felt solid. They'd handle it.
"So, Natalie, why don't you give me some of your stuff to take back with me - I have room in my bag and this way yours won't be too heavy since you have to carry it with you…"
"Really? My stuff and yours together? What if someone searches your bag?" she teased.
He smiled and said, "Well, they won't. But if they do, I guess from now on I'll be known as a cross-dresser."
She giggled at that image and got out of bed to gather what he could take. He bit back a moan when he saw her perfect - and perfectly naked - form, and she was definitely strutting her stuff on purpose to taunt him - especially when she bent over, putting her ass on prominent display, to pick up her silk outfit that was still on the floor from when he'd removed it.
"You used to be so shy…" he said feigning regret.
She turned to face him and at the sudden, sharp movement she felt a slight rawness between her legs and a straining in her thigh muscles, and she winced.
With a big, smug smile he asked, "A little sore, huh?"
Natalie looked at him and said in mock affront, "Oh, proud of ourselves, are we? Causing pain to - practically maiming - young girls makes you happy? Makes you feel like the big man? What happened to the gentleman in the DC hotel who worried about it… who felt badly about it?"
He walked over to her and pulled her tight against him, and said in a raspy whisper, "He realized she liked it… and that he liked leaving a distinct physical memory of himself so she wouldn't be tempted to let boys grope her…"
Before she could protest that he took her mouth in a scorching kiss, leaving her clinging to him and feeling delicious twinges everywhere he'd left her tender.
"Gotta go, sweetheart. Get back into bed - I want to think of you there as I head out…"
With an evil grin Natalie climbed on the bed, reclined against the pile of pillows and bent and spread her legs wide. "OK, John… whatever you say…"
John's groin tightened and he said, "You are an evil young woman!"
He walked towards the side of the bed, his heated gaze never faltering, and Natalie felt herself tingle and grow moist as she wondered what he'd do to her - especially since he made no move to undress himself. When he was right next to her he looked down and said, "I'd love to take you up on your very open invitation - I'm so hard right now I'd split you in two…" His eyes swept between her legs then back to her eyes as her breathing became more shallow. "But I really don't have time… and you know that you little tease… It's tempting to press myself against you fully clothed…you know how much we've enjoyed that in the past… but sweetheart you are soooo… wet…" As he said that he reached the fingers of his right hand down and ran them along the slick space between her legs, earning a moan and a roll of her hips in response. "That you'd be all over the front of my pants… and we just can't have that, can we, Natalie…? She had just started to shake her head when he plunged two fingers inside her and her neck arched, tipping her head straight back as she gasped.
John had to exert every ounce of control not to rip his clothes off and take her right then and there, and he was trying to ignore the painful way he was surging against his zipper. He removed his fingers and looked down at her as she finally opened her eyes and looked at him through heavy lids. He licked his fingers and then reached to take her right hand while he leaned down so his mouth hovered barely an inch above hers. He moved her hand to where his had just been and whispered against her mouth, "If you finish by yourself, think of me…" and then pressed her hand against her heated moist flesh as he gave her a bone-melting kiss.
John quickly stepped away, ending all contact and Natalie couldn't squeak out a noise - she could only look at him while she tried to steady her breathing.
"See you soon, sweetheart. Don't be late…"
With that he was gone and Natalie settled back against the pillows trying to will her body to calm down. She had become all but insatiable when it came to John, his touch, what he did to her… how she felt she NEEDED it, not just desired it… but she was rarely embarrassed by it anymore, largely because he seemed to be similarly afflicted. She decided to take a warm bath to relax and ease into the day, even though she new the sensual touch of the bubbling water would be a poor substitute for John's.
John walked back into the villa and ran into Roberta Stinson who gave him an appraising look and then asked, "Good night off campus?"
John just smiled and said, "VERY" and continued to his room. He began to unpack and pulled Natalie's silky pants from his bag so he could get to his own things. It did something to him to see her stuff mixed with his, and he laughed at himself because he was turning into such a sap. He also couldn't help remembering how they'd looked on her… how they'd felt against his naked erection, and how he'd removed them from her just before he'd taken her to bed.
There was a knock on the door and Mason called out, "McBain, it's me!" and John told him to come in. Mason entered and shut the door behind him again, and when he turned around he took note of what John was holding. He smirked and with an arched eyebrow asked, "Souvenir from last night or is there something secret and truly 'special' about Agent McBain that I've somehow overlooked?"
John smirked back and said, "Just lightening the load Natalie has to cart around today…"
"How gallant of you… so, you two have a good night? Wait, strike that, I really don't have to ask that…I know what the answer will be."
Again John smiled and said, "We actually did a lot of brainstorming about Javier, and we have a lot to consider, Mason. Maybe even more than we first thought…" John gave Mason a run-down of what he and Natalie had discussed and by the end Mason said, "Wow, my head is spinning…"
"That's exactly what Natalie said…"
"Hey, stop bragging - we're supposed to be talking about your work… not your 'work'…"
John rolled his eyes and said, "I'm trying to do that - seriously. We have to think all this through very carefully… parse out all the motivations and what action they may be trying to get us to take… and we'll likely have to involve others besides Chase. Certainly our own research an analysis team - we need to play out a number of scenarios as extensively as possible… and discuss the political fall-out of any decisions - so we'll need some input from the State Department… hmmmm…. Who do we know there? Oh, maybe Angela…." On that John trailed off and it was his turn to goad Mason.
"So…. Mason… you had the night off too. How'd you spend your time? Alone? With anyone I know? Perhaps working on enhancing inter-agency relations… engaging in relationship-enhancing intercourse…?"
Mason figured that turn-about was fair-play - he'd certainly razzed both John and Natalie. "OK, McBain, I know it's my turn in the hot seat. You want to know what I was doing last night? Well, I will just say I was fortunate to be in the fabulous company of the beauteous Angela. I'm not going into any other details, but I really don't need to. Just think back on how you spent your night and early morning hours and you'll have an idea…"
John smiled broadly and said, "Well, great. She seems nice and like she has some spunk - certainly more than Stella or Penny! And though she's not ancient, she's not a kid either… good work. And now that you're with her maybe you won't need to be so invested in MY sex life!"
Mason snorted and said, "Yeah, OK… because you've been so discreet and circumspect that's been an option for me!"
"It's not like all that was my fault…our fault…we're supposed to be overt…"
"Uh huh….whatever, McBain. If we can get through this whole mess without you trying to bang Natalie on the nose-cone of Air Force One, I'll finally be able to draw an easy breath!"
"Hmmm, Air Force One… now that would be an interesting 'Mile High Club' to join… but I guess you meant when it was on the ground…"
Mason just rolled his eyes and said, "The next gray hair I notice, I'm calling it 'Natalie'… just so you know…"
Natalie leaned back in the fragrant warm water and stretched like a kitten, feeling the evidence of their hours of lovemaking, the physical memory of it dancing on her nerve endings. They'd literally spent hours joined together, challenging and pleasing each other. Then there was that conversation… her heart felt so full. As she sank back into the tub she couldn't help moving her hands down and placing them on her lower abdomen, remembering the warmth of John's lips there, and the heat of his body as it was inside hers. What would it be like to have someone else inhabiting her body - a child they'd created? She'd never even been sure she wanted children, but now… she smiled and gently rubbed her stomach. When the time was right, she'd welcome that life growing there.
At 11:45 Zoë and Madeleine Caldwell, accompanied by Stinson, Murphy, Mason and John pulled up in front of the Accademia and whisked inside where they would wait for Natalie in the lobby. Five minutes later Stinson looked pointedly at her watch, then at John, and asked, "Where IS Natalie?"
Before anyone could answer Madeleine said sternly, "Roberta, she's not due for another 10 minutes - we're early".
John and the First Lady made very brief eye contact. Noticing that, Stinson was looking curiously at John when she saw him look towards the door, and his entire face was transformed. There was a lightness… a small smile played around his lips… but it was his eyes - they burned and sparkled at the same time. She didn't need to turn around to know what - or whom - he'd seen. It hit her hard because she realized love was responsible for that transformation. He was actually in love with Natalie! She turned and saw Natalie heading in their direction while Zoë had already moved to intercept her and give her a hug in greeting. She looked so fresh, happy and beautiful she practically vibrated with it, and it was almost painful to look at. She glowed. Stinson had never felt so drab and inconsequential in her life. She also fought off a difficult mixture of feelings - jealousy and mortification, the latter because she had so vociferously taken the younger woman to task and told her SHE was the one looking the fool. She moved away from John, taking up a post a bit closer to the perimeter.
John was again struck by her beauty and her vitality - it drew him so strongly to her. She was dressed simply in kakis and a white cotton twin-set - so simple, yet perfect on her. He also noted his necklace catching the sunlight. She briefly met his eyes and smiled, then turned her attention to Zoë.
Natalie and Zoë trailed behind the First Lady as they took in the various sculptures and other works of art, and finally came to the David. He was magnificent and they stood looking at him for several long minutes, taking in all angles as they circled him.
Zoë whispered, "So, how does he compare? Feeling any sudden impulses to pounce on him? Or do you really just want to drag Johnny into the bathroom and force yourself on him?"
"Shhhh!"
"Well, maybe you got enough last night… for now at least. I mean, you are walking a bit funny…"
Natalie's eyes widened and she couldn't help the flush that crept up her neck and into her face as she said whispered, "I am NOT!"
"Um… OK…" Zoë said, but she relented at the horrified look on her friend's face, "I'm just kidding… but clearly I'm not too far off the mark… your stud-muffin wouldn't give you a break, huh? Well, I'm not going to feel sorry for you, Missy. Some of us aren't so lucky… take that dried up old prune Roberta… she's been warm for McBain's form for years… but she probably has cobwebs…"
" Zoë!" Natalie said, but she couldn't help giggling. "You've got to stop!"
"OK… OK…" but then she stepped closer to the statue and pretended she was going to goose him - until her mother caught that out of the corner of her eye, "Zoë Caldwell! You behave yourself!"
"Yes Mom… geez, you try to have a little fun…"
John and Mason had watched all of this trying not to laugh. They both really did like Zoë and she and Natalie had truly become friends. For the first time John wondered what would happen to that friendship once the truth came out about who Natalie really was.
The women were having a late lunch at a tratttoria a few miles from the museum. As they pulled up in front of it, Mason reached to help Natalie exit the SUV - she was the last - and as she widened her stance to step down out of it she paused for a second at the jolt of tenderness she felt, her face tightening for a moment. Mason noticed this and asked with a bit of a smile, "You OK, darlin'? You pull a muscle or something?"
Natalie gave him an evil squint and realizing everyone else was now a safe distance away she said with equal parts ire and humor, "Oh, cut the shit, Mason. You know exactly why I'm sore. Geez. You can run and give your good buddy a high-five for a job well done. So, we took advantage of our time together - so what?"
"Aw, don't be mad… and I can't be a pot calling the kettle black, because I fully enjoyed myself with the lovely Miss Angela Mauro…"
Natalie looked at him with a very pleased expression. "Really?! Well that's great. I like her a lot - so, Mason, does this mean you two are 'involved' now? I know you came down on me pretty hard for using that term before… but now…"
"Well, I'm not defining anything right now… one step at a time… but let's just say that she's walking around - or trying to walk around - with the same issues afflicting you this morning…"
Natalie rolled her eyes and said, "Oh my GOD! You guys are unreal… This really is like a badge of honor with men, isn't it?! Pound your chests because your girlfriend is half-lame the morning after. Is it like an elite group of you big boys - do you make fun of your smaller brethren because maybe their girlfriends don't even realize their IN, let alone feel like they're being bludgeoned by a hard blunt object - perhaps a baseball bat!"
Natalie had to stop and then just laughed at the expression on Mason's face. It was a pure mix of humor and horror at the increasingly graphic nature of her words.
"Come on, we'd better go in… but if next time Angela says, 'batter up' - you'll know why!"
With that, she headed to join the others, and Mason took another two seconds to recover himself enough to follow. Man, she was a pistol.
Chapter 53
The next day - their final in Italy, Chase, Mason and John were sequestered in one of the dens at the villa so they could discuss what Javier revealed and the variety of possible reasons. Each reason… each possibility had ramifications. John had called Chase and given him a run-down on his and Natalie's conversation before they'd left for dinner the other night, and he'd had a variety of colleagues evaluating the possible scenarios and their consequences -and Chase had also briefed the President who, like all of them at this point, felt like they were dealing with a Gordian knot.
"So, where are we on all this, Chase? Any ideas yet?" John asked.
"Nothing definitive yet… it's challenging because depending on how we analyze all that we've learned - what context we put it in - we are perhaps being steered towards two very distinct, in fact diametrically opposed, choices. Though we are continuing to look carefully for any particular chatter or threats pertaining to the rest of this European trip, or Australia and Asia, everything points to the timing being the end of August when we'd be in the Middle East. So what it comes down to is what is information… what is DISinformation… what do 'they' really want us to do? And the truth is, we may never know - well, unless and until something happens."
He rubbed his face wearily and said, "Right now, we can make pretty even cases for and against 'them' wanting Zoë in the Middle East and wanting her to remain in the US. I really do think Natalie is onto something in terms of evaluating how upset or unguarded Lezama was when he revealed certain things - and therefore whatever he told us in calmer moments was designed to throw us off track or more concertedly steer us… In addition, many in our group, the State Department, NSA and the CIA find it hard to believe that he'd see any value in doing something on Kumani soil…"
Mason piped in, "But that's if they're assuming he's acting rationally… if his hatred for the President and the US is strong enough, he won't necessarily hold back due to family and economic considerations…"
"But", Chase rejoined, "If he wants any sort of future life afterwards - to have any deniability so he isn't pursued as a perpetrator - he would have to hold back some…"
"But if he thinks WE'LL think that, then doesn't crossing that line 'prove' his innocence?" Mason rebutted.
Chase sighed deeply, and this time John broke in, "I think we also need to factor in his ego. What we think of disinformation could actually be true - and his desire to raise the stakes of the game, put himself at some risk, but in the end create an even more ego-gratifying situation if he gives us 'hints' yet still succeeds. Think about more routine criminals - serial killers especially. Part of the standard profile is that they often insert themselves in some ways in the investigation - or hang around the scene of the crime. And in Natalie - well, he's found a perfect conduit to get us information since he knows she and I are ostensibly involved and that I would be bound to grill her after her dinners with him… or that she'd at least be likely to let something slip… he gets to indulge in his growing obsession with her, AND jerk us around… how much better does it get?"
Chase pinched the bridge of his nose again and said, "We need to know more - about everything - before we can even begin to make a decision. And we need to consider that all this is Lezama taking advantage of a situation that presented it itself to let HIM be the biggest red herring so we spend so much time on him and his possible involvement that we miss what else is going on - what he's covering for… My gut tells me he's involved in this on some level - likely a significant one. But he is also the type to have many layers between him and the real action - plus redundancies and fail-safes built in. Meaning, in the event we get too close to figuring out one threat he can quickly mobilize other assets against another plan. So, I think we have to assume there are a variety of scenarios that are being simultaneously developed and resourced… We just need to keep digging… and we don't need to decide about the Middle East trip yet - whether anyone goes, or whether Zoë does or doesn't. We need to keep digging into Lezama - and Mahmed to the extent we can. We need to comb through all the chatter… but I think we also need to see where we can make something happen… where we can poke the hornets' nest, so to speak… and, John, that's we're you and Natalie come in…"
John looked carefully at Chase and couldn't help the feeling of foreboding that crept over him. "What do you mean?"
"What we know for sure is that Natalie has a way of spurring Lezama to say or do things that are revealing - that give us more pieces of the puzzle."
"Or lead us down blind alleys!"
"But even those provide insight into what he's steering us away from… what he wants us to know which begs the question 'why' and can head us in valuable directions… The other thing we know is that a particular hot button for him is that you appear to be in a physical relationship with Natalie - that makes him see red. He has a real hard-on for you, if you'll pardon the expression. To date he's taken it out on Natalie - and that will still likely be the way he goes - but we need to do more to stoke that. We also need to do more to draw out your potential blackmailers - who could be one and the same as Lezama…"
"Well, wasn't our overnight in Florence supposed to do that?"
"Yes, but it wasn't shocking enough… so far we've noticed only a slight bit of chatter about blue-eyes and red - and most of it rather unimpressed that you two spent what seemed like a pretty standard night together. You two need to do something much more overt and in-your-face to spur others to a strong reaction - and action."
John looked at Chase and in an expression of partial disbelief he said, "Well, what would you have us do - cross EVERY line and have sex in public or something?"
When Chase said nothing both John and Mason looked at him with growing alarm, since typically what he didn't say was almost more important that what he did. Chase looked from one to the other, then back at John and he said in an even tone, "I do have an idea, but, well, you can feel free to tell me to pound rocks… at least about some of it…."
"What are you thinking?" John asked tightly.
"Our intel is that Lezama is still hanging around Europe. And he's going to be in Berlin while we are - he's speaking at an international business summit or conference or some such thing. Very convenient. More to the point, we know a good bit about what he likes to do while he's in Berlin… how he spends his 'down' time. There is a club - one that some of our analysts not-so-kindly dub a typical Euro-trash club. Let's just say it is one where patrons really are encouraged to let their hair down. It doesn't represent itself as an overt sex club with people screwing all over the place, out in the open, but it has a pretty hardcore vibe. The people who go there get pretty outlandishly dressed - or undressed as the case may be. It is dimly lit, lots of strobes, music that's heavy on base… and there are, well, almost cabanas around the perimeter. People rent them and they are essentially like beds that you can enclose for a great degree of privacy by pulling curtains on four sides… white curtains that allow interesting silhouettes to be seen based on the lighting inside them… The part that I would like you to do is to go there to that club and at least from a dancing standpoint, what you do on the dance floor, and what you do sitting in normal seats, standing around, what have you - well, I'd like you and Natalie to put on quite a show. PDAs that push the envelope. The part that I'd like you to consider - but which is entirely your decision - is for you to make use of one of those cabanas to lead key observers to believe that you are actually crossing the line and having sex with Natalie in what is virtually a public place… especially because there's a good likelihood that Lezama will be there our first night in Germany - a Sunday… which is a big night at the club…"
John and Mason glanced at each other for a second but said nothing, and Chase continued. "There are, of course, ways you can imply that is happening without actually doing so… especially since you'd have the curtains drawn… and I don't want to tread on uncomfortable ground, but you and Natalie have spent enough time together faking things - some pretty overt already, such as Calgary - that, well, I thought you might have a comfort level to be able to push the envelope a bit and simulate more aggressive actions… I know I'm asking you to push some boundaries, and I know it's a lot to ask… but it may be our only way…"
John locked his eyes on Chase to try to read him - which wasn't exactly easy. But his gut told him that Chase knew there were no real boundaries left to cross between him and Natalie. What he was really asking was if they would trade on that fact - that comfort level that came from the fact they 'knew' each other physically… they had carnal knowledge of each other - for the good of their mission. THAT'S what was a lot to ask. John said softly, "We can certainly do the first part. As for the second - I think we really will just have to play it by ear and see if we can 'go there' that night… "
"Fair enough. That really is all we can ask. And I'd like you to go along too, Mason. Help keep an eye on things and be back-up if something starts to happen. I wonder if you might be able to bring Angela along since she knows the entire situation now, and this way she could go to the restroom and such with Natalie so she never has to be alone - oh, and have Natalie wear her bracelet…"
John's head snapped up at that. "Chase! If we are going to be simulating… well, you know… I mean, how can we… we can't have it recorded… people listening in…"
"You're right… I'll get a ring or something that just has a tracking device… and work on something more permanent for going forward…"
Mason asked with a puzzled expression, "Are you worried that someone will try to grab Natalie?"
That was something John wanted to hear an answer to as well.
"No. Not from the standpoint that we've heard anything to suggest that. But I think we need to assume the worst from Lezama and prepare for it. Plus, if anything does ultimately go down with Zoë, there's a chance Natalie will be along for that 'ride'… and it would be good to have some back up plans in place…"
That sobered them all up.
"OK, gentlemen, you are on duty shortly, taking over for Willows and Steinberg. John, you and Natalie won't have time for a full de-brief session in Spain, so try to get a little creative without causing me a huge headache so you can fill her in and get her thinking about Germany."
"OK. I'll figure something out…"
As John and Mason walked down the hall the latter said quietly, "How nice that a big part of your role - yours and Natalie's - is to act as bait. That certainly wasn't part of the original plan."
"No, it wasn't. But lots of things are happening - have happened - that weren't planned. More to the point, I think Chase knows that."
Mason looked at John but wasn't really surprised by that assertion. "I'd wondered that myself."
"Yeah. He wasn't hemming and hawing because he was asking us to push across uncomfortable lines to 'fake' more overt acts… it was because he knows those lines don't exist and wants to take advantage of that… "
"That's kind of cold."
"Somewhat, but then again, he could be firing my ass - and Natalie's."
"It's not like he has any proof, John…"
"No. You're right… and he probably is glad on some level because we are more valuable in some ways now… but he'll pretend he doesn't know all the while he'll use it to his - well, our - advantage…"
"You don't seem particularly pissed at that."
"I understand it. And I can't blame him for tying to make some good come out of a situation that I've created for him that could bite him in the ass, too. AND he didn't order us to do it… left it up to us…"
"Crafty old devil…"
John smiled, "That's why he's the boss… he's also our friend, Mason. If anything, this could also buy Natalie and me some deniability… our boss told us to blur the lines, but that's all we did… smoke and mirrors… and you and Angela get a ringside seat!"
"Oh, joy! We better find some time to go clothes shopping - I don't have anything right to wear to a sex club…"
John just shook his head and laughed at that.
Meanwhile, Chase pulled a series of pictures out of his portfolio - ones that a colleague in Britian's MI5 had sent to him as a helpful "FYI" about one of his lead guys. They were of John and Natalie on their balcony in Florence. The first one had them standing side by side. The next, they were embracing. It was the one after that which made him pause. John had cupped Natalie's face in his hands and they were looking at each other with a burning intensity. There was no mistaking that their look held an abiding passion - but he also saw the emotion… the love. He had decidedly mixed feelings about that - not the least of which was because of what he was now asking them to do. The final picture showed that John had picked Natalie up and was carrying her into their room - and he knew there was exactly nothing fake about what had then happened - either physically or emotionally.
Chapter 54
By 11 that night everyone had retired for the evening. Natalie was in her beautiful suite, stretched out on her bed and wishing she was back in the room at the Excelsior, when she looked up with a start. At first she was sure she was hallucinating, but standing in the doorway, dressed casually in sweatpants and t-shirt, was John. He stood looking at her with a somewhat strange expression on his face - it seemed to hold a blend of emotions and thoughts - and she made a move as if to get off the bed to come to him. John held up his hand and she stopped.
"Don't you dare get out of that bed, Natalie" he said in a way that made her skin suddenly feel hotter and other parts suddenly damp.
He made his way over to the bed and then climbed on it, taking her in his arms and pulling her against him so they were lying side by side, fully aligned.
"John, what-"
"Shhhh…" he whispered and then kissed her deeply, soundly while she clung to him and returned the kiss with equal intent.
Finally their mouths parted and John said, "First we need to talk…"
"OK… and then…?"
"Let's just see what happens…"
They smiled at each other, but then John grew a bit serious, and he sat up with her following suit. He took her hand and then filled her in on everything he and Mason had discussed with Chase - most particularly what he wanted them to do in Germany. When he was finished she looked at him in surprised concern - her trepidation obvious.
"So, John - I mean, you know Chase a whole lot better than me… do you think he knows about us?"
John sighed. "I do, Natalie. And I think he's taking a 'don't ask-don't tell' approach - since there's no proof, and we've really been doing exactly what he's instructed us to do, we just don't play cards when we're together in the hotel rooms…"
She flushed a bit at that and said, "No, that we don't…but what about now - aren't you taking a risk being here?"
"To a degree - but he also told me to tell you about this as soon as possible, especially because we won't have much time together in Spain and we're targeting our first night in Germany for this little fishing expedition."
"Don't get me wrong - I'm glad you're here, I just don't want anything to blow up on us… but back to what he wants us to do… and, again, you know him… what do you think he REALLY hopes - that we do an amazing fake-job and lead people to think we've gone there, or is he hoping we do it for real?"
John looked at her with a very serious expression, "I don't think he'll let himself even go there and voice even to himself that he might want us to do that. He will try to straddle the line and say he just hopes we can make it look and seem authentic - IF we even decide to do this. And then it's up to us. But I think deep down he knows our best chance to make it seem real is for it to BE real…"
Natalie swallowed hard and asked, "So are we… are we even going to think about pretending, or just doing the first part?"
"Natalie, I'm not sure we can answer that question now - I know I can't. I think we have to see how we feel… how it all unfolds…and not bully ourselves into anything…"
She nodded and tried to find a bit of humor. "Let me put you on notice right now - I am getting drunk. Or at least damn buzzed."
In a tone of mock-affront John said, "Oh, so now you have to get snockered to be able to be with me?!"
"No, baby" she purred as she ran a finger down his neck. "Just to get the nerve to do it in public…or almost in public…"
"Well, I could make it a personal challenge to simply sweep you away…"
"Oh, I'm sure you could - but I'm taking no chances. Nope. I will spend a little time with my buddy vodka, or perhaps tequila…"
He laughed and then switched gears quickly. "So why aren't you naked?"
"What?" She asked laughing too.
"I thought you slept naked, but it looks like you have a nightie on…"
She giggled, and he asked, "What's so funny?"
She giggled some more and said, "You saying the word 'nightie'!"
He glared at her but the smile tugging at his lips belied it. "Take it off!"
"You take it off!" she challenged.
With a waggle of his eyebrows John yanked the bed covers away from her and gave her an appreciative once-over. She was in a short pale pink silk nightgown that had a deep neck, spaghetti straps, and was riding very high on her thighs. He moved his hands to the bottom of it and began to tug upwards. Natalie shifted her backside off the mattress for a second so he could pull it off her, but John stopped dead for a second having lost all concentration.
"No panties, Natalie?" he rasped.
"No panties, John."
He quickly had the nightgown off her and his mouth was descending to claim something - perhaps her mouth, maybe a breast - but she didn't give him the chance to reach his desired destination. She caught his chin in her hands and said, "Uh uh - ditch your own clothes first, buddy."
"Buddy?! And, boy, you're a bossy little thing tonight… " but he was rapidly complying.
When Natalie saw his jutting manhood in all its long and thick glory, she realized she hadn't been too far off referring to it as a hard blunt object when she'd been talking with Mason earlier. Not for the first time she marveled at her ability to take him all in - anatomical engineering and mysteries at their best. It was no wonder after their recent extended and vigorous activities she'd emerged a bit worse for the wear. But no matter - she was dying for him again.
John saw her sizing him up with heat in her eyes and he asked in a husky voice, "You ready for me sweetheart?" But even as he was asking that his hand had moved between her legs and he'd sent one finger on an erotic fact-finding mission that sent a shiver down Natalie's spine. He reported back, "Yeah… ready… hot, wet and tight, just how I love it…"
He moved to take her in his arms and she fell back onto the bed, spreading her legs so he could come to rest between them while he snaked his left arm under her upper back and used his right to take firm hold on himself. He rubbed his engorged tip between her folds, drawing a more significant shiver this time, then he placed it just inside her sopping opening and she gasped, "John!" as her eyes fluttered closed, then opened again to look into his. He slowly entered her, feeling a slight tension in her as he did so. When he was as deep as he could go she gasped a bit and he asked softly against her lips "Still sore?"
She nodded and whispered back, "Uh huh… I need you to make it better…"
Cupping her face with his right hand he asked, "Won't this just make it worse?"
"Same thing" she half moaned as her walls clenched around him for a moment, enticing him to move. "Please John…"
He took her mouth in a passionate, slow kiss while the rest of his body followed suit. They rocked together slowly as she began to quiver around him while he throbbed within her. They continued to kiss deeply, but with frequent breaks so they could just look at each other, their eyes reflecting the growing arousal felt most profoundly where there bodies were joined and then radiating throughout them. John succumbed to the increasingly insistent way her slippery muscle was gripping him, and he tightened both arms around her upper body as against her neck he said "Natalie!" in a guttural moan, his entire body shuddering. His hot seed was incredibly soothing against her tender flesh, and combined with the way he throbbed inside her it triggered her own orgasm which was like a delicious release of tension in every nerve ending and muscle. She clung to him for a long while, loving the weight of him bearing her into the mattress.
John held Natalie as she fell asleep but he fought to keep his eyes open. He had to go soon - he certainly couldn't be found asleep in her bed in the morning, both of them naked. But he loved being with her like this - in the quiet of the late night as it drifted into the pre-dawn hours… feeling her breath on his neck… the softness of her skin against him…knowing she was safe and at peace… He held her for more than an hour, but he was losing his battle against his heavy eyelids. Reluctantly he slid out from under her and watched her sink into the pillows. Then he covered her, pressed a kiss into her cheek and snuck out of her room.
The next few days went in a whirlwind - endless parties and meetings crammed into two days in Spain. Except for a stolen kiss or two in a cloak room or quiet study, they had no time together. Sunday afternoon they all landed in Berlin, and that night John, Natalie, Mason and Angela would make their way to "Das Liebesnest" - the Love Nest. Who really knew what that would bring?
Chapter 55
Natalie had to sneak out separately to meet John, Angela and Mason at Das Liebesnest since they were trying to keep a low profile among their other colleagues. They would get to the club by 10pm, and she was targeting 10:30 - things didn't get started there until close to midnight, but in this way they'd be able to get good seats, including one of the "cabanas" so they'd be prepared for whatever they decided to do. Even though it was a warm evening she was wearing a lightweight black silk trench coat since there was no way she was going to be seen out and about in her get-up. She hadn't been able to eat a thing since breakfast because her nerves were so shot. She hated the thought of seeing Javier, and having to put on a show on his behalf, and even though they needed him to be there, she almost hoped he wasn't and they could just "play" to some unseen audience who might be taking photos and planning on blackmailing John. Good times. John - she'd just focus on him. Whatever she did, it would be with him… he wouldn't make her do anything she didn't want to - anything that made her feel uncomfortable. But if she was honest her bigger fear was that she wouldn't want to draw any boundaries once they got started. She had proven wholly incapable of it in the past and though she'd like to think a quasi-public setting would have a chilling effect on her passion, she knew she'd be kidding herself.
Holding her breath, she walked into the club, paid her hefty entry fee and headed into its interior - feeling assaulted by the wave of sound and pulsing light that broke through the fundamentally darkly lit space. Its scope was a cavernous and in the middle was a mix of high tables with tall stools and low tables surrounded by banquettes. In the center of that was a good-sized stage that housed the DJ booth and would also have room for a band on nights one played. The back wall was taken over by a massive bar. Her eyes were drawn to the perimeter where the infamous cabanas were. They stood out in stark contrast because they were swathed in white muslin and canvas though they were softly lit, too, with indirect lights and white pillar candles twinkling. Most of the cabanas were open and empty, though about a third were occupied - several already with the curtains closed. Even so, though not transparent, the curtains allowed the somewhat fuzzy silhouettes and general actions of the inhabitants to be seen - almost like a bizarre hand-puppet show by a campfire or on a home movie screen.
Halfway around the right side of the room she spied John looking out to look for her and she raised her hand in a small salute. As she got within a few feet of him she stopped to appreciate how he looked. He had black trousers on, black boots and a tight black t-shirt that let his tattoos peek out. She felt the familiar reaction in her body at the sight of him, especially the small smile he gave her that suggested they shared secrets - which of course they did. He pulled her close and gave her a tight hug and a soft kiss "hello" then turned her towards the cabana where Mason and Angela were stretched out.
Natalie smiled and said, "Don't get up on my account!" and they all laughed a bit. The cabana was taken up by a massive "bed" that was about as big as 1 ½ king-sized beds. There was enough room for a small table on either side of the bed, and a long coffee table at the foot of it. In one of the tables there was actually a small safe - a bit larger than that in many hotel rooms - so patrons could store their purses, wallets and any other valuables and therefore feel free to move about the club unencumbered. About four feet from the end of the bed - outside where the curtains would fall - was what seemed like a twin-sized bed turned sideways so it was like a bench outside the cabana. It would enable overflow seating if a large crowd was hanging out together - or allow people to sit outside the curtained area while others took advantage of its privacy. Both beds were dressed in white and had endless pillows of varied sizes. Presently they had the back and side curtains drawn - the "walls" between the cabanas weren't more substantial because larger groups often rented/reserved 2-3 beside each other.
Angela and Mason were stretched out on the main bed, propped up by massive pillows, and looking quite cozy together. As far as she could see, Mason had on black jeans, boots, and a tight black t-shirt which showed off his incredibly muscular physique. Angela looked fabulous - she was dressed in a clingy black jersey mini-dress that looked like a sleeveless mock turtleneck with a strategic cut-out in that showed the valley between her breasts. It was hard to tell its actual length because she was sitting and it had ridden up on her long lean thighs, but it was clearly a mini-dress. She had stiletto pumps on her feet that were black leather with red heels - and her other accessories, including her lips, were red.
Mason called out to her, "Hey, darlin' take off you coat and stay awhile". Natalie smiled back and found that her hands were shaking a bit as she untied her belt - she hadn't bothered with the buttons, but had closed her trench with its belt much like a robe. She let it slide off her and tossed it on the end corner of the bed, and when she looked at John she saw the flash of fire in his eyes. She was wearing the sapphire and black pleated mini-skirt plus patent leather, mid-thigh-high stiletto boots that she'd debuted in Calgary the night she'd "caught" John. Different this time was her shirt - a black leather halter that plunged deeply in back and front and was little more than wide strips of leather that covered her breasts, pushing them together and creating incredible cleavage while also leaving the sides of them bare. With her tousled red main, smoky eyes and red lipstick she looked hot.
"Nice" John said, then continued, "But I'm going to have to stick to you like glue tonight with you in that outfit".
Mason razzed, "Like you weren't always planning on that…"
John helped Natalie climb onto the bed - the men were on the outsides and the women in the middle, and they promptly fell into a friendly conversation about figuring out what to wear, the guys looking like they decently fit in, etc. Mason had bought a bottle of vodka already, so they were enjoying that and finding the edge decidedly being taken off their nerves and moods. It was actually very relaxing to be stretched out in such soft surroundings and occasionally - without any self-consciousness - each couple would take time out to kiss with gentle passion, though not in an over-the-top way. Natalie winked at Mason after one such moment between him and Angela - she was so glad to see how comfortable and seemingly close those two were. They didn't move for almost an hour, enjoying their perfect people-watching perch as the club continued to fill up. By midnight it was jam-packed and John said to Natalie, "We should probably go to the bar to get a drink - take the long way - and look for Lezama"
Natalie sighed deeply and said, "OK - but can we stop off at the restroom first?" John nodded and helped her off the bed and she wobbled a bit, realizing the vodka was having some effect, and she was glad.
John helped stabilize her and said, "Maybe you should lay off the hard stuff for a bit and have some club soda or something this next round…"
Hanging onto him a bit she said, "Listen McBain, I already told you if I have to have sex in public I'm going to get drunk - or at least way buzzed. So deal with it and just help me walk straight…"
"Did you eat anything today?"
"Not really…"
"Natalie… "
"John, shouldn't you be happy I'm losing my inhibitions?"
"I'd prefer to help you do that in another way…one that won't end up involving vomiting and a killer headache…"
"Yeah, well what if I just decide I have a 'headache' BEFORE - and, you know, refuse…"
"Sweetheart, you haven't yet, no matter where-"
"This from the fricken Energizer Bunny… or would it be Eveready…?"
After watching this interplay with growing amusement Angela turned to Mason and asked, "Are they always like this?"
"Sadly, yes. So I hope my blonde locks aren't a major reason you're interested in me because by the time this summer is over they'll be completely gray - that is, whatever I haven't pulled out…"
"Aw, gray… bald… all the same to me…"
Mason leaned over to kiss Angela and Natalie asked, "Want us to close the curtain?"
Mason pulled back and said with a cocked eyebrow, "No thanks, darlin' we haven't reached the public exhibition stage of our relationship yet…"
"Well THAT'S why I thought you might want the curtain closed!" she said with a touch of exasperation.
"That's all right - we don't want to soil your liebesnest…you guys can handle that all on your own a bit later… once McBain has let you suck down enough booze - so listen, buddy, let the girl get her drink on… don't let your flimsy self-esteem take offense, it's not about you…just make sure you don't over-imbibe, though, since you still have to, well, you know… and she really just has to lie there… shit she could be passed out…"
Natalie rolled her eyes but laughed, and so did John. He put his arm around her and said, "Come on - but I am still going to make sure you pace yourself because I prefer you moving and involved… "
Mason called after them, "You guys don't need to hurry back though… maybe enjoy a dance or two, too…" then he was kissing a giggling Angela again.
John escorted Natalie to the ladies room and waited outside for her, then they pushed over to the bar - it took a while since it was a packed house now. Along the way he could see a number of guys checking Natalie out - though she seemed oblivious as she swayed to the music - and he glared at them. He both loved and hated how she was dressed, and he recommitted to his plan to stay glued to her side. When they got to the bar she wanted a cosmopolitan but he strongly advised she save that for the next round and just go for club soda - though he was having a beer.
Finally she let out a frustrated sigh and said, "OK, OK, fine DADDY!"
Before either could say another word they heard the sickeningly suave voice of Javier Lezama say, "Cara Mia! You SWORE to me there was NOTHING father-daughter about your 'RELATIONSHIP' with your agent…"
Natalie blanched almost imperceptibly before turning around to face him. "Javier! What are you doing here?"
John turned to face him, too, but said nothing, only pulled Natalie back against him with his arm coming around her waist.
"I am in town for a conference and this is one of my favorite places. Really it is a more appropriate question to ask you - how did you come to be here? It doesn't seem to be the type of place either of you would frequent… but then again…"
Natalie responded, "We're here with friends - one of them had heard about it… plus it is better for us if we, well, if we go to more off-the-beaten-path types of places…"
"Ah, I could see where that's the case… well, let me warn you, this place can veer WAY off that path… but perhaps you'll enjoy that most of all…" While he said this, his eyes swept over her in a lust-filled leer that seemed to undress her, and Natalie could feel the tension in John as he noticed this.
John said in a softly seductive voice that was mostly against her neck, "Well, I do enjoy exposing Natalie to all sorts of new things. She looks to me for that while I enjoy her youthful… vitality…I find it tremendously rewarding to be guiding her on her journey of self-discovery… to witness what it does to her… her expressions… her reactions… what she likes or doesn't…what she needs…"
John was pleased with the flare of anger and jealousy he saw in Javier's eyes before he could control himself. "Indeed, Agent McBain. It is an amazing experience, especially when you have an apt pupil…and I can't help but think that some of the lure for our young Natalie here is the excitement of it being clandestine… illicit… having to sneak around with you. But when that is no longer the case… when your lives settle back into a more mundane routine… well, perhaps whatever 'bond' you've established by then will help… I'd not want to face that, though. You're a better man than me - I like having all the resources and possibilities that being a billionaire enables… years and years - a lifetime, really - of excitement and fun."
"Well perhaps you're actually a better man than me, Lezama, because if I were in your shoes I'd always be wondering if someone was just with me for the money and trappings… different strokes… anyway, we're going to grab our drinks now, and then maybe dance a little before we head back to our cabana - enjoy your evening…"
With that John turned he and Natalie around towards the bar in a highly dismissive gesture, and he could feel the burning intensity of Javier's stare as they walked away.
"God I wish I could take a shower right now" Natalie said.
"I know. I know, Natalie."
"I'll go along with this whole club soda thing, but pretty soon I'm going to need another drink…"
When they were done with their drinks John led Natalie onto the dance floor and pulled her tightly against him, and they swayed to a base-heavy slow song, her arms wound around his neck and his around her lower back. Soon his hands had found their way a bit lower, not all the way to her ass but to the lowest part of what could be considered her back. When he pressed her against the large bulge in his pants she picked her head up from the crook of his neck and then their mouths were fusing in a raw, open-mouthed kiss that went on for quite some time. Eventually John pulled back and suggested they return to Mason and Angela. She agreed, only if they could swing by the bar and get her cosmopolitan - and John relented, getting another beer for good measure.
John and Natalie stopped short and then chuckled when they got within a few feet of their cabana. Mason and Angela were making out like hormone-crazed teenagers, limbs entwined and slightly suspicious pelvis thrusting going on, though all clothes appeared to remain intact - still, Angela's mini-dress had morphed into a micro-mini. Natalie cleared her throat and said, "You SURE you aren't into the exhibition phase of your relationship?"
Mason and Angela broke apart with expressions that were equal parts embarrassment, humor and frustration. Natalie clambered back onto the bed with John following suit. The two couples chatted with each other while essentially wound around their partners, and for some reason it was all feeling incredibly normal - or at least comfortable. John quietly related their run-in with Javier, and he could see that Mason and Angela had the same mixed reaction to the news he was here - they were professionally glad but personally loathed his presence. At one point Mason looked up and with a sigh in his voice said, "Here we go…"
Just five feet beyond the "twin bed" that was part of the foursome's reserved area, Javier was settling into one of the low tables encircled with banquettes, and on each arm was a pale-complexioned redhead. There were assorted other young men and women - mostly women - in his party, but his attention was mostly taken by the two with titian tresses.
Angela shuddered and said, "That's just creepy…"
"And totally staged…" Mason added.
Natalie said nothing, just took a big gulp of her drink, but John pulled her even closer to him, her back resting against the strength of his chest, and he could feel her relax a bit.
A few minutes later the DJ came on and started calling people up to do karaoke. One of Javier's entourage - a blonde barely dressed in a leather skirt and top - tried to be sexy as she warbled a Pussy Cat Dolls song - Doncha - and it was sadly clear she wasn't even registering with Javier who seemed enthralled with his redheads. That was when he wasn't looking over at Natalie and her group. It was clear he was more than aware she was there.
Mason looked at his watch and said, "OK, not to sound like an old man… and I know this type of club goes on to the wee hours… and Chase cleared our schedules until late afternoon… but are you guys going to do anything else to up the proverbial ante?"
"Well, we did dance and make out for a bit…" Natalie said, "But I suppose we probably need to do more than that… we clearly haven't poked Javier enough since he's remained pretty calm…"
John added, "Yeah… and anyone else keeping an eye on us hasn't gotten anything new or different…"
Natalie sat up and said, "Well, I guess it's time to change that". As everyone looked at her with puzzled expressions she grabbed the bottle of vodka and took an out-sized gulp directly from it. Then she started scooting off the bed and said, "Come on, guys… come act like my groupies…"
Natalie made a bee-line for the DJ booth and in short order, with her stomach flipping with nerves, she was front and center on stage, being introduced - first name only. She could see John, Mason and Angela looking at her in bemusement, wondering what the hell she was going to do, but they were standing right up against the stage, which was only about three feet off the ground. She also saw that Javier was sitting up straight and his eyes were locked on her - forgotten were the "substitutes". When the first strains of the music started she said huskily, "This is for you, John…" then she began to sing Madonna's Justify My Love, in a low sexy voice that this song was perfect for, since it was more seductive talking than singing.
I wanna kiss you in Paris
I wanna hold your hand in Rome
I wanna run naked in a rainstorm
Make love in a train cross-country
You put this in me
So now what, so now what?
Wanting, needing, waiting
For you to justify my love
Hoping, praying
For you to justify my love
I want to know you
Not like that
I don't wanna be your mother
I don't wanna be your sister either
I just wanna be your lover
I wanna be your baby
Kiss me, that's right, kiss me
Wanting, needing, waiting
For you to justify my love
Yearning, burning
For you to justify my love
What are you gonna do?
What are you gonna do?
Talk to me -- tell me your dreams
Am I in them?
Tell me your fears
Are you scared?
Tell me your stories
I'm not afraid of who you are
We can fly!
Poor is the man
Whose pleasures depend
On the permission of another
Love me, that's right, love me
I wanna be your baby
Wanting, needing, waiting
For you to justify my love
I'm open and ready
For you to justify my love
To justify my love
Wanting, to justify
Waiting, to justify my love
Praying, to justify
To justify my love
I'm open, to justify my love
Natalie let the warm buzz of alcohol loosen up her up, and she focused on the words she was singing… saying… and how apropos they were. She was lost in the song, and in regular and heated eye contact with John, and she was completely unaware of the sensual way she was moving - her hips swaying… occasionally running her hands over her body… John was mesmerized by her - he was incredibly turned on by her performance and the fact that she was singing to him. He was so focused on her - as were Mason and Angela - that they didn't notice the obsessive way Javier was looking at her, or the darts of fury he'd toss in John's direction every time she sang directly to him.
Towards the end of the song Mason glanced at his friend and saw the naked desire on his face, burning in his eyes - who could blame him! But he felt a sense of dread seep in because he knew that this was the tipping point - John would do what Chase had suggested, and Natalie would follow him - allow him - because he was really just picking up the gauntlet she'd thrown down. Right now they were about nothing but their desire for each other, and it was potent and palpable, on display for everyone to see. But what toll would their actions exact later?
The song was over and the crowd was enthusiastic in their response. John had eyes only for Natalie and she for him as he reached onto the stage and pulled her off it so she could slide down his body and into his arms as his mouth crashed onto hers in barely controlled passion. Natalie responded immediately and rather than slide all the way down she instead wrapped her legs around John's middle. Without missing a beat - and removing his mouth from hers only for a second to get his bearings… to scope out the path - John carried her like that to their cabana. Neither of them were aware of the hoots and hollers that followed them - but they now had everyone's attention, and everyone knew what would happen behind the curtain that had just been yanked shut.
Chapter 56
Angela looked at Mason and said, "Holy shit!"
"Yeah. Damn. That girl sure knows how to up the ante."
"And get at least two guys in here to lose their damn minds…"
Mason followed Angela's gaze and saw it was locked on Javier's - whose eyes in turn were locked on the cabana and the silhouettes visible on the front curtain. Right now it just looked like an amorphous mass that was moving around. Finally Javier stalked off in the direction of the rest rooms.
"So, what do WE do now, Mason?"
He ran a hand down the front of his face and said, "Well, technically we're supposed to keep an eye out for them… on them… I don't know about you, but if I have to be anywhere near my friends when they're fucking I need at least one drink in hand… let's go to the bar and grab a drink - or several. Then we can go hang out on that bench thing outside the cabana - with our backs turned of course - and hope the music drowns out all the noises…"
"Or, we could distract ourselves other ways…" Angela said as she wrapped her arms around his strong middle.
"This place just brings it out in people, doesn't it…" He said as he in turn wrapped his arms around her.
"Not this place… you…"
That earned her a deeply passionate kiss and when Mason pulled back he closed his eyes for a second and said, "OK, we'd better stop that for now or I'm going to be barging into that cabana and asking them to move over and make some room…"
"Are all the other ones reserved already?"
"Angela Mauro! How did I not know until now that you were such a naughty girl?"
"Well, you know what they say about us Catholic School girls… I still have my short pleated skirt… "
Mason took her hand and dragged her to the bar.
John deposited Natalie on the bed, his eyes burning into hers, and she wasn't sure she'd ever seen such naked, raw desire on his face before. It made her heart start to race and she swallowed convulsively, waiting for him to take the lead… to do or say something.
The loud, pounding, seductive music in the background and the soft light in the cabana were enhancing the mood, keeping it out of time… out of place…
He was trying to find words to say… an ounce of control so he wouldn't just attack her and completely forget himself. His body was tense, almost shaking with that effort. He'd never had someone get under his skin the way she could - so unconsciously… effortlessly. Finally he said, "That was some song, Natalie… some show…"
"It was… it was for you… just you… everything else - everyone else - doesn't matter…"
John knelt at the side of the bed and reached out to grab her right leg, finding the zipper of
her boot and very slowly moving it down, all the way down until he could pull it off her. He repeated the process with
her left boot, then slowly, sensuously massaged her calves and worked his hands up to her inner thighs, just below where her skirt fell, enjoying the shudders
and tremors his touch brought out in her.
"Cold, sweetheart?" he asked while his eyes still bore into hers. She could only shake her head. "Natalie…" he said ever so softly. "I'm not going to be able to make love to you… not here… not like this… not after that performance… I can't be that gentle… I'm going to have to fuck you… so tell me now if-"
She reached her hand out to quiet his mouth, saying, "I want you to… that's what I want…" Even so, her heart was now slamming into her breast bone - she was excited but also a little afraid.
He couldn't help the soft groan her words pulled from him. He moved a hand to undress her further, but knew the moment he saw her, touched her, he'd want her - so first he'd remove his own clothes. He kicked his boots off and quickly opened his belt and pants, shoving them down. When she saw his huge, engorged erection spring free - and realized he'd been going commando - she gasped and he noted she reflexively licked her lips in a combination of nerves and desire.
"It's all for you… do you see what you do to me?"
He pulled his t-shirt over his head then climbed onto the bed, grabbing her under the arms to move her to its center. He knelt beside her and reached his hands to the nape of her neck so he could open her halter and it plummeted immediately, revealing her breasts and their hard nipples. He wasted no time in moving his mouth down to her left breast, first bathing it with his tongue, then sucking her nipple into his mouth, earning a moan and instinctive bucking of her hips. When he squeezed it between his teeth she saw stars and called out, "John!" on a deep moan. He unhooked the lower closures while he attended other left breast, and tossed the small leather garment to the side. She was trembling under his touch… his mouth… and he couldn't wait to drive her to incoherence. He pulled back to look at her and snaked his right hand into her hair to draw her mouth to his in an almost bruising kiss, and her tongue met his with as much fierce determination as he possessed.
John pulled back to look at her and felt his aching manhood throb at the rampant desire he saw on her face, in her eyes, in the flush of her skin and the tremors that were working through her. Not losing eye contact he moved his hands under her skirt to grab her panties, but surprising her, flipped her over onto her stomach. She reached her hands over her head, grasping the soft covering of the bed in nervous reaction, but held her breath dying to know what he was going to do next. She was putting herself entirely in his hands.
He pushed her short skirt up over her waist so he could get a complete view of her small but lush, tight ass that was barely covered by the scrap of black silk. He massaged her cheeks with almost rough hands and said, "I love your ass, Natalie… " then continued to knead it. He heard her breath hitch in her throat when he finally hooked his fingers around the sides of her panties, and they were quickly yanked from her and tossed to the side. With strong hands he pushed her legs apart, kneeling in the V between them and catching a glimpse of her desire for him glistening in her folds. He ran a finger down her wet slit and her ass bucked up in response, her hands gripping the fabric in them even harder.
John moved his hands to Natalie's back and began to massage his way up to her shoulders, then he stretched out along her, moving his arms over hers… gripping her hands with his. His hot, thick, corded length nestled between the cheeks of her ass, separating them, and she trembled in response to the erotic but pulse-quickening feel of him there. He sensed that and said with his hot breath against her neck, "Do you feel what you do to me, Natalie" and he pressed himself harder into her, drawing a shuddering gasp from her and a soft "Mmmm Hmmm…"
While he moved his open mouth and tongue against the left side of her neck, his right hand snaked under her body, down over her stomach and between her legs, then he gently, with ache-inducing slowness separated her folds and massaged her there for a moment. Natalie had never felt the ache so deeply and so acutely inside her core. Feeling him pressing between the soft flesh of her ass while his large, muscular frame was weighing her down, and his hard fingers were beginning to explore her - it was all she could do not to beg him to take her… to put her out of her misery, yet it was a misery that was exquisite, that she did not want to end…
When John suddenly buried three fingers inside her she saw stars and cried out, but it was in ecstasy. She began to squirm around, trying to draw him even deeper into her and as she did, since she was trapping his hand between her hips and the mattress - an effect increased by his weight on her - the base of his thumb was pressing into her clit and she began to moan as her walls clenched tightly around his invading fingers. John's ability to move his hand and fingers around was somewhat compromised, so he found an alternative that was blood-stirring for both of them - he began to thrust his hips, his pelvis, back and forth, in time with the pounding music, forcing hers into the same motion, so that she was soon fucking the fingers that were buried inside her even as the length of his throbbing erection spread the cheeks of her ass with each movement.
"Oh GOD John!" she cried out among throaty moans. Her right hand was clutching the bedclothes but her left hand was gripping onto his until they were both white-knuckled.
John could have cum right then and there from the feeling of her tight, wet channel grabbing at his fingers while he was pressed so deliciously against her, but he wanted to be inside her when that happened - for both of them.
As he thrust his hips more forcefully, grinding her onto his fingers, she whimpered and clutched even more at him and he rasped into her neck, "Don't you dare cum on my fingers… not until I'm buried inside you…"
"Hmmm Mmmmm John…." she moaned…
"What? Tell me - what do you want?"
"I want…" she lost all train of thought when he thrust himself hard against her ass yet again.
"What… what Natalie…"
"Fu… fuck me… "
He withdrew his fingers and kneeled away from her body, but just so he could grab her hips and roughly pull her up so she was on all fours in front of him, facing the right side of their cabana. An almost violent shudder ran up and down the length of her as she waited… as she braced herself. She felt like her arms were rubber and would be unlikely to support her for long. She held her breath when she felt John move the thick, hot tip of his erection to her drenched opening, then he plunged into her in one deep, sharp stroke and her head snapped back as a scream poured from her throat.
It took every ounce of control that John had not to cum the moment he took possession of her, since she was so incredibly hot and wet, since she sheathed him so tightly even as she quaked around him. He didn't have long, but he wasn't ready to end this crazy desire-fueled moment. He began thrusting in and out of her with a force he hadn't previously used with her - he couldn't help it. Her groans and moans spurred him on, as did the fact that she used her strong thighs to shove herself back onto him and grind against him each time he was buried to the hilt.
"God, Natalie… you're killing me…"
Natalie felt herself unraveling at the range of sensations buffeting her. She could feel the force of his blows over her entire body, but ground zero - deep inside her core - all she felt was an ache that was actually a hunger craving to be fed by him… by his possession of her. At this angle, with this force, he was claiming her more deeply than he ever had and she couldn't get enough of it - she was insatiable for him. Her arms had long ago given up on supporting the weight of her upper body, they had bent and her face was buried in her forearms, giving John and even better angle… and an arousal stoking view of him disappearing inside her. She was so wet he could hear himself taking possession with each return stroke, the slippery friction causing every nerve ending in his body to quiver. It was a good thing the music was so loud, because underneath the noises they were both making he could hear the slapping collision of their bodies as he drove into her over and over like a piston that had been well-oiled.
John was almost amazed that he'd managed to keep it together as long as he had at this point, given the relentless way he was taking her. To elongate the feeling of her seizing him, he began to pull almost all the way out, only to plunge back in again, trying not to sacrifice the devastating tempo he'd set. But, he was starting to feel the beginnings of his own orgasm as hers was clearly on its way, and he was losing it a bit… moving with less precision… with the result he miscalculated and actually fully withdrew. His movements had become so ingrained that he was already thrusting forward before he realized he'd popped out of her body, with the result that for a heart-stopping moment his tip thrust hard between her ass cheeks before he stopped short - before her head whipped around and her eyes met his, her whole body shaking. Raw desire was in both their eyes, both of them were trembling but neither moved or said a word. The revelation for both of them: she'd let him. If he decided to go there, she'd let him. He felt himself harden at that realization, but he couldn't - wouldn't - do it. Not here. Not like this. But knowing she was now so open to him, that she would let him take her anywhere he wanted to go, it stirred an even deeper passion which he'd already thought was as profound as it could go. With a shaky hand he repositioned himself at her opening and plunged back into its waiting, quaking heat.
Natalie's entire body relaxed when he re-claimed her - it had naturally tensed in an instinctive response when she'd felt him press into her ass. The entire concept terrified her - it was something she'd never even contemplated contemplating before, and doubted she ever really would. Yet, in that moment she had ceded that decision to him. She would do whatever he wanted because she trusted him… somehow she'd known he wouldn't take that step even though it was clear that on some level they were both dying to push past another boundary of exploration.
Both John and Natalie were reaching their ends. They were sloppier in their movements because they were trembling and throbbing - aching - all over. They were also growing exhausted from the energy and pace with which they were crashing together. John reached down and hooked both hands under Natalie's underarms and pulled her up so she was kneeling straight, with her back to his chest. He moved his arms tightly around her while his hips were now thrusting upwards into her since he was holding her up a little off the bed. With the change in angle there was more intense friction between her folds with every move he made and she tossed her head back against his shoulder as she moaned in response.
"Is that good, sweetheart… I'm still so hard for you…. shit, you're so wet you're pouring onto me now…"
Both of their breathing had devolved into shallow panting interspersed with gasps and they needed to finish soon or they ran the risk of hyper-ventilating and passing out. While keeping Natalie tight against him and slightly elevated with his strong left arm, he moved his right hand down between her legs so he could massage her clit. She screamed out at that first contact and then just moaned as he found the rhythm that was making her feel faint, causing her to writhe against his hold. She could feel everything begin to tighten in a way that was almost painful - it would have been if it didn't feel so damn good… to ache that way, and then to feel him so deep inside trying to banish it… Of their own volition both her hands moved under her skirt, over his hand to help it keep rhythm… to press it more firmly against her as she writhed and squirmed and he continued to thrust up into her....
John knew he had mere moments left. She was clenching around him and pulling him deeper inside, and he had to drive her over the edge so she'd force his own end. He placed his hot open mouth over the side of her neck and then pinched her engorged bud and she literally exploded, seizing around him, screaming as her entire body shook and she was now wrapping both her arms around his left one as she sagged against his body. Bright lights exploded behind John's eyelids as he spilled into her, continuing the thrusting motion of his hips so he could torture them some more and make sure every last bit of pleasure and release had been rung out of them. He'd removed his right hand from between her legs so he could wrap both arms tightly around her, dragging her back against him. He would not be able to remain kneeling and supporting both of them much longer, but he was almost frozen at that moment, his breaths coming as deep, air-sucking rasps.
Finally John opened his eyes and his blood ran cold while fury heated every other part of him. He was staring into the eyes of Javier Lezama, who had opened the curtains that separated their cabanas. While Javier was watching them, one of his redheads had her face buried in his lap to suck him off while the other was on all fours with her ass in his direction so he could absentmindedly finger her from behind. Natalie had sensed John's shock run through his body and when she opened her eyes at first she couldn't even process what she was seeing. But then horror and revulsion swept through her and she moaned, "Oh my God…" with such a tone of devastation that it broke through John's inertia.
As he grabbed the curtain and yanked it closed he said with murder in his eyes and tone, "You fucking son of a bitch!" He wanted to pummel the bastard until he was in bloody pieces but Natalie came first right and she was now trembling violently and it was with emotion, not pleasure.
He quickly withdrew from her and turned her around to draw her into a tight hug, pulling them both down onto the bed so he could hold her while she wept almost inconsolably.
"I'm so sorry, Natalie…. so so sorry, sweetheart… "
He couldn't think of another thing to say or do except hold her… rock her… and plan how he was going to make sure that diseased prick-bastard paid.
Natalie just clung to him, totally overwhelmed. She hadn't even come close to recovering from her mind-blowing orgasm and now all she could think of was that animal… She buried her head in John's chest and cried harder.
Chapter 57
John held onto Natalie for several long minutes as she grew calmer - and his anger turned into something white-hot and all-consuming. He'd never felt such depths of rage before and if there was room for any other emotion right then, he might have been scared because of it and what it might prompt him to do. Natalie finally sat up, wrapping her arms around her nakedness and he didn't think he'd ever seen her look so vulnerable, except after her torture sessions. He wrapped his own arms around her as he sat up, and she sank back into his embrace for another minute while she wiped the tears off her face - especially under her eyes since she knew her mascara had probably slid there. She wiped as much of it away as she could, but she'd have to head to the ladies room to do a bit of repair work.
John handed Natalie her halter top and as she put it on, wishing it was a turtleneck, she contemplated wearing her trench coat and be damned with it. Except already she was rebounding some and she was growing furious. The very thought that Javier had seen her that way made her stomach roil dangerously, but she was not going to be cowed by him - at least not without a fight. John slid off the bed, kneeling beside it, and with gentle hands he helped her put her panties and boots back on, drawing her to him frequently for bolstering hugs - and all the while he kept a close eye on the curtains next door. She was struck by how soft and careful his touch was now, compared to when they'd been having sex - no matter its nature, his touch moved her…impacted her.
He quickly pulled on his own clothes and then knelt in front of her again. He took her face in both hands and they looked at each other for a moment, then she leaned towards him, initiating a soft kiss. When they parted John said, ""Natalie…" and wasn't sure what else to say, but he needn't have worried because the way he said her name - the tone and emotion behind it - coupled with the look in his eyes said everything.
"I know… it'll be OK…"
"I want to kill him. I am sick to death of him hurting you… making you feel-- I hate it. And I don't care what else happens, after tonight you can't go out with him anymore - and we have to keep him away from you entirely as much as possible…"
She didn't argue. "Well, after tonight it would be almost impossible for me to come up with a reasonable explanation why I'm giving him yet another chance. His 'insights' into the Middle East aren't all that special…"
"I should just have told Chase-"
"John - we made this decision together. I don't... I don't regret what we did together - just that he saw us."
"It's not just Lezama though - there's a chance there will be pictures. Of us by the stage… and shadows… silhouettes…on the curtains"
Natalie closed her eyes at that thought but then said, "And we knew that going in - that was the whole point. Look, I hate the fact that we are being watched like this - that our privacy is being invaded at all - let alone by that bastard. And I'll admit it - most of me wants to crawl under a rock right now. Actually for a very long time - assuming you'd come visit me under it…" They smiled a little at her lame attempt at injecting some humor. "But I keep reminding myself that we are actually doing this for important reasons, as odd and uncomfortable as it can be".
John sat back on the bed and pulled her into a hug again. "But Natalie, you were so upset… I can't stand seeing you that way… and I want to do something about it, but my hands are tied… I just want to untie them… to say to hell with it and wrap them around that fucking animal's neck and wring it until his eyes pop out of their sockets!"
"Oh, believe me I understand. The thought of him watching us- " she shuddered. "I'm just not going to think about it. And, yes, I was upset, but I was also…well, worked up in other ways…" she smiled softly.
He smirked a little at that and said, "Oh yeah? Me too…"
Natalie shook her head and tried to laugh a little, "Look at us, John. We've reached the point that we're screwing our brains out in a German nightclub - but I'm with you so somehow it just can't be that bad…have I lost my mind?"
"In a word - yes. But I'm right there with you."
"I know. I feel it. What time is it?"
"3am."
"Ugh. I bet Mason and Angela are WAY over all this… Lord, I guess we need to stick around a bit to see if Javier acts, well, like Javier."
"No!"
"John…."
"Damn it, Natalie!"
"John…" she said with more weight.
With a sigh of exasperation John conceded, "Yeah. We probably do."
She nodded and said, "Well, in the meantime I need to use the rest room…"
"Take Angela with you."
"Yes, Dad."
"Natalie, don't call me that - it makes me feel like such a perv…" he said with a rueful smile.
She laughed a bit and said, "Well, stop acting like it…"
"What - like a perv?!"
She giggled at his feigned indignation. "No, my dad!"
"Sweetheart, I may act like a protective boyfriend, but there's NOTHING fatherly about the way I was just touching you… and plan to touch you again when the opportunity arises…"
Again her pulse quickened and she said, "Well, I'll hold you to that… or me to that… both of us to it…against each other…"
They kissed softly one more time and Natalie said, "I've really got to go to the bathroom…"
"Come on…"
John and Natalie left the confines of the cabana with her protectively tucked under his arm. Angela and Mason were sitting on the large "bench" - well, Mason was sitting on it. Angela was sitting on Mason's lap, and they were kissing. They broke apart and turned around when the noticed John and Natalie, concern marking both of their faces when they saw the tension in their friends - and the obvious signs Natalie had been crying. Yet, she and John seemed fine together, so it didn't appear that whatever had happened between them had upset her…They stood up slowly and closed the distance.
Mason asked quietly, "What's wrong?"
John looked between Natalie and Angela and said, "Natalie wants to head to the restroom - would you go with her, Angela?"
"Sure. Absolutely."
The two women departed and then John said to Mason, "The cabana to the right of us - Javier is in there!"
Mason swore under his breath and said, "We saw him head to the restroom and grabbed a quick drink before we came back here to keep an eye out - look. I'm so sorry…"
"Mason, even if you saw him heading into it, what could you have done? You couldn't have stopped him - and were you going to interrupt us?"
"Uh, no. But why does everything in me tell me I don't want to know what happened."
"He was watching us."
"Oh, fuck…"
"Mason, for the first time in my life I want to commit cold-blooded murder using no other weapon than my bare hands to rip that diseased bastard apart."
"John…"
"Oh, I'm not going to. Or I'll try not to. But I'm giving you fair warning that I may need you to hold me back."
"So, oh God, I need to ask but don't want to know… what happened?"
"I have no clue exactly how long he was watching, because for all I know he was first just peeping through a small break in the curtains… but we - Natalie and me - let's just say we were… finishing… so we were focused on other things, but finally I opened my eyes…" as shudder of anger and revulsion washed over him for a moment. "I opened my eyes and there was a two-foot gap in the curtains, which unfortunately we were facing. And Javier was sitting there with one of his redheads burying her face in his lap to give him a BJ while the other was on all fours with her ass in his face so he could finger her from behind - but all the while he was watching us… Natalie…"
Mason felt sick to his stomach. "He is one sick, twisted fuck… Shit, no wonder why Natalie looked so upset…. "
"I'm worried, Mason. He is so far over the line when it comes to her - I mean, I truly believe this is mostly ABOUT her, because if he was trying to ingratiate his way into some source of information or connection, this is not the way to do it. If he wanted to use some 'friendship' with her for his own purposes… this flies in the face of all of that…"
"How is she?"
John rubbed his face in his hands. "Rebounding. Like she has from everything - and on one hand it amazes me, but it also worries me. How much can we expect her to get over - and is she really getting over it or just sweeping it aside?"
"I honestly can't answer that, John. But as I've said before - don't underestimate what you mean to her through all this. And she has me, and Angela on her side, too."
"I know, and that's a lot. And maybe I'd feel better about it if we could really be together - I could keep reinforcing that support. But these scattered moments…" He sighed and shook his head, not knowing what more to say.
The Ladies Room was relatively quiet when Angela and Natalie entered - and the two had not talked about anything as they'd made their way through the noisy club. Natalie quickly went in to use one of the stalls - Angela did the same - and then came out and after washing her hands, began trying to repair her make-up. Angela joined her by the mirror and watched this effort, saying nothing. When Natalie finished Angela asked softly, "You want to talk about it?"
Natalie shrugged but led them over to two chairs that were sitting near a sleek vanity. She appreciated the kindness she saw on Angela's face.
"I don't even know where to start - because there's what happened just now, but it's all part of this… this craziness. I mean, John and I… we're trying to have some sort of relationship through all this, but there's nothing normal about the situation. Not only do we have to lie in so many different ways - because what's true is supposed to be a lie, and vice versa! - but then we find ourselves having to DO these things we'd never contemplate… at least I know I wouldn't… except for this situation. And yet I do them… we do them… and even, even enjoy them because they provide our only real time together… God, I'm rambling… totally rambling…"
"Natalie, it's OK. I'm not sure how you're still sane!"
"Who says I am?" she smiled sadly. "Javier freaks me out. He just does. I try not to let him… but he does. And before… well, I guess it's no surprise - as embarrassing as it all is to admit - but John and I… we did… we did have sex…" She buried her head in her hands. "God, what have I become? But maybe worse, that doesn't - didn't - even bother me. Except at the end… when we, when we were finished, but… JUST… and still… together…Angela, Javier was WATCHING us! He'd parted the curtains - he was in the cabana next door - and he was having sex with his two redheads while he watched us!"
Angela went pale as a look of horror washed over her face. "Oh my God, Natalie. Oh my GOD! That's ... he IS a freak, Natalie. He is one of the creepiest people I've ever… I'm so sorry… I would have run screaming in horror out of that cabana… would have created a huge scene because I wouldn't have even waited to put my damn clothes on! What did you guys do?"
"I was frozen. Repulsed. John, closed the curtains - I think he cursed him out, I don't even know - and then… then he just held me until I was calm…" she was unaware of the tender smile that played around her mouth, but Angela saw it and smiled in return.
"I guess it's good you have him… that you can go through this together…"
"Yeah. I just wish we could really be together…."
"I don't know how you do this, Natalie…"
"Oh I'm not sure I'm doing so well, Angela. I can't seem to help letting him get to me… really rattle me. And I worry, then, that maybe I'm really not cut out to be… to do my job… that I'm this weak link…"
Angela grasped Natalie's hands which she was twisting in her lap. "Natalie! ANYONE would have a tough time - he's made this personal in the most disgusting way! But you… you've already done so much… made a difference - Mason is always bragging on you!" She said all this softly, even though they were alone in the restroom.
"Really?"
"Really. You have the respect of anyone who knows what's going on. Don't sell yourself short."
"Thanks, Angela… and… "
"Yeah?"
"I'm really glad that you and Mason have gotten together. He's a great guy and deserves someone nice like you…"
"Aw, thanks, Natalie. That means a lot. I… I really like him. He's one of a kind."
"That he is! Well, I guess we'd better get back to our guys… and suck it up for the next round with Javier…"
"What are you talking about? You aren't going to wait around to SEE him?!"
"Angela, believe me when I say I'd love to avoid him for the rest of my life… but the reason we're going through all of this is to try to poke him to reveal more… it's time to see if we can go in for the kill…"
Angela cringed and said, "I repeat - I don't know how you do it…"
As they headed back to John and Mason, Natalie tried to shake off the feeling that she wasn't actually "doing it". She had a good façade, and it went several layers deep, but she felt rattled by everything. In a matter of weeks her life had upended and major things - good and bad - kept happening. But every time she was sure she would fall… that she was heading into a tailspin from which she couldn't recover… well, right there, always, was John. Like an emergency parachute. She would follow him into hell and survive it because she'd be with him. Given a choice between sitting safely on the sidelines - even if it meant never seeing Javier again - and being on the front lines with John… well there was no choice.
When they reached John and Mason both women were immediately drawn under their protective arms as the couples stood facing each other. They were aware that they were drawing a few interested stares and John asked, "So, I guess we drew some others' attention, too?"
"That would be a 'yes'. I don't want to rub salt in any wounds but there were a few people who enjoyed watching your 'shadow show'… let's just say it had the desired 'appearance' and may do what Chase hoped…" As Mason said this he noticed Natalie's cringe and he asked as quietly as the pounding music would allow, "How are you, darlin'? You hanging in?"
Natalie nodded with a small smile as she felt John tighten his arm around her. She almost could have laughed - almost - when she realized that Mason was essentially asking her if she was doing all right with the fact that she'd had crazy sex in a nightclub while a sick pervert was watching. That didn't bear any further thought.
At that moment, the curtains on Javier's cabana were whisked open and he stood there for a moment while his redheads finished straightening their clothes. He locked eyes first with John, then Natalie - a smile forming on his lips -- before he turned to his companions and told them to head to the bar for drinks, that he'd catch up with him later. Then, as if nothing untoward had happened at all, he walked over to the others. Natalie returned John's squeeze of support, but then stepped a foot away from him - she needed to face Javier head on, and she was the one most likely to draw him out. She could tell that John instinctively tried to hold her back, but then let her go. The four of them stood facing Javier, with Natalie slightly in the lead.
"Ah, you all are still here? I guess you're enjoying the club as much as I always do. Always someone new to meet… something new to see… I must say, Cara Mia - I SO enjoyed your performance… oh, and the song before that was good too…" he said in a slithery tone.
Natalie forced herself not to react while behind her Mason reached a hand out to grab John's forearm since he seemed poised to strike. This was going to be a difficult but necessary confrontation, and Natalie would be at its center. She felt their presence, their support, and she'd lean on it… draw strength from it…
"So, Javier - you didn't strike me as the Peeping Tom type. Somehow that seems beneath you…"
His mouth twitched and he said, "Well, dear Natalie, if we'd been in a home… even a hotel… but this IS one of 'those' sorts of clubs… and how much privacy do you think those curtains are meant to afford, especially given the visibility of shadows… a bit too late to play shy and coy now, don't you think. I mean, not only have you dry - or not so dry - humped your agent in several countries while in public, but you offered quite the invitation with your little Madonna song… Fair play to you - you made John here completely forget himself. When he plucked you off the stage and you wrapped yourself around him so he could carry you away - well there was no doubt what you two would be doing. Some made do with watching the curtains - I opted to do what others wished they could, and peered behind them…"
"How long?"
"How long, what, Cara Mia? How long am I? You want to compare me with your agent? I suppose you really didn't get too good of a look at me with Natalie-substitute number one's head in my lap… her mouth over me…"
Mason glanced at Angela and when he saw her horrified look he reached out to take her hand. He also knew that John was tapping into every ounce of training he'd ever had on how to remain calm and controlled.
"I MEANT how long were you watching us?!"
"Oh. From just before your agent pulled your panties off. I tell you, I was as surprised as you were that he flipped you onto your stomach first - and I agree with him, you have such an amazing ass…for most of it I was just watching through a small crack while my Natalies were trying their best to pleasure me… but watching you was the most arousing thing… when I could tell you two were getting close - and kudos to your agent for his stamina and dedication, plus his creativity - I felt we should all share the moment like one great big hot party… I figured if I'd been watching you it was only fair I return the favor… But then Johnny-boy shut the curtains… "
Natalie shook her head in mild disgust. "I really thought you were going to try to be different - like you promised when I agreed to have dinner with you last time…"
"Cara Mia - we're in a sex club… my behavior is not so out of line here - perhaps it's you who can't handle it… though you are in such an open exploratory mood, aren't you? Pushing so many boundaries... stretching yourself yet not fully able to deal with it…"
Based on the way he was looking at her, Natalie feared what was coming even as she knew it would. She had to try to divert him. "And we had the curtains drawn! We didn't have them open or invite you to watch!"
"No, but there really is only the illusion of privacy in a place like this - and let's face it, some of that you totally got off on, hence your little Madonna-romp…yes, you are definitely 'prodding' your own personal boundaries, with an able assist from your older lover… such a lucky man…" As he said this he briefly shifted his eyes to John's darkly thunderous gaze, then he went right back to Natalie. "Do you know what my favorite part was? When I almost came prematurely myself? It was when your agent almost fucked you in the ass by mistake. The look of shock at first… but then… Oh then, Cara Mia, you were going to LET him… What a revelation… And he was soooo tempted - who wouldn't be? I tell you he's a better man that I am because I wouldn't have been able to control myself and pass up that invitation. No, I would have had to tear into your ass… "
John took a step forward and again Mason put a hand on him, but it was hard because he wanted to pound the bastard into oblivion himself. Natalie looked flushed, yet she was holding it decently together.
Javier looked at John and asked in a slightly mocking tone, "Why so angry? I'm complimenting you… and you should be nothing but happy - you have the real Natalie and she was offering her ass to you… it seems she'll let you do anything you want to her… whenever, wherever…"
Natalie could see the fury rising in John and she knew she needed to bring the attention back to her - to her battle with Javier, even though she loathed the very idea. She snapped, "That's right, Javier. I am totally John's. And I would have let him… he can do anything he wants to me… I trust him and want him completely, any and every way I can get him… so fine… you want to play voyeur, go ahead. Because that's all you'll ever have when it comes to me! You'll have your sick substitutes and the memory of watching John do what you want to be doing - knowing all the while that you'll never touch me that way. I'll NEVER be with you that way!"
The flare of anger in Javier's eyes was instantaneous and stiffened the rest of his body as it traveled through him. The other three knew she'd just thrown down the gauntlet. She was now in full-on goading mode and had already struck a nerve. He took a half step closer to her but she held her ground.
He purred, "Cara Mia… I could have you any time I want…"
Now it was Natalie's turn to be angry, "Is that a threat? Funny, when we were in Mexico I could have sworn you told me you'd never forced yourself on a woman and never would… but is that what you're saying you'd do in my case? Because force would be the only way-"
"Oh, I wouldn't have to force you… no, you'd come to me…"
Natalie looked at him like he was crazy. "There is NO way on this earth-"
In a tone of voice that feigned friendliness but held a warning Javier said, "Natalie… Natalie, Cara Mia, it is such a good thing - lucky for you - that I like you as much as I do… so for you I will do something I never ever do… I will give you a warning…help you avoid something everyone else learns the hard way… Never - EVER - prod me into proving you wrong. I'm enough of a gentleman that I might just let you keep living under that lovely illusion - or delusion - of yours. And not prove you wrong and sit back with a self-satisfied smirk when you come to find me… But I promise you I CAN prove you wrong… so DON'T tempt me - especially when the pay-off for me would be so blood-stirring… so arousing…"
"Your arrogance knows no bounds, does it?! It would NEVER happen… I would rather die than be with you… than let you touch me!"
A dark cloud descended on Javier's face and all pretense of ease and charm was gone along with his control. This was the ugly Javier who spewed angry venom. The one she'd sat across from at dinner and she felt her pulse jump as she held her breath. "Little girl, you forget yourself - and you forget who I am. Your naïveté can have deadly consequences… I will not have the likes of you treat me as if I am gum under your shoe! I am a VERY powerful man with resources and connections you cannot possibly fathom. I can do anything… get to anyone I want… you have no idea the fates that literally rest in my hands! Your innocent swagger of youth is almost cute. Almost. But it is also capricious and dangerous because let me assure you - and doubt me at your own peril - I already hold EVERY card I'd need to play to have you come crawling to me! EVERYONE has a price, Natalie. Everyone!"
"A price? You think money-"
"Who said anything about money?! I'm talking about other currencies… ones which I know have a lot more meaning for you… love… loyalty… to save the life of someone you care about - a life I hold in my hands - you would come to me and offer yourself to me willingly! You would BEG me to take you… to bury myself between your legs and you would offer ME that tight virgin ass of yours to ransom that life! And God help me but I might just put a high enough premium on you, your body, to make that deal… forego so much I've worked for, not just for the pleasure of your young body but having you come to me… begging me… I hold those cards, Natalie… I hold those cards… and I repeat, DON'T tempt me to play them!"
Everyone was silent for a moment, the tension thicker than a knife could cut. Javier shook his head slightly as if to jar himself back to reality, and then he said in a slightly different tone as he quickly glanced in John's direction, "I know you feel like you are safe with your agent… he is a powerful man in his own right - but it is the power of a gun and badge and it has its limitations… my power is so multi-faceted and vast… you'd never see it coming. HE'D never see it coming… wouldn't you come to me to save his life, Natalie? Wouldn't you?"
Natalie eyes grew wide and she opened her mouth to speak as a chill ran through her, but before she could say anything John said with deadly calm, "I would kill myself before I'd let her do that".
Javier snickered and said "How very romantic. He'd die for you Cara Mia… ah, again, you really should try not to tempt me…Just kidding, just kidding…I have no doubt, Agent McBain, that you would want to… if you knew. But I usually operate quite covertly… so if - IF - I ever wanted to put fair Natalie to the test, she'd have already made her deal with the devil - me in this case, of course - before you ever realized you'd been in play…" he turned to face Natalie. "Tell me I'm wrong, Cara Mia… tell us ALL that I'm wrong… " When she said nothing he winked and pretended to stifle a yawn. "On that note, I must be going. My day starts in just a few hours… I am going to try to get a few hours sleep… and what dreams I'll have. The look on your face, Cara Mia when you're cumming… what happens to your skin… the way you tremble… aaahhh… magnifico… yes… a premium that might be worth paying…hmmm, something for me to think about…"
When his back was turned Natalie finally let herself shudder the way she'd been dying to do, and John put an arm around her to steady her - she suddenly felt weak. Mason said quietly, "No one say a thing… I'm going to arrange for a place we can all talk… I'll be right back…"
While John hugged Natalie, Angela asked softly, "Are you OK?" And she just nodded while John rocked her back and forth. He was struggling perhaps more than she was. To stand there impotently while that ass said what he did - but deep, deep inside him Javier had lit a flame of fear. Was he right? Would Natalie sacrifice herself like that - without him even knowing? He would for her… but she couldn't… he had to make sure she wouldn't.
Mason caught up with Javier at the bar where he was busy groping the asses of his two redheads. He grabbed the back of the smaller man's neck in his large, vice-like grip and took pleasure when Javier stiffened in pain and surprise. "I think we need to talk a moment, Lezama."
Javier turned his head as much as he could, raising an eyebrow and trying to keep a neutral expression. "Ah, Agent Mason, isn't it? Well, I'm happy to talk, but only if you unhand me."
Mason let go and gestured towards a quieter end of the bar. Javier said, "Is this the part where the big, burly friend makes a threat? Please spare us both the tedium. I simply refer you back to my comments about the power and resources I have at my disposal compared to you…"
Mason smiled but there was no humor in it. "But you don't know about me, Lezama. You don't know my past… my contacts. I wasn't always in the Secret Service you know… "
"Ah, I suppose you're talking about the CIA… well I too have friends--"
"Not exactly. Something a bit more specialized. Just rest assured that if anything happens to John or Natalie, your resources will prove inadequate to the task of protecting you…"
Javier smiled again and switched gears. "I see you have a lovely lady of your own… you know, until recently she was very much my type. I used to switch between lithe brunettes like her, and classic buxom blondes… but I must admit I am TAKEN with Natalie… the red hair and creamy skin… and I wasn't lying - you should see her naked-"
"Oh, but I have… I hate to break it to you, Javier, but I've already been farther with Natalie than you'll ever get. Her tongue battling with mine - she does taste sweet - as my… 'appreciation'… for her pressed against her stomach and drew a moan from her… I have pressed up against her ass, too, though we were clothed at the time, I must admit. But as far as I'm concerned the best man won - and there isn't anyone getting between John and Natalie. It simply won't happen. Not if people know what's good for them…Oh, and don't talk about my Angela again. I'd prefer you don't even look at her."
Javier had listened to him in stony silence, and Mason couldn't help feeling a little dirty sinking to that level - he hadn't lied but he'd certainly stretched the truth. But it was another way to poke the hornets nest… Still he couldn't help the flash of concern that in the end it would be Natalie who'd pay the price for all that poking. He gave Javier a wave, and headed to make a few phone calls.
Chapter 58
Mason returned to the group within ten minutes carrying a plastic bag from the gift shop and saying, "I managed to get us a single room - two beds - across the street. Let's get out of here - it's after 4am - and we can catch up and get some sleep…" They all just nodded, suddenly feeling bone-weary and ready to vacate the tawdry club. After walking across the street, Mason checked them in and they headed up to a non-descript room with two double beds. Each couple sat on the side edge of one, facing the other, and Mason began.
"OK, I caught up with Chase. Just gave him the top line - told him we had to discuss things and couldn't do it until we got out of the club. He's cleared us on the schedule until 5pm - and is telling the rest of the team that he had to send us out for a bit of extra advance work for tomorrow's walk-around… Natalie, he's expanding on your original story - you didn't just go clubbing with your friend studying abroad, you ended up staying over. I say we talk until no later than 6 am, pull these black-out curtains and sleep until noon… grab some lunch, or a late breakfast, and then head back. Oh, Angela - Chase is going to coordinate with your boss, too… let him know you're helping us with something… So, where do we start?"
They were all at a low ebb, but finally John said, "Well, let's start with the fact that Javier is a prick-bastard who deserves to die! How about that?!"
They all laughed at that, and the ice was broken a bit. John continued, "He clearly lost it - you did a really good job prodding him, Natalie. Really good. It's just such a damn shame you had to - to listen to the filth he likes to spew…" He squeezed her hand that he'd brought over to his lap. I also think that somewhere in that mess he told us something important when he finally snapped and lost it…"
Mason jumped in at that. "I agree on all counts. First of all, Natalie, seeing what went down - not just listening in - it gave me a totally new appreciation for what you've had to put up with. And I echo what John said - it is horrible you have to deal with him at all. But, you HAVE ferreted out some key information. Now, I was watching him closely and my gut tells me that when he switched gears in the end and made it all about John - well, that he was literally switching gears because he realized he was saying too much… hitting too close to some truth. So he had to make it seem like he was first talking academically and then decided to use a specific example when he talked about John…but I think he had someone specific in mind all along… someone else…"
John responded, "I tend to agree… he was very definitive and adamant when he was informing Natalie that he already held all the cards he needed to make her come to him…" his tone was full of anger held in check.
Natalie looked closely at him and then said, "Yes, and those cards entailed people's 'fates" that he held in his hands… or a particular person… one I apparently must care about… I think he meant Zoë…I care about her… and he also made that statement about 'foregoing so much he'd worked for'… if, well, if I came to him and he made the trade…"
The others nodded and murmured their agreements, and very quietly Natalie said, 'Maybe it will come to that…"
John's head snapped around and he asked, "Have you lost your mind?"
"John, it's not like I WANT it to… and hopefully it won't come to that, but if we really think Zoë's a target and that's an option…"
"It's NOT an option… it will never be an option!"
"John! Isn't it our job to save those we are guarding… to become the targets… step in between them and a bullet? It's our oath."
He rubbed his hands over his face wearily and said, "Yes, we're supposed to dive in the middle… but I'm sorry, that is as a last resort, and I think that's different than handing yourself over as ransom to, to… that animal so he can do what he wants with you!"
"But what if it's the only way? If we can't figure out the plans - and even who's really involved? We'd figure out a way to track me, of course… "
Mason and Angela remained quiet as this played out, knowing John and Natalie needed to hash it out, but standing ready to dive in if need be. At that moment, John and Natalie had all but forgotten they were in the room.
"So, how would it work then? You go to him and say, 'hey, we think you might be planning to hurt Zoë, so how about if I take you up on that offer! What if I trade my ass for hers, even though I'm not even sure you'-"
Natalie bolted off the bed which stopped John in his tracks while the others looked on in growing discomfort, yet unable to turn away. He jumped up and grabbed her arms and forced her to look at him. "I'm sorry… I'm SORRY… I just can't stand the thought of that man anywhere NEAR you! And for you to even THINK about GOING to him… knowing how you feel about him… He's dangerous, Natalie. Much more so than he's even shown us so far. You can't EVER go to him… you HAVE to stay away from him… I just… I just found you… I can't lose you! I just FOUND you, Natalie…"
She was moved by his words… how could she not be? And she had no desire to hand herself over to Javier. But wasn't it her job? And what if it was for love? She raised a hand to caress his cheek and asked softly, "And you don't think I feel the same? He threatened you, John. And maybe it was a diversion but his mind went there… and sometimes that's all it takes for someone to start thinking of making something a reality… what if…?"
"He's not going to get to me, Natalie… and no matter what, you have to promise me you'll never trade yourself for me!" he said urgently.
"And you won't do it for me either?!" she asked skeptically.
John didn't answer - he didn't need to. Of course he would.
"John…."
"Natalie, it's all going to be a moot point. We're going to figure this out and it isn't going to involve anyone being traded to Javier… realistically there's no way he could do it anyway - no matter how powerful he claims he is…He couldn't get away with it for long, and he knows it…the whole transaction would put him right in the middle and he's got to keep his distance."
Everyone in the room knew John's words lacked a degree of conviction. What he said was largely true but not entirely. Mason was struck again by the wealth of emotion that had grown between John and Natalie - it actually surpassed their physical passion for each other, and that was saying something… of course the emotion and passion were bound together… they fed off each other… He squeezed Angela's hand, knowing she'd picked up on their bond, too. Then he decided it was time to speak up.
"We have to look at all of this as practically as possible - and I know that's hard. I think that Javier revealed something significant when he was so mad… but I also think he was grandstanding when he threatened to 'prove' you wrong, Natalie… no offense, darlin', but as cute as your ass is, well, I just don't see him dealing away a long-planned strike with great personal and political meaning just to get you into his bed. But him tossing that out there revealed a lot about who he really is… and what he might be planning... and how we can continue to manipulate him…All that said - and I'm not trying to scare you or anyone else…" He stopped and looked at John when he said that, "But he is clearly obsessed with you. Increasingly so, and we need to take that seriously… be very mindful of it and take precautions…"
Natalie nodded and said, "Well, first of all, no offense taken. Second, you're probably right about it being grandstanding…and I promise you ALL that I would be in NO rush to go anywhere near him…"
John took her hand so they could sit back down, and then said, "We'll let Chase know everything… but I think he'll conclude the same thing we did. It's valuable mostly as additional support for Lezama being involved in whatever is being planned. But as far as it being an avenue for us to neutralize him - I don't see it…"
Angela had kept her own counsel throughout, since she wasn't dealing with the same professional - or personal - issues. In the end she thought Mason and John were right - at least she hoped so! - and finally said, "Natalie, I think they're right, too… I can understand why you'd feel some responsibility for thinking through whether there was an angle to play… but that would be way above and beyond - and unlikely to really work anyway… he'd only string you along, the bastard!"
They were all quiet for a minute and then Mason said, "On that note - time for bed. Man this has been a long-ass night…and morning…" He reached for his plastic bag and said, "I bought each of you lovely ladies an over-sized t-shirt to sleep in, and all the toiletries and stuff we need should be in the bathroom - I called ahead for 4 toothbrushes. John and I can just sleep in our boxers and t-shirts or tanks or what have you…" He caught the look between John and Natalie and groaned dramatically. "Aw, McBain, don't tell me you went commando tonight! Geez - what, to get you in the mood or something? Well, just keep yourself under the covers then - it isn't anything I want to see again and we don't need to traumatize Miss Angela here…" He continued, "And let me just say, that shop was an EYE OPENER… lots of things that people could take home to continue the party, if you catch my drift… but I didn't think that appropriate for our little group…"
They all just laughed at him - and Natalie was once again grateful for his humor and ability to lighten things up. Trading off the bathroom the couples quickly got ready for bed - John grabbed the one robe until he could get into bed - and soon they were stretching out, which felt like heaven.
John was holding Natalie close against him and of course he was aroused, but he'd had enough of being with her as a spectator sport and there was no way they'd be able to do anything without the others knowing, so he settled for holding her while she wrapped her arms around, and snuggled against, him.
In the next bed over, Mason and Angela were not quite so resolved about their situation. They had been stoking their desire all night with their almost constant "making out" at the club, but had had no way to fully satisfy themselves. Now, as they were wrapped around each other in bed, there was an energy pulsing between them that was hard to ignore. Mason had to kiss her. He just had to, and he swore to himself he'd be able to stop at that - and be quiet about it. As soon as his lips touched hers her mouth opened wide and their tongues were mating passionately, and without conscious planning she was soon on her back with him lying - pressing - between her legs. Their mouths pulled apart and they looked at each other, breathing heavy, and then both looked in the direction of John and Natalie - it seemed they were asleep. But they were still so close… Mason saw a look of determination flare in Angela's eyes, and before he knew what she was doing she had scooted out from under him and off the bed, holding her hand out to him. He realized her intent and in 30 seconds they were in the bathroom.
Angela's hands immediately went to Mason's boxers and she yanked them down, exposing his truly massive erection, causing her insides to spasm at the sight of him. They had already spent the night together but it was all still relatively knew and her excitement and anticipation ran deep. Mason pulled his tank over his head and when his hands reached for her t-shirt she swatted them away and instead shoved him towards the toilet whose lid she had just closed. He sat down on it as she pulled her own t-shirt off and then her panties - she was clearly a woman on a mission and he felt himself throb at that notion and the sight of her graceful dancer's form. He couldn't take the wait anymore, and he grabbed her hips and brought her closer so she had to move a foot on either side of the toilet… either side of his legs. As they locked eyes he helped guide her onto him and then she sank down, her head arching back as she completed the journey which took him fully inside her. Both shuddered when they felt him press so deeply inside her that their pelvic bones met.
Mason rasped, "Thank GOD! I've been dying for this all night…" Then he captured her mouth, moved his large hands to her ass, and they began to rock together, knowing they wouldn't take long since they'd been in such a heightened state of arousal all night.
Meanwhile, as soon as Mason and Angela closed themselves in the bathroom John and Natalie started laughing - quietly.
"Aw… how cute… I do feel for them though, I mean, at least we got to, well you know…" Natalie giggled.
"Uh huh" John said. Then in quick, deft movements he shoved Natalie's t-shirt up over her breasts, yanked her panties off and spread her legs, positioning himself between them as he braced himself over her with hands on either side of her head. Her breathing quickened and he had a sheepish grin on his face as he remembered himself for a moment and asked huskily, "Oh, is this OK? You all right with this?"
In response she smiled and moved her hands to his ass to push him inside her, unable to help the soft, "Oooooh…" that escaped her mouth. He smiled at that and whispered, "Exactly…" as he leaned his head down to kiss her. They moved together in a slow rhythm that was all about feeling good and being together.
When John removed his mouth from hers he looked down and said softly, "I'm sorry I yelled at you, Natalie… I just… I love you… and I'm worried…"
"I love you, too, John… I understand…Mmmmm…you feel so good…."
He moved his arms underneath her back to pull her closer to him… so his mouth could hover over hers more easily. "Yeah… well so do you… "
Their tempo was smooth and unhurried, but it was getting the job done as they moaned softly and panted against each others mouths and necks, as they began to vibrate against each other…
"John?" she gasped her question.
"Yeah?" he managed to respond against her mouth.
"Are we… crazy… have… have… we lost… our… minds…" She struggled to say.
"How?" he said just before pressing his open mouth against her neck, delighting in the shudder it sent through her whole body.
It took a moment for her to respond, her attention diverted elsewhere, but then she panted, "Doing this… so much… anywhere… "
He smiled down at her, supplying three very forceful thrusts that made her head fall back and a groan slide out - and he felt her contract around him for a moment. Now he had to delay his response and he finally said with a small chuckle, "No… never… it's because… we have to… while we can….whenever we can… since we don't… don't know… the… next… time… when…"
She gasped when she felt him grind deep inside her and wrapped her legs around his waist. "Good… good… point…HmmmmMmmmm…. Oooooh…"
"Apparently…" he smiled at her. He gave her another bone-melting kiss as she continued to moan into his mouth, then he broke away and said, "We'll have… have… to… come up… up with… another… another… excuse… when this… this… is over… "
"Mmmmm Hmmm…"
Then they were done talking as sensation took over - his hardness surging against her quivering wet muscles… him now grabbing her ass while she grabbed his, even as her legs kept driving him into her… and then their mouths fused, as their hot tongues entwined and vibrated with their sounds. They came together, shuddering, grasping, grinding and writhing until they buried their faces in each others' necks and John collapsed onto Natalie. A minute later they heard the bathroom door open and John quickly withdrew, turned Natalie and spooned in behind her so they could feign sleep.
On still-shaky legs, Mason and Angela tip-toed out of the bathroom, glancing at John and Natalie who seemed out for the count. They smiled at each other in self-congratulations for having pulled off their secret rendezvous, then crawled into bed and drifted to sleep with Angela's head resting on Mason's broad, muscular chest.
Their wake-up call came at noon, John coming out of a deep sleep to grab the phone. With various groans and protestations they sat up, wishing they could sleep another 6 hours or more. They all quickly agreed that rather than go out to lunch they'd lay low and order in room service - maybe even take another quick nap afterwards - before they had to head out. The good news was, all four of them had become very comfortable in each others' presence and that was a major plus given the potentially awkward situations they kept finding themselves in. Of course, the men especially loved to bust each others' chops - an activity Natalie had been dragged into by her proximity to John, and it was only a matter of time until Angela would find herself tossed into the mix. In fact, sooner than she was perhaps prepared for.
After their room service order was placed, Angela slid carefully out of bed, making sure her t-shirt was at its full, mid-thigh length and said, "I'll be right back…"
John looked at Mason with a grin and asked, "You're letting her go by herself this time… well, I guess you took her there last night…" his words literally oozed over the '"took her there" double entendre.
Angela stopped short for a second, her face wincing in embarrassment, then she fled to the bathroom.
"Real nice, McBain… she's not used to us - the way we are - yet you had to go there…" Mason complained.
"Yeah, and how much time did you give Natalie to adjust?"
"That's different - she's one of us and I started out just tweaking her about her assignment…"
Natalie piped in, "Well, I think Angela can handle it…"
Mason looked at her closely and asked, "So, were you aware of our disappearance, darlin'? And what did you two get up to in our absence?"
Trying to keep her features totally neutral, Natalie fibbed, "Oh, no… I was fast asleep… John must have just woken up for a minute…"
Mason's eyes narrowed as he said, "Uh huh… OK… sure…" but at that moment the gods smiled on him because his eyes fell on a scrap of blue silk that was on the floor between their beds - and he knew what color Angela's panties were, and they weren't blue. With impressive agility for a large man, he got out of bed and snatched them up, beaming at the look of extreme discomfiture that twisted Natalie's face.
John wasn't entirely successful in stifling his laugh and Natalie shot him a dirty look and smacked his arm.
Mason went in for the kill, his eyes twinkling in merriment. "Well, darlin'… how'd you lose your panties THIS time then? Don't tell me… you were asleep and John just took advantage of that… You'd really have to be a VERY heavy sleeper not to have come to, since I've seen John's Johnny and there's nothing 'stealth' about his equipment… especially not for a little thing like you…"
"Easy!" John warned, but his lips twitched as he saw how flushed Natalie was getting.
"You suck, Mason!" she retorted. "OK, fine. So we took advantage of you guys heading into the bathroom to do the same. If you recall we were RUDELY interrupted before…"
"Ah yeah, you had some 'last licks' to get in, so to speak…"
Natalie looked at him with only half-serious indignation and then with an evil gleam in her eye said, "SWING batter batter batter" and collapsed into a fit of giggles against John's shoulder. He saw the twinge of embarrassment on Mason's face and knew he was missing something, but before he could ask, Angela returned from the bathroom.
Mason looked over at her and said, "Don't worry, my dear. I've been defending your - our - honor, and made an interesting discovery… which will not surprise you. As it turns out, our intrepid friends found their inner bunny essence again and were probably at it before the bathroom door had closed!"
Angela laughed out loud at that and slid back into bed with Mason. "So, we're all guilty. And you ALL are a terrible influence on me… you've already rubbed off on me because I can't even find it in me to be embarrassed… I am terrified to admit it feels normal… "
John chimed in, "Well, it's like we've all become foxhole buddies… except our foxholes are more comfortable…"
A knock on the door signaled the arrival of room service, which they all tucked into with hearty appetites. After an hour's nap each couple took turns showering together - only because they were running low on time, of course. By tacit agreement the huge elephants in the room were ignored: no one pondered aloud what either couple was doing when one was in the shower and the other alone in the room. Or vice versa.
Soon it was time to go. Without self-consciousness Mason and Angela kissed good-bye while John and Natalie did the same mere feet away. Then they switched partners for quick hugs and went in separate directions. John and Mason took one taxi back together, Angela took another, and finally Natalie her own. She had it the worst given her outfit, but she tightened her trench coat around her and held her head high as she waltzed into the hotel in her night-before get-up. It was only a walk of shame if you told yourself it was… she told herself.
Chapter 59
The Presidential Entourage had arrived in Germany on a Sunday - the last in the month of June. They had one more week left on their European tour - Germany until Tuesday, Greece from Tuesday until Thursday, and finally Laurentius from Thursday until Sunday - which would include a big bash for the Fourth of July. The Tuesday morning, just before they left Germany for Greece, a package was delivered for John McBain, Secret Service. It was a non-descript manila envelope with block lettering made with black marker. As per standard protocol it had been handed over immediately to Chase who had it examined for traces of any deadly substances - and then he called John and Mason in the room.
"McBain - I think we may have gotten our potential blackmailers to surface. I haven't opened this yet, but I did have it checked for toxins and such… I thought you might like to do the honors…"
John felt a burning pit in his stomach as he tried to keep his hands steady. He was pretty sure - or was trying to tell himself he was pretty sure - that if there were photos in here they would be suggestive versus explicit, since only Javier had gotten such an up-close view of them, and surely he wouldn't do something that would so clearly divulge his identity. Then again, who knew with that idiot? He felt Mason's eyes on him and knew he'd find sympathy and a touch of trepidation in them, but he kept his own eyes glued on the envelope, pretending to study it while simply delaying the inevitable. Finally, with a slight sigh, he cautiously opened it. There were photos, tucked inside a blank piece of paper. On a separate piece of paper was written: "WE MAY NEED YOUR HELP. BE PREPARED."
John handed that to Chase and carefully unwrapped the photos. The top three were of Natalie singing, and they captured the suggestive way she'd moved and touched herself - and showed John clearly watching her with rapt attention. The next three caught him plucking her off stage, her sliding down his body, and wrapping her legs around his middle while they kissed with obvious desire. There was one of him carrying her like that to the cabana. One of him yanking the curtain shut. Then there were four that were silhouettes of them on the white curtain, and though they lacked precision it was clear that Natalie was on all fours in front of John as he took her from behind. Of course no one but them - and Javier - could know for sure whether it was pantomime or they actually had sex. That was, unless John or Natalie shared that information - and only Mason and Angela were going to make it into that fold. Still, they looked incredibly authentic and he knew that Chase would assume they were exactly that, even as he tried to pretend he didn't. It was hard to see this reality so starkly in 8 x 10 glossies. Yet why should he even be remotely upset that these "private" moments had been defiled when they'd been knowingly enacted for public consumption? Still, it WAS a defilement of what was so real between him and Natalie. They might tap into their passion for certain reasons, but then it became about them…only them… He'd have to tell her, of course - but he was going to make sure these were locked up somewhere where no one, not even she, could see them.
Sighing deeply this time, John handed them over to Chase. He finally glanced up at Mason and rolled his eyes a bit, which communicated all Mason needed to know.
Chase looked at them with a completely professional expression on his face - he'd had years of practice at keeping his features inscrutable. He needed that practice. Intellectually he'd known what was developing between John and Natalie. He'd seen the spark between them when they'd been "flirting". But he was unprepared for the heat that jumped off the photos… surely they'd burn his hands. It was that heat that had captured the attention of Javier and others - that gave them a few threads to pull. He could tell by how subdued he was that reality had settled in for John after seeing these. They all knew they were using John and Natalie's real feelings for professional reasons. Yet it would not be spoken about. They'd all pretend it wasn't happening.
Chase carefully wrapped them up and put them in the envelope again. "For now, I'm not going to have the pictures fingerprinted… the envelope was clean so there's every reason to assume they would be, too - and we don't need anyone else seeing these. You guys… well, you did what you were asked to do… you succeeded on both fronts. I can certainly see why this little 'shadow show' rattled Javier's cage, too."
Mason and John didn't dare look at each other. They had jointly decided not to fill Chase in on the fact that Javier had gotten a MUCH closer look at John and Natalie in action. They were taking a risk but felt it unlikely that would become widely known, and for now they needed to keep up pretenses, so Chase could hide behind the veneer of ignorance and the dangerously complex dance between truth and fiction could sashay on. Oh yes, it was a very delicate balance that had to be maintained. At least as importantly, the chance to spare them from that level of mortification - especially Natalie - seemed worth the risk. If it became necessary, they'd tell him.
John also decided he wouldn't tell Natalie about the picutures until they had some decent time alone - which would not happen until Laurentius.
The next several days went in a whirlwind. Greece was beautiful, warm, welcoming - but ultimately a blur. Finally on Thursday, July 2nd they headed to Laurentius - and no one was more excited than a certain First Daughter.
The Presidential Entourage was greeted in that small nation by much fanfare, the King, Queen and Crown Prince (Greg!) actually meeting them at the airport. They were being whisked directly to the massive Royal Palace - which looked like something out of a fairytale - for a luncheon, which would be the first of many visits there over the ensuing three days. That went well, even if it was a bit of a stuffy affair, and by 3pm they were finally checking into an almost-brand-new Ritz-Carlton - they'd taken over two entire floors.
Zoë and Natalie were sharing a two-bedroom suite with a beautiful sitting room - though it wouldn't be much use to them personally since that's where the on-duty agents would be sitting. Stinson and Murpy had one shift, and newer agents Miles and Nero, and Perez and White would take the others. Of course, whenever they'd be out somewhere the more senior agents would take the lead - John and Mason, Willows and Steinberg and another duo, Stern and Ferdinand. Zoë asked Natalie to come into her room so they could catch up, and Natalie was really glad to - she always enjoyed her time with Zoë, even if she could be completely outrageous some times.
Once she had her door closed she pulled Natalie over to sit beside her on her bed and said intently, "OK, so, I am planning on sleeping with Greg. After the big July 4th bash on Saturday, I'm going to stay over there… and then, well we can finally hook up…"
Natalie's head was spinning a bit…"Wait, Zoë, have your parents even said you could stay over?"
"The Queen is probably on the phone with my mother as we speak."
"OK, but you'll have your security detail, and won't it be awkward to… I mean how will you get away from them to, well, you know…"
"That's just it - they won't be there…"
"What?! Zoë-"
"Natalie - the Palace has more security than our entire team and this hotel. Probably more than we have at the White House. As long as I'm there, on the premises… but my crew will come get me when I finally leave, of course…"
"Do you think your parents will go for that? I mean, I think they'll insist that some Secret Service-"
"No - they can't. It would be incredibly rude. Look, during the big bash, of course our people will be there, but once the party is over… well, then they'll go… but I need you to stay… I'll need, well your support… before, and maybe even after…"
"Zoë, do you feel you know him enough? Isn't this coming out of left field?"
"And, Missy, how long did you know John before you were shimmying down HIS pole?! Well, I guess that would be a better metaphor if he was a fireman… can't say nightstick either, since that would be more for a cop. OOOH! I know - how long before you were holstering his gun?!"
Natalie had just remained silent, trapped between humor and horror, and knowing Zoë was on what she had come to think of as a "Zoë Roll". Once she knew Zoë was finished she pretended none of it had been said then half-moaned, "Zoë…"
"OK, look, we've been talking and emailing so much… I mean, if the time comes and I'm not ready, then I won't… but I really think I will be. And, shit, it's not like I'm a virgin! But… well, I'm not exactly 'Miss Experience' either… so I need you to coach me!"
Natalie reeled back in surprise and sputtered, "COACH you?! What are you talking about?"
"Well, maybe COACH isn't the right word… but fill me in… update me on what's what…"
"Zoë, what do you mean?"
"Well, Greg is older than me…. likely more experienced. In fact, I KNOW he is… and you, well my God, after all the times you've been with the masterfully experienced John by this point, well, you're probably like champion caliber or something since you've had him to show you the ropes… so I guess if there's anything you can tell me about special moves… is talking dirty in or out…?"
Natalie didn't know whether to laugh or just sit still in shock. "I don't think it's about that, Zoë… it's what feels right between the two people… "
"Yeah, yeah, yeah, sure… but, I mean… there's basic logistics… I get the standard missionary thing… and I've, well, I've engaged in oral… giving and receiving…" at least Zoë had the good graces to be blushing a bit - Natalie certainly was. "But what about, well, more adventuresome things - doggy-style, for example… I mean, how does that come about and do you transition from one to another? Or with you on top - then are you suddenly on the bottom? Or vice versa? And, well, is the expectation that you have the 'Big O' during foreplay or, well, the main event… or BOTH?! Oh God, am I expected to be multi-orgasmic? Are you? Have you…?"
Natalie's head was spinning and Zoë must finally have noticed her dazed expression, since she finally ended her ramble and was quiet a moment. Then she said quietly, "I'm sorry… I'm… I'm just nervous."
Natalie reached out her hands to take both of Zoë's in them. "I get that Zoë, and believe me I understand. And what I had going for me was that it wasn't really planned… I didn't have to sit around and torture myself with everything you are". As she said that Natalie realized it wasn't quite true, because she'd had to dive into all the "fake" stuff, which hadn't been fake since they had had to really kiss and such.
She regained her train of thought. "All I can say is, if you FEEL like it's right between the two of you - enough to take this step - then a lot of this will find its own way…. For me… well, I was pretty inexperienced too, and I did, well I did rely on John to sort of lead the way… show me… but then, you just have to go with what comes naturally… listen to what your body tells you to do… what it wants… OK, this is a bit embarrassing, but, well, even now I am still a bit surprised at things I just DO without thinking about them. Ways I touch John… or things I say… they aren't planned, they just happen… and that's the way it is when you trust the person - it's like your mind disengages and you just feel, because it feels safe to… That's why you just shouldn't do this unless you're sure… honestly Zoë…"
"I know. And I won't. I'm going to have my own room - so will you! And if I don't feel it's right, then that's where I'll stay - and alone. Hey, I've got an idea! Why don't I suggest that I need ONE guard of my own - and ask that it be John?! Then you two can find a way to be together too…"
"Uh, Zoë, I love you for that idea, but I think it would cause all sorts of problems… but I still am not sure your parents are going to let your full detail be dismissed…"
"Natalie, I think they really will. The Palace is incredibly secure."
In the end, the President did agree, but with a small caveat - outside the back and front gates of the Palace grounds, Secret Security would be deployed in the event of an emergency. John, Mason, Stinson and Murphy would pull an extended shift, and when all the other guests had gone, they'd fall back to a position outside the main premises.
Chapter 60
Thursday evening and all of Friday passed with a steady stream of events - parties, lunches, meetings for the President, shopping and spa-ing for the ladies - and Natalie and John had to subsist on their more routine flirting and a couple of strategic meetings in cloak rooms. Saturday dawned as a beautiful day, perfect for a classic BBQ that would flow from indoors to outdoors at the Palace - taking advantage of its award-winning grounds and gardens - and culminating in a massive fireworks display.
To say the least, Zoë was more than a little keyed up over what she was calling her own "private fireworks" since she and Greg had been thick as thieves over the past two days, and things looked very much on track for their intimate evening. Natalie had decidedly mixed feelings about the entire thing. She had come to genuinely like Greg - she'd had time to get to know him better without his best friends around, and he was very welcoming of her hanging out with him and Zoë. Her main issue was the absence of their own security detail. She was 95% sure it would be fine - the Palace was incredibly secure and the Royal Guard took protecting the Royal Family very seriously. She kept reminding herself that this was not a repeat of Mexico where they were going out clubbing with a billionaire and his bodyguards. They were going to remain in a tightly guarded Palace with a large force of professionals experienced at guarding political figures - and an entire family. Plus, their own people would be just outside the gates.
If Natalie was completely honest with herself, her main trepidation was over the arrival of Scott and Mahmed - really just the latter - since they were going to attend this big bash. They were also going to be staying overnight at the Palace and that was the part that unnerved her. She kept trying to keep a brave face on since she knew John was displeased about all of this - most especially Mahmed's presence - but there was nothing to be done about it.
Natalie finished packing her overnight bag and then looked at her outfit for the day in the full-length mirror. She was wearing white ankle-length pants, a white t-shirt and a navy cotton pull-over vest. On her feet were simple white keds sneakers. It had been stressed that this was a casual event, and she wanted to be comfortable - and mobile if need be. She pulled her hair up in a ponytail, and her only jewelry was her necklace from John, diamond stud earrings and her watch.
Natalie was impressed by what the Royal Family had done to create this July 4th Picnic and BBQ. Throughout the grounds were big BBQ pits, bars, a bandstand, picnic tables, chairs, blankets, etc. The massive pool area also had two bars set up - one at each end - and DJ playing music since the bandstand was the other side of the property. There were also a dozen or so cabanas ringing the pool, and Natalie couldn't help flush a bit with the memory of what she'd done just a few nights ago in another cabana. She doubted that would "fly" at this particular gathering. At that moment she happened to look up and catch John's eyes on her and she blushed when he winked at her. He could still get to her with just a look - an obvious shared memory. During their intimate moments, she let herself go completely and didn't think twice, but in the cold light of day… it still shocked her a bit that she could so easily behave the way that she did. And being completely honest with herself, she wished she was with him right now, tossing off any and every inhibition in the throes of the type of passion she'd never dreamed possible - at least not for her. She honestly had not thought she was "wired" that way, especially after her date-rape experience. Well, John must be a master electrician.
As she went over to the bar her train of thought brought her to Zoë and what she had planned for the latest part of her evening. She knew that Zoë wasn't much more experienced than she had been when she'd first been with John - and therefore understood the mix of feelings. She also knew at that moment she was glad she wasn't Zoë for another more mundane reason - she didn't have to stand in the interminable receiving line in which the younger woman was currently trapped. That said, at least this time she got to do so with Greg right by her side. As a duo they were creating quite a stir - there pictures were on the front of many European tabloids, as the notion of the First Daughter becoming a princess and future queen began to capture the imagination of, well the people whose imaginations cared about such things. Zoë had heard from a friend in the US that there had been some coverage back home, too, and it was certainly upping the fairytale aspects of this whole experience for Zoë. What eased Natalie's mind considerably was that Greg seemed to be very solicitous of, and interested in, Zoë. He really had nothing to gain by pursuing her, so it was likely very genuine on his part.
Natalie looked up and saw that Mahmed and Scott were coming out of the house and onto the huge terrace that overlooked the pool. Before they spotted her she decided to leave the area - eventually she'd have to see them but she could certainly put it off for as long as possible. As she walked around a side path towards the front where the receiving line was taking place under a major Portico, she ran into John and Mason who were standing off to the side, observing. At this moment, Steinberg and Willows had the closer-in detail near the President and First Lady, supplemented by Stinson and Murphy. And truth be told, they all had to do the political dance of not seeming to suggest the Royal Guard was lacking -especially since it was out in force today.
"Hey fellas", Natalie said.
Mason quirked an eyebrow and said, "Hmm. Have we taken a dive in your estimation? It seems to me it wasn't so long ago that you were calling us gentlemen…"
Natalie smirked and responded, "Well, if you recall, you felt that was an inappropriate title at the time, and since then I've gotten to know you well enough I see your point."
John laughed at that while Mason tried to look hurt. "Aw, you wound me darlin'… I mean, just because I give you grief about losing your panties and such… "
"Careful, Mason, or soon I'll just be calling you fraternity boys …"
John jumped in, "Speaking of fraternity boys, have you seen the remaining 'Three Musketeers'?"
Natalie's mouth straightened briefly in a thin line as she said, "They were just starting to come out of the house, so I ducked away from the pool area before they saw me."
John nodded and said, "I'm not trying to be overbearing on this, but I hate that Mahmed is staying under the same roof as you… hopefully your room with have a lock on it…"
"I hope that, too… even better, perhaps he won't drink. Until he got blitzed he at last managed to keep his veneer up."
Mason chimed in, "I'm still not sure I entirely get why this whole thing was set up anyway. I mean, why the need for you and Zoë to spend the night? It isn't even like there's much planned until dinner and the party tomorrow night…"
Natalie looked at him in a bit of surprise, "Mason, I know you're not that dense… Zoë and Greg want to spend a bit more time together…away from prying eyes. I mean right at this second there are cameras from worldwide media outlets trained on them, capturing their every move…"
"Oh… alone time… Oh Lord, I'm not sure I needed or wanted to know that… not about our little Zoë... servicing the 'Crown Penis' and all"
John laughed at Mason's turn of phrase while Natalie was caught between a humor and also supreme irritation since she felt very protective of Zoë. "Mason! Don't go another step down that road… geez, you really need to know when to back up! It's one thing for you to ride me mercilessly, but Zoë is just a young girl and… well this is a big deal to her… for her. You guys, ugh! I sometimes wish you could be a girl for one day just to know what it's like to walk around feeling smaller and more vulnerable… so often at the mercy of others. And I'm not trying to be overly dramatic… I mean we can do things… and learn to protect ourselves and all… but even when, well when things are consensual… especially early on… well, you just have no idea what it's like to essentially be inviting someone else INTO your body… to… well, almost invade you… so, by all means, go ahead… make some more comments about me… but let's leave Zoë out of this… let her have her private time…this is a big deal to her - and I'm not talking about the size of the 'Crown Penis' as you so genteelly put it…"
Mason - and John - felt duly chastened - and neither had to be a rocket scientist to know that some of Natalie's personal experiences had informed her impassioned defense of Zoë.
Mason said quietly, "You're right… I tip too quickly and too much towards irreverent humor sometimes… about things I shouldn't…"
Natalie was already over any anger and felt a bit badly that she might have been too harsh. She took Mason's hand and said, "I know… and honestly, your humor and irreverence are real saving graces… I guess I'm just a bit protective of Zoë and I'm sorry if I went off on you…"
Mason winked at her and then she felt John's warm hand on her shoulder, right at her neck. "I'm sorry for laughing, too, Natalie. You're right. You really are. And I guess we've just proven why Zoë wouldn't want us anywhere around, given what she's planning… but, well, do you think it's safe. Is he a good enough guy for her?"
Natalie looked between the two men and shrugged. "I think so… he seems to really like her and care about her… they haven't known each other very long, but when I brought that up Zoë shut me down pretty quickly, reminding me I was being a pot calling the kettle black…"
John grinned, "Yeah, I could see that."
Natalie laughed and knowing she was opening a potential Pandora's box and leading right back onto the path she'd yelled at them to stay back from she said, "Mmmm Hmmm. Then she wanted me to give her some advice - 'coach' her is how she put it - on, well, things she could or should do or say…"
John's eyes widened at that and Mason laughed and asked, "Well, did you?"
Natalie blushed a bit and said, "NO! I just told her to go with what felt right… but she was a bit disappointed because she is sure that you must be a great teacher, John, and that by now I must be 'champion caliber'…" Of course she couldn't help the husky note that had crept into her voice and John responded in kind when he said, "World Class….Gold Medal…"
Mason put his face in his hands and groaned, saying, "You see? You SEE?! THIS is why I bust your chops… and feel free to do so, because you guys do… do THIS in front of me… start charging up your power grids or something… Young lady, do I need to banish you to the pool to cool off?"
Natalie glanced at him and said, "Well… there ARE cabanas… hmmm, maybe you can grab Angela and give one a spin this time. I think John would join me in recommending it…"
John moved forward to whisper in her ear, "Absolutely… "
Mason rolled his eyes and then figured he should try to change the subject and derail them a bit since they were in view of others. As he looked at them he realized that Natalie was barely taller than John's shoulders at this point. "Natalie, have you shrunk or something? I'm not sure I ever noticed how short you are…"
She turned to face him while John's hand fell off her and she said, "It's just that I'm not wearing heels today… usually I have at least two-inchers on…"
"Wow, you really are a little bitty thing… "
John, now standing behind her, put a hand on each of her shoulders and drew her a bit closer to him. "That she is… but there's a lot of strength and power in this one…"
Mason nodded and as he did his gaze shifted a bit and they saw a change come over him. They turned and saw that Mahmed and Scott had come onto the path and had seen them - and how close John and Natalie were standing. She sighed and said, "Damn" softly under her breath. She waved in their direction and they waved back, then turned around as if to head back to the pool.
John moved his hands from her shoulders, down her arm and grabbed her hands which he held tightly as he ran his thumbs over the backs of them. He said softly against her neck, drawing a shiver from her, "Natalie, if Mahmed comes near you… if he starts to cause ANY trouble, you come find me or Mason. Or any of the other agents. And tonight, leave your cell phone on and right beside you on your pillow or something - we'll be right outside the gates".
Mason piped in, "He's right, darlin'. I don't think he'll try anything, but don't even give him a moment's benefit of the doubt".
Natalie nodded and sighed. "I guess I have to go now… can't spend the entire afternoon standing with you guys - though I'd love to…"
As Natalie headed towards the restrooms inside she ran into Zoë and Greg who were finally free to enjoy the festivities. The two women went to the restroom together while Greg waited for them, then they headed out to the pool area to get drinks and relax in one of the large cabanas that had been reserved for the Crown Prince and his friends. Natalie held her breath because she knew she was going to finally meet up with Mahmed and she wasn't sure how that was going to go. Sure enough, once they got to the cabana with drinks in hand, Mahmed, Scott and three attractive young blondes were with them. The cabana was even larger than the ones at Das Liebesnest, and was furnished with a very large sectional that formed a "U" and two large ottomans in the middle that had trays set on them so they could serve as coffee tables. There were also some end tables and lamps, but those were not needed - at least not yet - given the bright sunshine. Greg and Zoë sat close together on the left side of the sectional and Natalie was about to sit beside her when Mahmed got up and asked quietly, "May I speak with you for a moment?" Natalie swallowed but then nodded and they stepped just outside the cabana.
Mahmed looked at her carefully and said, "There are no words I can use to explain my regret for my behavior the last time that we met. There is no excuse. I apologize".
Natalie said simply, "Thank you for your apology. I am prepared to be civil for everyone's sake, but I think it best if we keep some distance between us…"
"As you wish… I understand."
He went back in and sat on the far right side of the cabana as Natalie took her seat at the corner where the left side joined the back section. As she did so she looked up to see John and Mason watching her closely and she smiled at them, though it did not reach her eyes. There are some benefits to being the Crown Prince and they include being waited on hand and foot. A plentiful selection of foods was brought over for him and his group, and soon they were savoring everything from hamburgers and hotdogs to ribs and coleslaw. The food was delicious and they were all enjoying a few adult beverages of choice, though Natalie was careful to sip those slowly and intersperse them with bottled water. Greg and Zoë were so relaxed in each others' company at this point that they took time out regularly to share kisses.
Natalie got up to use the restroom again - she really just wanted to stretch her legs a bit -
and when she was on her way back she was intercepted by Scott, who had a beer in each hand.
"Care to go for a walk around the grounds to see what else is going on? It seems a shame to spend the entire afternoon sequestered in a cabana - as nice as it may be - when all of this has been put on for the benefit of us Yanks."
"Good point. Actually that sounds good - I'd love to stretch my legs."
She accepted the beer and they headed out onto the grounds in the direction of the bandstand - Scott being careful to keep a respectful distance from Natalie's side since he'd felt the cold sting of John's eyes on him as they'd begun to walk away. They sat in a couple of chairs near the bandstand to listen to the music, and Scott said, "So, I saw that Mahmed apologized to you… he felt really badly about what happened."
"Yeah, he said he was sorry. Better to just forget it… "
"I was surprised, honestly, to hear what he'd done but he had had a lot to drink…"
Natalie looked at Scott and asked, "Are you aware of how he feels about America? And Americans? He went on a pretty significant rant…"
Scott looked carefully at Natalie and said, "He has his moments like everyone else when they've had a bit too much to drink. I mean, how many red-blooded Americans go on a tear about Muslims and terrorists - which they lump in one big group - after a few too many beers… Look, I'm not excusing what he did, but he spends most of his time trying to toe the line and be faithful - which means celibate - to his fiancé. But, heck, he's a twenty-something guy hanging out with some of us who are not on that wagon…"
He smirked at that and Natalie did so in return. "So he has far too much to drink - and he can't handle his liquor, since he usually doesn't over-imbibe - and he makes an aggressive pass at a pretty American girl and is shot down. And then he mouths off about her country. I'm not excusing it, but-"
"You have no idea what he really did to me, do you?"
Scott looked puzzled and before he could say anything Natalie continued. "If he just spouted off about America and made a pass - even an aggressive one - then I would have no trouble chalking it up to a momentary lapse while he was over-served….but, Scott, he would likely have succeeded in raping my if Mason hadn't come in…"
It was clear Scott didn't want to believe that. "Aw, Natalie, I'm sure he seemed that aggressive, but I don't-"
"Scott! He hit me hard enough to bruise my cheek - to cause swelling. Then he threw me on the ground and STRADDLED me and was about to HIT me again when Mason came in!"
She could tell by his shocked expression that Scott had had no idea of the severity of what happened, and he confirmed that when he said, "Oh my God, I had no idea… he made it sound like an embarrassing pass, but…"
"No, Scott. He was determined that he was going to have his way, and all the while he was spewing filth about the US, about me, about my… my situation with John…and, who knows, maybe I could have fought him off, but I'm really not sure. Given who he is and all the politics and stuff, well, I can be civil - I will be civil. But I don't want to be anywhere near him and I'll be honest, I hate the thought of sleeping under the same roof as him tonight…"
Scott expelled his breath and shook his head. "Wow. Yeah, I could see that. Well, look, I don't think he's drinking much today, but I…I'll keep an eye on him. Our rooms are all near each other, but mine is between yours… I promise I'll keep an eye and ear out. Really, though, I think he's learned his lesson".
"Believe me when I say, I hope you're right. Anyway, we should probably head back to the others."
They walked back and Natalie could tell that Scott was thinking about what she'd revealed to him. He finally asked, "Does your Agent know what happened?"
Natalie thought about simply not answering, but there really was no reason not to - it would only help her cover in the end. "Yes. And it's only because of who he is, and who Mahmed is that he didn't knock him into the next century. That and the fact that he can't show that he cares all that much about me… when we aren't together…".
"Lucky break for Mahmed… I mean, I may joke a bit - it's just my nature - but I wouldn't want to tangle with him, period, let alone over you. And add his large fellow agent into the mix… It's too bad that you guys have to sneak around - though I guess that can be exciting…"
Natalie's smile and tone were rueful as she said, "It has its moments. It can't really be helped".
"Well, not unless you decided to see someone else - that you wouldn't have to sneak around with. I mean, will you ever be able to be out in the open?"
She sighed. "Who knows… but I'm with HIM because that's who I want to be with - whatever that requires. And I really shouldn't even be talking about this with you or anyone…"
"Hey, mum's the word."
They joined the rest of the group back at the cabana and she and Zoë chatted for a good while as the guys caught up and busted each other - except Mahmed seemed quite subdued. A bit later Natalie went for a walk and caught up with John and Mason, assuring them all was fine. Once again she returned to the cabana as another round of food was brought by - which she abstained from - and finally it was time to move to the great lawn for the fireworks display.
As she walked away from the cabana Mahmed briefly stepped in her path while the others' attention was diverted, intent as they were on making their way around the pool. She could tell he'd been drinking some, though he was no where near as impaired as he'd been in France. He whispered to her as he got within a foot, "Are you going to try to drag your agent into the cabana Natalie? Maybe you'll let him get places he didn't last time you were together in one? If he can't make it I'd be happy to stand in for him…"
Natalie couldn't help the shudder of revulsion that ran through her but before she could say anything he'd smiled and laughed at her and walked away.
Chapter 61
Natalie tried to steady her nerves and purge all thought about her very brief run-in with Mahmed. Surely he knew better than to try anything. She stood by Zoë and Greg as the fireworks started and a moment later she felt a hand on her shoulder. She started a moment until she realized it was Mason.
"Sorry to scare you. A certain agent wants a moment of your time. He'll meet you by the pool."
Natalie nodded and headed back in that direction. She saw John standing near one of the bars and when he saw her he nodded and turned towards the Palace, and she followed. He had scoped out a small office by the back stairs and as soon as they were inside he drew her into the sort of hug that made every nerve ending in her body relax. She sunk into it, welcoming the warmth and feeling of security she drew from it. She felt he hands running through her hair and she tipped her head back to look at him.
"You OK, sweetheart?"
She smiled, and this time it reached her eyes, as she nodded, then she stood on her toes and reached her hands into his hair to draw his mouth down to hers. He gave her no resistance and their mouths opened against each other in a tender and deeply satisfying kiss. When they broke apart she burrowed back against his chest, wrapping her arms around his middle.
"I miss you, Natalie. And I don't want you staying here tonight. I wish-"
Natalie interrupted him saying, "I know… the only place I want to be every night is with you. But it will go fast - I hope".
"Has Mahmed bothered you today?"
Without hesitating, she shook her head, even as she remembered what he said to her by the pool. It wasn't really any sort of threat, just a "borderline" comment. There was nothing to be done about it - she was stuck here, because even if Mahmed had overtly threatened her, it didn't change the fact that her duty was to stand by Zoë. It would actually be even more important she stay in that situation.
"John, I really can't wait for the day after tomorrow when we can get on the plane and head back to DC. I know we'll only be back there for a week, but I am ready for it. Don't get me wrong - there have been some very enjoyable moments, especially with you, but, I'm tired of being on the road. I need a bit of normal - isn't it crazy that living in the White House is 'normal' now?"
John sighed as he pulled her even tighter against him. "Natalie, 'normal' is an entirely relative term. And that will feel more normal - plus we get at least one major 'de-brief' session, and maybe can grab some time if you cover a shift at The Brazen Head".
"Sounds great."
He tipped her head up again so he could kiss her again, and they were lost in their passion and need to connect for several long minutes until they needed to draw breaths. He held her in what amounted to a bear hug for a few more minutes and said against her hair, "You really are a little thing, aren't you? Except in places where it counts…"
She smiled and said softly into his chest, "Oh yeah, what places are those?" She felt his hands move to the front of her body and then they cupped her breasts and he said against her neck, "Guess?" A tremor ran through her and she felt her nipples harden. She tipped her head back and shivered when she saw the heat in his eyes, then said huskily, "No fair, McBain… no fair."
"You mean you don't like when I touch you like this, sweetheart?" he said in low voice as he continued to do so.
"Yeah I do… but right now it's just a tease..."
"You don't like to be teased, Natalie?" he asked as his right hand trailed down and cupped her between her legs.
"John!" she said as she gripped his forearms, but to steady herself, not to stop the movement of his left hand on her right breast and his hand between her legs. But he realized he was being unfair to both of them and stopped.
He pulled her back in a hug and said softly, "You're right… it's just a tease. I'm sorry. I just can't help myself. Not too much longer…"
"But too long" she sighed.
"Yeah, too long…"
They kissed again but then had to part…they had to leave this moment of privacy.
"Natalie, I mean it. Keep your phone on and in bed next to you. I'll be right outside the gates."
She nodded and hugged him tight one more time and then left to catch the final moments of the fireworks display.
Two hours later Natalie was in her room, having just sent Zoë off for her romantic rendezvous with Greg. She was a little nervous, but was now sure it was something she wanted to do. Natalie would lay odds that that she was more nervous at this point than Zoë. Her room, though beautiful and opulently decorated with a large and equally opulent bathroom en suite, had one major flaw - well, two: first, there was no lock on the door; second, Mahmed was two doors down. But Scott had given her a "thumbs up" before he'd shut his own door for the night, so she let herself cling to that bit of promised security. She'd be OK. It would be OK. She just had to make it through the night.
At 3:00 am Natalie was in the midst of a very bad dream. She felt the cold metal of shackles around her wrists and Javier was looming over her. She tried to sit up but couldn't with her arms yanked over her head and fastened to the headboard. She went to scream but felt Javier's hand clasp over her mouth and his voice say, "Don't you scream… don't you make a sound…" The voice… the voice was wrong she thought… and that's what clued her into the fact that she wasn't dreaming. The voice belonged to Mahmed who was lying on top of her, having just encased her wrists in handcuffs after threading them through the wooden railing of her headboard. Her instinctive response was to buck her hips and fight against the restraints, but she couldn't budge Mahmed and the cuffs were so tight they were already biting into her flesh.
Mahmed asked harshly, "If I remove my hand do you promise not to scream?"
She nodded her head and when he moved his hand she asked around gasping breaths, "What are you doing?!"
"I'm finishing what I started… and your agents are no where in sight this time…" He said with his mouth about five inches from her face, and she could smell the alcohol on his breath, but what was truly scary was he seemed quite lucid and in control, not even slurring his words.
Natalie willed herself to remain calm since nothing good could come of being emotional. Maybe she could talk him out of this. Surely he'd see that this was a terrible idea. "Mahmed… you really… this isn't a good idea…"
When he leaned back from her she thought for an irrational second that she'd gotten through to him, but then she realized he'd moved just so he could rip the bedclothes off her. She had a nightgown on but it didn't cover much, and it had ridden up to the middle of her thighs as she'd slept. If she'd had any other nightwear options she would have worn them, but this was the best she had. He caressed her thighs and said, "Oh, it's a REALLY good idea…"
"Mahmed… Mason has pictures… and audio of the last time. Your fiancé-"
"He won't use them."
"He will!"
"I'll blame you. Tell them - her family - that you are an American whore who threw herself at me, and I was just calling your bluff…"
"They won't believe-"
He slapped her then and whispered venomously, "Don't you DARE tell me how my countrymen will react…"
"OK… OK… then what about Javier. I know your connection and I know he told you that I'm off limits!"
Mahmed smiled and ran his finger between her breasts. "You are right 'Cara Mia' - isn't that what he calls you? Yes, he is sure you will be his. And you will be, I'm sure. But I will have my turn first!"
"But, he'll-"
"He'll do nothing! Not when all is said and done. He needs me."
It was dawning on Natalie that she wasn't going to be able to talk him out of this, nor would she be able to fight too well shackled to the headboard. She had lost any edge she would have had while she was still asleep and he managed to get the jump on her. She hated herself for it but she was starting to tremble, and he rubbed her face and said in a sickly sweet voice, "Oh….don't worry. You'll enjoy it… I promise I'll make sure you get off too…"
"Why are you doing this?"
"Because I want you. I've decided that I'm not as interested in the 72 virgins promised to me. I mean, eventually I'll get them anyway - so I might as well have my fun in this life, too… and I guess I'm as dirty as you are because it's you I want… You must be something really special if you have my billionaire cousin and a top Secret Service agent going crazy to get between those shapely legs of yours… I have to see what all the fuss is about..."
He leaned down to kiss her and she jerked her face away and again tried to buck him off her
while she struggled to see if she could pull her wrists from the cuffs, tears coming to her eyes as she felt her skin tearing.
"Don't fight me… I'll make it hurt…"
She went to scream but he sensed that and clamped his right hand over her throat, squeezing hard, and showed her a knife he had in his left. "Don't scream… don't make me cut you…"
She was shaking in earnest now, but still wasn't ready to concede defeat. "Mahmed… people will know… they'll find out… how-"
"You won't tell - but even if you do, so what? I'm a Crown Prince. I'm important. Who are you? People will talk to people… deals will be struck…You'll go along… so go along now and maybe we can have some fun…"
He had to be even more insane than Javier… or so used to getting his way… Natalie thought about screaming anyway. Maybe Scott would hear… maybe Mahmed wouldn't actually cut her. Should she call his bluff? Wasn't that better than just letting this happen? She was trying to think. She didn't have her arms, but she did have her legs and she jerked them back and tried to kick him off her. He did lose his balance for a moment but then just laughed as he yanked them straight and then sat astride them. He reached down and grabbed the bottom of her nightgown and shoved it up as far as he could, until her breasts were exposed. She thrashed wildly, whimpering as she felt his hands close over them, then thought she'd vomit when his mouth closed over her right nipple.
"Please… please don't do this…" she was at the point where she didn't care if she had to beg this scum.
"Shhhh…it'll be so good…" again he squeezed her neck.
The nightmare continued when he reached down and grabbed hold of her panties. He started to yank them down and her legs were somewhat freer for a moment as he shifted off them so she could pull the scrap of silk from her body. Again, she tried to kick him away but as soon as he had them off he shoved her legs open, pinning each one down painfully with his knees. She was struggling with all her might, though futilely, her upper body writhing, and she knew her wrists were ravaged at this point. Mahmed moved his hands to his pajama pants and shoved them down his hips, his erection springing free, and he moved forward. Natalie couldn't help her instinct to scream as she felt him make contact between her legs and he clamped his right hand over her mouth again while he grabbed hold of his penis with his left to better position himself. Almost all his weight was now concentrated in his knees that were digging agonizingly into the soft flesh of Natalie's thighs. She felt as if her very soul was now shuddering violently - this was really going to happen! How could this be happening?! She squeezed her eyes shut, tears pouring out of them, her breaths coming in gasps against his hand. But then all of a sudden he was gone.
Natalie opened her eyes and in the dark she could make out two shapes struggling. One was Mahmed, but the other was much larger and in the half-moon light she realized it was Scott. He yanked Mahmed's arm up behind his back and rasped, "What the FUCK do you think you're doing?! Have you lost your MIND?! Get the FUCK OUT OF HERE… Wait! Where's the damn key to the handcuffs?" She saw Mahmed hand him something then Scott shoved him roughly towards the door, which he shut tightly behind him.
Scott rushed over to Natalie and she could tell he was rattled. She was still crying, hiccupping, reaction setting in. He grabbed the bottom of her nightgown and pulled it down firmly but gently to cover her and then quickly unlocked her handcuffs. At that moment Natalie just needed to feel strength… to feel secure… and she flew into his arms as he hugged her tight, rocking her back and forth.
"Oh, God, Natalie… I can't believe it. I never thought… I can't believe it…I got up to get a drink and realized his door was open and he wasn't in his room… then I heard you… Did he…?" He felt her shake her head against his chest as her tears poured out there, dampening his t-shirt. She was shaking badly and he just held her as she clung to him… he would until she calmed down. Eventually she did and pulled away, finally starting to feel the painful places in her body that had borne the brunt of Mahmed's assault - her thighs, her throat, and worst of all, her wrists which she knew were likely bleeding.
Shakily she voiced this concern, "I think my wrists are bleeding... I'm going to go into the bathroom to see…" She scooted off the bed and started to head in that direction. Scott asked softly, "Can I help you? Help bandage them, maybe?" She just nodded and he followed her into the bathroom. The bright light was a bit of a shock, but not as much of one as the marks on Natalie that it revealed. She saw them in the mirror at the moment Scott noticed them and he said, "Shit!" She could only shake her head. Already there was bruising around her neck where Mahmed had choked her. She knew her legs were bruised based on how painful they were, but she wasn't about to flash them at this point in front of Scott. In fact she was suddenly realizing how flimsy her nightgown was, but really that was the least of her problems. Her wrists were a mangled mess - bruised, gouged and bloody. Holding her breath she turned the water on to wash them out and she winced badly, groaning soflty. Scott stood waiting with a towel and helped her dry them off carefully.
"Shit Natalie."
She smirked a little and said, "You said that already..."
At that he shook his head and then opened vanity cabinet to look for some sort of bandages. There were none, and when he informed Natalie of this she suggested that for now they just wrap a towel around each wrist - there was a large supply of them. She headed back into the room and climbed back in her bed, pulling her covers up, while Scott followed her and quietly sat in an armchair off to the side. "Are you OK, Natalie?"
She shrugged and said, "Yeah, but I'm not sure how I'm going to hide all this…" she gestured to her wounds.
Scott asked with a bit of surprise, "You want to hide this?"
"I don't know… I honestly don't. Don't get me wrong - I'd love to see that bastard strung up by his balls, and I'm sorry if that is crude and unladylike. But I'm not so sure that would happen, plus I'm worried about the fall-out… this happening here in the Palace… me being the First Daughters' friend, Mahmed a Crown Prince… Greg one, too…but John will see…"
Scott grimaced at that, "Damn, that's right…he'll freak. He should!"
Natalie rubbed her face in her hands, "We won't have any real time together until we get back home… by then, he'll see I'm OK, and, well, in the end he's a professional. God DAMN that asshole Mahmed. I can't believe he went this far this time…" She couldn't help that her voice broke again as she remembered. Scott stood as if to move towards her but she waved her hand and he sat back down. "It's OK… I'm OK… just a little shaky when I remember… "
"You need to get some sleep…"
She laughed a bit at that, "Oh, I don't see that happening…"
"Look, why don't I just sit here, I'm tired enough to sleep standing up at this point so this chair will be fine. No one will get to you, you'll bet some sleep, and then when they're awake we can talk to Greg and Zoë and figure this out a bit more…"
Natalie looked at him for a moment, and realized she wanted to take him up on his offer. She was desperate for some sleep, but didn't want to be left alone. "OK. I'd appreciate that." She slid down in her bed to rest her head against the pillows, and as she did she felt her cell phone under one of them. At that moment she wanted to hear John's voice so badly… she wanted him to come and get her… but she couldn't… she wouldn't. Hearing his voice would cause her to crumble into a needy pile of devastation since she was barely hanging on, and there was nothing he could really do. She'd have to report all this at some point - and soon. But if she could just get on that plane back home… John was her last thought as she drifted off to sleep, and it helped.
Chapter 62
Natalie woke when her phone rang underneath her pillow. She pulled it out and saw it was John calling, and she tried to steady her breathing when she remembered everything that had happened. As she answered she realized Scott was now awake and looking at her, and she closed her eyes as she laid back against her pillow.
"Hey." She said softly
"Hey yourself, sweetheart. You made it through the night?"
Hearing his voice… him calling her that…it knocked whatever resolve she had right out of her. Natalie covered her eyes with her left hand as tears slipped from her eyes, down her temples and into the pillow beneath her. They clogged her throat, too, which strained against the corresponding sobs that wanted to come out. Finally she choked out, "Yeah, I made it through…"
In the car outside the gates John felt a chill along his spine as he heard her voice. "Natalie, are you OK? Is everything OK?"
He heard her voice through the phone say, "Yeah…fine…" but it sounded thick and shaky to him.
"You don't sound-"
"It's just because I haven't talked yet this morning… I need a drink of water…"
Even as Natalie said that her tears still flowed unimpeded.
"Natalie… do you need us to come in there?"
There was nothing she wanted more - and less - at the same time. She needed to be in his arms so much, but she didn't want him to know what had happened to her, yet again. At least not yet. "Everything's fine, John… I made it through…" Her voice broke on that final word and she cleared her throat to cover that fact.
Deep down he didn't believe her - in fact not so deep down - but there was nothing to be done about it at that moment. They would see each other later in the day, when the cocktail party began, which would flow into a formal dinner, which would flow into a much larger gala party. It was going to be a long day, since he wouldn't rest easy until he saw she was OK for himself. Maybe she was just tired and hoarse from sleep… but he couldn't shake the feeling that she wasn't… that she needed him. So, notwithstanding Mason sitting right beside him - and John figured this wouldn't exactly be a surprise to him -- he said softly, "I love you, Natalie."
When Natalie heard that she squeezed her eyes shut even tighter and bit her lips, then said softly, the emotion thick in her voice, "I love you, too, John…"
"I'll see you later this afternoon. Mason and
I are clocking off now and going to get some sleep. But, Natalie, my phone will be on and right beside me… if you need
me…"
"Thanks. I'm fine… and I'll see you later…" she managed to get out in a decent fashion.
"OK. Bye, Natalie."
"Bye John."
Natalie snapped her phone shut and then kept her face covered with both hands for a moment while she collected herself. Then, sitting up she wiped her tears away and faced Scott.
Out in the car, John looked at Mason and said quietly, "I can't be sure, but I think that something happened… She's obviously all right… but I'm not sure that she's well, ACTUALLY all right…Damn! And we can't go in there until the official event starts…"
Mason looked at John and wanted to think he was over-reacting, but he had long ago learned to trust John's instincts. Sure, they might be on hyper-alert when it came to Natalie, but that didn't mean they were wrong. "Shit… well, I guess for now we'll have to take some comfort from the fact that you were able to reach her easily and she was at least talking to you like she's OK… then we'll see…"
"You know, Natalie was right yesterday when she said it - I can't wait to get on the damn plane tomorrow and head back to DC… "
"I hear you. It's been a long three weeks…"
Scott had been watching Natalie carefully while she spoke with John, seeing that she was still very upset. That wasn't exactly surprising, nor was the fact that talking with John brought her emotions to the surface. What was surprising was the traded "I love yous". Wrongly, he had assumed they were having a classic summer fling that was more about physical enjoyment and release - he couldn't fathom what of any consequence would take root between a 19 year old coed and a skilled and very senior Secret Service agent in his late 30s… yet Scott knew from personal experience that age was not as big of a deal as people made it out to be. His mother and father had been married for 30 years, and they had a 25 year split in ages - and he knew they loved each other very much and were still a devoted couple. Everyone had assumed his mother was the classic trophy wife, but the prize she represented to his father - and he to her - went far, far deeper than that superficial description.
He asked softly, "Are you OK?"
"I will be… I guess I was expecting to wake up and find everything better in the light of day… it just makes it all the more real…"
"Do you know what you want to do?"
"Do?"
"About telling anyone…making an official complaint…"
She smiled but it held no humor, "Do you see anything coming of that? Except for creating a tabloid-feeding, salacious scandal? The friend of the First Daughter is assaulted by a Middle Eastern Crown Prince? In the Palace of a European Crown Prince? Rescued by a member of an 'American Royalty' family? Because I'm sure there would be some leaks somewhere - and wow, all the elements are in place for it to be a story that won't die. And maybe you don't know how these things work, but I certainly do - as Mahmed so nicely reminded me last night, I'm really nobody… so who do you think will take the worst drubbing? What's my angle… do I want fame? A pay-off? And I don't mean to be rude, Scott, because you've been great, but in the end are you going to side with mea against your buddy? You certainly witnessed all this, but, really, when push comes to shove…?"
Scott let her continue uninterrupted because she was giving voice to many of his own thoughts. He was conflicted. He HAD seen with his own eyes what Mahmed was doing. What he came scarily close to doing to her. He still couldn't believe it because there was nothing in his knowledge and experience with Mahmed to suggest it was even remotely possible that he would have gone there… sneaking into her room! Handcuffs! Such reckless behavior geared at an individual was not part of his normal patterns. And that's what made it hard because he knew the "other" Mahmed - his friend with whom he shared so many ideas and hopes for their futures. They had grown from boys to men together through Harvard and now grad school in London…
He realized he had to say something, "I still am having trouble believing he did it - and yet I DID see it with my own eyes…it's just that I know a totally different Mahmed…"
It didn't upset Natalie that he was conflicted about this. Sure, the still-furious and decimated part of her saw it all in very black and white terms: Mahmed had come in here to rape her, and had shackled her in handcuffs to make it easier. Scott had witnessed and stopped that from happening. No question. Nothing vague about what he'd been attempting. But…she understood his conflict. More importantly, her own precarious relationship with the truth was all the gray area necessary to make it impossible for her to push for action against Mahmed. If anything, the opposite was required. She sighed deeply.
"I don't think we can say anything… I don't think we should… but, the challenge will be, hiding it. At least until we are out of here. That means getting through tonight..." She groaned when she thought of that. "Damn, there is no way my dress will hide anything… except maybe my legs. Shit! Well, I'll have to figure something out, because if I try to feign sickness that will just raise red flags…"
Scott nodded, feeling some relief wash over him. Then Natalie looked him square in the eye, "Scott, I don't care what you have to do, but you need to keep him away from me… and I mean, away. If he ever comes near me again then I will NOT be silent any more and I don't care what happens to me in the process I will make sure he faces the consequences of what he's done…"
"I'll make sure… Greg and I both will…"
"I guess we have to tell him… and Zoë… "
"I think we'll need their help… especially you… in fact, maybe I should go try to connect with Greg - if you think the coast is clear at this point…" he grinned.
Natalie smiled too and said, "Well, if they're still together it won't be for long since I'm sure they don't want to get caught…"
At that moment the door opened and an excited Zoë flew in the door, "Natalie!" She stopped dead when she saw Natalie wasn't alone, then the evolution of her observations and thoughts played across her face in stunning clarity. Her surprise to find Scott there and if that meant he and Natalie had been "together" during the night, which made NO sense given her relationship with John. But then she really looked at Natalie and saw her neck… her wrists resting on her bedcovers, still wrapped in towels…
"Natalie!" She flew to her friend's side. "What? Who?"
Scott answered, "Mahmed…"
"That BASTARD!" Zoë yelled. "We have to tell-"
"No, Zoë. No." Natalie said gently. Then she explained why not. By that point Zoë was hugging Natalie saying she was sorry over and over. Scott excused himself to find Greg and explain, and they agreed they'd all meet in Greg's sitting room in 15 minutes to come up with some sort of action plan.
"Zoë, you're crushing me" Natalie half-laughed.
"I'm sorry…." Zoë's voice broke and Natalie realized she was crying.
"Zoë….
"This is all my fault!"
"No!"
"Yes! You were only here, unprotected, because of
me. He'd NEVER have gotten to you… so while I was having one of the most amazing nights of my life, you… Oh, God,
Natalie…"
"Zoë, Scott stopped him. I'll be OK… but let's talk about happy things… you and Greg…"
"It was incredibly special… but I don't want to talk about that now… it isn't right. I can't believe it, Natalie… I'm so sorry…"
Natalie gripped her friend's hands in hers. "Please, Zoë, you can't blame yourself - it was ALL Mahmed. HE did this. You had no way of knowing and we should have been perfectly safe…"
Zoë hugged Natalie tightly again, and then Natalie pulled on some sweats so she could make her way down to Greg's study. Zoë was already similarly attired, having gotten changed in her room quickly before coming to see Natalie. Greg was subdued, just getting over his horror. He agreed with the overall plan, so they had the more tactical challenge of hiding Natalie's injuries in her evening attire. He finally decided to bring his sister into the fold. It took a little bit of convincing for her not to tell her parents - but she understood the desire to avoid a scandal. She then ushered Zoë and Natalie to her large suite of rooms and into her massive walk-in closet and dressing area and finally found a few solutions: a long jet-beaded black chiffon scarf that would match Natalie's dress and she could drape around her neck, and two very large cuff bracelets that would hide her wrists. Maybe they could pull this off…
Scott essentially kept Mahmed sequestered for the entire day, having food brought to his room and telling people he was a bit under the weather. He and Greg had talked about just sending him back to London, but were afraid that would raise too many questions at this point - but all had pledged to ensure that he stayed as far away from Natalie as possible, or that they'd never let her be alone with him when they had to be in each others' company.
As Natalie was getting ready for the evening's festivities, she felt completely worn out and all she wanted to do was crawl into bed and pull the covers over her head. But what bed? Certainly not this one. So back at the Ritz? The White House? Her own apartment in DC, which she hadn't seen in forever? Or her room back in Llanfair with her mother coddling her? That sounded like heaven but she realized that she really wanted it to be any bed that had John in it with her, where he could hold her and make her feel everything would be all right. She donned her dress - a strapless black silk and chiffon cocktail dress that swirled approximately one inch above her knees. At least one thing worked in her favor - if she'd chosen one of her shorter dresses she'd be in trouble since this one barely covered her bruised inner thighs and she was going to have to be very careful when she sat down. After doing her make up and brushing her hair around her shoulders, she draped the long black chiffon and jet-beaded scarf around her neck, managing to cover her bruises which were contained largely around her collar area and not further up her throat. Another lucky break - and yes, she did realize the lunacy of thinking any of this was "lucky". Finally, she clasped the three-inch silver cuffs around her wrists, wincing a little bit since they didn't give her enough room to have bandages underneath them. They stayed pretty much in place, but she'd also have to be careful how she moved her arms around since they could ride up a bit and expose her wounds which were significant. Finally she put her diamond drop earrings in her ears, and her diamond necklace, even though the scarf hid it for the most part. It made her feel better to wear it.
Natalie looked carefully at herself in the mirror, forcing herself to smile and look as "normal" as possible. She'd tried her best to hide the dark circles under her eyes and just prayed she could pull this off and buy herself some time before she reported what had happened - because she would have to, but she just couldn't face it right now. She'd lose whatever shred of composure she was managing to cling to, especially if she had to talk to John about this. She was so tired… so tired of having to bounce back from violation after violation… why was this happening to her so much? That was a loaded question and one she had neither the time, energy nor heart to contemplate. She heard a knock and Zoë's voice, and she called for her to come in.
Zoë was in a black cocktail dress as well - hers was a halter - and her face was as wan and pinched as Natalie's. With a heavyhearted voice she asked, "How are you, Natalie? Were you able to nap at all?"
Natalie shook her head, "I couldn't sleep, but I did lie down and rest. It helped some. But let's not talk about all this anymore… I really want to know about your night with Greg - I mean, not the gory details, but if it was all you'd hoped."
Zoë smiled softy at that and said, "Yeah. It really was. And you were right - I just went with what felt right and I was fine… more than fine…" she blushed. "But Greg is so bothered by what happened with you and Mahmed - what he did. He said that he just had never seen that in his friend… "
"Scott said the same thing… I don't know, maybe Mahmed is just struggling for some reason now, but I'm done making any excuses for him. I mean, I can understand, I guess, if they can't just write him off, but I hope their eyes are open a bit…"
"I'm sure. And I wish we could tell my dad - and maybe we still will at some point - because know I don't want to go to Kuman…I know that as a country they're our 'friends', but their Crown Prince is a vicious animal!"
"I'm not going to argue with you on that, but in the end, there are broader considerations than me and what happened."
On that note they headed down to have a quick drink with the King, Queen, Greg and other houseguests in advance of the beginning of the party. Mahmed was there but he didn't even look in Natalie's direction which suited her fine.
Thirty minutes later, Zoë and Greg were once again tied up on the receiving line and Natalie spied John and Mason standing inside by the exit to the pool area. She knew she needed to see them, to get that over with -and so much of her wanted and needed to be with John, and even with Mason for his strength and humor. She put a smile on her face and tried to lighten her step, and just seeing them helped.
"Hey, you two… I never get tired of seeing you in your tuxes."
She knew John was looking at her carefully, and he said, "Hey, Natalie. You look really pretty - but a bit tired. Are you OK?"
"I am… for some reason I just couldn't quite get to sleep last night… too many strange beds in too short a time I guess - it's catching up to me…then again, maybe I just missed you…" She couldn't help the small note of sadness that colored her voice as she said that, and it was not lost on either of the men. Mason being Mason tried to lighten the mood a bit, "Well, did Zoë and the Crown Penis, I mean Prince, keep you awake? You weren't feeling jealous and left out, wishing you had company in your own bed?"
Natalie had started to smile and roll her eyes at his first question, but as he completed his second she could feel her smile freeze a bit before she let it broaden. "You are so bad… I assure you I didn't hear anything that kept me awake - the Crown PRINCE'S suite is in another wing. And I will absolutely admit that I wished that a certain someone was with me… more than you know…" Again the note of sadness, so she smiled an especially brilliant smile, she hoped.
Mason continued, but she knew that he was also looking at her with added scrutiny, "Well, I was stuck with your buddy here in a car, trying to keep awake so we could make sure our two girls were safe in here last night…" He had said that deliberately and could have sworn he detected a slight stiffening in her spine - and a quick glance at John showed he had too since his eyes had narrowed just a little bit. At that moment John reached out to touch her scarf, saying "This is a nice touch…" and Natalie seemed to hold her breath for a half-second before she said, "Yeah, it seemed like a fun addition…"
"And these, too" Mason said as he picked up one of her hands to look more closely at her cuff bracelet. And again he got a slightly tight smile, which he thought covered a slight wince.
Natalie stayed and made small talk a bit longer with John and Mason, trying as hard as she could without being obvious to be her normal, cheerful, bantering self. She thought she was pretty much pulling it off when she happened to look up and see Mahmed and Scott walking in their direction. She knew she started for a second - visibly. A second later Scott was guiding Mahmed in the opposite direction. Natalie knew she needed to get away from them at that moment to regroup. She'd swing by to see them again so she could try to assuage any concerns, but right now retreating seemed best because neither John nor Mason missed a thing.
"You know what - I've got to use the restroom… I'll be back soon… " She grabbed John's hand and gave it a quick squeeze and then was gone.
As soon as she was out of earshot John asked Mason, "It's not just me, right? Something seem off to you?"
Mason sighed, "Definitely not just you … something didn't seem right… but overall she seems fine."
"Something went down last night… I am going to keep a very close eye on that Kumani bastard, and when we get back to the hotel tonight… I think we need to push Natalie a bit. Maybe now isn't the time… here isn't the place, but we've got to find out what happened…"
Over the next couple of hours nothing uneventful happened as they segued from cocktails to dinner to the big party. Except Natalie, Zoë and Greg seemed to be seated as far away as possible from Scott and Mahmed - and no one seemed to be particularly thrilled to talk to the latter, even his purported best friends. When the party started Natalie did swing by to visit with John and Mason again, and she seemed to have her "game face" more tightly in place - but if anything that was another red flag. As she went to dance with Zoë, John redoubled his efforts to keep an eye on Mahmed. Mason, however, opted to watch Natalie like a hawk and he noticed her fidgeting with her scarf and bracelets and it didn't take long for him to deduce that she was literally covering something up with them. He felt his pulse race a moment at that thought and knew that as soon as he could he was going to get her alone and confront her - but he wanted to do it without tipping John off yet because his gut told him what he'd hear would be inflammatory.
Mason got his chance ten minutes later when Chase asked John for 30-45 minutes of his time - the Royal Guard wanted to discuss some of the Secret Service's coverage formations and Chase wanted John with him for that since much of it could not be revealed, though they would share some insights. Mason told them he'd walk the perimeter - and he whispered to John that he might try to find Angela for a bit - but he immediately scoped out Natalie instead. He found her near one of the bars and put his arm around her shoulders.
"Hey, darlin'… John is off with Chase for some meeting for the next half hour or so, and I'm at a bit of a loose end. I'm always curious as to how the other one percent lives… you mind indulging my curiosity and showing me your room?"
Natalie couldn't help the look of surprise and when she looked at him Mason laughed and said, "Come on, you know you can trust me! It's not a ruse to get you near a bed…" He winked and then laughed as she blushed, but she began to lead the way. As she did Natalie felt her pulse race as if she was being led to her execution. She was pretty sure that Mason had an ulterior motive for getting her alone. As she neared her door Mason questioned who had occupied the other rooms, and trying to keep both her expression and tone neutral she'd pointed out Mahmed's and Scott's doors.
Mason was pretty impressed with Natalie and her performance. She was turning into quite a good agent - quick on her feet, good instincts, understood what was important information - but she was still young and inexperienced and she couldn't help the "tell" that gave her away: she'd fidgeted with her scarf when she'd mentioned Mahmed's name.
Once they were inside Natalie's room and the door was closed Mason asked quietly, "Natalie, darlin', is there anything you want to tell me?"
She tried to laugh it off and say, "I don't know what you mean…"
Slowly Mason approached her and then he picked up one of her hands, raised it up and gently pushed one of her cuff bracelets up her arm a bit to expose the raw and bruised flesh underneath. Mason had thought he was prepared, but he was wrong - he'd never expected to see evidence of such painful brutality and he felt his stomach drop while a bolt of fury heated his blood. But he kept a tight rein on that, the only indication a spark in his eyes and a clenching muscle in his jaw. Natalie said nothing, just looked at him with wide eyes as she tried to steady her breathing. She knew she was busted. A small part of her was glad, but most of her wanted to do anything but have this conversation… this confrontation. He slid the other one up just to double check, and then moved his hands to her scarf, gently unwinding it from around her neck. He closed his eyes for a second when he saw the fingertip-shaped bruises around her neck. They looked at each other for 10 tense seconds.
"OK, Natalie… are you sure there's nothing you want - or need - to tell me?"
Still she just looked at him, not knowing how to begin since she was afraid she'd unravel quickly once she started to talk about it.
Mason gently gripped Natalie's upper arms, "Please, Natalie… as your friend, I want to know…but I also need to know… Please, please, please don't make me pull rank… don't do that to me, to us…"
Natalie expelled a deep breath and pulled back a bit, but tried to meet his gaze head on when she said quickly, without emotion, "Mahmed snuck in here early this morning to finish what he started. He didn't succeed. Scott, thankfully, got up to get a drink and he realized Mahmed was out of his room. Earlier in the evening, I… I had told him the truth about what Mahmed had done to me in France, since he was under the misapprehension it had simply been an 'aggressive pass'… I wanted him to understand why I didn't want to be anywhere near Mahmed, and to hopefully have an ally here if anything did happen… good thing because the moment he saw Mahmed's empty room he came immediately here - and stopped him. That's it."
Mason took all this in, and knew what she was trying to do - stick to bare facts to keep the emotions at bay. He couldn't allow that on two fronts - one was the professional reality of the details being necessary, but most importantly, he knew she didn't get her injuries from a quick attempted assault that was so easily dismissed, and she needed to deal with the emotional fall-out, even if she would fight against that at every turn. In a deliberately sharp tone he prodded her, "Oh, that's it, huh? Sorry, darlin' but I don't need the Reader's Digest version, remember? And there is no way you got THOSE injuries in some quickly-over, low-consequence attack. So I'll ask you again - EXACTLY what happened?"
He saw the spark of anger in her eyes as she said, "Oh, right… how could I forget from the LAST time Mahmed attacked me - you guys need excruciating details. SUCH a pity that THIS time you weren't around to record and photograph it!"
He said nothing, knowing her anger was a good start. He quirked an eyebrow that bade her to continue.
Swallowing almost convulsively, her throat suddenly very dry, Natalie said, "Fine. Before I knew what was happening, he had me handcuffed to the headboard and he was stretched out on top of me. At first I thought it was a terrible dream and that he was Javier… that would have been a lot better. I tried to fight. The cuffs were so tight they began tearing into my skin almost immediately. I went to scream but first he covered my mouth, and then choked me. Still, I tried to fight, using my legs… but he subdued me. I kept trying to talk him out of it, but everything I said he just rebuffed. He was not going to be dissuaded. When I realized he really meant… meant to do that to me… I started to fight some more… Again, I was going to scream but this time he pulled out a knife… and then… well, then Scott came in and dragged him off me… kicked him out… uncuffed me and helped me dress my wrists… he… he stayed in the chair the rest of the night just to make sure Mahmed didn't try again. We discussed it, and we concluded it didn't make sense to… to take any real action. Too scandalous… and of course you know why I would be against saying anything..."
It was the first time she looked directly at Mason, she'd been focusing on a spot on the floor. She could tell he was furious and upset over what she'd related, but he nodded even as it was his turn to swallow hard.
Natalie continued, "We convinced Zoë and Greg that was best. I have to say, the two guys are truly stunned at Mahmed's behavior… they found it very out of character. I suppose I just bring it out in weirdos, huh?" She needed to keep up her monologue now because it helped her keep some distance from the horrifying details she was relating - she could focus on her words, not her memories… not on reliving it all. She couldn't bring herself to go there because she would totally lose it. "Between attempts to fight him off I did gather a few interesting tidbits for our intel collection. Mahmed told me that for now he'd prefer being with me - meaning he must be 'dirty' like me - than the 72 virgins he'll ultimately get anyway, so it sounds like he thinks at some point he'll be a martyr. Oh, and then - this'll tell you how desperate I was - I actually pulled the Javier card… as in, Javier thinks I'm his and he'd warned Mahmed away from me… Mahmed was unimpressed. He, for the record, believes Javier will end up getting me, but wanted his turn first - and he said Javier would let him slide in the end because he 'needed him'… so, that of course begs the question as to what Javier needs him so badly for…and, that's it!"
She had been talking with a degree of sarcastic irreverence, which was clearly a protective mechanism. Mason wasn't sure exactly what to say yet, but his gut told him she was in that brittle zone that they had to get her through - she had to let the emotions out… her experience last night had to have been her most terrifying to date, at least since her torture sessions… he decided to remain a bit longer on professional considerations, and he knew part of it was cowardice on his part - he wasn't sure how he'd handle this either, since he was horrified and furious, unsure he'd keep it together.
"Natalie - were you going to tell us?"
All of a sudden Natalie needed to sit… it was taking a lot out of her to ride herd on her roiling emotions and memories. She sighed deeply and backed up towards her bed, boosting herself backwards onto the high piece of furniture as she said with a slight edge of irritation, "Yes, of course. I DO know what my mission is overall… but… I just thought it better to wait until we were out of here… to not create a huge incident… I mean, I wasn't sure if, well, frankly if John would want to pummel Mahmed into the next century, when in the end he'd see it the same way we all did, though for different reasons - we couldn't blow it all up…."
Natalie had not been paying much attention to Mason when she'd been saying all this, since she was again just trying to let the words flow out and keep her from her more dangerous thoughts and feelings which she was sure would catch up with her if she slowed down. It wasn't until she heard him gasp, "Natalie…" that she did, and her heart thudded to a stop in her chest for a moment when she looked at him. It was clear he hadn't heard a word she'd said because his eyes were locked on her legs, and she groaned inwardly, cursing herself for her mistake. She had forgotten herself when she'd carelessly plopped on the high bed, and her dress had ridden up exposing her severe bruises at the perfect level for Mason to see - and he had.
Mason felt and heard his blood rush in his ears as he looked at Natalie's legs. As she had rambled on he had closed his eyes, hoping that when he opened them he'd realize his eyes had been deceiving him - no such luck. His blood was like ice water as he contemplated those bruises and what they meant… how they'd been made. There was only one way. Mahmed had spread her legs wide open and then kept them that way - kept her at his mercy - with his knees grinding painfully, for some time, into the tender flesh of her inner thighs. Suddenly he wondered if she was lying - if in fact Mahmed and succeeded - and he felt fear crackle along his spine.
Mason stepped forward and placed a gentle hand on each of Natalie's knees. Their eyes were locked though he had seen enough of her face to know she'd become ashen - and her breath was now uneven, matching his.
"Natalie… " he swallowed hard. "Natalie… you said he didn't---"
She shook her head but not before he saw tears pool in her eyes, "He DIDN'T! Scott stopped him… before he could! I swear!"
"How close did he come?" He asked with muscles clenching in his jaw, as fury stiffened every muscle in his body. "How close, Natalie?"
She was shaking a bit now, so she grabbed for the protective strength of anger, "Oh, that's right! The details again. My PROFESSIONAL duty to let everyone crawl all over me with a damn electron microscope. God forbid I have an ounce of privacy about any of this stuff - no I guess I have to be an open fucking book, just like my legs were! Noooo, before it was John and Chase, but then again you were there, but now 'boss Mason' needs to know-"
He squeezed her knee caps a bit to get her attention and she was struck by the anguish on his face when he said in a voice that matched, 'NO! Not your boss… your friend! I care about you, Natalie… You're my friend, too and I need to know-"
She cut him off, still in anger-mode because she just couldn't face the truth let alone talk about it. "Oh, sorry, I guess I'm just not as quick on the uptake as the rest of you when it comes to what side of the line we're on at any given moment - professional? Personal? ON the fucking line?! Because the problem is it all FEELS so GOD damn personal… what's happening to ME…"
"How close Natalie?!" he asked soflty.
She had no more strength to fight it… him. She gripped his hands that were on her knees and locked eyes with his again even as hers began to drop big fat tears down her cheeks. She took a big, shuddering breath that stopped just short of being a hiccup, and said in a voice thick with emotion, "As close as… as close as he could get without… being… being inside me…me yet… " She was shaking badly at this point but now that she'd finally begun to tell it she had to continue, it had to come out, like poison from a lanced wound. Her eyes were huge in her face, and swimming with tears as she looked at him. "He… he was right there, Mason. One… one thrust… one… if… if Scott had… had… been just…just ONE second later… Oh God… Oh God…"
Mason caught her as she fell forward and gathered her in his arms. Her whole body was now quaking as she wept, and he could have joined her, he felt such an intense mix of sorrow and fury. He picked her up and walked over to the armchair and sat down in it with her across his lap, clinging to him. His arms were wrapped around her and for long minutes he just rocked her back and forth, and held her head against his chest with one big hand as his other rubbed her back in a soothing motion. Over time he could feel her relax a bit against him, but she made no move to pull back and he knew she was trying to soak in some balance and strength - he'd give her as much as she needed.
Natalie was exhausted, spent, but that was partially because for the first time since Mahmed had made his "off" comment to her by the cabana she felt safe - and she was relaxing into that luxurious feeling. Eventually she did pull away a bit, though she remained on his lap, and she wiped her tears off her cheeks with shaky hands. Mason stood up and gently deposited her on the side of the bed, then withdrew a handkerchief and began to wipe her face while she tried to give him a smile. It didn't quite work, but he took it as a good sign that she was at least starting to rebound a bit. Finally he sat beside her on the bed and turned his upper body in her direction, taking her hand in his. "I'm so very sorry, Natalie… I can't even imagine…" He shuddered at the thought of what might have happened. "It must have been so terrifying for you… thank God Scott was here… I wish you would have called us…"
"Mason, I couldn't… surely you know that…"
"From a strictly professional standpoint, you're right, but…"
"But that has to come first - most of the time, for the time being…"
Mason nodded sadly and then asked, "Honey, do you want me to go get John now?"
"No! No… I'm… I'll tell him, but I'm just not ready for him to know…"
"Because you're afraid of what he'll do to Mahmed? He'll want to kill him, really, this time, but I can help-"
"It isn't just that… I just don't want him to see…to think…"
"What, darlin'?"
A few tears slid down her cheeks as she struggled to say, "That I'm pathetic… a pathetic, constant victim… I can't help it… I feel… I feel… so ashamed…"
Now Mason felt like the floor had dropped out from under him and he asked in shock as he gently took her by both shoulders, "Dear, sweet Jesus, why would you feel ashamed, Natalie?! What happened IS shameful but it isn't YOUR shame honey!"
"But, Mason, I'm the common denominator! This keeps happening to me, and it isn't just Mahmed - but Javier, and Rocco, and that maniac Hawkins… and then my good college buddy before that! And I'm supposed to be a trained agent, theoretically able to defend myself… I mean, at some point, don't I have to consider that it's ME…. somehow I'm doing something? Do I have something printed on my face? Do I give off a smell - or am I somehow coming across as this weak, awful… I don't know, as someone who just deserves…"
She was breaking down again and he gathered her into a hug as he whispered, "Natalie… God, Natalie, you are going to turn every hair in my head gray, and before this is all over I swear you are going to break my heart… you HAVE to stop this… this isn't your fault - NONE of it is your fault…look at me… look at me…" he said as he pulled back and held her face in his hands. "This isn't you… except for the fact that you are this achingly beautiful young woman because you have this energy… this life force and it burns so bright - and yes, it draws people in… and some, sadly, are lunatics… but it drew John to you, too… and no one had managed to do that before… not for a very long time and not this way… and you are also forgetting a very important fact - yes you are a skilled agent, but you aren't SUPPOSED to be one so you have had to hold back… and then to make matters worse, we, your superiors, have turned you into BAIT. If anyone is at fault…well, you're not even on that list, honey."
She sagged against him and said, "I'm just so tired…so tired… I just want to go home, but I don't know what that really means any more - at least not for now… You want to hear pathetic… at this moment I really want my mom…" She chuckled at that and he joined along and said, "Well, for now you're stuck with Uncle Mason, darlin'"
Natalie giggled at that and asked, "Uncle Mason, huh?"
"Yep. Dirty Old Uncle Mason…."
They both laughed then, and she squeezed him tight as she said, "You know, you really are such a sweet, sweet man… "
"Yeah, yeah…" he said as he returned the squeeze, but as he did so he thought of the people he'd dealt with who'd have a decidedly different take - and Mahmed was about to become one of them. Natalie pulled back to look at him and said, "I mean it… thank you… for, for talking through all this with me… I'll tell John - but I'm not sure there'll be a good time before we get home… maybe on the plane…"
Mason nodded and said, "Well, I do think you need to do it soon, but if you want to wait until then, well, it should be fine. I will give Chase a quick heads-up just to make sure all bases are covered, because you have once again gotten us some interesting information on Mahmed and Javier. Now - are you up to heading back downstairs?"
"Yes - I just need to freshen up a bit, get rid of my raccoon eyes…"
"You go ahead, I'll wait for you…"
"Mason, you don't-"
"Darlin' I am not leaving you alone here…"
She gave him a final hug and scooted off the bed to repair her make up and reposition her scarf. They blended back into the crowd and Natalie was already talking to Zoë with a fresh drink in hand when she saw John walking into the room with Chase and the head of the Royal Guard - perfect timing. She saw Mason head in their direction - and then pair off with Chase while John came towards her.
"Hey" he said softly.
She gave him a real smile this time and said, "Hey… can you believe we finally head home tomorrow?"
"I can't wait, Natalie…"
"Me neither…"
He realized she seemed more relaxed, more like her normal self, and wondered what had led to that shift -- he was glad to see, it but still worried about what had previously had her so clearly troubled. Hopefully they'd have a chance to talk through all of it - whatever "it" was. At that moment, what he wanted more than anything was to make sure she knew how he felt about her. It had been a painfully long time since he'd been able to really hold her and make love to her… to fully show her… so he leaned in closely for a second and said softy, "I love you, Natalie…"
Natalie looked into his face with a beaming smile that made her eyes sparkle - "I love you, too, John..."
They stayed talking about inconsequential things for a few more minutes, and Zoë chimed in with some typically funny observations.
Meanwhile, after finishing up with Chase - who agreed it best to update John once they were away from The Palace and Mahmed - Mason went stalking his prey. He caught up with Mahmed as he exited the restroom and before the smaller man knew what was happening he felt the tight grip of Mason's large hand clamping on the back of his neck and he was being firmly escorted outside to a quiet side garden. Once they reached there - away from eye and ear shot of everyone - Mason tossed him on the ground and quickly straddled him, pinning Mahmed's arms to his side and half-crushing his chest, making it hard for him to breath. The fear in his eyes supplanted the initial anger.
Mason leaned forward and grabbed his face so that Mahmed had no choice but to look him in the eye.
In a venom-fueled voice Mason said, "I REALLY hate to repeat myself, Mahmed. I thought we had an understanding in France, but you are obviously much denser than I ever imagined. So let me make this clear. My threat is no longer to out you to your fiancé. In fact, I'm not threatening you at all - I am making you an ironclad PROMISE of what WILL happen to you if you EVER put a hand on Natalie again. You see, I wasn't always a Secret Service Agent - let's just say I used to be involved in some covert groups and 'projects'. I still have lots and lots of friends from that day. I've already put them on notice about you. Next time - if you are so stupid - you get no warning. You will be visited by my friends and they will kill you - in a way that will make you pray for its ultimate release. But here's the fun part - for them, and me, at least. Before they kill you, they will make sure you understand the pain and terror of rape, several times over. You see, some of them are as diseased and hate-riddled as you, so normally I keep my distance from them. But not in this case, since their hate is directed at people like you… Muslims… from the Middle East. It's irrational and indiscriminate and hateful - and I certainly don't condone or embrace it, but it is perfect for my needs. And let me just say they would pay ME for the privilege and enjoyment of butt-fucking a Middle Eastern Crown Prince who'd hurt a lovely young American girl. Please, please test me on this…part of me really wants you to so I know we can rid you from this earth like the vermin that you are - except that would mean you'd touched Natalie again, so I'll have to hope you come to your senses. Do you read me? DO YOU READ ME?!"
Mahmed was shaken, and he could only nod. Mason climbed off him and then sneered, "You God damn pussy - you wet your fucking pants! Not so big and tough now, are you? If I hear you've so much as LOOKED crooked at Natalie again - well, as I've said, I don't like to repeat myself. You know what will happen - and don't think for a second my friends can't get to you - they're like the wind… the dark… they just are, and they can get to anyone, anywhere… and they already have a hard-on for you… "
At that Mason head back to find John. He, too, couldn't wait until they were all safely on Air Force One and heading stateside again. Even as a nagging voice in the back of his mind was taunting him with the notion that as bad as things had gotten - mostly for Natalie - the worst was yet to come. At that thought, he decided to find Angela instead. He needed to see her, even for five minutes… she represented all that was still nice and good and sane in his world. That thought slowed his step for a minute, but then he picked up his pace.
Chapter 63
Though the party would continue on in their absence, mercifully the First Family and their entourage were on their way back to the Ritz by 11pm. With a deep sigh Natalie settled into her seat in the large SUV and gave Zoë's hand a squeeze - the younger woman was trying to hide how sad she was to have said good-bye to Greg, but there were already plans in motion for him to possibly connect with them on their trip through Australia and parts of Asia. Natalie also took incredible solace in the presence of Mason and John in their SUV. She had not had any more time alone with either man, but the solid sight of them buoyed her tremendously. What she needed at this moment was to sink into her bed back at the hotel, and drift off to much-needed sleep, knowing she was safe and sound.
Unfortunately, Natalie was not to find peace in her sleep. Too many horrible experiences had piled up and were assaulting her subconscious, powered by the emotions that were playing close to the surface and barely under her control while she was awake. A vivid dream stalked her and became clear in all its Technicolor horror.
Start Dream
Natalie sat across a large desk from Javier, tears pouring down her cheeks as he smiled malevolently.
"Cara Mia - didn't I tell you this day would come? You could have made it so much easier. No one ever had to be hurt… it's too late for Zoë… but you can save your agent…"
"Anything… anything… I… I BEG of you… just let him go and I will do whatever you want…"
"Beg me to bury myself between your legs…"
She shuddered and couldn't quite form the words. Javier stood and said, "We are done!" and began to walk past her. She jumped out of her seat and stood in front of him, imploring him, "Please!"
He gripped both of her arms and said, "You KNOW what you need to do!"
"Javier…. Please… take me - I'm yours. However you want… "
"Do you want me between your legs?"
"Yes."
"In your mouth?"
"Yes."
"Buried in your ass?"
She trembled and choked out, "Yes."
He stroked her face, touched her hair and said, "Tonight, Cara Mia, we will make love all night and into tomorrow… but right now we have a few formalities to dispense with…" He said this in a businesslike fashion as he straightened up and moved away from her.
"I don't understand… what…?"
"Two things... first of all, we have to consummate this deal right away - before I let your agent go. We will, of course, make up for the impersonal abruptness of it tonight… He will be a witness to this formality…"
Natalie recoiled in horror, "No!"
"My dear, I had to watch HIM take you… now it's his turn…"
"But that was your CHOICE!"
"My CHOICE?! No, Cara Mia, at that point you weren't giving me a choice, but now… now we are where I always knew we'd be… you need me… so now it's my rules… And now to the other item on the agenda…"
Javier turned, walked to the door and opened it - and Natalie truly thought her heart would jump out of her chest, but she'd welcome that if it would kill her and take her away from this horror. Because filing into the room, one at a time, with matching, leering grins, were Mahmed, Rocco and Hawkins.
Natalie backed away from them and Javier came to her side and took her ice-cold hand in his.
"Cara Mia, each of these men played a role in getting us to this point… I feel I owe them something…" He laughed. "Well, they definitely feel I do. I could not grant them what they really wanted - which was to fuck you - but we settled on a compromise… they each get one kiss, and then get to watch me while I consummate our deal in front of your agent…"
"No! NO!"
"Natalie" Javier said with a hard-edged tone. "This is non-negotiable. It is either this way, or your agent dies. And then maybe I'll take you anyway…Going along is the only way your agent has a second chance…"
Tears flowed down Natalie's cheeks as she realized with abject certainty that this was going to happen - that she had no choice. Javier's words had been prophetic - of course he had the resources to MAKE them come true, so it wasn't that he was a soothsayer, merely a vicious, powerful predator who always got his way. Mundane, but devastating.
Javier took Natalie by her upper arms and turned her around to thrust her at Rocco, who pulled her to him and took over her mouth. Natalie tried to block out this reality as she was passed from Rocco, to Mahmed and then to Hawkins, though the endless minutes felt like centuries. Finally it was over, though by the end she was a sobbing mess, only standing because Javier had taken her upper arms again in a vice-like grip.
Javier turned to Rocco and Hawkins and said, "Go get the agent!"
They left and were soon back with John, who looked half-dead on his feet, since he'd obviously been beaten badly. When he saw Natalie he rasped, "Natalie!"
Sobbing with renewed force she struggled to gasp out, "Joohnn…. Oh my God…"
"Don't do this Natalie… DON'T DO THIS!!!"
"I have….have to… to… to… save… you…"
"No!"
Javier broke in, "This is very touching, but the die has been cast. Agent McBain, you can watch me as I begin to collect the rich ransom that is being paid to secure your freedom… I hope you enjoy it as much as I enjoyed see you take Natalie… in fact, why don't I do it similarly… from behind… so you can see the ecstasy on her face… so you two can look at each other…"
John began to struggle with all his might, though he was weak from repeated beatings. He was shoved into the chair in front of the desk as Javier brought Natalie behind it. What rocked John to his core was that she wasn't even fighting - she was resigned to her fate and it was to save him.
"Natalie… don't… just let me die… I'll WANT to die if you do this… if you are with him... if I have to live with knowing you did this for me…"
Natalie just closed her eyes against his pain, and hers, as she felt Javier bend her over the desk. As she felt him push her skirt up and pull her panties off her. She could hear John's breaths coming in gasps now as he struggled… as he cried… Or was that her gasping… crying…? She opened her eyes and saw it was both of them.
"Nat… " was all he could manage.
"I have… have to… please forgive me…"
Though his shoulders were still held down by Rocco and Hawkins, John managed to reach his hand across the desk and Natalie grabbed for it, feeling it close around hers just as Javier invaded her body. She screamed out and gripped John's hand so tightly he thought his knuckles would pop, but he didn't care. Tears poured out of both of their eyes and Javier took her with a sick smile on his face… they were oblivious to the others in the room taking their sick twisted pleasure from this debasement.
Natalie prayed for this to be over, yet knew it was going to be the beginning of an endless life of misery - but if it saved John… a movement behind John's shoulders caught her attention and she looked up to see a bare-chested figure wearing a black leather hood rush towards John. She saw light glint off the blade of a massive machete, and she screamed, "NO! JOHN!" as she saw the executioner swing the blade towards his neck.
She screeched in bloody terror as the blade continued its arc…
End Dream
In a lather of perspiration Natalie bolted up in her bed and let out an ear-splitting, soul-deep shriek of pain, her vocal cords straining under the ferocity of her sound. She was shaking and cried "John…John…" over and over as she rocked back and forth, trapped between dream and reality and wondering which was which.
So loud was her scream that it pierced through the dreams of those in proximate rooms - Zoë, the President and First Lady, Mason, Chase, and John. Stinson and Murphy were on duty in the sitting room of the girls' suite, Willows and Steinberg were guarding the First Couple and the agents sprang into action.
Willows and Steinberg immediately barricaded the President and First Lady in their bedroom.
Mason, Chase and John bounded out of bed, still in the fog of sleep but shaking it off, as they grabbed for pajama bottoms or sweats and their guns.
Murphy intercepted Zoë as she tried to run towards Natalie's room, and sequestered her back in her own until she got the all clear. Stinson ran into Natalie's room and found her rocking back and forth crying hysterically and saying John's name over and over. She quickly said into her handheld, "All clear - Maxwell had a nightmare…" then she walked carefully towards her bed.
Stinson wasn't sure exactly what to do - she wasn't good with hysterical females and she and Natalie hadn't exactly bonded, but she actually had a heart and she could see how terrorized and upset the younger woman was. She holstered her weapon and reached out and took Natalie's hands in hers.
"Natalie. Natalie! You're OK… it was just a dream…"
Natalie looked at Stinson with tears still streaming down her face and she asked brokenly, in a whisper, "Is John… John… OK?"
Stinson had a puzzled expression on her face when she said, "Yes… he's fine… off duty and in his room… "
"Are… are… you… you… su… sure…"
"Yes… Natalie it was a nightmare… you're fine… John's fine…"
Stinson thought that some light might help bring Natalie out of her nightmare… make her feel better, so with one hand she reached over to snap on the lamp on the bedside table, and she felt the air go out of her lungs when she looked at Natalie. She saw her bruised neck, bandaged wrists, and the terrible tracks of bruises on her inner thighs since in her terror she'd kicked off her bedclothes and her nightgown had ridden up. Dear sweet Jesus, she thought. No wonder why the poor girl was having nightmares.
"Natalie! Who DID this to you?! Does John know?"
Natalie didn't have the capacity to regret that Stinson had seen her wounds… she just shook
her head.
"We need to tell him… go after… my God-"
Natalie broke in with a still-trembling voice, "Mason knows… he's handling it…"
There was a knock at the door and Stinson went to open it finding Zoë and the First Lady standing there anxiously. She figured they'd be much better and handling Natalie than she could ever be, and ushered them in, taking her leave and closing the door behind her. She also made a mental note to catch up with Mason regarding Natalie's assault - a chill ran through her as she thought of the girl's wounds, and she wondered what John would do when he found out.
When she looked up Stinson had to bite back a laugh - clearly inappropriate - because she was facing John, Mason and Chase who looked like expectant fathers waiting for an update. Not surprisingly, John in particular looked like he was about to jump out of his skin.
"She's fine. Zoë and the First Lady are in with her… she clearly had one kick-ass nightmare… " As she said that she remembered that Natalie kept asking if John was OK, so she figured her dream must have involved something happening to him. It occurred to Stinson that right now, what Natalie probably needed most of all was to see John. And from the looks of him, John needed that, too. Wanting to kick her own ass for going soft, but unable to help it, she said acerbically to Chase, "Boss, I'm not sure about Murphy, but my nerves are shot from that shriekfest… girl's got a set of lungs on her… since these two guys are up and at 'em" she gestured towards Mason and John, "how about if they take the rest of the shift for me and Murphy. We're all on duty for the transfer to Air Force One in a few hours anyway, and then we'll all have some down time. Murphy and I can swing by to take over early enough to give them a chance to shower and pack…"
Chase said nothing for a moment, and made a point not to even glance in John's direction. "Fair enough. You guys don't mind, do you?" he asked, finally looking at the two men.
They said in unison, "Not at all."
"OK, that's settled. Stinson, Murphy, you're off duty. McBain, Mason -you're on, and since you've got your guns, I'll give you special dispensation to stay in your current attire." With that he left along with the two women.
Before John and Mason could say a word the First Lady came out of Natalie's room, clearly both upset and furious. She eyed the two agents and asked sharply, "Did you know what happened to Natalie at the Palace?!"
Inwardly cringing Mason said, "Yes, ma'am. And I reported it to Chase already."
"And what is he DOING about it?!"
"Well, ma'am…"
"Let me guess, letting politics get in the way… well, excuse me please, I am going to have a word with my husband!" Then she stalked out.
Mason held off looking in John's direction for another few seconds, but he could feel the intense blue gaze burning into him. Finally he turned and he knew he'd never seen John more angry and upset, and that was saying something. Then again, this was clearly the night for that incendiary cocktail of emotions.
"What, happened, Mason?!" John asked through clenched teeth. Before Mason could even start to answer John continued in a biting tone, "And why wasn't I informed?! Last time I checked - though we don't dwell on it - I was your supervisor. The senior ranking-"
Mason felt a burr of anger under his skin as he said, 'Oh, is THAT the reason for how upset and angry you are? Are you acting in your capacity as a BOSS right now?!"
"That's not-"
"Not what John - the point? I beg to differ, it is most certainly the point! The line seems to shift a lot around here between what's personal and professional. Well guess what, you aren't the only one who can come down on the side of personal first. As both a boss and friend I barged into Natalie's business and into her confidence - she didn't invite me in. Like you I knew something was wrong and while you were off with Chase I made her tell me… and then she said she wanted to tell you herself when she was away from the Palace… at a time and place where you could have some privacy… and I figured I owed her as a friend to honor that!"
"What happened?!"
"The short answer - Mahmed tried to rape her again, but Scott intervened before he could. Just."
John's blood began to run cold as soon as he heard Mason's first words, but that final one turned his entire body to ice.
Mason felt for his friend, but he felt worse for Natalie right now, and one way or another he had to figure out how to manage John so that he was ready to face Natalie in a way that she needed. "Of course, John, the short answer doesn't begin to explain it… so the choice is yours. You can wait until Zoë is out of there and have Natalie tell you everything, or I can do it… tell you everything I dragged out of her… and saw… and then rather than have her relive it again in telling you - unless for some reason she wants or needs to - instead you can focus on helping her get over it".
Very quietly John said, "Tell me everything."
Mason nodded and gestured for John to take a seat, which he did, selecting a wing-back chair. Mason went to the mini-bar and pulled out two bottles of whiskey, poured each into a glass and walked over to the couch, handing John one as he collapsed onto the larger piece of furniture to his friend's right. At John's raised eyebrow Mason said, "Trust me, you'll need it…"
The two men took a gulp of the burning liquid, then Mason looked John square in the eye. "I am going to take the 'rip the band-aid off' approach. Let me just get it out and then we can back track over anything you need to dig on… and how Natalie is really doing…"
John nodded, dreading what he was about to hear.
"Very early this morning, Natalie woke up when Mahmed handcuffed her to her headboard and stretched out on top of her."
John jerked like he'd been shot, and some of his whiskey sloshed out onto his hand - which was suddenly unsteady as he lifted his glass to his lips and took another drink.
"Over the next while, Natalie tried to fight him off but he subdued her, sometimes covering her mouth, other times choking her, and finally pulling a knife." Mason looked at his friend and saw that he was now ashen and a thin line of sweat was along his mustache. "OK, brace yourself."
John's eyes widened and he feared he was about to lose control of his bowels, because he couldn't imagine what could sound worse. How stupid of him.
"John, Mahmed managed to get Natalie's panties off her, he spread her legs wide open and pinned them with his knees, and he was as close as he could get to raping her without yet doing it - he was about to penetrate her - when Scott burst into the room and pulled him off. If he had been ONE second later… THAT is how close things came…and, John, you need to be prepared when you see her… her scarf, bracelets and dress were hiding a lot. Her wrists are bruised and raw, her neck fingertip-shaped bruises, and her inner thighs make it clear how harshly that fucking bastard was weighing her down…"
John felt tears of hurt and rage prick his eyes and he didn't even try to hide them. With a raspy voice he asked, "How is Natalie? Fuck, Mason, how do I help her through this? How do we not DO anything about this?"
Mason reached out to clasp John's shoulder for a second and said, "She is struggling - obviously - but I think she is still fundamentally sound, IF we can give her a fucking break with this shit for a little bit. YOU are what she needs to help her through and you do it the way you have been… just BEING there for her as much as you can be, and damn it I know that's not easy given the situation. You also need to know, that one of the reasons she didn't want to tell us right away - especially you - is because she felt ashamed".
John's head snapped up and he asked incredulously, "What?!"
"I know… I told her that's ridiculous and I think I got through, but she was wondering what it is she was doing that was drawing all this to her… these animals…"
"Yeah, well it starts with us making her a fucking sitting duck to begin with, and then actual bait!"
"Which I told her. She just… God, bless her poor little heart she didn't want you to see her as some pathetic victim…"
"Dear God in heaven, Mason - a victim? I am now sure she's one of - if not THE - strongest person I know. By now I'd either be in a straightjacket or would have taken a machine gun and mowed these fuckers down - and THEN maybe end up in a straightjacket."
"And that is how you help her through - make sure she sees that in herself… but most of all, just love her, John, the way you have been. That is like insulation for her… and I can try to be her friend whenever she needs one, too. I really had to push her hard to get her to tell me, but she didn't really have a choice when I exposed the wounds on her wrists and neck…"
"Bad?" John asked in a pain-laden voice.
"I'm not going to lie, John. It devastated ME to see them on her… so I am damn sorry for what it's going to do to you…"
"So what do we DO about it? Can we really just ask her to ignore it again because of… well, everything?"
Mason sighed and said, "She was already doing that - that's how she got Scott, and Greg and Zoë to go along…"
"And what to THEY think of their friend, now? Especially Scott, since he's the one who JUST managed to stop him? Shit, he irritated the shit out of me, but now I owe him huge debt of gratitude…"
"I think they were blown away. Didn't see it coming, etc. Oh! Mahmed also made some strange comments about ultimately getting his 72 virgins, and that Javier wouldn't hurt him for what he did to Natalie because he 'needed' him."
"So it sounds like there really might be something there…"
"Yeah, so we really need to consider the Middle East trip VERY carefully…"
"Especially Kuman. And I'll tell you this now - we are going to figure out how to make an 'official' case for Natalie having protection if she has to set foot near that prick bastard because I am done leaving her to his or anyone else's mercy."
"Agreed. But while we may still have to worry about that whole pesky 'terrorist' angle, when it comes to Natalie I hope he won't be an issue, based on what I promised him his fate would be if he ever went near her again…"
John looked at Mason in surprise and the latter said, "What - you think I wouldn't head right to the fucker after Natalie told me what he'd done to her? I straddled him like he'd done to her and gave him what-for. Listen, if you want full deniability then let that be all I tell you…otherwise..."
"I want to know."
"OK, but in one ear and out the other, buddy. I promised him that some of my old 'co-workers' would get him and kill him in an incredibly painful way - but that before that happened they would make sure he knew the pain and terror of rape several times over."
"Shit. How'd he take that?"
"Well, I'm not sure about the 'shit' part, but the little pussy pissed himself."
John laughed at that, shaking his head.
"John, that WAS a promise. I am not kidding. He'll never see it coming until his ass is on fire and he's bawling like the weak prick he is."
"Well, as much as I'd love for that to happen, I guess I have to hope is doesn't because that would mean he'd gotten to Natalie again."
"I know." Mason paused for a moment and said, "John, look, I didn't feel good about keeping this from you, but I knew Natalie intended to tell you, and, well, she should have control of SOMETHING in her life right now, huh?"
John looked at his friend and said, "I know…. I get it… I was just, shit I'll admit it - scared. Flat-out scared. I feel like we are teetering on the brink all the time… when I can spend time with her, it feels like we're on more solid ground because at least I have a chance of protecting her. I know you heard what I said in the car this morning - or yesterday, now, I guess. I do love her, Mason. I can't lose her or have something bad happen to her…"
"I know you love her - and she loves you as much. All I can say is, I will do anything I can to help you keep her safe - and you for her. "
At that moment the door opened and Zoë walked out. She smiled when she saw John and Mason, "Oh! I thought Stinson and Murphy would still be here. If I'd known it was you I would have left Natalie alone a lot sooner… She's calmer now… Well, good night, guys…"
"Good night, Zoë" they both said.
When her door was closed Mason said, "Go ahead, John. Stay in there. Spend what's left of the night with her… being with her. I can hold down the fort by myself, and I'll make sure to get you out of there before Stinson and Murphy show up…
John smiled at that and said, "Well, I'm pretty sure that's why Roberta whined about her nerves and had us switch with them, Mason."
Mason considered that for a second and then smiled, "Holy shit. I think you're right. Wow, is she actually a softie at heart?"
"I wouldn't go that far, but I owe her a beer or something. Hey, I owe you a lot more than that - thanks for being such a good friend to both of us…"
"No worries - now go, time's a wasting."
Chapter 64
Madeleine Caldwell flew back into her suite and found The President of the United States of America - whom to her was simply her husband - sitting awake in bed waiting for her.
Noah looked up and asked "How's Natalie?" before he'd taken full note of his wife's expression. Once he did, he girded himself for her answer. She normally was a very even-keeled circumspect woman, but one of the quickest ways to change that was to engage her "mama lion" instincts - and clearly those were in high gear.
"How IS she - you mean you don't know?"
Knowing it was a boneheaded thing to do - and yes, even the President could be a bonehead - he decided to play dumb. "Well, since I haven't seen her since her nightmare-"
"Noah Caldwell, you know damn well that's not what I'm talking about - unless you meant her WAKING nightmare of almost being RAPED by the Crown Prince of Kuman! You DID know about that, didn't you?!"
"Madeleine…."
"Oh for God's sake, Noah! You should know by now not to try to 'handle' me!"
He sighed and said, "Yes, I know about it… and it's horrible. Unconscionable…"
"So tell me, then, what are you doing about it?"
"Madeleine…"
"You aren't doing anything, are you? Because he's the son of a key ally, so Natalie is just collateral damage?"
Noah was quiet for a moment and said, "Madeleine, you have been in this with me long enough to know that sometimes the decisions that HAVE to be made for the 'greater good' are not what's best for specific individuals…We are lucky that Mahmed was stopped-"
"And if he hadn't been?"
"He WAS!"
"But-"
"Madeleine, Natalie is a professional-"
"Who was almost RAPED because she was made a sitting duck in order to help protect our daughter. We knew what he had tried last time-"
"And we thought he'd been adequately warned! Honey, do you really think I'm happy about this? Do you not think I want to wipe the floor with that prick? I genuinely like Natalie - and she's already saved Zoë once, and I know she's putting her life on the line for our daughter, so do you really think I'm HAPPY about this?!"
Madeleine sat on the side of the bed, facing her husband. She knew he was bothered by it and had impossible decisions to make, but she couldn't yet allow herself to accept that this had to just be swept under the rug. She tried to appeal to his sense of outrage as she pressed forward.
"Noah, you should SEE her… her wrists are ravaged! He had her handcuffed to the bed. He CHOKED her! And her poor thighs - her thighs, Noah - the entire length of her inner thighs are bruised with imprints of his knees. She's not much older than Zoë… She's younger than our Noeleen and Caroline! I can't help remembering that she's someone else's daughter - and it kills me to think I'm trading her for ours…"
Noah felt as badly about it all as his wife, yet his duty was to put that aside and make clear-eyed decisions where each option was nothing but regrettable. He grasped his wife's hands. "I know… I know… and I am having a hard time just chalking this all up to it being yet another impossible decision - the lesser of two evils - on top of all the other ones I've had to make… that people rely on me to make, even if they really don't want to know about them… even if they couldn't forgive me for them if they did know… And this one will keep me up at night. But she knowingly signed up for a dangerous profession… one that would put her on the front lines - in between those she's sworn to protect and harm…"
Madeleine knew all this, but she couldn't get the images of Natalie's wounds out of her mind. "Noah, you and I both know she is much younger and less experienced than the agents that take on such high consequence roles. She was put in place as a last-resort option, but has been on the front lines - acting as bait, almost - since the beginning… I just feel like I am trading the safety and possibly the life of someone else's young daughter for my own… and God forgive me, but what makes this hardest of all, why I don't want to face this is because if it came between Zoë's life and Natalie's… of course I want my daughter to be all right… but at what cost?"
"What would you have me do?" he asked emotionally, irrationally hoping she might have
a workable solution.
"Is there any way you can reach out, casually, even unofficially to his parents… maybe they could take some action… even get him some help… neutralize him…"
Noah sat for a long moment. He knew it was time to tell her everything - what he'd hoped to wait to discuss until they were back home, mostly because it put off the inevitable. But it was time. He just prayed she'd understand - see the truth past any hurt…
"Madeleine - I need to explain some things to you… there are broader consequences… things at work… come up here and sit beside me…"
Madeleine looked at her husband with a tremor of trepidation tingling her spine, but she complied. They leaned back against the upholstered headboard, half-turning towards each other. Noah took her hand and moved his thumb over it.
"Natalie has been more valuable than we ever thought. You are right - she's ended up as bait because she's attracted the attention of some people we think might be involved in whatever is possibly being planned to target Zoë - and yes, I am aware of how 'qualified' that all sounds. The thing is, there is increasing reason to believe that Mahmed is involved somehow, so we need to keep him in play in case he is… so he might lead us to others… if we pursue him for what he did to Natalie…"
"That could all change" Madeleine supplied. Then she asked, "But Noah - isn't it a huge stretch to think that the Crown Prince of Kuman could be involved in anything targeting Zoë? I mean, why would he be involved… his family… our countries… there's been a closeness - as you said, they're our staunch allies… "
"Well, history is full of young people who aggressively reject what their parents stand for…possibly this is the same motivation - with much higher stakes…"
She looked at her husband very carefully. "What aren't you telling me?"
Noah smiled - he could never get anything past her, though sometimes he wished he could. His smile had a touch of sadness. "We think that Javier Lezama is also involved - and that he and Mahmed may be working together…"
That surprised her. "Javier? He's a multi-billionaire from Mexico… what…?"
"His mother was a Saudi Princess - sister of the Queen of Kuman. He and Mahmed are cousins."
Madeleine was genuinely shocked now. "I had no idea…"
"No one did - and we only found out because of Natalie - at least this early in the game when we might be able to do something with that information…"
"But what's HIS motivation? He has anything anyone could want - and he has tons of investment in that region, too, doesn't he? He's worked so hard… so what…"
"His motivation is personal Madeleine…"
"Personal? Against his family? So then why target OUR daughter? Us? Is it an indirect swipe at them - to derail their relationship with the US…"
"I suppose that's one possibility… but that isn't what I meant… it's personal in another way…at least he thinks so…"
Madeleine saw a range of emotions play across her husband's face, including what seemed like fear - and that in turn scared the hell out of her. "Noah…"
"Madeleine, I swear to you, I knew none of what I'm about to tell you until we were in Italy - and I was going to tell you as soon as we got home…"
"OK… but Noah, you're scaring me…"
"Javier's mother… gave him up to his Mexican father - with whom she had an affair while promised to a prominent Saudi - as soon as he was born. Her sister - the Kumani Queen - was living in the US with her husband, the King, while he was finishing school… and she helped hide her pregnancy and hand off the baby, because Javier's mother would have been killed - and perhaps Javier as well. She returned to Saudi Arabia and maintained her betrothal… but developed a friendship with a young American Diplomat… she became a bit obsessed with him, thinking he could free her from the prison she felt her life was… that would only become even more so once she'd married her intended… But he, he didn't feel that way about her… couldn't - didn't want to - take her with him… they had never even been intimate… She was carried away… probably because she needed any way out at this point and she over-dramatized what had been a few dates… But Javier believes his mother and this man had a full-blown love affair… that he led his mother on… and then dropped her. Soon after the diplomat moved onto his next post, Javier's mother was killed by her fiancé's family - in an honor killing, because they found out about her relationship with the American … Javier's belief - and a driving anger in him - is that while his mother couldn't be bothered to sacrifice anything for her own child, she was willing to do so for this American who in turn dropped her when he moved on… "
Madeleine knew what was coming… but she didn't want to say the words… ask the questions… because she wasn't sure how she'd react to this news… what it would do to her… what she should feel or believe… would it reorder everything she knew to be true about her life? About THEM? She swallowed hard and steeled herself, because she'd never run from anything in her life. She whispered, "It was you, wasn't it?"
With a heavy heart Noah nodded. "I swear, Madeleine - on everything we have ever been to each other… on our children's lives… I had no idea she'd ever been pregnant and had a child, and we had nothing more than a few dates… I still don't believe she really cared that much for me - just what I potentially represented… and I had no idea what happened to her. But Javier believes something much different… and he knows who I am… that I was that man…"
"So he'll target our daughter - and blow up American interests in the Gulf at the same time?"
"Possibly… but of course he'll keep his distance and work through others - at least that's his likely plan. Continue to live his special life as a powerful billionaire, laughing up his sleeve at the revenge he's exacted…"
Noah realized his wife wasn't quite meeting his gaze. He knew all this had to throw her - it had thrown him - but he needed her to believe him. "Madeleine, please tell me you believe me… I know this is a shock - and I am more devastated than I can tell you that something I was involved in has possibly made our daughter a target… but as awful as it sounds, she meant nothing to me beyond the fact that we had a nice time on a few dates… and I didn't lead her to think anything else…"
She looked him in the eye, "But you did sneak around? Even today women of her standing are chaperoned… back then… almost 40 years ago - you would have been seeing her in secret… like you and me…"
"Not like you and me!"
"Well, maybe not for you… but for her? I know how exciting it can be - at least in the beginning - to have such a secret… with a dashing young man on the rise… are you sure you didn't see how she really felt about you? I know how compelling you can be in such a situation…"
"Please, Madeleine… don't question all we've known to be true all these years - how special what we have is… We fought so much for it… put so much at risk those early years…I never felt about anyone even a FRACTION of what I felt the moment I met you… that is why I put my entire political future at risk to be with you because I wouldn't have cared if I ran a General Store somewhere as long as I could have you… I loved you then, and I love you more each day… I still believe she was more interested in what I represented - but I promise I had no idea how much she might have counted on me taking her away - and that she'd shared that with her sister or whomever it was who filled Javier's mind with those stories…"
"It's just a lot to take in… I know it happened quite a while before we ever met… but I know what it was like to be a young girl and fall for you… your charm… your energy…"
Noah gripped her hand and made her look at him. "Do you believe I led her on… made her think I felt more?"
She looked at her husband and knew he was a fundamentally good person, and he'd never had an outsized ego. "Not deliberately… knowingly… but I could see how she might have fallen hard - and you could have missed the signs… whether you meant to or not, you might have left behind a much more devastated young woman than you could ever have imagined… and then she was killed because of her involvement with you…"
"I had no idea!"
"I know… but her abandoned child might not be able to see that…."
"I will never forgive myself if something happens to Zoë because of this… but another unrecoverable blow for me would be if this changed things between us somehow, if it made you doubt me… us…"
Madeleine reached out to squeeze her husband's hand. "It's just a lot to digest…"
He nodded sadly.
Her mind was finally processing some of the less personally disorienting parts of their conversation and she asked in a puzzled tone, "Noah, if we have so much reason to believe that Zoë IS in fact a target - and Javier and Mahmed are involved… then why don't we just pull the plug on our trip to the Middle East, or at least leave Zoë home?"
"It's not that simple…"
"Noah Caldwell, if you say this is just about politics-"
"No! We're trying to parse out what was information and what was DIS-information meant to manipulate us… we are evaluating the possibility that they want us to leave Zoë home because they actually want to target her on US soil… it leaves Kuman out of it and strikes a much more psychologically devastating blow - as did 9-11 because it happened at home… so in the end, bringing Zoë along might be the best thing… especially if we ring her with impenetrable security…but whatever we decide, it's best we don't share that until the last possible moment - keep everyone off balance…"
She nodded, and then sighed, saying, "I'm really tired now… let's get some sleep…"
Noah nodded, then asked softly, "Are we OK, Madeleine?"
Again she sighed and said, "I'm sure we will be…." With that she snapped her bedside lamp off, turned on her side and tried to fall asleep, conscious as she was of her husband studying her back.
As Madeleine was trying to sleep, John was staring at Natalie's door, trying to prepare himself for what he'd see, and think about what he could possibly do or say… and then he realized that the most important thing was just to be there. Looking briefly back at Mason who gave him a small nod of support, John quietly opened the door and stepped into the bedroom, noting the bedside lamp was still on, and his heart squeezed at the thought she might have been afraid to turn it off. He walked over to the bed where she now seemed to be sleeping peacefully on her side and looked at her, taking in her bruised neck and bandaged wrists - her legs were covered by the bedclothes. She looked so young… so vulnerable… and he couldn't help but think that she was lying just this way when that animal had begun his assault, shackling her before she was even fully awake. He couldn't help the quick intake of breath at that thought, and Natalie's eyes fluttered open in response. He could see fear move across her face for a second until she recognized him and she said his name urgently, "John!" as she got up on her knees to move towards him. He caught her to him as she was tipping forward, reaching out...
They were both shaking as they held each other, then she pulled back and ran her hands over his
face, tears streaking down hers as she half-sobbed,
"You're OK…you're really OK…"
He gently took her face in his hands, wiping her tears away as he said softly, "Natalie, sweetheart, of course I am… I'm here… why-"
"My… my dream… my nightmare… " She couldn't continue, she just buried her face in John's neck and wrapped her arms around his shoulders, and he held her small frame even tighter against his muscular one. She needed the contact… the strength and heat of him to warm all the places that had become frozen by the terror that had held her in its icy grip. As those places began to melt her tears flowed freely against his neck while she continued to shake, the relief in seeing him loosening every muscle and tendon that had been clenched.
"Shhh…. It's OK… I've got you…" John said in soothing tones. He needed to hold her as much as she needed to be held, and he picked her up and walked around to the other side of the bed where the covers were tossed back. Not wanting to lose any contact, he kicked his shoes off and placed her on the bed, following right down onto it with her. He pulled the covers over them with one hand and then their entire bodies were aligned as they lay on their sides and kept their arms wrapped tightly around each other.
Natalie was overwhelmed by the fact that she was finally in John's arms, lying with him… with them both warm and safe. She never wanted to let go… she wanted to hold so tight to him that she became a part of him. She inhaled the warm scent of him where her face rested in his neck, and felt herself relaxing… it was like the most soothing sedative… his smell… his touch…
John could tell she was calming, and he whispered against her head, "Do you want to tell me about your dream?"
She nodded and into his neck and chest she spoke of its horror, while his arms banded even tighter around her and he moved a hand to the back of her head, placing it against his mouth which was pressing kisses into her hair. She remained strong through most of it, but couldn't help breaking down again as she told him about the executioner.... the machete… and he just kept holding her until she was calm again… until every part of her knew he was there and safe with her.
Eventually her breathing was even and he no longer felt fresh tears on his skin. With exquisite tenderness he lifted her face from his body and held it in his hands like it was a fragile piece of fine-bone china. His warm thumbs wiped her cooling tears away and he moved his mouth to hers in a soft kiss. Then making sure he'd captured her eyes he said quietly, "Natalie…it was just a dream. But sweetheart, even your subconscious is telling you why you can never, ever make such a deal with Javier… I'd never want you to, period, but it would be pointless anyway because he'd never keep his end of the bargain…he's not going to get to me, sweetheart, but I need you to promise me you'll never trade yourself to save me… please, promise me Natalie… PROMISE me!"
Natalie looked at John and knew he needed her to make this promise, and she would even as she prayed it would never be put to the test. "I promise… " He kissed her softly again to seal their deal, then pulled back to look at her again. "Natalie, Mason told me… what happened to you… with Mahmed…everything…" She only nodded, her eyes showing a brief flash of pain, and he continued, "Do you need… do you want to talk about it?"
Natalie shook her head and said in a voice filled with emotion, "No… I know if I ever do… I can… with you… but I don't want to waste the time we have talking about him."
John nodded and said softly, "Your strength amazes me, Natalie. It honestly does. I couldn't do it… I wouldn't do it…"
She said with equal softness, "I don't feel strong… I feel weak… shaken… or I did, but being with you…"
"Lean on me."
They were quiet for a little while, then John whispered, "I need… I need to see, sweetheart…" He wasn't even entirely sure why, but he felt the need to bear witness… to experience the pain on some level with her…and to show her she had no need to hide herself from him…
Somehow, Natalie understood, and she no longer felt ashamed about him seeing… he was her John. He saw HER, into her heart and soul, past her wounds and scars… She tilted her head back to expose her neck and heard John's breath catch in his throat and then felt his warm lips kissing along the ring of bruises, then in the hollow of her throat, before briefly, softly taking her mouth. He picked up her right wrist and gently moved the bandage a little so he could see, and he had to bite the insides of his cheeks at the sight. He closed his eyes for a second and then kissed where her wrist led towards her palm, and repeated that with her left. Now came the part he was truly dreading - seeing her legs, the proof of how far Mahmed had gone… how close he'd gotten. He pulled back and moved down on the bed a bit, the covers moving back with him. He and Natalie looked at each other for a second and then he carefully moved her nightgown up, and he felt his composure start to crack, but he fought hard against it because he didn't want Natalie to misconstrue his reaction and think it was ABOUT her… it would be FOR her… a heart wrenching ache on her behalf, but she might not realize… Almost the entire length of her inner thighs was marked - badly - in a series of round, knee-shaped bruises, since Mahmed had clearly moved around trying to keep her subdued. John's hands were shaking as he softly ran his fingertips over them.
John looked up at Natalie and felt a sudden need to apologize for everything that had ever been done to her… for everyone who'd had a hand in these things happening, be they perpetrators or people who'd stood on the sidelines. He started to form the words, whispering "I'm sor-" but they died in his throat when he saw the light in her eyes. She was looking at him with such love, such trust and openness and he felt like a complete fraud… like he didn't deserve any of it… like she should hate him because he had failed her… he had failed to protect her yet again…"
He took a deep breath, but then surprising both them he began to cry in a harsh, rasping way as tears cascaded down his cheeks. Through his tears he pushed the words, "I'm so sorry, Natalie…" then was only vaguely aware of her arms reaching up and pulling her to him, one hand holding his head against her chest while her other arm banded around him.
"John! John… my God, it's OK… this isn't your fault… you didn't-"
He pulled his head up and looked at her, his features twisted in pain as he struggled to say, "I didn't protect you… it's what I DO, Natalie… It's who… who… I AM for everyone… everyone else… but… you…the… the… woman I love… the one… one… who means the most… every… everything…"
Natalie gathered him back to her and felt her own tears slide down her cheeks - it killed her that he was so upset and knew that as crazy as it might sound, in some ways he had it harder, standing on the sidelines, because if someone was hurting him... "John… John please don't do this… I understand, I do… but I'm not just any woman, I am an agent and you couldn't stop this… the only way for that to have happened would be for me to quit - and you KNOW I can't…"
She relished the chance to give him some comfort, since she'd drawn so much from him. She rubbed his back and shoulders in between squeezing him tight to her, while she kissed his head… his temples. She waited for his storm to pass as he'd done so patiently for her, and when he had calmed it was her turn to take his face gently in her hands and look at him… rub his tears away. She kissed his mouth and felt his lips tremble a bit under hers until he gently returned the kiss.
John pulled back a bit then and looked at her, and though he couldn't remember the last time he'd actually cried, he felt no embarrassment, just a connection that meant understanding and the bone-deep knowledge that it was safe to show and share anything… everything... With a thick voice he said, "I know that you have a job to do… and I know the overall posture of our service is to do whatever it takes to secure those under our protection. But what we are having you do… I just think we have gone over lines we shouldn't. And I don't care what I have to do, I don't care if I have to go to Chase and confess everything… BEG him… you are not going to knowingly be put in the path of a psychopath anymore… and let's face it, both Javier and Mahmed have so egregiously crossed the line with you that there's no way they can expect you to give them the time of day…"
Natalie nodded and caressed John's face again, wiping his remaining tears away. God she loved him, and if all of this craziness was the cost of finding him and being with him - she'd find the strength to keep going. She'd walk through fire to get to him. She needed him to know that… to get that…"John, I love you so much… and it breaks my heart to see you so upset about this. If I had to watch someone hurt you… I think I'd cut my eyes out… pierce my ear drums so I couldn't hear your cries… so I get it… but none of this was - is - your fault. And the reason why I'm still fundamentally OK is because I have you… because you love me the way you do…"
They slid back down, lying side by side and in each others arms. Natalie tipped her face up and John claimed her mouth in a gentle kiss that became deeper, more passionate as it continued, and Natalie could feel his arousal pressing against her stomach. She pulled back and whispered against his mouth, "I still feel a little cold inside… warm me, John… please…"
They worked together to rid him of his sweats and t-shirt, and to remove her nightgown and panties. Already their skin was hot to the touch as they slid against each other for a moment. Then, lying again on their sides, John lifted Natalie's right leg over his left hip to bring them together, and as their eyes burned into each other he slowly entered her, their eyes finally closing and moans easing from their throats when he was buried to the hilt. They cupped each others' backsides and began to rock together while he remained fully sheathed, and their mouths joined in a languid kiss that let them carefully explore their recesses. Natalie no longer felt cold as John's strong heat moved within her, filling her… warming her… when his orgasm rolled over him and she felt his release spill into her deepest places, it was almost as if it was a glue that was mending the fissures that had been opened within her at the hands of Mahmed… by the horror of her nightmare…
As John made love to Natalie the quivering of his soul stilled at her intimate hold… then his body began to quiver in response to their passion… and every bit of tension eased out of him when he came deep inside her, his body shuddering, but no longer in fear and pain, just pleasure. His release triggered Natalie's, her tight walls becoming more so as they convulsed around him and mixed her fluids with his. Her mouth slid from his and into the crook of his neck where she moaned and whimpered in time to her contractions around him. Once they'd calmed some, they began to kiss again, softly, gently, drawing out the last delicious shivers, then they drifted into a healing sleep.
Chapter 65
At 8am Mason gave Natalie's door a soft rap to wake her and John up so he could say his good-byes, get dressed and be in the sitting room when Stinson and Murphy returned. He hoped they'd used their time wisely, then laughed at that thought - of course they would have! What was he thinking? He was just tired. And ready to get home. And to see Angela. They'd be able to catch up on Air Force One, but what he was really looking forward to was the basic, normal ways people who are dating and getting to know each other spend time together. That seemed like a luxury, and he was struck by the irony of how many people doing just such "mundane" things cursed the boredom of it all and wished they were on an exciting trip around the world. What was that old expression about the grass being greener? As he glanced again at Natalie's door he knew that was a pair in there who would crave boring and mundane. He sighed and wished that for them.
John gave Natalie a slow, sensuous good morning kiss and felt his heart expand in his chest when she smiled at him, because it was a genuine, complete smile that made her blue eyes shine. "Good morning" he whispered, and she said softly, "Yes, it is…" and she meant it. They shared several more long kisses that let them savor their feelings and desire for each other, then John eased from her bed and found his clothes, donning them quickly. He walked back over to lean down to kiss Natalie again and said, "I will see you on the plane… and we are going to figure out how we can spend as much time together as possible this week before we head to Australia and Asia. Try to keep your schedule flexible for me, will you?"
Natalie pulled him down to steal another kiss and said against his lips when she surrendered them, "I'm all yours…"
John felt his blood stir, but knew he had to exert control, so he placed what he thought was his final kiss on her forehead and straightened up. But then he had to take her mouth one more time in a deep kiss and they whispered their "I love yous" against each others' lips when they pulled back from it.
Mason looked up when John walked out of Natalie's room and he noted that John had a much less haunted expression on his face and in his eyes, so he surmised that things went at least decently well. "How's Natalie?"
"Rebounding."
"And how are you?"
"Rebounding as well."
Mason nodded and passed John a cup of coffee from the pot he'd ordered from Room Service. Then he said, "Well, you do look refreshed, but then sleeping on the job does that for you… I am sure I look completely haggard since I was the unlucky sot that had to actually work…"
John smiled but then neutralized his expression and said in a serious tone, "I had to de-brief an agent and engage in some major employee relations initiatives… it wasn't all play, my friend…"
Mason rolled his eyes good-naturedly, but before he could say another word, Stinson and Murphy were walking in the door to the suite.
Natalie got out of bed to shower and dress, selecting a white long-sleeved cotton button-down shirt whose cuffs would hide her wounds, and black ankle length pants. She'd tie a black and white scarf around her neck which would dress up her outfit and offer additional concealment options, and she figured she'd pass muster. Completing her outfit were a black cotton cardigan and black mules with two-inch heels, plus John's necklace and diamond stud earrings. She finished packing, making sure her carry-on tote bag had her black pashmina, two books to read, a few magazines, and socks in case her feet got cold. She was ready - BOY was she ready.
As Natalie packed she had reflected on her three weeks in Europe and was amazed when she catalogued all that had happened. She was already focusing on the positive experiences because those were truly life-altering. Yes, she'd been attacked - twice! - by Mahmed, and had some skin-crawling run-ins with Javier, but she and John had admitted their love for each other, albeit after no small amount of drama she thought ruefully. And since that moment, they had shared some incredible times that deepened those feelings. Their time in Florence would be special no matter how long she lived… how long they were together. And even that crazy interlude in the German sex club… she felt herself grow a bit heated when she remembered. There physical relationship certainly kept pace with their emotional one, and of course they were inextricably linked. Then there was what she and John had just shared early this morning…she felt tears prick her eyes as she remembered John's broken cries, and was still amazed that he felt so deeply for her - she could never have dreamed this could happen when she'd first laid eyes on him and found him dangerously sexy and more than a little intense.
Three hours later, Air Force One had been cleared for take-off and they were barreling down the runway. Natalie and Zoë were sitting together chatting, the younger woman glad to see her friend seeming better - and of course she knew why.
"So, Natalie, you really are looking better - I guess it was the visit from your own personal 'love doctor', huh? Did he kiss it and make it all better? Did you make up any new injuries in strategic places just for the attention?"
Natalie rolled her eyes but decided two could play at this game, "Well, Zoë, I don't have to make up anything to get John's mouth exactly where I need and want it most… although I have found chocolate icing to be a sweet inducement… what about you? How did you get Greg to pay attention to your 'strategic places'?"
Zoë was stunned speechless for a moment and then asked in a dramatic whisper, "CHOCOLATE ICING?!?!"
"Sure… I mean, whipped cream is SO cliché…"
"Wow… talk about mixing two of your favorite things…chocolate, and, you know… but I am going to have an even harder time looking John in the eye now…I mean, I'm assuming you returned the favor…"
Natalie winked at her, laughing at her embarrassment, and said, "Of course… but I really needed more icing to do him justice…"
Zoë buried her head in her hands and shook it back and forth while Natalie laughed. At that moment John and Mason wandered by, each eating a large piece of chocolate cake, and the two girls practically choked when John said, "Hey, this cake is great - you should have some. Amazingly rich chocolate icing…The Queen sent it over just before we left - there's enough to cover the whole entourage…"
John finally stopped talking, looked at Natalie's expression, and realized what she was remembering - his collar suddenly felt too tight. He smiled at them without meeting their eyes and said, "Well, help yourselves if you want any…" and kept walking. Mason looked curiously between Natalie and John, then concluded he didn't want to know… and followed him.
Zoë said in a small voice, "Well THAT was embarrassing…"
Natalie was blushing as well, but couldn't help laughing about it all, especially when Zoë sat back and buried herself in a magazine. Natalie figured she had about half a day before Zoë was back in rare form and busting Natalie's chops, so she was going to have to come up with some ammunition to hit back with now that Zoë had spent the night with Greg - she might even have to whip out "Crown Penis"… and then she giggled inwardly when she thought how apt "whip out" was in that case…
At 4pm EDT Natalie wearily trudged into her bedroom at the White House, since "body time" it was 10pm, and she still hadn't fully recovered from the lack of sleep and the emotional duress she'd suffered in Laurentius. Even so, she didn't think she could sleep right away, so instead she decided to take a hot shower and get into a comfy yoga outfit. She was joining the First Family for a light supper right there in the Residence at 7pm, and thought she might actually be able to nap a bit after her shower. She stretched out to give it a try, but her thoughts kept drifting to John, who she knew had signed off for the day and had headed home. He had managed to pull her aside for a tight hug and a promise that they'd get to spend at least a day if not a night together before they headed to Australia. He was going to be on-duty tomorrow, and then he'd pop by The Brazen Head tomorrow night because she was going to cover a shift there. By then he'd have more information on their next "de-briefing".
Natalie hadn't even realized she'd managed to fall asleep until Zoë knocked on her door. It was a subdued group sitting around the table, and while much of it could be put down to jet-lag and simply being tired, Natalie detected a certain stiltedness between the President and First Lady, which surprised her because they always seemed completely open and comfortable with each other. She felt a stab of guilt, wondering if it had something to do with her since she knew the First Lady had flown out of her room last night to confront the President over what actions would be taken against Mahmed. Natalie had tried to dissuade her as best she could, but there had been limitations to what she could say with Zoë in the room. After dessert the President excused himself to catch up on some calls, and a moment later Zoë was informed that Prince Greger was on the phone for her - and she dashed off.
Madeleine turned to Natalie with a raised eyebrow and said, "Well, it appears it's just the two of us - how about we have some tea in my sitting room… a nice quiet way to wind down the evening before we head off to blissful slumber. At least we can hope so…"
"That would be nice, ma'am" Natalie said, and she followed the First Lady after she had lodged her request for tea with the staff.
The two women settled into comfortable chairs facing each other and fixed their tea when it was brought in just moments after they'd entered the sitting room. When they were alone Madeleine asked, "So, tell me dear, how are you?"
Natalie smiled and said, "A lot better than I was last time you saw me…"
Madeleine shook her head and said, "I really gave my husband what-for… wanted him to take action against Mahmed… Natalie, he really would like to take him down for what he did to you… I… I just want you to know that Noah holds you in very high regard… he finally had to explain to me all the reasons why he couldn't - namely Mahmed's potential involvement in whatever is being planned to target Zoë, if anything…"
"Oh… yes, it is looking like he is involved…"
"Along with Javier Lezama, possibly…"
Natalie said nothing for a moment, knowing she was being enticed onto thin ice, and she had no idea how much the First Lady knew - it had been Natalie's understanding that the President didn't want to tell her all the details until they were back here, but maybe he'd had no choice when his wife had pressed him about Mahmed's attack on Natalie.
Madeleine smiled, but it held more than a degree of sadness when she said softly, "Natalie, I've been fully 'read in' - I know all about the connection between Mahmed and Javier… and between Javier's mother and my husband… "
"Oh…"
"Yes indeed. It's a lot to take in… and the
entire flight home I kept running it over and over in my head… trying to determine if it made any sort of difference… if it changed on a fundamental level
anything about the last 30 years of my life… my relationship and history with Noah…"
Natalie was a bit surprised the First Lady was being so open with her, but it was unlikely there was anyone else she could discuss this with… and Lord knew she was up to her eyeballs in Natalie's life… It made Natalie sad for her that she was doubting what had been the sustaining relationship of her life - particularly due to something involving Javier Lezama, and Natalie felt a spurt of anger.
"Ma'am… it's my understanding that all of that happened quite a while before you even met the President… and that the level of involvement…"
"Wasn't as significant as Javier's mother seemed to think - or at least claimed?" Madeleine finished.
"Yes…"
"I know… it's just… well, he did go on a few dates, and they had to be so secret about it…. it was completely clandestine…"
It dawned on Natalie what she was getting at, "Like you and the President…"
Madeleine smiled, once again taking note of Natalie's astuteness. "Yes. 98% of me knows it shouldn't matter in terms of my relationship - that it only matters because it is perhaps motivating Javier and others to target my daughter - but, well I know what it's like to be secretly courted… romanced by a young and dashing Noah Caldwell… and while I genuinely don't believe my husband deliberately led Javier's mother on… that he is telling the truth about the seriousness of their dating… well, I could see where SHE might not have realized it… where she could have read more into it, because the very fact that in that day and age she, a young Saudi Princess, was sneaking around unchaperoned with an American Diplomat… well, that in and of itself connotes a certain level of importance…" she sighed and continued, "But it's all so long ago… and I find it hard to re-think my entire marriage based on it…"
Natalie considered her words carefully and said, "Well, ma'am, I think that's because it doesn't make sense to do so… your relationship is and was something special… a once-in-a-lifetime thing. And, please believe me when I say, that letting anything to do with Javier Lezama shape your thinking or feelings on it is just a bad idea… he's… he's twisted… and maybe that isn't totally his fault given his life experiences, but it doesn't change the fact that that's who and what he is… he warps everything…and he loves to toy with people's lives - he loves to figure out weak spots and go in for the kill… he is a dangerous foe and that gives him enough power - don't let him get in the middle of you and your husband… please take it from me, I know how insidious he is when it comes to that sort of thing …"
Madeleine arched her eyebrow and said, "I am sure you do… and you're right… but as you also know, I'm sure, from your own experiences, that can be easier said than done…"
"Oh, yes I do know that… but I also remind myself of what you advised me - that I need to cling to the love that John and I have… well, you have more than 30 years of that to cling to… and you should."
"You are wise beyond your years, Natalie…"
"Only because I know good advice when I hear it…"
Madeleine smiled but then grew serious. "I hope that no matter what happens, in the end Mahmed has to answer for what he did to you… it makes my blood run cold when I think about it - but then it starts to boil the longer that I do… and then the guilt sets in…"
"Guilt?" Natalie asked in surprise.
"Of course. Natalie, you have been put in harm's way for my daughter's sake. We've traded your safety and well-being for hers…"
"Ma'am, it is my job…"
"Not to the extent you've been called upon - to sit as bait. And to think the only reason you were there… that he could get to you… was so Zoë could have her night with Greg…"
Natalie couldn't hide the surprise on her face and Madeleine gave her a big smile and her voice held laughter, "You think I didn't know the real reason she just had to stay at the Palace? I've been through this whole stage with my two older daughters… I know the signs. And I feel for her that she has to transit through all this with nothing resembling true privacy… she can't just go on a date and swing by her beau's apartment… unless she's prepared for it to be vetted ten ways 'til Tuesday and have everyone and their brother know, poor thing…"
Natalie just smiled in return, not wanting to get into a conversation that would perhaps compromise Zoë's privacy more than it always was.
"Tell me, Natalie… do you like the Prince?"
Natalie answered honestly, "He seems like a nice guy - and to genuinely like Zoë…"
"Yes… and I do like his family. But did your estimation of him change based upon his friend Mahmed…"
"Actually, not really - it isn't his fault, and it seems like it was a huge surprise to both Scott and Greg…"
"Yes, but deep down I think they know that they've seen signs along the way - I don't think anyone can be that diseased and hide it totally… but maybe they weren't paying attention and the signs could have been subtle… I can't help fearing that there are other girls who have had to face who he really is…"
Natalie shrugged, not knowing exactly what to say, and re-directed the conversation a bit, "What about you, ma'am - what do you think of Zoë's involvement with Greg?"
Madeleine was quiet for a moment as she chose her words carefully. "I don't know him all that well, but I have to be honest, life as the wife of a Crown Prince and then King is not what I would choose for her - then again, it's not my choice". Seeing Natalie's quizzical expression she continued, "I have lived the goldfish bowl life of the wife of an important public figure for decades now… and it has afforded me some amazing life experiences. I wouldn't trade them, but it has not been without its costs. It has shaped my life, good and bad - it has constrained it in some ways while opening up opportunities I never would have had… But it's only gotten worse over time since there is no expectation of privacy, the media is rapacious in its need for 'content' and the internet explodes the smallest thing into something huge that everyone and their brother can download. It isn't a life I'd choose for Zoë. She's already felt the limitations of being the daughter of an American Vice President and now President. She's almost free of it… or mostly free of it. But if she and Greg were to become serious… to marry… Zoë might decide to follow her father's footsteps and have her own political career - but at least then she'd have something fully hers, she wouldn't just be the spouse standing in the wings…"
Natalie nodded and said, "I can see your point…I'm not sure I could do it. I know you know my real identity, and just the little bit of scrutiny I've gotten as a Buchanan heiress has been too much at times".
"Yes, I am sure it has been. In the end, Zoë has a good head on her shoulders and it will obviously be her decision. Plenty of mothers would kill for a suitor like Prince Greger for their daughters… but that's mostly because they only see the upside, not all its complexities. What makes my blood run cold is that a few of the tabloids have already started drawing a comparisons between Zoë and Princess Grace and Princess Diana. Look how well things worked out for those two… But I will support her… that's all any of us who care about her can do… and I know you care about her - you've been a good friend to her, Natalie…."
Natalie felt her throat tighten a bit as she said, "Do you think she'll forgive me when she learns the truth about me… who I am. Because I really DO care about her…consider a friend…"
Madeleine reached out and squeezed Natalie's hand, "I think she'll understand that… she may have a moment or two where her surprise or hurt is dominating things, or where she might doubt what's true - in terms of the important things - but in the end, she'll know what a good friend you are by what it's cost you to be there for her… the lengths you've gone to that are well above and beyond anyone's notion of the call of duty… Natalie, I still can't feel right about it… how horrible this has been for you… and it isn't over yet… "
"Ma'am, I appreciate that - and your support - more than you know. To have someone who knows everything to talk to… and that's why I'm going to be completely honest with you… while it's been hard, what I've gained from it feels like it's been worth the cost…"
"You mean John", she said with a soft smile.
Natalie couldn't help blushing a bit when she answered, "Yes… I never would have had the chance to get to know him the way I have… I mean, I've worked for the Secret Service for four years and our paths never crossed… he'd read and used some of my research, but we'd never met. Maybe we would have eventually, but we were forced to deal with each other - SEE each other - so differently than we would have otherwise… I can't be sorry about what brought us together…"
"Well, I see your point. I'd feel the same way - I HAVE felt the same way. And I still do. Finding out what I did about the connection between Noah and Javier's mother - and therefore the possible threats against Zoë - well, it has shaken me up a bit. But in the end, I'd still choose Noah all over, and that means everything that comes with it…I wish for you, Natalie, the same thing I wish for me - some boring, mundane, 'daily' life moments… enough with the drama, huh?"
"Oh, I SO agree… boring sounds fantastic… because I have a hunch there's only so boring John could ever be…"
Madeleine beamed at that and said, "Spoken like someone truly in love…"
Natalie returned the smile and then stood, "I should let you get some rest - I think I could use some sleep myself. Thank you, again, for the talk…"
"My dear, I should be thanking you - and I do". At that the First Lady drew Natalie into a hug, and the younger woman returned it - it felt like a mother's hug, and she soaked it in.
Natalie headed back to her room and was slipping into bed when her cell phone rang - she didn't even need to look to see who was calling.
"Hey…" she heard the sexy purr as soon as she answered.
"Hey back…"
"You doing OK?"
"I am… except I miss you being under the covers with me…."
"Me too, sweetheart. But we are getting two nights together… Chase thinks that's a good way to keep the heat under our cover story… so Wednesday and Thursday nights are ours… I get off duty Wednesday around noon…so then…"
"Heaven" she breathed.
"Well, maybe partially, but I don't intend to let you be too much of a good girl… unless it's you being good at being bad…" his voice was seduction in itself.
Natalie drew a shaky breath, noting once again his incredible ability to turn the heat up with a single sentence… that tone of voice…She decided to play along. "Really… how bad do you want me to be? Can you handle it?"
"Oh, Natalie, I can handle anything you throw my way…"
"Hmmmm, I may have to put you through your paces…see if you can keep… up…"
"Sweetheart, the only thing going down is you…"
"Mmmmm, is that an invitation?"
"What if I told you it was an order?"
"Ooh, you want to boss me around? Well, what if I told you it didn't have to be an order… that your wish is my command, Master…"
"You mean you'd turn yourself over to me… entirely… you'd do what I want… let me do what I want to you…"
"I guess you'll just have to see… but, John, I may have a bit more healing to do, but nothing that's happened means that if and when the time is right I won't let YOU tie me up… " she knew that remark was going in for the kill.
"Jesus, Natalie!" John felt his own blood boiling at this point - she was as skilled as he was at raising the temperature.
She giggled in triumph and then said in whisper, "See… I guess I am just a bad girl after all… You're going to have to show me who's boss…"
"All right you saucy little minx… get some sleep… make sure you get plenty of rest these next few days, because come Wednesday, it's game on…"
"'Night, John… I hope to see you in my dreams…"
"That's a nice thought… and I'll be there tomorrow… and tomorrow night at The Brazen Head…"
"Hmmm, I might need your help in the storage closet, John…"
"Good night, Natalie."
"'Night… "
That night Natalie had a restful, peaceful sleep.
Chapter 66
Natalie barely saw John and Mason the first half of Tuesday - just a quick hello/good-bye in the Residence - because Zoë prevailed upon her to join her for a day at the salon and spa for hair cuts, facials and massages. Natalie realized she could go for that in a big way and was looking forward to it - she'd have just enough time to squeeze it all in before heading to The Brazen Head. The masseuse - a blonde, muscular Swede who reminded her a bit of Mason - had expressed dismay over her injuries, but Natalie assured him she'd ultimately been spared. On the plus side, he'd taken care to give her one of her best massages ever, claiming she deserved it, and Natalie wasn't about to argue with that.
Natalie arrived at The Brazen Head at 6pm feeling incredibly relaxed and refreshed. It was good to see Bruce and the rest of the crew, and even some of her regular customers - of course there were two she was looking out for, and they came in about 8 o'clock. She almost had to pinch herself that they were all really back here, back to what had become normal before they'd taken off for Europe - well, even before that… before they'd taken off for Canada. She walked over to them with two pints of Harp in hand, and greeted them with a big smile which they returned. Once she'd put the pints down, a seated John put his arms around her so she was standing right up against him, and she rested her arm around his shoulders. This was perfectly acceptable contact, and she was going to take full advantage.
Mason gave her his standard greeting, "Hey, darlin'", then continued on, "You look, well, don't take this the wrong way because you always look good, but you look fantastic… rested… relaxed… how'd you do that so fast? Must be youth because I find jet-lag increasingly kicks my ass!"
Natalie laughed and said, "I spent the day at the salon and spa - had a fantastic massage at the hands of a Swede who was almost as big as you are, Mason. He took pity on me when he saw my injuries and gave me extra special attention…" She felt John stiffen and Mason winked at her since he knew exactly what she was doing, and he was going to help.
"Really, darlin'… that big and studly, huh? Guess he kneaded the tension right out of you…"
"Oooh, yeah… that he did…"
Gasping in surprise Natalie felt John's hand move down to grab her ass. When she locked eyes with him there was humor and fire in them when he said, "Natalie, you didn't let him massage your glutes, did you? This fantastic ass of yours… since I think we've already discussed whom it belongs to…"
Mason groaned but it was a good-natured sound - he really did get a kick out of them when they weren't firing off each other in completely inappropriate places, and they pretty much had free rein here.
Natalie turned so she was facing John and put both her hands on his shoulders. When she did so his hands ended up on the curve of her lower back just where it transitioned into her backside. She said softly, "Oh, I haven't forgotten John. I made sure he steered clear… you're the only one I allow anywhere near my… glutes… so you'll have to finish the job…"
John briefly let his hands roam lower before resting on her waist, "With pleasure, sweetheart… I'll soon have two days and nights to do it thoroughly…"
Mason finally intervened with faux-exasperation, "OK, OK, can we please change the subject from Natalie's hind end? I'm not going to be able to get my hands on Angela's until Thursday since she made a quick trip to see her folks, so take pity on me…"
John and Natalie laughed, then she went to put in their order for their burgers and fries.
When the guys were done with their meal and Natalie was clearing their plates, John stood and said against her ear, "Any chance we can grab a few minutes in the storage room?"
She felt a shiver run from her neck down her spine and into her legs, and asked in response, "Are minutes all we're going to grab?"
He briefly nipped at her neck and whispered again, "Just meet me in the storage room…"
Natalie quickly dumped the dirty dishes in the bus bin and headed to connect with John. He was sitting on the table when she walked in, slammed the door shut behind her and walked right over to him, stepping into the V of his legs and wrapping her arms around his neck as their mouths collided against each other. She felt the steel band of his arms around her back and loved his strength and how it made her heart flutter while it paradoxically calmed her and made her feel safe. Their tongues slid longingly over each other for several minutes and she felt herself melting against him. When they broke apart for something as banal as breathing, Natalie buried her face in the crook of John's neck and inhaled his warm male scent and didn't even realize she'd sighed until she felt his arms tighten around her in response. Kissing him just did something to her.
John wound his right hand into Natalie's hair and gently tugged so she'd tip back and look at him. He placed a soft kiss on her lips and then said, "Let's meet tomorrow at 12:30 at the Omni Shoreham again - I have some other things planned for us since we have until late afternoon Friday, but that'll be a good place to start".
"Well, what should I wear?"
At that John simply arched an eyebrow and she rolled her eyes and grinned, saying "I mean what sorts of clothes will I need?"
Same response from John, so she playfully swatted his arm, "Jooohhnnnn…"
He returned her gin and said, "OK… casual and comfortable - and maybe one nicer outfit for dinner out… but no need to bring nightwear… and consider underwear optional too…" John gave her one more deep kiss and when their mouths parted she stepped back so he could get off the table. He pulled her into a full body hug that she folded herself completely into, then they walked back out - he headed to his table, she to the kitchen.
John and Mason waited for Natalie's shift to be over and drove her back to the White House, and she had no trouble sleeping as she drifted off thinking about the two days and nights she'd get to spend with John. She frankly didn't care if they never left their hotel room, she just wanted to be with him.
As Natalie stepped out of the taxi the next day at the Shoreham, she heard John calling her name and turned to see him waiting beside his black VW Touareg. She walked over with a question on her face and he said, "Give me your bag, let's leave it in my car for now…" then after stowing it he turned his keys over to the valet attendant and began to escort her inside. John walked Natalie over to the registration desk and checked them in, keeping an arm around her, and then they were on their way up to their room, kissing, of course, in the elevator.
Once they got inside John said, "OK, here's the plan. We are checked in here for 2 nights, but we aren't going to stay here… we're going to make it look good that we're settling in, but then, we are out of here".
"Out of here?" Natalie asked in a confused tone.
John kissed her softly and said, "Yep. I am going to order us some room service lunch… " He kissed her more deeply. "Then I am going to have my way with you - though we'll have to be quick…" He administered another heart-stopping kiss, this time cupping her backside to pull her against his hardness. "And once room service arrives and we eat our lunch, I'm taking you home…"
Natalie felt her heart flutter at his tone when he said that, and she asked softly, "Home?"
"Yes, Natalie, home. To my house. I'm tired of hotels... and my house feels empty now when I'm there… I want to take you there… make you dinner… make love to you in my bed, fall asleep and then wake up with you in it… and make love to you all over again. I want to watch TV in the den together and order in Chinese…take a walk in the neighborhood and end up at the local Starbucks…"
As he talked Natalie's smiled broadened and when he was finished she reached up to touch his face and then wound her hands around the back of his head to draw him down to her. "I can't wait" she said just before she pressed her mouth to his and they kissed with their patented blend of passion and tenderness. Eventually they pulled back and John said huskily, "Let's get this show on the road…"
He placed an order with room service for an Asian Chicken Salad and a Club Sandwich, plus two diet cokes, and then he turned to her and said, "Hurry up and get out of those clothes - we have less than 30 minutes".
John had more clothes than Natalie since he was still in his suit, but he was motivated and stripped down in record time. She made quick work of her black linen walking shorts, white cotton twinset and underwear - she left her scarf on - and they turned to face each other with heat in their eyes and their breathing already erratic. They stepped towards each other and John's arms banded around Natalie, lifting her from the ground as her arms snaked around his shoulders and neck and their mouths grabbed at each other and were drawn fully together by their aggressive tongues. As Natalie was wrapping her legs around him, feeling him pressing into her moist flesh, John was stepping backwards and as soon as he felt the bed behind him he sat on it. Their mouths broke apart and with movements driven by desperation now John grabbed Natalie's hips to move her over him as she gripped him and positioned him at her opening, and without a moment's hesitation she sank down onto him as he bucked upwards. The jolt of their bodies joining so quickly and deeply was a fantastically arousing shock and they both gasped as Natalie gripped tightly to John's shoulders to steady herself.
They began to bump and grind against each other with urgent thrusts and rolling of their hips, and when their mouths once again joined in an almost violent collision John fell backwards onto the bed, bringing Natalie with him as his muscular arms crushed her breasts to his chest. They eventually needed air - and to let out the moans that the rapacious movement of their hips was causing - so their mouths parted and Natalie buried her face in John's neck, her hot breath bathing it in moist gasps that stirred him further. He wanted to see her writhing, moving in her reaction to him, so he gripped her upper arms and pushed her off him to sit her up straight, completely impaled on him. As his hips rolled her breasts moved and he reached out to grab them… to knead them… to pinch her nipples between his thumbs and forefingers, eliciting a deep moan from her while her head tipped back, exposing the column of her neck so he could see her sounds vibrating there.
Natalie was lost in sensation, driven there by the power of John's movements and his hard, questing presence inside her. She could feel him throbbing deep within, his heat branding her… The tightness within her core was already starting to loosen with her fluttering walls beginning the delicious transition from ache to release. John could feel these preliminary quakes and he grew harder, even as he felt the early stirrings of his own climax. It was time to force them over the edge. While his upper body was on the bed, his ass was at its edge and his feet were firmly planted on the floor. Using his strong leg muscles he began to buck his hips up high off the bed, spearing Natalie more deeply and giving her no choice but to come along for the ride. She let out a gasp that was more a soft scream and he felt her seize around him briefly and then continue to clench at him more softly, yet still to devastating effect.
Natalie was not prepared for his actions and she felt a burst of pleasure rip through her, causing even her scalp to tingle in reaction. His fingers were now biting into her hips to keep her on him and her breasts were bouncing almost painfully with the force of his thrusts, and her slick muscles began to grip him more tightly, doing their part to maintain their connection during this rollicking motion. She was finding it increasingly difficult to catch her breath and every nerve ending, every inch of her skin felt on fire. She moaned as she tried to steady herself a little by gripping onto his hands and they looked at each other, their heavy-lidded, desire-drowsy eyes perfect mirrors of each other.
As John continued to buck wildly and Natalie tried to stay planted on him she had a sudden thought that brought a small smile to her lips, and John noticed it before yet another gasp erased it from her mouth. "What… what's… what's funny…?" he asked, his own breathing and ability to speak equally compromised.
Around her soft moans and panting breaths Natalie replied, "I… fee… feel… like I'm…in… in a… ro… rodeo… ri… riding… a… a… buck… bucking… bronco…" They shared a soft, thready laugh and John said, "Yee haw" and gave her ass a stinging slap which surprised her and immediately triggered her intense orgasm. Her back and neck arched as she cried out, and she reached back to grab onto John's knees - and all the while he continued the devastating movement of his legs and hips.
At her convulsive, vice-like grip John felt his groin tighten and his skin start to tingle everywhere, egged on by her helpless whimpers. He knew he had little time left but he couldn't stop thrusting into her, especially when she tipped backwards and he could see where he disappeared into her body, the base of his shaft now slick with her release. He needed more… he needed total annihilation… Never losing his deep claim on Natalie's quaking body he rolled them so it was her upper back on the bed… so he was standing, driving into her body. He hooked his arms under her knees and then moved her legs over his shoulders so that only her shoulders and head were on the bed. She was now angled so that he could drive even more profoundly within and his first thrust into her in this position catapulted her over the edge again into such a powerful orgasm her grip on John was almost painful, as if her hot walls had actually fused to the tight skin of his steel-like erection. That was his undoing and he was wracked with total-body shudders as he exploded inside her.
Natalie had been in the concussive throes of her first orgasm, pleasure bathing every part of her, when she'd become barely conscious of him moving them…of her back hitting the mattress and her legs resting on his shoulders. When he had thrust inside her and triggered another orgasm she felt as if her corporeal presence had been obliterated into a million pulsating pieces of energy, her scream a clarion call heralding this event. Everything in her trembled in the wake of the heated wave of ecstasy that swept her away and all but vanquished her tenuous hold on consciousness - she felt lightheaded and was sure she'd temporarily blacked out before the pleasure drew her back to experience every moment of it.
With his final bit of strength John moved Natalie's legs off his shoulders and reached down to take her under her arms and move them both up onto the bed, using the thrust of his hips and the fact that he was still buried inside her to help propel them further. Of course, that not only had a practical benefit, but set off another wave of tremors… another round of moans, as he collapsed on top of her, his gasping breaths now heating her neck. Natalie felt him weighing her into the mattress and wanted to wrap her arms around him, pull him even closer, but she didn't even have the strength to lift her arms at this point, though she did press soft kisses into his neck and chest when she could stop panting long enough to do so.
Five minutes later they were still lying as they'd fallen, though she had finally managed to embrace him and they could now draw slightly steady breaths. They had yet to say a word. Unfortunately at that moment there was a knock on the door as a voice shouted, "Room Service". John groaned and rasped, "Coming!" and disengaged himself from Natalie with heavy-limbed clumsiness. On shaky legs he made his way to the closet and pulled out the two robes. He tossed one to Natalie and struggled to get in his own, and then walked to the door.
Natalie's brain told her she needed to cover herself, but it didn't seem interested in commanding her body to cooperate - at least not fully. Remaining in her prone position she spread the robe out over her and pushed her arms into it, essentially wearing it backwards though it fell on each side of her on the bed since she'd had neither the energy nor inclination to rise up and shove it underneath her.
When John followed the waiter into the room he noticed him stop short when he spied Natalie and John had to choke back a laugh when he saw her. She was covered, he'd give her that, but there was exactly no doubt now what they'd been up to when the knock on the door had come. Not quite looking at them the waiter quickly uncovered their food and drinks, had John sign the check, and beat a hasty retreat.
John sat on the end of the bed and grabbed her ankle, saying around a chuckle, "You OK, sweetheart?"
Natalie's eyes remained closed as she said, "Mmmmm Hmmm…."
He smiled and crawled up the bed to lie on his stomach beside her and she opened her eyes to look at him, giving him a small smile. He leaned forward and kissed her gently, then said, "Come on…you'd better eat to recover your strength…" then he helped her sit and put on the robe the correct way, dragging her down the bed to sit at its end by the table of food the waiter had wheeled in. Resting against him she did manage to eat, and by the time she'd had a few bites of her salad and sips of her drink she felt at least semi-normal. She'd been aware of John looking at her periodically with a humorous and slightly smug expression and she didn't care - he HAD decimated her. And it wasn't like she was going to complain about it, so if it gave him an ego-boost - well, hell, he deserved it. And this being a source of pride certainly benefited her - though it might actually kill her in the end.
John finally broke the silence when she asked, "So you felt like you were at the rodeo, huh? A real live cowgirl?"
She laughed and shook her head, "Yeah… but not a 'family' rodeo for sure…"
"No, definitely not… but you know, it really gives me some ideas… I have this vision of you in suede chaps and a suede vest - and NOTHING else… chaps alone would be the true definition of 'easy access' clothing now, wouldn't they? I might just have to pay a visit to a western-wear store - there have to be some out in the Virginia horse country…"
Natalie couldn't help it, her blood heated a bit at his words, and she said in a husky voice, "Well, I'd be happy to dress up for you John, but then you'd have to return the favor… chaps would certainly do your ass - and other assets - justice… frame them perfectly, if you think about it…"
He shook his head, picked up her soda and shoved it at her, "Here, have a cold drink… I'll join you. Or we'll never get out of here…"
They finished lunch, took a quick shower and headed out. Natalie left separately and walked down the block to wait for John. He'd pre-arranged with a valet, whom he'd tipped handsomely, for his truck to be left in a spot from which he could easily exit, with the keys under the mat, so he wouldn't call attention to himself waiting for the valet to bring his car around. In minutes he was pulling over to the curb and Natalie was climbing in, very much looking forward to the balance of their two days.
Chapter 67
John lived in Virginia about 15 miles from Quantico in a quiet, charming
neighborhood. It was not one of the newer neighborhoods full of McMansions, but instead had wonderful craftsman bungalows/cottages. John's house was white
with black shutters and accents, set back from the road with an inviting front porch. It was impeccably maintained. He pulled down the long driveway to the
detached garage down back and drove into it. He helped Natalie grab her bag and they walked towards the house. He couldn't wait for them to see her
reaction to his home, and for them to settle into its comfort together. He had always felt himself restored when he
returned from a trip abroad and it still worked its magic, however since he'd fallen for Natalie it had seemed like something was missing when he was here
without her. He missed her whenever they weren't together, so that wasn't exactly surprising.
John walked them around the front so her first impression could be the best view of the house. He opened a leaded glass door that deposited them in the main
room - which was a good size. There were wood floors throughout the entire first floor. The walls were all off white, which threw the natural wood door frames
and moldings into sharp relief. In the middle of the main room was an oriental rug dominated by browns, creams, black and a dash of deep red. Facing each other
on the rug were two oversized brown leather couches and two massive leather ottomans stood side-by-side between the couches in lieu of a coffee table. However
on one of them was a large mahogany tray that converted it to that purpose as needed, and a beige chenille throw had been tossed across the other one. The
couches each held several throw pillows in colors that picked up those in the rug. There were a couple of wood end-tables and matching wood sofa tables behind
each sofa - they were all mission-style. On all four tables were lamps that had almost a Frank Lloyd Wright feel to them, and scattered across them were a few
books and coasters. Deeper into the room, on the far side of the couches, was another, smaller, rug with complementary
colors, and it occupied the space between the main rug and what appeared to be a large, gleaming wood cabinet. In fact, the cabinet, which dominated the center
of the wall directly across from the front door, hid a custom fireplace that he could expose when a fire was called for.
On the walls were tasteful prints - mostly cityscapes and street-scenes from around the world. Several feet to the right of the cabinet/fireplace was a
door-less double-wide door-jamb through which the dining room was visible, including its long wooden table and six chairs, also mission-style and consistent
with the living room furniture.
Natalie had not known exactly what to expect from John's home, but realized it fit him perfectly, and she loved it.
It wasn't overdone, but neither was it spare and ridiculously masculine - it was warm and inviting, and put one at ease the moment you entered. "John, this is truly beautiful… so inviting - it feels so comfortable…"
"I'm glad you like it - let me show you the rest…"
He led her to the kitchen which was a very good size - enough for a four-person table and chairs. The cabinets and island were a warm maple color and the
countertops were black granite. He then led her down the hall a bit to a small but nicely done powder room, and finally to the back of the house were there was
an office/den that had a red leather couch and several red-leather club chairs - plus a large flat-screen TV. Opposite
the seating area was a large wooden desk and black leather executive chair, behind which the walls were lined with bookcases that were chock-full. John held
her hand as they walked back into the main room and to the wooden stairs that led to the second floor - which also had solid wood floors throughout. The
staircase bisected the upper floor and to the right was the master suite which took up half the second floor, and to the left were two spare bedrooms that
shared a full bathroom. The bedrooms were relatively sparsely furnished but still nice - beds, dressers, and armchairs.
John led her into the master suite last and she thought it was one of the most inviting private retreats she'd ever seen. The king-size bed, with its
mahogany wood and leather-upholstered headboard dominated half the room and it was luxuriously turned out in taupe colored duvet and pillow shams. A large
upholstered bench was at the foot of the bed. The mattress was clearly a "pillow top" style because the bed was so high off the ground she was
wondering if she'd need to climb onto it using the bench - or a boost from John… The room had fantastic natural light through great windows which were
framed in wood and took up almost the entire wall on the far side of the bed. A window seat ran the width of them and
looked out onto a small but pretty backyard. Centered on the wall directly across from the foot of the bed was a raised, gas fireplace of glass and marble that
she soon realized was double-sided when she saw what appeared to be a large tub through the glass. A flat-screen TV was
hung above the fireplace. Tucked in a cozy corner between the windows and the fireplace was a small seating area with
two armchairs and an ottoman, all covered in a beige and brown brocade. In the actual corner, between the chairs, was a
custom corner cabinet that Natalie would learn held a refrigerator, coffee maker and small bar. Several feet to the
right of the fireplace were French doors that led into the master bathroom, and finally, to the right of the bathroom doors were a mahogany bureau and a tall
matching dresser.
She followed John into the bathroom and saw that the large Jacuzzi tub to her left did, in fact, have the fireplace at one end. To the right of the entry door was a large stall shower, and it and the tub - as well as the floor - were clad in taupe marble. Opposite each other, next to the tub on one side of the room and the shower on the other, were two maple vanities with off-white marble countertops. Large mirrors ran the entire length of each. And finally, there were two large walk-in closets one of which was empty.
John had enjoyed watching Natalie's expressions as she'd taken in each room - it was clear she loved what she saw and it made him appreciate his decision to buy and finish this house all over again. He ushered her back into the bedroom and to the seating area, then pulled out two beers from the fridge secreted in the corner cabinet, and she raised her eyebrows appreciatively at the cabinet's true function. "Nice" she said, and he smiled. They clinked bottles and took long sips of their beer, then Natalie asked, "How long have you been in your home?"
"Between five and six years now. The more I traveled abroad, the more I felt the need to have a more substantive place to come back to - probably part of growing older, too."
"Was it like this when you found it - so thoughtfully updated - or did you have to do it?"
"I was very lucky that the house itself was in fantastic shape - all the wood floors are original, plus the wooden doors, doorframes and window framing. But I had the fireplace in the main room redone and that special cabinet made to conceal it when it wasn't in use-"
"There's a fireplace in the main room?" she asked in surprise.
He laughed and said, "Yep, in that big cabinet centered on the main wall… I can even store all my wood in it…"
"Wow, you really have some secretive cabinetry, don't you" she smiled, gesturing to his bar. "What else did you do?"
"Well, the kitchen is all new -cabinets and countertops - as are the powder room and guest bath. Plus, this space - the bedroom and bath - it was previously two smaller bedrooms and a bathroom, and I worked with an architect to turn them into what you see now. Oh, I also put in central air and had the heat converted from oil to gas."
"It really is a wonderful home, John… not at all the typical 'bachelor pad' people expect of single guys…"
He looked at her with a serious expression for a moment and said quietly, "You're right in more ways than you know, Natalie… the thing is, the only people who've ever been here are Mason, Chase, a few other work buddies and my family. I've… I've never invited another woman to come here… to stay here…"
Natalie was touched and she asked softly, "Really?"
He took her hand and said, "Really. This has been my place apart from everything… and, well, I know this might sound horrible but no one else I ever dated was someone I felt strongly enough to share this with… to invite them in. It felt complete without any 'female presence' - until the first time I stayed here after we returned from Mexico, when I was finally admitting I wanted to see where a relationship with you might lead. I wished you were here with me…"
She felt a few tears pool in her eyes as she rubbed his hand and said, "Thank you for telling me that - and for bringing me here. I love it… it feels, well right…"
"It is right. It feels that way for me, too. And this might sound borderline goofy, or maybe completely so, but I want us to have a couple of basic, run-of-the-mill days - just like two people who live here."
Natalie got out of her chair to kneel in front of John's and she wrapped her arms around him, nestling her face in his neck as his arms closed around her. She sighed and then said, "It's not goofy - it's perfect". He pulled her up and onto and across his lap and they clinked their beer bottles together again, taking a long sip afterwards. He kissed the curve of her neck and then pulled her mouth onto his to kiss her gently. When they broke their kiss he said, "I thought tonight I'd make us dinner - then tomorrow we can either go out or order in Chinese. So, how'd you like to go to the supermarket with me?"
"Ooh, fun… maybe we could pick up some chocolate cake for dessert…"
His eyes twinkled at that and he smiled, saying, "I love how you think, sweetheart". After a final kiss she slid off his lap and they knocked back the rest of their beers. John went into his closet to quickly change into jeans and a black polo and then they headed downstairs and out to the car. He drove them to the Fresh Market one town over and they found they enjoyed their excursion as much as they'd thought. There was no drama, no need to rush or hide, just the chance to slowly meander through the aisles, discussing what to buy… what to make…and they finished things off with a few bottles of wine. It took a while to get their shopping done because they'd periodically take the time to share a hug or a brief kiss, managing not to go overboard and make spectacles of themselves. Their final menu would be a fresh salad with balsamic vinaigrette, grilled filet mignon, and penne vodka - rounded out by a robust cabernet and topped off by, yes, chocolate cake with a thick layer of frosting.
When they got back home, they carried the groceries directly into the kitchen and began to unload them onto the large island. It was after 6pm, so they were going to dive right in and get cooking.
"So, first things first" said John as he opened up one of the bottles of wine and poured it into to large crystal wine glasses that he'd had waiting on the counter. Then he said, "You can just sit back and relax if you want, or if you're dying to help I can put you in charge of making the salad and boiling the water for the pasta".
She smiled, "I'm happy to do both… so anyway, do you cook a lot? Where'd you learn how?"
"I cook a decent bit. Usually just basic stuff, honestly, grilling some steak or chicken and tossing in a baked potato and salad. But I started cooking more when I moved in here and had the space - and finally took the time to outfit my kitchen. I realized I liked it - found it relaxing. And I know you'll know what I mean when I say that after days and weeks of eating out in restaurants and hotels, and even banquets, well, simple and home-cooked goes a long way".
"You ain't kidding!"
John laughed and continued, "I have a few cookbooks and I've learned that if you follow directions you can usually do OK… and now I have a few things I feel I've gotten good at - such as my tomato-vodka sauce…"
They proved to be very companionable kitchen mates and within an hour had a delicious meal prepped and ready to eat. They opted to sit at the kitchen table with the lights down low, and similar to their time in Florence, talked about a wide range of events from their lives prior to their meeting. They were too full to eat cake, so they poured the last of the bottle of wine into their glasses and retreated to the great room, sitting close together on one of the leather couches.
Natalie looked at John with soft eyes and said, "How come I feel like I've known you forever?"
John smiled and said quietly, "It does feel like that, doesn't it? Maybe some of it's because we had to push past all the preliminaries that you normally spend time on - if you think about it, first I got to know you for two months when you started working at The Brazen Head, but then after your true identity came out, we jumped right into some incredibly heavy stuff - talking about your upcoming torture sessions and their aftermath, for example…"
"You were so good to me about all that… it meant a lot - really helped - especially because at that point I was convinced you borderline hated me…"
He rubbed her cheek and said, "I never hated you, Natalie. Ever. I'll admit I didn't like feeling I've been played - but that was your job. It just pricked my ego… and I was genuinely concerned that you'd end up in over your head. I've since learned you can handle it - and that you've been invaluable. But now I can't stand that you have to go through it all…" He ran his finger over the greatly diminished but still visible bruises around her neck - she'd removed her scarf when they got home - as he said that, shaking his head.
"I know… and, John, I really couldn't get through it all without you…you pull me out of it, and I'm not sorry about any of it because this whole situation brought you into my life in such an incredible way…"
John took Natalie's wine glass from her hand and put it with his onto the tray that sat on the ottoman. Then he drew her mouth to his and began to kiss her with passionate intent. Soon they were stretched out on the big couch side by side as their mouths and hands roamed over each other. Finally he said against her mouth, "The dishes will keep until morning… will you come to bed with me, Natalie?"
"I thought you'd never ask…"
John slid off the couch, bent to pick her up and carried her easily up to the master bedroom. When they were there, he put her down and she shivered when she realized the bedroom was quite a bit colder than the rest of the cool house. Seeing that John said, "I turned the thermostat down in here - it's a separate HVAC zone - because I wanted to be able to put the fire on…"
"Fire?" she asked in a bit of surprise.
John cupped her face in both hands and said huskily, "I have this desire to make love to you by firelight - it's been a thought I can't get out of my mind - and I don't want to wait until cool weather. So, don't tell the environmentalists, but I set the air conditioning in here down to 65 so we can use the fire…" He kissed her lips softly then headed over to the fireplace and flipped a switch, immediately igniting the gas logs. A warm glow lit the room and she felt it spread throughout her body as she considered this romantic and sensual gesture on his part. She walked over and stepped behind him, wrapping her arms around his middle and resting her head on his back. He let out a sigh of contentment as he briefly wrapped his arms around hers, then turned to take her in a proper hug.
John said against her hair, "I'm so glad you're here… I love you, Natalie".
She squeezed him tighter and said, "I love you too… and I'll never be able to tell you how much it means to me that you've brought me here…"
They began to kiss with soft passion and then gently eased each other out of their clothes, tossing them onto the bench at the end of the bed. John looked at Natalie, her bare skin luminescent in the glow of the fire, and while trailing a finger from her collar bone and down through the valley between her breasts said in an almost reverent tone, "So beautiful…" He took her hand and led her around the side of the bed, pulled back the covers and lifted her into it, immediately following her so he could draw her close to him. They just looked at each other for a minute, basking in the sense of ease and peace that surrounded them. They were in a safe cocoon where no one could get to them. They didn't have to rush or worry and dive headlong into their passion and desire to make the most of them until the clock once again wound down. They could take the time to fully appreciate the fact that their bodies were naked and pressed against each other, heat building along every point of contact. When their mouths finally met, they moved almost in slow motion, first lips just pressing together, then opening against each other in teasing movements before their tongues met and began a languid exploration.
Natalie could feel how hard John was against her stomach as their mouths grew more urgent against each other. Her blood heated as she thought of all the ways he could make love to her - with his fingers, mouth and then this devastating hardness. But she realized what she most needed at that moment was what was in perfect keeping with the theme of their time here - basic, but perfect. She simply needed to feel him inside her. She rolled onto her back, bending and spreading her legs wide and he followed her lead, coming to rest between them, his hard length pressing between her folds and drawing a soft moan from her which prompted the separation of their mouths. John's arms went underneath her, around her as he loomed over her… as his eyes burned into hers, lit by his desire as well as the flickering flames in the fireplace behind them. Natalie moved her right hand down between their bodies to take firm hold of him and he shivered at the contact. She positioned him at her wet opening, and he exerted just enough pressure for his engorged tip to slip inside her. Her eyes fluttered closed for a moment as now she shivered, and he waited for her to open them again. Then, with delicious, measured intent he pushed his way inside her until he was buried to the hilt.
John shuddered again, then without moving began to kiss Natalie, first softly, then with increasing intensity and urgency. She moved her hands down his back to his ass while wriggling her hips and in response he finally began to move, thrusting in and out of her tight, wet passage with increasing force and speed, each stroke making her that much wetter and oh so very hot. He could feel her molten essence coating him, easing his way inside her and to his own climax if the tightening of his balls and the tingling in his scalp was any indication.
Natalie loved the feeling of him taking her this way, as his muscular chest crushed her breasts… as his entire weight bore her into the soft mattress… and as their mouths stoked and shared the passion and desire they so clearly had for each other. The ache deep inside her grew more severe with each thrust, causing her to moan almost as if in pain from it, but it was not pain, just rampant need and want to be fully claimed, first driven almost to the edge and then released from its tightly delicious hold in a wave of spine-tingling ecstasy. Natalie slid her mouth from John's to suck on his neck, nibble on his earlobe, find his collar bone and place a tender bite around it - anything she could do to increase his pleasure and communicate how much she wanted him. Without conscious thought she banded her arms and legs around him and began to pulse her hips upwards from the mattress to deepen his journey inside her body.
John could feel Natalie's walls begin to tremble around him and when she put her legs around him it afforded such profound access to the inner reaches of her body that he could swear the tip of his penis was hitting her womb - a sensation that began to speed the path to his own end. He wanted to see her… and her to see him… to be fully together in the moment when they surrendered to each other. He pulled back and when she felt him looking at her she did the same, opening her eyes to his intense blue gaze, which seemed to spark with every move of their hips. He moved his arms from underneath her and rested his upper body on hers while he reached around to grab her hands and intertwine them with his as he pushed them over her head, bringing his face within inches of hers.
Their breathing was ragged, interrupted by moans, gasps and whimpers. John buried his face in her neck, placing hot, wet, open-mouthed kisses there, and he felt the intensity of her contractions increase and her hips begin to writhe and buck more forcefully. He drove deep inside her and then stayed, grinding as hard as he could and her neck arched as she cried out, "John!" Unable to help herself she bit down onto his shoulder and before John even knew what was happening he was shaking almost violently as he spilled into her. That hot gush of liquid triggered Natalie's own orgasm and she gripped his fingers and writhed underneath his still rutting hips, her spasming walls milking him and pulling moans from deep within him.
John finally surrendered Natalie's hands and once again she wound them around his upper body as he remained collapsed against her. A few seconds later he collected himself enough to roll them on their sides so they could hold each other until they were no longer shaking. They gently caressed each other as they came down from such mind-blowing highs, sharing soft smiles as they did so.
John pulled Natalie into a tender kiss and then just looked at her for a long moment, and she had the feeling there was something he wanted to say, but wasn't sure how to form the words. She gently rubbed his cheek and asked, "What? What is it?"
He smiled and turned his face so he could kiss her palm, and took hold of her hand. "I just love having you here… in my own bed. At this point, we've made love quite a few times, in so many different places… so many different ways… each time feels new… unique, and yet builds on all the others - you know what I mean?"
She nodded and earned another kiss on her hand.
"Being here just makes it even more special… "
"For me, too, John… me too…"
He kissed her hand again and looked at her with an interesting mix of intensity and tenderness. "Natalie, remember the dream I had in Florence… when I woke you up kissing your belly?"
The memory warmed her and she shook her head, "Yes, it's one of my favorite memories…"
"Mine too. The thing is, though, it wasn't just about a baby… our baby…. That was the main part of the dream, but it wasn't all of it…"
She looked at him curiously and asked, "Do you remember the rest?"
He smiled and said, "Oh, I remember it…"
"What was it?"
"Well, in the dream… you weren't just having my baby… you were my wife."
Natalie's eyes grew wide and she felt her heart start to flutter in her chest. Could he really mean.... be about to…She squeaked out, "Really?"
"Really, Natalie" he whispered. "And that… well that made me as happy as the fact that we were having a baby…"
All of a sudden Natalie felt incredibly emotional, and her eyes were awash with tears, but she couldn't help the smile that trembled around her mouth too. Again she could only manage to ask, "Really?"
He initially wasn't sure about her reaction because of the tears that pooled in her eyes, but then he saw the tremulous smile and heard the hopeful note in her equally tremulous question. He kissed her palm and looked at her with direct intensity and said, "Really, Natalie. Honest to God, it was one of the best feelings ever… and it occurred to me that if a dream felt so good, then how much better would it feel if it was real - if I could have you here with me every night… if this was OUR home, not MY home…."
Tears were now spilling down Natalie's cheeks, her heart hammering in her chest. He was actually doing this and she almost couldn't process it as true. She squeezed his hand, needing its connection to reality, to him.
John took that as a good sign and swallowed hard, took a deep breath, and after kissing her hand once more said softly, "I guess what I'm saying… what I'm asking is… Natalie… will you marry me?"
At first all she could do was nod her head, but then she said, "Yes… I'll marry you, John… I'd love to marry you…"
John hadn't even taken note of how his own heart had been racing through all this, but he finally felt it slow for a moment at her words, when he realized she'd be his. "I love you so much, Natalie… thank you for saying yes…"
She smiled through her tears and said with deep emotion buffeting her voice, "I love you, too… thank you for asking me…"
Moving simultaneously they wrapped their arms around each other as their mouths met in a slow, deep, sensual kiss that eased their hearts and calmed their souls. When they pulled apart they smiled at each other, then John leaned over to his bedside table and reached into a drawer. When his hand was visible again it was holding a small black velvet jewelry box.
Natalie looked at him in surprise and asked, "John…?"
They both sat up and leaned back against the upholstered headboard. He looked a little sheepish, a little bashful, when he said, "Well, I just knew I wanted to ask you - and I hoped you'd say yes - so I wanted to be prepared. I have to say, I had no idea there were so many different cuts of diamonds… and I have no idea if you'll like what I picked - so I WON'T be offended if you want to swap it out… if I made a boneheaded decision… but this just seemed like you…"
She chuckled a bit and said, "Well, can I see it?"
He grinned and said, "Yeah, that'd make sense, huh?" He snapped open the box and she gasped at the beautiful ring it held - even in the soft light of the fire it was magnificent. "John…." she said as tears once again pricked her eyes. "It's, it's unbelievable… it's…I have no words…" The platinum ring had three diamonds - the center stone was a two-carat princess cut, and on either side of it were one-carat trilliants. He smiled a big, happy smile and plucked it out of the box, took her left hand, placed it over the tip of her finger and looked at her for a moment. Suddenly his own emotions snuck up on him and he felt the sting of happy tears in his own eyes, prompting Natalie to reach out a hand to gently push his hair back from his eyes. He saw the love in her eyes, felt it in her touch, and in a voice made thick with emotion he asked, "Marry me, Natalie?" as he pushed the ring onto her finger. "Yes" she responded, and leaned forward to kiss him.
When they broke apart she looked down at the gorgeous ring, almost unable to believe it was really there.
"So you really like it, Natalie?"
She looked at him intently and said, "Oh, John, I love it… you… honestly, what a beautiful ring… but it's so much…"
"No, it's not… it's just right…this is forever, Natalie… I never thought I'd take this step, so I wanted something to appropriately mark this occasion… as I said, there were so many other rings… cuts and styles that were beautiful… but I kept coming back to this… it might not be as easy to see in this light, but it has such fire and sparkle - and that reminded me of you… and I thought you needed a ring that matched you…"
Natalie knew her cheeks were again flooded with tears and she choked out, "There you go again… all these sweet, sweet things you keep saying…"
He rubbed her tears away and said, "That's because that's what you bring out in me, sweetheart… I've never felt this way about anyone - didn't think I could. So it's all you… and I want to share my life with you… could you be happy here, Natalie? In this house? With me?"
"John, as long as I'm with you….no matter where I am, I'll be happy. But I already love it here… it's a special place, John…"
"It is now… it is now…"
Natalie again leaned over to kiss John and said softly against his lips, "I'm so happy… you've made me so happy…"
"Sweetheart, you've more than returned the favor…"
They eased down onto the bed, stretching out, and began to make slow, passionate love to each other - and once again it felt different, imbued with extra tenderness and emotion… the pledge to spend their lives together tethering them, heightening every feeling, every sensation. Finally they lay spent in each others' arms and floated into the ease of sleep, dreaming of each other - happy.
Chapter 68
Natalie woke up with a sense of well-being and happiness she could never remember experiencing to quite that degree before. John was spooning her from behind, his strong arms around her, his breath heating her neck, his warm hand resting on her stomach, and she also knew she'd never felt as protected and safe, either. She wrapped her arms around his and glanced down at the beautiful ring on her left hand, still amazed that it wasn't a dream - it had survived intact the light of day, a symbol of their love and future. A manifestation of their passion for each other - John's morning erection - was pressing into her backside and triggering an equivalent response between her own legs. She turned in his arms and kissed his neck, then down his chest and stomach until she reached his groin - by then, of course, John was awake.
"Natalie?" he rasped.
She smirked and asked, "You expecting someone else?"
John felt his blood rush to his manhood, heating his skin along the way - a sensation only enhanced by Natalie's hot breath there. When her tongue licked his engorged tip he was helpless against the groan that rumbled through his chest and throat. It got stuck there because his vocal cords seized when she took him entirely in her mouth and moved her hands around to grab onto his ass. Of their own volition his hips began to move so he was fucking her mouth, albeit gently, and the efforts of her tongue, lips and teeth were diligent in delivering almost infinite pleasure. He wound his hands in her fiery tresses, the silky feel of them registering briefly until he was incapable of any thought at all. One moment he was building to his climax, and with a sudden increase in the suction of Natalie's mouth, combined with a judicious use of her teeth under the ridge where his tip met his shaft, he was shooting down her throat and writhing in synch with her tongue's motion.
His "Oh FUCK!" was followed up by moans and grunts as she continued to swallow what he poured out and to lick him clean. He was semi-conscious of her mouth finally freeing him and of her sliding up his body and embracing him. Finally his eyes fluttered open to meet her twinkling blue ones. She smiled and moved her mouth to his, enticing him into a deeply passionate kiss that caused aftershocks to make their way through his body. He could taste himself on her tongue, in the recesses of her mouth as his tongue explored them and his "Mmmm" vibrated down her throat.
When they broke apart and Natalie purred, "Good morning…"
John could only smile in return, mumble "Mmmmm Hmmmm" and tighten his arms around her. After a few minutes recovery time he whispered against her neck, "I owe you… and I intend to repay my debt as soon as I have an ounce of strength back…"
She laughed softly against his chest and said, "You have plenty of 'credits' in your bank account, but I won't complain if you want to pad the balance…"
"Hmmm, I was kind of thinking… perhaps if you join me in the shower… a tongue bath might be in order…" He gave a throaty chuckle at the shudder that ran through her, saying huskily, "Oh, you like that idea, huh?"
She nodded and felt him slip away from her, only to slide off the bed and reach down to pick her up. Now it was her heart's turn to race in anticipation as he brought her into the bathroom and straight into the shower. He put her down but continued to hold her close as he turned on the water - nice and steamy - and then they were kissing in passionate abandon as the dual shower jets sprayed over them. Natalie became cognizant of the still-relatively-cool tiles against her back, then John's hot mouth and tongue were tracing a scorching trail down her neck, through the valley between her breasts and to her stomach. When he was kneeling, his mouth almost in position, he looked up at her and they locked eyes for a moment while his hands massaged their way up her outer thighs, his right hand lifting her left leg over his shoulder. Natalie couldn't control the tremor that went through her as she tipped her head back and closed her eyes, and mere seconds later she felt his tongue first sweep between her folds, press against her already-engorged clit, and then dive forcefully inside her.
Natalie cried, "John" when his mouth took possession of her and that was all the encouragement he needed - not that he really needed any to begin with. She was so hot and wet already and he moved his hands to her ass to hold her in place. Still she was writhing as much as she could to match the rhythm of her hips to his tongue. He could feel her begin to clench around him already so he moved his tongue to the tight bundle of nerves and plunged two fingers from his right hand inside her, sending her over the edge. Her hands gripped his head while her hips rolled to deepen his penetration of her… to increase the pressure of his tongue while she moaned incoherencies, their echoing report from the tiles softened by the steam hanging in the air.
John surrendered her body briefly so he could stand, then re-claimed her left leg, hooking it over his hip as he entered her in one fluid, devastating stroke, intensifying her orgasm and driving it once again through her entire body in an explosion of sensation. Natalie's hands clutched desperately at his shoulders as he opened his mouth against her neck to suck on it, feeling her moans vibrating against his lips and tongue. She moved her hands to his ass to ensure his plundering of her body would continue unabated since it was elongating her climax to dizzying proportions.
John pulled his mouth away from her neck to look at her face, her passion and desire sweeping across it as her slick muscles continued to clutch at his granite manhood. He rasped, "Look at me, sweetheart", and her eyes drifted open. Just before he claimed her mouth in an almost bruising kiss he whispered against it, "I couldn't start my day without being inside you…", then his tongue was fusing with hers as he reached down to pull her right leg up so her legs could wrap around his waist… so he could grab her ass and move her against him… so he could feel her breasts bounce against his chest as he used his thighs and glutes to power his rutting pelvis and drive her up and down the wall.
As she wrapped her arms around his neck, Natalie wasn't sure if the endless waves of pleasure washing over her were from one mind-blowing orgasm or multiples that seemed to have no beginning or end… she just knew she had become heated liquid the way the hot water had turned to steam. John's tongue and cock were like heating elements keeping her at full boil and she was simply going to hang on and use her own responsive tongue and hips to keep him where she needed him.
John was throbbing almost painfully as he pushed his way deeper inside Natalie with each return thrust, almost fighting her convulsing body each time, which only served to heighten his arousal, quicken his blood, and pull a growl from deep within him at each stroke. His balls were tightening, his legs turning to rubber, his glutes burning…and he knew he only had moments before he would have to let go… He ripped his mouth from hers to once again suck on her neck, and blindly stumbled backwards until he felt the backs of his legs hit the tiled bench. He sat quickly, impaling Natalie as they landed, and when her body seized him in its slippery vice he was done, shooting deep within her spasming womb.
John's hoarse voice cried out, "Natalie!... Oh shit… Oh fuck!", as his arms banded around her and his whole body quaked. They sat joined like that for five or six minutes while they rocked together, calming and cooling down so they were only as hot as their steamy environs. Finally he pulled her head from where it was buried in his neck and holding her face gently in both hands kissed her softly and said, "You are going to be the death of me… "
Eventually they had enough energy to finish their shower, to gently wash each other, hold each other, just enjoy being together with no need to rush. When John turned off the water he reached for a massive, fluffy bath sheet to wrap her in, and then grabbed one for himself. He quickly toweled himself off while she more slowly did the same, and then went into his closet, soon coming out in jeans and a navy polo shirt. He helped Natalie finish drying herself and drew her into a hug, saying, "I'm going to go downstairs and make some coffee" and after delivering a gentle kiss he took his leave.
Natalie was definitely moving slowly, relaxed to her bones from the combination of hot steamy shower and hotter, steamier sex - it was a potent combination that knocked her on her ass, but she was not even close to complaining. She had never dared to dream that she could find someone with whom she would feel either the total emotional engagement or for whom she'd feel such deep desire, such rampant lust. To find both with one person - who felt the same about her - was a complete revelation to her and she knew she was incredibly lucky. She was almost to the point where she saw it as her "normal" life - though she certainly didn't take it for granted. Still, sometimes it would catch her up short and surprise her - especially her own behavior and responses to John. It wasn't so long ago that she'd had an awkward crush on him, and now the things they did together…
John was pouring water into the coffee maker and stopped dead for a second when he realized he'd been whistling… not only that, but he'd been whistling "Ode to Joy"… and it was a surprise, but not an unpleasant one. He was truly happy, and not just because of the bone-melting physical release he'd just had, but because Natalie had released his heart - his soul, really - from the constricting boxes he'd kept them in. He hadn't realized how constrained they'd been until he'd let them have free rein and they'd expanded with his love for and connection to Natalie. The difference was stark, and it caused a small thrill of fear to tingle along his spine because he realized they were also unprotected. He'd once heard someone describe parenthood as realizing that for the rest of your life your own heart would be walking around outside your body - and that was really how he felt about Natalie. That's what she'd become for him… and as happy as he was, it also brought no small modicum of fear since he'd lose his mind, his very reason if anything happened to her. Still, he was going to do a decidedly non-McBain thing and not look this gift horse in the mouth. The only other option at this point would be to turn away from everything they had and were to each other, and that was no option at all - even if he went through the motions that would be all they could be. She was his, and he was hers - and to his great good fortune she was now wearing his ring in a promise to make that fact a lifelong commitment.
He heard her walking into the kitchen and looked up, a smile spreading across his face as he did. She looked so vital, and as happy as he felt, but what tugged on his heart was the almost undetectable air of shyness - a slight tentativeness in her step - as she walked in. She also looked adorable and sexy in a cleanly basic way - blue jeans, bare feet, small but tasteful white t-shirt, and wet hair already drying down her back and around her shoulders. She had minimal make-up on and her only accessories were diamond stud earrings, her watch, and the necklace and ring he'd given her.
John held his arms open and Natalie stepped into them, happy to soak up any and every hug he'd give her. She had to store them up for those times they had to "behave",
He ushered her to one of the stools at the island and said, "Coffee's almost ready… " and he continued to look at her. She blushed a little and asked, "What?"
"Nothing… I just like looking at you… and it occurred to me that I've seen you dressed to the nines in some beautiful, sexy gowns and dresses, but I don't think you've ever looked better, more beautiful… more adorable than you do right now, in jeans, a t-shirt and no shoes…"
Her color deepened as she said, "Oh… well, I'm glad you think so…"
The coffee maker beeped and he went to pour it out for them, putting cream in hers just as she liked it. He put it in front of her and then picked up her left hand, fingering her ring. "I'm so glad you said yes, Natalie… I just want to make sure in the cold light of day you didn't feel to rushed… that I didn't some how take advantage of the fact that we were in bed with the lights down low…"
Natalie put her right hand over his and said softly, "Not at all, John… I'm sure… totally sure…"
They kissed but then he said quietly, "Do I sense a 'but', Natalie?"
She shook her head with a shy smile and said, "Not a 'but'…just a little bit of disbelief… I mean, just 3 or 4 months ago, you were just…."
"Just what?"
"OK, this is embarrassing… but, well, you were this top agent that I had, well, I guess a crush on when it comes right down to it… you made me nervous, but in a good way… but you made me nervous…"
He smiled at her and said, "You said that…" as he stepped closer to her, encroaching on her space. "Do I still make you nervous, Natalie?"
With wide eyes she said with a slightly shaky voice, "Not nervous so much as… flustered sometimes… in a good way, though…"
He reached out and tucked her hair behind her ear and whispered, "Flustered how, sweetheart?"
Her mind was having a hard time focusing on what she was trying to say, but she landed upon a few relevant words, "I mean in a good way… because I'm… I'm attracted to you… I love… love being with you… the way you touch me… so the anticipation…"
He cupped her face and kissed her slowly, but deeply until she gripped his forearms and sighed into his mouth. He pulled back with a smile and said, "You do realize it works two ways… "
She shook her head and said, "Yeah… and that's what makes it even more mind-boggling in a way… to go from having a crush and thinking there was no way… to, to the way we are now…together…" She was blushing again but couldn't help it, and he drew her into another hug - she was killing him because the only word that kept flitting through his mind was "adorable". Again, it all came down to the intoxicating blend of things she was - capable, brave, strong agent… passionate, loving woman… and underneath it all, still a 24 year old who was discovering new things about herself all the time, much of it with him. But he was learning at least as much about himself and what living truly meant. He whispered against her head, "I love you so much, Natalie… "
"I love you, too, John."
John slid onto the stool beside her and asked with a grin, "So you had a crush on me, huh?"
"Yeah, that's probably what you could call it… you seemed mysterious and edgy - more so than Mason. I mean, when I first met you both I thought you were both good looking and all, but there was something about you… an intensity…"
"Well, I liked you, too, but initially I thought you were just 19, and I just couldn't let myself go there… then we found out who you really were, but that pretty much put you off limits for other reasons…" he smirked in self-deprecation as he said, "And I've done SUCH a good job of observing those boundaries…"
She smiled back, "Admirable… but let's not forget that Chase tossed us together to play at being a forbidden couple…"
"Let's also not forget my boneheaded pronouncements that I wouldn't have any trouble remaining immune… and by the way, I'll have you know I totally got that pointed look you sent to my groin that day… when you challenged me on whether I had no reaction to you…"
She giggled, "Well, we had just had that fighting match and let's just say certain things were evident - with both you and Mason - when we landed in that heap!"
John groaned and shook his head, "You have no idea how badly we felt… like some horrible cross between dirty old men and adolescent boys…"
"Aw, not to worry, I was hardly traumatized - it kind of went with the territory, plus-"
"Plus what?" he asked when she broke off abruptly and thought he detected a flush in her cheeks. When she didn't answer right away he prompted, "Natalie…"
"Well, let's just say that I had a corresponding response…"
"Hmmmm" he purred, "Are you saying you were aroused? Were you wet, Natalie?"
She looked him straight in the eye and said, "Yes, in fact I was".
"Interesting… of course it begs the question as to whom you were reacting since there were two of us and only one of you - and I assure you I wasn't reacting to Mason…"
Her blushed deepened and he egged her on, "Come on, sweetheart, if you can't be honest with your fiancé… after all we've done to each other… for each other…"
"OK, what if I said 'both'?"
"Both? You naughty girl…"
"Let's just say the thought that went through my head at that moment was until then I never could have fathomed how any woman could even consider a three-way - but toss a bit of alcohol in…"
John laughed outright and said with mock-shock, "Natalie Buchanan! You ARE a naughty little thing. Am I going to have to keep you away from Mason?"
She reached out and caressed his cheek and said with a dusky note in her voice, "No, baby, I'm a one-man woman… I'm all yours…"
He purred back, "Are you sure, sweetheart? That I'm enough for you?"
"Almost more than I can handle…"
"I think I need to be reassured…"
John stood and scooped Natalie off her stool, depositing her on the granite island. She shivered in anticipation and he didn't' make her wait long. In quick order her jeans and panties were on the floor beside the stool while his jeans and boxers were at his ankles, then he was thrusting inside her waiting wet heat. She gasped and said against his mouth, "But we just showered…"
He ground inside her and rasped back, "We'll take a quick bath after…"
Their mouths and tongues did battle in time with the collision of their pelvises and within three minutes they were cumming together, their sounds now spilling into the kitchen since the intensity of that twin climax ripped their mouths apart. Thirty minutes later Natalie was reclining back against John, nestled between his legs in a hot bath as they talked about what to do with the rest of their day…
Chapter 69
John and Natalie got dressed after their bath and had begun to walk out of the master suite when he remembered something and went to the bedside table where he'd sequestered her engagement ring. He pulled out a long, thin jewelry box and returned to her.
"This goes, temporarily, with your ring." He opened the box and pulled out a long platinum chain, saying, "I know you can't exactly wear your ring around when we go back, so I thought you could have two options - one, to wear it on this chain, or, two, you could leave it here in the safe…"
Natalie was touched by his thoughtfulness and said, "If it's OK, I'd like to keep it with me… close…"
John rubbed her face and said, "Of course it's OK.. Natalie, this is yours now - forever, I hope. And I thought you might want to, which is why I got the chain. But for now, I really like seeing it on your finger.
"Me, too, John."
They kissed softly for a moment then John said, "Feel like heading out for some lunch?"
"Sure."
John drove them to a little bistro in the quaint center of town and they settled in a corner booth. After ordering lunch - grilled chicken salad for her, a roast beef sandwich and chips for him - they found a wide range of topics to discuss, revealing more of their family and personal histories. Natalie had a lot more colorful material to work with in that regard, but she assured John he'd be embraced by Buchanans and Balsams, even if they might gently haze him at first.
As they were finishing up John said, "So, in terms of options for tonight - we could go out to any number of restaurants, or we could order in from a fantastic Chinese restaurant near the house…"
"Do you have a preference?"
He shook his head and said, "It's totally up to you, sweetheart."
"Well, in that case I'd love to just stay in and order Chinese."
"Sounds like a plan. And we could watch a movie or something…" He said with a small smile and a flare in his eyes.
"Or something…" She smiled back.
Knowing that they'd make sure to find plenty of time for "or something", they first decided to go to a matinee, and John agreed to see a "chick flick" - they'd each had their fill of drama and intrigue - as long as she promised not to rat him out. They shared a big tub of popcorn and a soda with two straws, and took turns remarking on how good it felt to do something that was taken for granted by so many people, smiling as they did so. Of course, they also took advantage of the darkness and relatively empty theater to enjoy some good old fashioned "making out".
By mid-afternoon they were headed back to John's house, still laughing at some of the silly antics of the heroine in the romantic comedy they'd seen.
"You know, Natalie, I could really see you doing some of that stuff - maybe we should write a screenplay about the exploits of an intrepid but somewhat madcap, young, hot, sexy Secret Service Agent…"
She laughed and said, "You think I'm hot and sexy, huh?"
"Sweetheart, your first clue should be that I can't keep my hands - among other things - off of or out of you…"
Natalie felt her skin flush at his words, tone and look in his eyes, and reaching over to turn the AC up - earning a chuckle from John - she said, "Well, clearly I find you equally so since I'm not exactly fighting you off - quite the contrary…"
"Indeed, since that was quite a wake up call this morning… "
"You liked that, huh?"
"What would make you think that?"
Before he could answer his cell phone rang and he answered, "Hey, Mason - what's up?"
"Just checking in on you guys - I did that little favor you asked… I popped by the Omni and ordered some Room Service up to 'your room'… and, uh, I hope you don't mind but Ang made it back a day early so, well, she came along and helped keep me company while we waited…"
John laughed and said, "Oh, she kept you 'company', did she… I just bet she did… Well, it's good that the room got a little more use…"
"So, not that I'm trying to intrude on your private time or anything - but I do feel it is my sworn duty as your friend to save you from yourselves and make sure you take some nourishment and a break - so I was wondering what you guys are up to for dinner… might be fun to get together…"
"Well, we were just going to order in Chinese…" he looked at Natalie when he said this and she nodded with a smile. "Why don't you and Angela come over to my place and we'll just order more… come casual. Heck, you can even pack a bag and stay in one of the guest rooms since we don't have to be on duty until 3 tomorrow…"
"Chinese we're definitely on for - and I'll ask Angela about staying over. It'd be a good idea if we decide to have some drinks."
"How about 7:30?"
"Done. Thanks - see you then!"
When they'd hung up John turned to Natalie, "You don't mind, do you?"
"Not at all - it'll be fun."
As they walked into the house he said, "I have to read some advance info for our next trip - it'll take about a half hour or so. Do you want to hang with me in the den while I do it - maybe read a book or something?"
"Sure."
While John settled on the couch Natalie picked a spy novel from the bookshelf and sat beside him. Within five minutes she was nodding off against his shoulder. She missed the tender expression on John's face when he put a pillow in his lap and gently moved her so her head was resting on it and her legs stretched along the rest of the couch. When he finished reviewing the information, Natalie was still dead to the world and he was feeling a bit sleepy himself. It was only 4, so they definitely had time for a nap. He carefully lifted her and smiled when she stirred just enough to bury her face in his neck and give him a small kiss there. He took her shoes and jeans off, leaving in her t-shirt and underwear, and stripped down to his boxers and tank. Five minutes later they were both asleep, Natalie's head on John's chest, his arms a protective band around her.
About an hour into their slumber, they became aware of each other as they surfaced from deep sleep into that wonderful state between dreams and wakefulness. The state where it can feel like dreams are actually coming true if you happen to be safe, sound and with the right person. Natalie's eyes fluttered when she felt John's mouth take possession of hers, but then she kept them closed to leave her focus on the sensations he was creating in her. He knew he was on the right track by the soft moan that slid from her throat into his, and by the tightening of her arms around his upper body. In unison they moved so that she was on her back, her legs bent and spread so his wide hips could come to rest between them, and they both moaned, their tongues vibrating against each other, when his hardness pressed against the damp crotch of her panties. Their mouths began to mate more urgently, deeply as they slowly ground against each other and their need roused them enough to realize they had to rid each other of the thin cotton garments that were keeping them apart.
John finally surrendered Natalie's mouth and their eyes, heavy with sleep and desire, met as her hands went to the waist band of his boxers and began to shove them down. The motion of his hips and legs to aid in that endeavor served to grind him against her and she gasped though she never lost focus on the removal of his underwear. They still had yet to say a word to each other because there was no need - their rapid breathing, soft moans and gasps joined with their clear arousal to say everything. Though they had an abiding hunger that needed to be sated, there was nonetheless a languid, somnolent quality to their movements that led their bodies to roll rather than rut, caress rather than grab or grope. Still, there was an underlying determination to meld themselves together and with gentle firmness John pushed Natalie's panties aside so he could carefully sheath himself inside her. As always, she was incapable of holding back that groaning moan that made it clear he had reached the deepest part of her.
Their eyes met again while their bodies briefly stilled and his chest tightened at the soft smile she gave him, as if she knew the most important secret in the universe. She reached up a hand that was already trembling from her response to him and rubbed his cheek, saying, "I love you, John". He turned his face so he could kiss her palm and then said against it, "I love you, too, sweetheart…" As his head bent to kiss her, they began to move again, the ebb and flow of his hardness within her tight, hot depths stirring corresponding waves of pleasure that tossed them into a deep ocean of buffeting sensations as they became one. Their mouths remained fused, tongues teasing more intense reactions out of each other, as their hips found a perfect rhythm, Natalie's legs winding around John's waist to ensure he could never fully leave her body, but the ripples of her slick channel ensuring he'd have less than no desire to do so - the perfect blend of enforcement and seduction she'd become instinctively expert at practicing.
John's orgasm slid over him like the growing heat of the rising son, rather than exploding all at once, but he was aware that every muscle and sinew seemed to pulsate with it - the energy transferred into Natalie along with his hot release that coated her walls and pooled at the base of her womb. That unclenched her last tenuous grip on control and she fell apart in his arms, shuddering, shaking, convulsing around him while her moans joined his in the still-joined chambers of their mouths.
While he remained embedded within her, weighing her into the mattress, he finally surrendered her mouth so he could press a few soft kisses into her temple and neck before he collapsed on top of her. Then the less intense aftershocks of their climaxes rocked them back to sleep.
John woke Natalie about 45 minutes later when he eased from her body, marveling that he'd never completely lost his erection as she'd cradled him within her while they'd slept - but then again, this appeared to be his minimum state of arousal at all times since he'd had that first taste of her body and realized he'd never experienced anything like it because of the emotional power of their connection, not simply all the ways they meshed physically.
"Mmmmm, I miss you already, John…" she said in a sleepy, dreamy tone.
"Me too, sweetheart. But I'll be back later tonight…" he promised in a husky tone.
They made their way into the shower and while they didn't have sex they made love in a different way as they gently washed each other, savoring the feeling of each others' skin and muscles as they did so.
By 7pm they were downstairs - dressed comfortably in jeans and t-shirts, no shoes - and pulling out some wine and beer glasses, along with a copy of the take-out menu. They also put out some cheese, crackers and pepperoni slices on a plate that they placed on the tray on the ottoman in the great room, and then waited for their friends to arrive.
Just moments before they were due, Natalie caught sight of the ring on her finger, amazed at how quickly she'd gotten used to its weight and presence.
"Oh! Should I take this off?"
"Only if you want to… I don't think it's a problem if our friends know - Lord knows they know everything else…"
"True. Well, good, because I've become quite attached to it…"
"I'm glad… especially that you liked the one that I picked out."
Natalie gave him a tight hug and whispered against his chest, "It's perfect", and she couldn't help sinking into his embrace, never wanting to be out of it… far from it…
"You OK, Natalie?"
She nodded against his chest and squeezed him tighter, saying, "I can't remember ever feeling better… so relaxed… you have a way of knocking the stuffing out of a girl, McBain…"
She felt and heard his chuckle rumble in his chest, and then his throaty voice, "You're pretty formidable in that regard yourself… which is why it's probably for the best that we're having company, since it forces us to take a break… "
Mason and Angela arrived right on time with a great bottle of Chardonnay in hand - and were dressed exactly like John and Natalie, except they still had their shoes on. It didn't take much inducement for them to lose those as well, and after making sure drinks were in hand - wine for the ladies, beers for the guys - and placing an order that encompassed half the menu, each couple claimed one of the large, comfortable leather couches as their own. It was clear that Mason and Angela had only grown closer since they'd last been together, a very easy familiarity evident between them.
"So, darlin'" Mason said. "Have you and John ventured out of here in the past 24 hours - got to check out the neighborhood or town or anything…" he asked with a wink.
Natalie couldn't help the smile that captured her face - he was totally incorrigible. "As a matter of fact, we have. We not only went out grocery shopping yesterday, but today we went out for lunch and a movie. But let me just say this - we will take full advantage of our time together so I don't care if you see me making my way into The White House tomorrow using a walker or a wheelchair: Not. One. Word." She was laughing by the time she finished and the others joined in.
Mason was actually glad to see that she seemed genuinely happy and that devastated look in her eyes after her attack in Laurentius and after her nightmare was gone. There was no longer a tightness in John's face either as he looked at her, in fact his eyes glittered as much as hers did. At that moment Natalie moved her left hand up to tuck her hair behind her ears and another type of glittering caught Mason's eyes as she did. His eyes grew wide and he exclaimed, "Holy shit! Is that what I think that is on your finger young lady?!"
Natalie blanched for a second as everyone took turns making eye contact in between looking at the sparkler on her left hand, but then she held it out and said, "Yes, actually, it is. John was kind enough to ask me to marry him and make an honest woman out of me - which should please you greatly, Mason, since you've seemed so worried that my innocence and virtue were completely trashed as I morphed into a wanton woman given to exhibitionism".
He beamed back at her, then all four were on their feet exchanging hugs and best wishes. Mason pulled her close into a bear hug and whispered against her ear, "I am so happy for both of you - but especially for John. Natalie, I have known him a long time and I always wished for this for him, but feared it wouldn't happen. I have never seen him the way he is with you… he's head over heels, darlin'… head over heels…"
Natalie squeezed him back and said softly, "Me, too, Mason".
She felt tears pool in her eyes when Mason and John hugged because it was clear she was seeing the deep bond between the two men, and not just the easy jocularity and teasing banter they typically engaged in. Angela caught it too, and smiled at Natalie in a way that showed how much Mason had quickly come to mean to her as well.
At that opportune time the doorbell rang, indicating their feast had arrived and for the next few hours they enjoyed good food, drinks and friendship. Mason and Angela opted not to accept the invitation to stay over, with his typical teasing style, "Darlin', I was going to lie and say that we don't want to cramp your style, but I know you wouldn't let a little thing like our being in the house stop you from hanging out of the chandeliers or something… so I'll just say that we're going to spare ourselves the need to forget any embarrassing noises or sights we might hear or see if we were to stay…"
Natalie rolled her eyes - as did Angela - and she grabbed his arm saying, "You come on now - and for God's sake, it's not like anything can be heard over your robust mating calls anyway…"
Mason actually looked embarrassed for a second as the other three laughed and John said, "You know, I like you more every time I see you in action, Mauro. This guy needs a firm hand…"
She winked, "He also likes one, too…"
Mason grabbed her hand and yanked gently, saying, "Geez, don't give away all my secrets, let's go woman".
John and Natalie made quick work of their clean up duty and quickly made their way upstairs, doffing all clothes in record time and climbing back into bed. They made love for the next several hours, napping intermittently and then finding their need of each other exploding back into action and sound. And need is what it was for it went far deeper than desire or hunger.
Chapter 70
The next morning John woke Natalie for the second time when he carried a breakfast tray into the room. He put it on the bench at the end of the bed and sat on the bed beside her, gently rubbing her naked shoulder. She sighed and rolled over as her eyes drifted open, giving him an eyeful of her breasts which never failed to stir him. Unable to help it, he leaned down to take her right nipple gently into his mouth and her half-closed eyes were suddenly wide open as a gasp left her mouth
"John…"
"Good morning - again…" he said huskily.
Natalie arched into his mouth as it claimed her left breast this time, even though she still hadn't recovered from his earlier wake up call in which he'd returned the favor for how she'd pulled him from his slumber the day before. Already she could feel her walls ripple in reaction. They'd gotten very little sleep yet she felt deeply relaxed if deliciously tender in certain key places.
John moved from her breast to her mouth, delivering a slow, deep kiss that curled her toes, prompting her to deepen it further by winding her hands in his hair and applying pressure to the back of his head.
He finally pulled back and said, "Some breakfast - at least some coffee - first. Then we are going to spend the rest of the day in bed until we absolutely have to get up and get ready to go - which gives us until about 1 o'clock… and it's only 9 right now…"
"Mmmmmm… " she said as she stretched. "I have a suggestion for a few small changes… how about after we eat we take our coffee into the bath… then come back to bed… then finish up with a shower… I have a soft spot for the shower - or taking showers with you - since that's how we got our start…"
"And quite a start it was…and I love your adjustments to the plan, so sign me up…"
They fully enjoyed themselves the next four hours, making love several more times - including in the shower, of course. For long stretches, however, they simply held each other as a heaviness of heart seeped in. Their time in the house had been so short but idyllic, and had propelled them to a pivotal point in their relationship - a pledge of forever. Still, while they'd not be able to share their bed and interact freely, they'd be with each other in some capacity every day - and there would, of course, be their normal sanctioned meetings.
When 2 o'clock rolled around and it was time to head out - John was dropping Natalie a few miles away from The White House where she'd pick up a taxi - Natalie couldn't help the tears that gathered in her eyes and John pulled her into a tight hug, pressing kisses into her hair. She refused to let her tears fall, though, since there was so much more to be happy about.
She stepped out of his arms and with shaking hands pulled her ring off her finger, surprised by how emotional she felt about it - she'd come to love all it meant. John gently took it from her and threaded it on the long chain which he placed over her neck. She moved it under her shirt and smiled when she felt its reassuring weight there. She gave him a real smile, they shared a tender kiss, and then were ready to go.
Natalie took both of John's hands in hers. "Thank you for brining me here… I needed it more than I could ever explain… "
"I did too, Natalie. This is your home now, and I can't wait until you're here with me full-time."
They headed back to DC and on the way John explained that Chase would hold a major de-brief once they were in Australia since they were expecting an influx of intel from several sources. All ongoing chatter - which had increased - still pointed at the Middle East as the location for whatever was being planned, but a critical part of their upcoming deliberations would center on which intel was aimed at throwing them completely off track.
Four days passed without anything of consequence happening - which was a blessed relief. John and Natalie managed to snag a few stolen moments, most particularly at The Brazen Head, and that kept them going but they couldn't wait until they could rendezvous "Down Under". They were reasonably sure that the trip to Australia and Asia would go more smoothly than what they'd faced in Europe. The one possible and significant exception would be Russia in which meetings were to take place regarding the ongoing fractiousness in Chechnya. The Kings of both Kuman and Laurentius were going to be there to help broker some of the discussions, and the Muslim insurgents there could not be ignored. Much of the planning was focusing on that location and possible threat, and they were glad it was the final stop on their tour, giving them yet more time.
Finally, Monday evening found them on the long, long flight to Australia. Angela had already headed there two days earlier, and the media had been shunted onto Air Force Two for this first leg, so it would be a quiet flight and Natalie hoped she'd get some sleep - and perhaps steel a kiss or two from John.
Natalie and Zoë were sharing a small bedroom on Air Force One and while Zoë drifted right off to sleep, Natalie could not quiet her mind and do the same. She didn't want her tossing and turning to wake Zoë so she decided she'd find a quiet corner somewhere. She grabbed one of the "Mistress Toni" books Zoë had been pushing her to read - "Dark Seduction" - and headed to the deserted section where the media were normally stationed. The seats were like those in First Class on commercial flights, so she was able to stretch out, and she pulled a blanket over her. The lights were all dim, except for the reading light she put on, and it was actually quite calm and pleasant.
Natalie settled in to read the book and found herself shocked but unable to put it down. Lord have mercy she had no idea… and it was incredibly disconcerting because the lead characters were actually named John and Natalie. Her face was aflame and she was reeling - but beyond aroused - when she got to the part of the story where John pierced Natalie's nipples and clit and then chained her to his own nipples and penis. She was gripping the book so tightly her knuckles were white and she was blown away… never in a million years had she contemplated this was something people did - let alone that she'd be feeling like her pants had flooded, with her breathing actually becoming shallow. Mother of God. So intent was she on her reading and the images it conjured up that she didn't hear John approaching until he was standing right beside her.
"Hey, I didn't realize you were here…"
She jumped and had to bite back a scream, and then she turned to him, her face and neck on fire - along with the rest of her, but that was covered - and she tossed the book face down beside her, trying to semi-cover it with the blanket.
"John…. hi…. What are you doing?"
"I'm just making rounds… I should be asking you that question - I thought you were sleeping… and you're jumpy as a cat. What - are you reading a horror story or something?"
"Uh…something… yeah, horror…"
"Let me see…"
"No! Really, it's just a dumb book…"
Before she could even react he'd leaned over her and grabbed the book, saying, "Why are you embarrassed - is it one of those cheesy romance novels?"
Natalie tried to snatch the book from him but she was half-lying down and he was standing, so he had the advantage. As luck would have it - or rather the absence of luck for her - she'd gripped the book so tightly that she'd broken the spine a bit and it fell right open to the worst page possible, the one she'd been reading that had been the most shocking thing ever…
John began to read it with a smirk on his face but she saw that change almost immediately to a look of shock. His own neck grew red yet he kept reading. Natalie was mortified, but at the same time found his own reaction interesting - especially because a certain part of his pants seemed to be expanding right before her eyes.
John was floored. He hadn't expected her to be reading anything like this - nor had HE ever done so…. he knew BDSM clubs existed, and had heard about some of the tamer things like whips and such, but this…
Finally he was finished with that "session" and unable to help himself he whispered, "Holy mother fucking shit…"
Natalie couldn't help giggling at that but all traces of laughter died when he looked at her and she saw the heat in his eyes… "Meet me in the media storage closet in 5 minutes!"
"What?"
"You heard me."
She smirked and said, "Yes master" and then he left, leaving her to ponder exactly what they were going to do in that closet - like she didn't know. Her pulse started to race as she counted down the minutes. A teeny tiny voice inside her questioned whether this was a good idea, but every nerve ending in her body shut that little bitch up immediately - she'd been dying for him for days, and that book had put her libido into overdrive… she was practically in agony and if he was willing to risk it - well they'd go down together, perhaps literally and figuratively.
Her legs were shaking as she walked across the width of the plane and made her way to the storage closet. No one was around, and no one should need anything in it since there were no media reps aboard. Plus, it was 2am US Eastern time, so virtually everyone had been asleep for quite some time. She had just started to turn the knob when the door was yanked open and a hand came out of the darkness to grab her wrist and haul her into the room, shutting the door quietly behind her and then pushing her up against it. She felt strong hands - hands whose touch she now knew intimately - close roughly over her breasts through her thin cotton yoga hoodie, and then a hot mouth take aggressive possession of hers, its thick, forceful tongue practically ramming down her throat.
Natalie didn't know if she'd survive this kiss let alone what was to come - she'd never felt this excited, even at the German sex club, and her heart was slamming against her sternum as if it was trying to break free from the confines of her chest. Instinctively she wound her arms around John's shoulders, her hands into his hair, so she could deepen the kiss as her own tongue began to surge against his. When she felt his hands move down to her ass so he could haul her up against his straining erection, she moaned and crashed their mouths harder against each other.
John felt like he had only the most tenuous grasp on even a shred of control. The things he wanted to do to her… but he had to remember where they were… they shouldn't even be doing this, but he was literally powerless against his desire for her. He'd been fighting it for days and that book - that book! - was his undoing Reading what that "John" had been doing to that "Natalie"… if hell was the price to pay in order to have her now he'd gladly ante up.
When Natalie moaned down John's throat he felt himself engorge even more, which he hadn't thought possible. He ripped his mouth from hers and looked down at her flushed face, swollen lips, smoldering eyes, and he said, "You need to be quiet, Natalie… and I intend to make you work at that… and you deserve it. Such a naughty girl reading that book… did it excite you, Natalie?" He ground his erection into her stomach and she gasped, then bit her lip to stifle what that sound would have become.
"I have to have you…"
She nodded and her breath caught in her throat when he jerked the zipper of her hoodie down, exposing her naked breasts whose nipples were painfully aroused. He sucked the right one into his mouth, grazing it with his teeth as he did so and she saw stars as a wet-hot bolt of desire seized her core. "God, John" she rasped. He pulled her over to a small table towards the center of the room and turned her around so she was facing it. He planted her hands on its surface and whispered against her neck, "Brace yourself" and she felt her legs and elbows buckle for a moment as her breathing morphed into panting
John moved his hands to Natalie's hips and pulled back on them to put her at the perfect angle, then he yanked her yoga pants down her legs, having to stifle his own groan as he realized she wasn't wearing panties either. He tried to steady himself with a shuddering breath so he didn't cum at the sight of her tight ass in front of him, especially when a tremor that worked its way down her spine and legs caused her to widen her stance. He had to close his eyes when she kicked her pants off, spreading her legs even further in the process.
Natalie heard John's belt buckle open, then his zipper. When she heard his trousers hit the floor she held her breath, dying for yet almost fearing what was coming next. He stepped up close to her and the hard, thick length of him came to rest between the cheeks of her ass and she gasped.
"Do you feel what you do to me… do you?!"
She could only nod her head.
"What do I do to you, Natalie?"
Before she could even think to answer she felt his right hand trail down over her backside and then two of his fingers were entering her from behind and she moaned, "John..." as her walls gripped his fingers hard. She was barely breathing at that point but, surely intent on killing her, he snaked his left hand down the flat of her stomach then between her legs so he could massage her engorged clit. She writhed sharply against both his hands as a whimper was torn from her and his hot breath said, "Shhhhh" against her neck.
"Please…" she barely managed to get out.
In response he ground his fingers more deeply inside her and she had to bite the insides of her mouth to keep her whimpers locked in her throat.
He couldn't take it any more, waiting to feel her seize around him was torture. John removed his fingers and used his right hand to position himself and he felt her shudder against him, then he rammed his way inside her in one swift motion and her elbows gave way as she buried her face in her forearms that had collapsed onto the desk. He could hear her muffled moans and they spurred him on as he drove in and out of her, his hands clenched on her hips to yank her back onto him, his balls slapping against her ass. Each time he'd buried himself as deep within her as he could go, she'd grind her hips to up the devastation and he didn't think he'd survive too much more.
Natalie felt each magnificent blow send a searing heat into her womb and belly, then over her breasts and into her neck and face, and she welcomed every bit of it. She knew he was driving her to a place she'd never been, her entire body starting to tremble - she wondered if her legs would give out before the rest of her had surrendered - and a voice she barely recognized as her own moaned, "Oh God, that's it… fuck me!"
John's own legs were turning to rubber, and when she said that he felt them buckle for a second. He remembered the chair behind and he pulled Natalie back onto him and then stepped backwards, sinking onto the chair with her on his lap, impaled on his still granite-hard cock. He could feel the scream start to build in her at the extra force of him surging inside her so he clamped his right hand over her mouth to capture it. He didn't move for a second so she could adjust… so she could recover for a moment and he felt the tension go out of her as her head fell back into the crook of his neck and she let out a sigh.
Natalie had been unprepared for this change of position and felt a stab of exquisite pain deeply brand her as she came to rest on his lap, her legs spread wide open and dangling on either side of his. After he'd caught her scream and it had passed, his hand moved to span her throat for a moment, caressing her there before both of this hands went to her hips and began to move her against him again. "Is this what you want, sweetheart… what you need…?" He remained fully embedded while he helped her gyrate her hips, and again he covered her mouth as her moans began to build. His own breath was coming in gasps and occasionally he'd bite his own inner cheeks to contain his own noises.
For so many reasons they needed to end this. He moved his left hand between her legs and began to massage her swollen bud again - he'd tightened his right hand over her mouth in anticipation of her reaction, and her whole body writhed almost violently. He began to feel her walls contracting against him and his pulse began to race as he veered towards his own climax. He thought she'd go first and take him with her, but when she opened her mouth and sucked three of his fingers into its hot, moist recess he was done. He bucked his hips off the chair, clamped his mouth over her neck to bury his scream and exploded deep inside her.
When Natalie felt his scorching essence shoot through her she was done. She bit down on his fingers as her walls convulsed violently around him and her body continued to writhe with the power of her orgasm.
It took some time for them to stop shuddering and quaking against each other… for John to trust himself enough to remove his mouth from her neck, or his hand from her mouth. Finally he tipped her head back so he could claim her mouth in a slow, deeply sensual kiss that was reminiscent of the one they'd shared in Canada when he'd finally let himself be caught - but this was a decidedly x-rated version of that time she'd been sitting on his lap and their game had slipped into a higher gear. He moved her hair from the back of her neck and pressed soft kisses there, and he could feel she was still trembling.
He rasped, "Are you OK?"
"Can't talk…" she barely managed.
He smiled and said, "Fuck, Natalie…"
"Xactly…"
"We've got to get out of here…"
"Uh huh…" but she made no attempt to move.
Finally he lifted her off him and held her up while he stood, then turned her around so he could gather her into a hug. Still she shook against him - and he wasn't much better. Finding a hidden reserve of strength and sanity, she stood back from him, weaving a little, and then went to find her pants while he pulled his own up. She turned to face him with a dreamy, drowsy smile on her face that he returned, then he cupped her face with both hands and place a kiss on her mouth, setting off additional aftershocks in both of them.
"Put that book away, Natalie…"
She smiled and whispered, "Yes master…" and a surge of hot blood coursed through him, but he vowed to ignore it.
John moved to the door and listened, opening it when all he heard was quiet. "You go first, and I'll wait a few minutes…"
Natalie was a shaky, devastated mess and she'd never felt better. Lord what that man did to her - she could barely stand yet she'd go right back for more if she could. She needed to return to her quiet little seat and recover for awhile before she dared try to sneak back into bed beside Zoë. She first ducked into the restroom and realized she looked downright feverish. After using the facilities she dabbed at her face for a moment with a wet paper towel, marveling that her limbs were still quivering. She just needed to go stretch out. She opened the door, and walked out of the lavatory - smack-dab into Mason and Chase.
They all three looked surprised, then Chase said, "Can't sleep, Natalie?"
She shook her head and he looked at her more closely and said, "You don't look too well… you look a little sweaty… feverish - are you coming down with something?"
Her voice was a bit shaky which she could have cursed herself for, "Uh, I don't' think so… just having a little trouble sleeping. I guess I'm jet-lagged or something and it's throwing me off…"
Mason was looking at her in concern as well - she looked shaky. Then out of the corner of his eye he saw John come around the corner, see them and then back away - and Mason knew exactly what was wrong with Natalie. He fought back the shock and wondered how many times he was going to experience the maddening sensation of wanting to laugh and strangle John and Natalie at the same time. She wasn't sick. It all made perfect sense now - she'd been fucked to within an inch of her life and still hadn't recovered. Mason had been responsible for creating this look in a number of women over the years so he knew it well - he'd just never been as insane to do it on Air Force One with a subordinate while his boss was roaming the plane!
Sighing inwardly Mason sprang into action, "Hey, let me escort Natalie to wherever she's hanging out… I'll catch up with you later, Chase."
"Good idea - feel better Natalie."
Mason put his arm around Natalie's shoulders - he could feel she was literally shaking still - and when Chase was safely out of range he whispered, "So, I guess you had a turbulent initiation into the mile-high club, huh?"
She looked at him in a blend of surprise and supreme embarrassment and he felt a surge of protectiveness run through him at the exact moment he also felt like throttling her. He expelled a breath and asked "Where are you sitting, darlin'" and she whispered, "In the media section…"
He led her there and she sat down on her abandoned chair, and he sat beside her.
"OK, have you two taken complete leave of your senses, or only partial? What - were you in the bathroom together?"
She had a sheepish look on her face when she said, "Media storage closet."
In spite of himself he laughed and said, "Shit, Natalie - you guys… are you TRYING to get caught?!"
"It wasn't our fault, Mason."
He laughed outright at her. "What, did someone sprinkle you with horny dust or something?"
She blushed at that and stammered, "No, it was the book…."
"What book?"
She stopped dead in her tracks for a moment because she realized she didn't exactly want him to know what she'd been reading. "Never mind… we just went crazy a second…"
Mason was not to be deterred however, and he was about to question her more when his eye caught the cover of a book peeking out from beneath the blanket and he grabbed it. Natalie didn't even try to fight him for it - she just buried her face in both hands. Of course it fell right open again to the most damaging passage and she heard Mason's sharp intake of breath as he read - and continued to read.
After a few minutes she could feel his eyes on her. She glanced at him through her fingers and saw his registering shock while his reddened face told of another reaction. He rasped "Holy Mother of God… "
Natalie felt the need to explain. "Zoë has been pushing me to read these books of hers and I couldn't sleep so I started to read it and then John came by, just as I was reading that part…and he grabbed the book from me and read it too… and… and… well…"
The thing was, Mason totally understood. Totally. If he'd had Angela to call upon at that moment he'd probably be making a bee-line to the closet himself right now. He expressed exactly that to Natalie and she giggled, and then he continued, "Shit, I'd be tempted to risk McBain's and Angela's wrath and ask if I could borrow you for a second…"
She flushed and laughed at the same time and when she looked up she saw that John was standing there with an evil grin on his face. He winked at her and nodded and she knew exactly what he was getting at. She wasn't sure if she had the guts but decided what the hell - since Mason was still totally unaware of John's presence.
She winked back at John and then moved her hand to Mason's chest and said, "Well, I have something to say about that… and he may be down for the count now, but you know we girls are built differently… we can handle more…" She said all this in a purr.
Mason's head snapped up and it was his turn to stammer, "Natalie… what the fuck are you doing…?!"
She encroached even further into his space, wrapping her arms around his neck, "Well, you've been such a good friend to us… and it doesn't seem right to leave you high and dry… when I could maybe help you out… "
He looked scandalized. Completely, utterly scandalized, and it was all Natalie could do not to laugh. "Young lady - you should never read these books again if they make you lose control to this extent… I mean, John…"
"Oh, you're right, Mason… I couldn't do that to John… unless he gave his permission - and you are his best friend, right. No, it would have to be with his knowledge. But you know… Mistress Toni wrote another book where one of John's friends - a big, strapping guy named Steele - JOINS them… maybe -"
Mason reeled back in shock, and as he did out of the corner of his eye he noticed a pair of shoes, which he recognized - and which he knew were attached to one John McBain, who was trying to keep out of sight. He figured out instantly that they were fucking with him and decided to turn the tables. Within two seconds he had Natalie pinned underneath him as he said with intensity, "Well, darlin' I'm not sure about that type of extreme sharing, but maybe I will take you up on your first offer…"
He heard a gasp from around the corner - and felt Natalie's against his neck - but before anyone could react further he started tickling Natalie saying, "You guys suck!"
She let out a yelp of laughter and he covered her mouth with his hand has he turned around to face a laughing John who'd finally come out of hiding.
With an arched eyebrow Mason said, "Damn, for a little thing she's loud!"
This time John raised an eyebrow and said dryly, "You have NO idea!" and both men laughed when they saw Natalie's flustered expression at that intimate revelation.
Mason let go of Natalie, stood and he and John looked at each other, smiling for a second while Mason shook his head. Natalie got up, too, and in a conciliatory voice said, "I'm sorry, that was mean. Will you forgive me? Us?"
"I'll have to sleep on it…"
"Or, I could loan you the book - to give you some ideas for when you see Angela again…"
Mason gave her quite a look and he said, "You know, you are turning into an evil young woman. Straight to hell in a hand-basket…" But then he threw his arm around her shoulders and gave her a squeeze for a second to soften the impact of his words. He said to both of them - "You two behave your damn selves!" And he went to find a quiet corner to sleep.
John moved closer to Natalie and tucked her hair behind her ear, the
gentleness of that gesture completely at odds with the way he'd touched her before. "You OK?"
She smiled at him, a bit embarrassed now when she thought of their almost-crazed coupling in the closet, and nodded her head. John looked around quickly to make sure they were alone, then he dipped his head to give her a gentle kiss, their tongues briefly making contact before retreating.
"Put that book away - at least until we have one of our de-briefing meetings scheduled…"
She whispered against his neck "Yes, master…"
He fake-glared at her and said, "Mason's right… you are evil… and I love it."
He headed off too, and Natalie figured it was time to go to bed as well. She'd have quite a bit to dream about.
Chapter 71
By early afternoon the next day, the Presidential Entourage had arrived in Sydney, Australia. For this trip they were not going to Canberra, the Capitol City, since there was a festival and other events that Australian Prime Minister was hosting and/or attending in Sydney, and the US delegation was doing the same. They had taken over the top two floors of The Park Hyatt in Sydney which had dramatic Harbor views. John and Mason were off-duty the first night - and Chase had suggested Natalie be seen out and about with them so no one watching would miss the fact that John and Natalie were still "involved". The next day Chase was holding a major intel and brainstorming session to cover all info, ideas, concerns and possibilities regarding the Middle East leg and the advisability of Zoë going or not, and then the following day John and Natalie would grab a few hours in another hotel for their "de-brief".
That night Angela joined the three others and they headed to a small club in Sydney - Syd's - which was not one frequented by the glitterati, but which would nonetheless be fun and not toss them into a huge crush of people. All of them wore jeans, the men in button-down Oxford shirts - John's white, Mason's yellow - while the women wore sweaters since it was still winter in Australia. Natalie also found herself taken with the fantastic leather jacket John wore - she'd not had the chance to see it previously since it was summer back home, and everywhere else they'd been. Their spirits were high as they knocked back a few drinks, chatted and laughed, and even danced a little bit.
At one point, when John and Natalie were slow-dancing to Prince's "Purple Rain", she could feel how aroused he was against her, which matched her own state perfectly. She wound her arms around his neck and pressed her entire body along his muscular frame, kissing his throat for good measure.
"Natalie… are you trying to make me throw you down on the floor and mount you like a rabid dog?"
"Hmmm, do I have a shot at succeeding?"
He gave her a throaty chuckle and after a moment said, "Well, after our risky activities on Air Force One, I almost feel like tempting fate again…"
Natalie pulled her head back and said, "Do tell, McBain…"
"Well, I know that we only have to wait until the day after tomorrow to be together… but that seems like a very long time… so… I am going to slip my extra room key in your back pocket…" She felt him do just that, which also served to press her more tightly against him. "Once we're back at the hotel, give it 20 minutes and then just come into my room… There's no one to the right of my room and Mason is to my left… and I'm sure he'll be consumed with Angela since they have a bit more freedom to be together…"
"It's a date, McBain…"
By twenty after 11 Natalie was slipping into John's room. He had already stripped into his tank and boxers and though she giggled a bit at his eagerness, it also stirred her - but then again, everything about him did.
They kissed for several long minutes while standing and pressing against each other, then John began opening and pushing Natalie's jeans off, and pulling her sweater over her head. She let him do whatever he wanted in that regard, and then reached for his tank to yank that off him. He made her knees buckle when he began to suckle her right breast through the lace of her bra, but he quickly wrapped his arms around her to steady her. At the same time, however, he laughed softly against her breast, and the vibration and heated expulsion of his breath only worsened her knee-buckling issue. When he unclasped and removed her bra and moved his mouth to her exposed left breast, her knees entirely gave out and he caught her against him.
"Sweetheart, I didn't think you had so much to drink that your ability to stand is compromised…"
She squinted at him and said, "You know darn well it is YOU buckling my knees McBain…"
He licked the hollow of her throat, keeping a tight band of arms around her, and said in a low voice, "And I fully intend to be separating… spreading those knees shortly… But I am worried about your safety and well-being, so, get on the bed, Natalie…"
Some how those words, "get on the bed, Natalie" never failed to incite a riot along her nerve endings, and he was smug enough to know it. But that wasn't going to stop her from doing just that. Before she could move to do so, however, he'd picked her up and tossed her onto it, causing her heart to briefly leap into her throat. She kept her eyes locked on his as she pushed higher onto the bed so she could lean against the pillows. In the dim light of the room - the small entryway light was on and the only other illumination came from city lights - she could still see the fire in his eyes as he approached the bed. When she saw him reach down she realized he had one of the bathrobes on the bed and at first she was puzzled as to why he was picking it up - until she realized he was just pulling the belt off and tossing the robe aside. She felt her heart stop and then beat in triple time to make up for it as he began to walk around the bed so he could get closer to her, the belt stretched between his two hands.
"I noticed that your wrists look much better, sweetheart… and this terry cloth belt is so soft… so I thought it might be time to take you up on that offer of yours… to tie you up…"
She marveled at the acrobatic talents of her heart, because now it had plummeted down to her toes, but not before transiting through her core where it set a pulse beating wildly between her legs. She was finding it almost impossible to regulate her breathing and her eyes were staring at him, unblinking. She put up no resistance when he gently wrapped and tied the belt so that her wrists were bound together, her palms pressed against each other so she could actually clasp her fingers together.
John pressed a kiss on her trembling lips and rasped, "If you're a really good girl I won't put your hands behind you…. this time. But maybe over your head…"
While she was leaning against pillows, hands now bound, he pushed his boxers down and sprang free, his own arousal on prominent display, a perfect match for the dampness building between her legs.
"John…" was all she could manage, and he smiled at her in a wolfish way as he said, "Yes, sweetheart… what can I do for you?" But even as he said that he'd bent at the waist and reached forward, snaking a finger under her panties and probing the moist, hot recesses of the place he was so clearly ready to explore with his straining erection. She shuddered at the touch and he smiled, and then they both froze when they heard a knock at the door.
A voice called out, "John, it's Chase - I need to talk to you about something real quickly…"
Natalie and John looked at each other with wide eyes, both of their hearts now jumping. He managed to croak out, "Be right there, Chase…" and then in unison John and Natalie said, "The balcony!" and she made a dash for it - thankfully he'd had it open already. John quickly tossed her clothes and shoes onto the bed and pulled the covers over them to hide them. He picked up the beltless robe and tossed it in the closet while he pulled the other one from a hanger and donned it. With a final look behind him to ensure Natalie was not visible - she'd managed to pull the door closed behind her - he let Chase in.
Natalie was trying to stay out of sight and eased to the far left corner of the small balcony, away from the window. The cool night air was hardening her nipples even more and raising Goosebumps along her entire body, and she wished she could wrap her arms around herself for coverage and warmth but her bound wrists complicated things. She heard a noise coming from the balcony next door and couldn't help her sharply indrawn breath when she realized it was Mason standing there in just his boxers, stretching, his own manhood tenting the front of that flimsy garment. He turned and when his eyes adjusted to the darkness he gasped in shock.
"Natalie?!
"Shhhh!"
"What are you DOING there?"
She inched over to the railing and whispered, "I was with John and Chase knocked on the door!"
"Shit!"
"I know!"
He looked at her more carefully and asked in astonishment, "Are you NAKED?"
She cringed in embarrassment and said "Not entirely… I still have my panties on…"
"Well, you're practically fully-dressed then! You can't stay out here like this."
"And exactly where am I supposed to go? I can't go back in there until Chase is gone and they seem to be having quite a talk."
"You need to come over here until he's gone."
Natalie looked at him like he was crazy - a good two feet separated their balconies which were enclosed on three sides by ornate wrought iron railings.
"How am I supposed to do that?"
"It's not that far - I'll help you."
"We're ten stories up, Mason!" plus, she didn't exactly have use of her hands and full arm mobility, and she was decidedly reluctant for him to know that.
"Are you not the girl who hung upside down from a post in Mexico? You can do this…"
Besides her limited mobility, any movement on her part would require her to expose her breasts, which were somewhat covered by her upper arms as she held her arms straight in front of her She was loath to do that, even though she knew Mason well at this point. She unconsciously tried to further shield herself by turning half away from him, saying, "I can't!", and it dawned on Mason what was causing her hesitation.
"Natalie, darlin', it's a bit too late to be embarrassed - I promise to be a gentleman and I've both seen and touched plenty of breasts in my day. As soon as we're inside I'll give you a shirt or something to wear - but it'll be much better if I'M the one to see you as opposed to Chase."
She groaned softly, realizing he was right, but she was even more embarrassed about her bound status which he'd have to know about now. She took a deep breath and whispered, "OK… but, Lord this is mortifying… I need you to help untie my hands first…"
Mason reeled back in surprise and then caught sight of her bound wrists which she displayed a bit more prominently. He couldn't help the groan that escaped him and he would have guffawed except it might draw Chase's attention and would certainly more fully embarrass Natalie. He did mutter in a stage whisper, "Yes, you two ARE going to be the death of me… in fact this little escapade, combined with what you did last night on the plane, probably took ten years off my life expectancy. Come here, darlin' - I'll free your wrists first and then we can worry about getting you over here…"
He worked on them for a full minute, but the angle was awkward, the lighting poor, and John's knots tight. "Shit! I can't get you untied… you're going to have to come over as is and then we can take care of it…"
"Mason, how can I…. I'll fall… or not be able to grab you…"
"You'll be OK… it's not much different than what you'd do anyway… bring that chair over… stand on it. I'll lean over and you loop your arms around my neck… then I'll drag you on over here… and I promise to keep the looking and groping to a minimum, but I'll make sure to grab a firm hold of you…"
She walked over to him and he leaned as far as he could across the divide. "Come on, put your arms up around my neck." She did so and he quickly had her hauled over to his balcony. However, for an extra safety measure she pushed off the railing with her feet and Mason stumbled back just a bit when she did so. Unfortunately, the backs of his legs hit one of the chairs on his balcony, an before they even knew what was happening, he was falling onto it and when the dust settled he was sitting on it with Natalie straddling him, their naked chests mashed together since her arms were still bound around his neck. They stayed frozen for a moment, trying to process what had happened. They both flushed at the touch of their skin, Natalie's hard nipples prodding his pecs. But they had nothing on the prominence of Mason's arousal pressing into her panties.
He didn't' move for a moment but gasped and said, "I was already… Angela… I mean…"
She looked off to the side and said, "I know… I saw… and me too…"
"OK, so, if you take your arms from around my neck and climb off me…"
Natalie started to do so but her movements were causing her to squirm and grind against him, mortifying them both, and Mason quickly grabbed her hips and said, "Jesus, Natalie! STOP MOVING!!!"
She did but then looked at him and said, "Then how am I supposed to get OFF of you?!"
"Uh… I'll lift you…." He moved his hands to get a better grip around her waist, but tickled her and she began to squirm more, this time her upper body writhing away from him, too. In the scuffle as he tried to still her, which only worsened things, his hands ended up on her breasts, stunning them both into inaction. Of course at that precise moment they heard a gasp and turned to find a shocked Angela had come onto the balcony, dressed - or undressed, to be precise - exactly as Natalie was, and obviously returning from the bathroom and seeking Mason out.
Angela looked at Natalie in complete surprise, then to Mason who quickly inserted, "It's not what it looks like!"
Both he and Natalie felt relieved when they saw a smile pull at her lips.
"Do tell - what is it then?"
Mason said, "Let's just get inside where we can talk about this…" With that he unceremoniously grabbed Natalie under her arms and lifted her up and off him as she raised her arms. They followed Angela inside and there was an awkward silence, especially when Angela's eyes landed on Natalie's bound wrists.
Natalie dove in, "I… uh… I snuck into John's room and, well, we, uh… Chase! Chase interrupted us, so I had to run out to the balcony and hide. And then Mason walked out onto your balcony for a moment and saw me - and felt it better that I come in here… but, hey, I can leave… I mean, clearly now I'M the one interrupting…"
By this point Angela was grinning ear-to-ear. "Tough break. And of course Mason was right - you couldn't stay out there. Now, perhaps we should all put at least one additional clothing item on…and, of course, un-bind you first…" Natalie flushed with embarrassment and marveled at how calm and cool - comfortable - Angela seemed in her own state of undress. But then again, she was with her own lover, not someone else's, nor was she bound.
Before they could move John came crashing through the still-open balcony door in his robe, rasping, "Have you seen Natalie?!", before the scene in front of him fully registered. Based on initial instinct, Angela folded her arms to cover herself - it was one thing to be exposed in front of Mason and Natalie, but this was a bit ridiculous.
"Holy shit!" John said.
Mason teased, "Your erudition never fails to impress McBain. Is Chase gone?"
"Uh, yeah… he is…" John said, as a flush crept up his neck and he tried to look anywhere but at Angela, and even Mason.
Perhaps it was the alcohol, the fact they'd all become decently close, or the fact that she was a bit of a shit-stirrer - part of the reason she and Mason got along so well. Also a factor was her delight in seeing the typically cool and in control John McBain - except when Natalie was riling him up - blush like a school boy. In any event, Angela thought this too good an opportunity for fun to pass up. She caught Natalie's eye and winked.
She slowly walked over towards Natalie and the men had to turn to see where she was going. When she got there she took Natalie's hands in hers - and Natalie willed herself to stop trying to shield herself and to act as nonchalant as Angela. She had totally grasped the fact that Angela wanted to have some fun at the guys' expense, and she was game.
Angela purred, "You know, this certainly wasn't planned, but things just got VERY interesting… we could have some real fun…"
The two women had to use every ounce of control not to laugh at the look of sheer shock on the men's faces. Angela began to walk towards the bed with Natalie in tow and pulled back the covers, gestured for Natalie to join her, and next the two of them were sitting side-by-side in the middle of the massive king-sized bed, the sheet tucked under their arms - Angela gently helped Natalie in that regard - and hiding them from view.
Natalie didn't trust herself to speak - she'd let Angela keep the lead - but she was totally enjoying the fact that John and Mason were speechless, standing rooted in open-mouthed shock, with a tinge of horror overlaying it.
"Natalie?" John asked in a puzzled tone of voice, though he wasn't even sure what he was asking.
"Yes, John?"
He had nothing. Neither did Mason who was looking from John, to the two women, and back again in a truly comical fashion.
Angela said softly, "Oh, come on fellas… you've never had any sort of fantasy involving multiple partners? And now, here we all are. A twist of fate that first Natalie and now you, Agent McBain, come flying over our balcony all but naked… while Mason and I were in the exact same state… do you believe in Kismet, boys?"
Mason was looking at Angela as if he'd never seen her before, and John still couldn't think of a single thing to say or do. He had an almost desperate need to dash over, pick Natalie up and just forget any of this ever happened, but he felt like he was in some crazy alternate universe. And to the chagrin of both Mason and John, their bodies were reacting, though if asked they would have sworn under pain of death that it was only to the sight of their own particular paramour.
Natalie and Angela couldn't help glancing at each other, nor could they keep their lips from slightly twitching as they tried to hide their growing mirth at the guys' reactions. Mason and John saw this and they realized what they should have all along - they were being made fun of. They were being teased and neither Natalie nor Angela had the slightest intention of engaging in what they were professing to proffer. The two men looked at each other and communicated imperceptibly - the benefit of their close friendship and working relationship. It was time to turn the tables and regain the upper hand.
Mason began, "You know, John - Angela may have a point. I mean, we're all adults… and friends. It could stay just among us four… "
"Well, far be it from me to be a stick in the mud… if this is what the young women are into these days, we have to stay current… we can pretend we're in Vegas…"
"Riiiight… what happens in Vegas STAYS in Vegas…"
Natalie and Angela glanced at each other again as they tried to figure out if there was even the remotest possibility that John and Mason were serious. They doubted it, but…"
Mason arched his eyebrow at John and moved his hands to the waistband of his boxers. John shrugged and moved his to the belt on his robe. Then to the shock and borderline horror of the two women, they disrobed and stood there proudly in all their completely erect glory. Natalie and Angela tried with everything they had in them not to recoil like virginal convent girls but it was a total shock to the system to see both men totally nude in front of them - and clearly aroused at that. They were a sight to behold - truly each others' equal - and both women felt their own reactions in decidedly intimate precincts of their bodies. Angela and Natalie clasped hands under the sheet to try to buoy each other, and Natalie decided that it was her turn to lead them to the control position.
"Ooh, Angela - you're a lucky girl… " Natalie purred as she forced her eyes to sweep over Mason's overt maleness.
Angela was right behind her, "You, too, Natalie… You too… they're almost like twins… we may have been too hasty because I'm not sure anyone could handle both of them at the same time…"
"I know, because not only do they have length…" Natalie said
"But that all-important girth…" Angela finished.
The horrified expressions had returned to the now-red faces of John and Mason and the women couldn't help it any more - they collapsed in a fit of hysterical laughter, leaving the men to grumble and reach for their robe and boxers and whatever dignity they could scrape off the floor.
Mason turned to John and said, "Get your bound, almost-naked nymphomaniac girlfriend out of my bed - I have more than I can handle with my own. I'd suggest you discipline her sternly except I'm now quite certain she'd enjoy it too much!"
Heightened peals of laughter came from the bed.
John couldn't help it - he was finally letting himself see the humor in all of it and shook his head, laughing a little while he did so. Mason joined him, grumbling, "Crazy females..."
Angela said, "Aw, come on, Mason… come to bed now… "
"Not until that little hellcat is out of it." he said with a laugh to soften his words referencing Natalie.
John took that cue, "Come on, Natalie - let's leave these folks alone… we have some things to… discuss…."
"Yeah, well keep it down when you do" Mason said laughingly.
John smirked and said, "Same goes for you two…"
Natalie had gotten out of bed and suddenly felt incredibly self-conscious - and, well, naked. True gentleman that he was, John didn't leave her dangling too long - he pulled her against him in a tight hug.
Mason had gotten in bed with Angela at this point and under the shield of the blanket shimmied his boxers off again and tossed them at John and Natalie.
"On that note - let's go, sweetheart" John said.
"Dare we chance using the hall?"
"No!" both Mason and John said, while Mason continued on, "The LAST thing we need is you two seen leaving MY room dressed - or, rather, undressed - like that. Sheesh. Over the balcony you go…"
"Well, can you at least un-tie me?"
"I don't think so, Natalie… I think you DO deserve to be punished…" She felt herself flush while Mason and Angela laughed, trying to hide their amusement when she glared at them.
John put his arm around her shoulders and walked her out of the room, then helped her over the balcony and back into his. It was now coming up on 1:30 in the morning, but neither of them was tired - they were actually incredibly turned on at this point.
"You are such a saucy minx…" He said as his mouth hovered over hers, their bodies aligned and arms wrapped around each other - hers having threaded over his neck.
"Me?! I STILL can't believe you guys stripped down NUDE in front of the two of us! Oh my God, I couldn't believe it!"
"You bluffed well enough…"
"Yeah, well…"
"Natalie?"
"Yes?"
"Shut up and kiss me…"
They kissed slowly at first, but then with passionate urgency. John took his robe off and pushed her panties down her legs so she could step out of them, then she felt his naked heat press into her belly, drawing a moan from both of them. Not breaking the kiss John picked Natalie up and only parted from her mouth when they fell onto the bed. He somewhat roughly bent and spread her legs while his upper body remained pressed against her since her bound arms were around his neck still. Their eyes flamed at each other for a moment, then John moved between her legs and plunged into her waiting heat, causing her back to arch sharply and a gasp to expel from her throat. He stayed rooted there for a moment as they studied each other, then before either could move or make another sound they heard a throaty moan come from next door, carried on the fresh night air through the open balcony doors of both rooms.
They smirked at each other and John said seductively, "I guess you've had more practice at being quiet…are you going to be quiet, Natalie, or do you want me to make you scream?"
"Shut up and fuck me…" And he did. And she screamed. And some might say he did, too, though he'd call it more of a guttural cry…
Chapter 72
At 3am Natalie woke to the feeling of John gently fingering her engagement ring which rested on its chain in the valley between her breasts. Her eyes fluttered open and she smiled at the look on his face.
John kissed her softly and said, "I thought I loved the look of this on your finger, but this is quite a beautiful setting for it…"
"Temporarily, but I can't wait to wear it and for everyone to know I'm yours… and you're mine…"
"We belong to each other, Natalie. Always."
They gently made love to each other one more time, and by 4am Natalie was back in her own room, where she'd grab a few more hours of sleep. She slid into her slumber while fingering her ring the way John had been just an hour before.
At 7am Chase was up, showered, and dressed when a hotel employee came to his door with a large manila envelope. He tipped him and then looked curiously at the package, sighing when he realized it was completely anonymous - who knew what this would be. He glanced briefly at the pile of intel he wanted to organize before his 9am meeting with John, Mason, Willows and Steinberg, but had finished most of it last night so he figured he'd be able to finalize it, even with this distraction. Pouring himself some more coffee, he carefully opened the envelope. Inside there was a note from the sender - a buddy of his with Britain's MI-5.
Chase - your team turning into a French farce?
Phil
He knew there was a pile photos waiting for him and tried to gird himself for what he might see - but nothing would have prepared him for what he saw when he spread the photos out on the desk. He eased into his seat with mouth agape, then tossed his head back and roared with laughter, until he could only shake noiselessly with it while tears literally coursed down his cheeks. His abdominal muscles actually hurt by the time he stopped laughing, and then he just kept looking down at the display, his right hand covering his mouth, his head shaking back and forth.
An avid photographer had obviously been watching Chase's intrepid agents - and one Angela Mauro - for the entire evening. Relatively innocuous club shots, then a few of the empty balconies outside John's and Mason's rooms. He made a note to himself to see if there was any way to determine who the source was that enabled the photographer to know which rooms were theirs. Then things got interesting. Natalie on John's balcony, half naked. Mason popping out onto his similarly undressed and them noticing each other. A clear shot of the fact that she was bound! Then the risky maneuver to get her onto Mason's balcony and the ensuing calamities that had her straddling Mason and then him groping her breasts, the two of them frozen in embarrassment just as a half-naked Angela comes into view. All the rest was catalogued, including John heading over the balconies and disappearing into Mason's room. He looked at the time stamp and realized a decent amount of time passed between then and when John and Natalie finally exited the room, but surely - hopefully - not enough for all four to have gotten up to things that he simply couldn't let himself contemplate.
Chase laughed again for another full minute, then stuffed the pictures away. He highly doubted that he'd ever show any of them - at least not until this was all behind them and it was simply something to bust the guys' balls over. Of course, he was now hiding definitive proof that what existed between John and Natalie was so far from pretend - though not beyond game-playing given her bound wrists. Oh lord. Clearly he had interrupted them - no wonder McBain had looked so rattled when he'd first arrived. Well, so far their relationship was only enhancing their work. Making it clear he really did know the truth might upset the apple cart too much, diluting their concentration. They all were winking at the truth, allowing everyone to hide beneath a thin veil of the tacit agreement to lie, or at least omit certain things… pretend not to see or understand certain things. They all knew it, but refusing to acknowledge the elephant in the room was working for all of them. He wouldn't change that dynamic right now. He'd just appreciate having had the best damn laugh he'd had in years. Truly years. He needed to put the pictures away now, however, in order to ensure he was fully ready to face John and Mason and not give into the urge to bust them when he did. But some day - he couldn't wait.
At 8:30 Natalie walked into the Concierge Lounge, which had been taken over by their entourage. Mason was the only other one in there, pouring himself an extra-large to-go cup of coffee. She stopped short for a moment when she saw him, embarrassment coloring her cheeks, but then she tried to shake it off and nonchalantly reach for a coffee cup, saying, "Good morning, Mason…"
Of course, Mason had noticed her embarrassment and the fact that she shyly avoided looking directly at him. He was torn between a desire to bust her chops and to make her feel better… make sure she was OK, and the latter won out.
"Natalie, darlin', we've been through enough together at this point that you don't need to be embarrassed about what happened… though I can't help but feel I might owe you an apology…"
She met his gaze and tried to smile - almost succeeding - and said, "You really don't. It all just unfolded so quickly… and, well you'd been with Angela, and me with John first, and, well, you know… I mean… well you know what I mean…"
"Yeah, that you know I wasn't being some disgusting letch, groping you and well, you know…"
"Yeah, I know…"
They sat together at one of the small tables and he could see she was still uncomfortable. "Natalie, talk to me, what's bothering you… are you upset with me?"
She looked at him in surprise, "No! Of course not. It's just in the cold light of day…" Natalie looked around to make sure they were still alone, then continued. "Shit, Mason, this whole experience with John - well it's been life-altering on a number of levels. You know that better than anyone - and I guess that's the point, really. You know so much. And you've been great about it… you've really helped me so much through a lot of it… but every now and again it hits me how many personal boundaries I've pushed through… and how much you know about it all. You know more about my sex life than, well, than I ever thought anyone would except for my partner at the time. Also my… my history… relative lack of experience, all of it. And last night I end up almost naked with bound wrists on your hotel balcony… 24 hours after you caught me still a complete mess after, well, you know, the media storage closet… Then let's not forget Germany… or even the first time, after the acid incident… I mean, I wake up some mornings and can't believe some of the shit I've done or been involved with… and then I bump right into you the morning after… or really the same morning…"
Mason had let her get it all out, and did completely understand. When she was finished he covered her hand with his and said quietly, "I know, darlin'… and I hope that my teasing doesn't make things worse…"
She covered his hand with her other one and looked him straight in the eye, "I promise you it actually helps… but all of this pushes me out of my comfort zone - not with John… not what we… what's between us… just the context a little bit. But you are such a good friend. You have been there for me not just to lighten things up, but when I've been in real trouble… I don't know what I'd do without you, Mason…"
"Well, you're not going to have to find out. I am going to be your friend for life. I love John like a brother, and you have come to mean a lot to me, too - and not just because you're with John. I've never met anyone like you, and the icing on the cake for me is how happy you've made my friend. You ever need me, I'm there. And I know that this has all pushed your boundaries and trod on some painful personal history… but you've done nothing to be ashamed of… you may be in new personal territory, but you're still well within the ballpark, kiddo. Unless I walk in and find you with barnyard animals, you never have to be afraid to look me in the eye the morning after, honey."
Natalie laughed and felt a few tears prick the back of her eyes. She stood so she could hug Mason, for once virtually his height since he remained seated. He returned the hug with a gentle ferocity and she whispered into his ear, "I love you, Mason, I really do…" and was rewarded by and even tighter squeeze and a thick-voiced, "Aw, darlin', I love you, too, I swear it's true…"
Mason was moved by Natalie's gesture and words, once again marveling at her open heart. She really had no idea how special she was, even though she was learning more about that as her relationship with John went forward and deepened. When things threatened to get too serious he gave her a playful swat on the behind and said, "OK, that's enough of that… can't have people thinking you're cheating illicitly on your first illicit lover…"
She giggled and pulled back, and not two seconds after she'd reclaimed her own seat Stinson and Murphy came in. All of them chatted about meaningless topics, then Mason went off to meet with Chase and the others while the two female agents remained with Natalie. Zoë wasn't set to surface until 10am - she'd made it clear she was sleeping late this morning - so Natalie decided to remain in the lounge and read a magazine for a bit.
Chase and the other four agents spent two hours pouring over new and old information, seeing how it all hung together. So far nothing seemed to suggest there was any major risk of an "event" prior to the trip to the Middle East. Unfortunately, it was still no clearer whether Javier had been trying to steer them in one direction or another in terms of keeping Zoë home or bringing her along. Soon, though, they figured they'd get another burst of information and insight because the final stop on this trip was Russia, and would include meetings regarding the Chechen insurgency, attended by the Kings of Kuman and Laurentius. They had been keeping tabs on Javier, and had learned that he'd just accepted a speaking engagement at a business conference in Russia for the time period they'd be there. John felt his blood begin to boil as he thought back to the last time they'd had the misfortune of seeing that prick, and his gaze locked on Mason's. Both of them would make sure that Natalie would not be left to suffer in his company.
The rest of the day and evening flew in a swirl of sightseeing, dinner and a party, with very little time for John and Natalie to interact. But they knew by lunchtime the next day they'd be together for their official de-briefing session, and they would have about three hours since they weren't flying out for their next stop until that evening. As always, John made the arrangements, and he worked with a source to find a location he thought would make Natalie happy, even if they couldn't stay for more than a few hours. He wanted something that didn't feel too much like a hotel - he had had his fill of hotels - and found a beautiful inn on the north side of the harbor, Cremorne Point Manor. He managed to snag one of the King Suites with a harbor view, and had picked up a light lunch for them, making sure to get there before Natalie did. It was an eight-minute ferry ride from the city proper, and he thought she'd enjoy that too.
John was right about all of that. Natalie relaxed completely during the ferry trip, and was charmed by the inn - and touched that John had sought it out. He really did try to take such good care of her whenever he could, and it warmed her heart. He pulled her into the closest hug when she got the room, and she literally sagged into his arms, almost as if to crawl inside his warmth and care. He led her to a small seating area where he had baguettes, cheeses, fruit and drinks spread out.
"John, this is beautiful… and the spread looks delicious… perfect…"
"Well, we get such little time together that I think we need to make everything as special as possible…"
As he said that he pulled her onto his lap and she snuggled in, placing a kiss on his neck and saying softly, "You are such a sweet, sweet man… a real romantic at heart… "
"I never was before, sweetheart. I'm glad you're OK with it… my need to take care of you…"
She pulled back and looked at him, caressing his face, "I actually love it. You don't try to stop me from doing what I have to do, but you always make me feel so… warm… protected… loved…"
"I do love you, Natalie. You bring out such a crazy mix… a swirl of feelings, I really don't know which end is up sometimes… I don't know what you do to me, but moments like right now, I want to wrap you up in cotton wool… or at least have my touch be no harder than a feather's touch…" As he said that he ran his fingertips lightly over her shoulders, smiling at the tremors that went through her. "But then other times… like last night… or in the media storage closet… I have such a strong need to claim you… take you hard… shit, I tied you up! I can't control myself… but I don't ever want to hurt you, or push you into things you… you don't want… aren't ready for…"
Natalie wound her arms around his neck to hug him tight for a moment, then pulled back to look at him again, "I want it all, John… I'm amazed by it, too, but it's what I love. That we can be all of that, together. The core is still the same… love… trust… a need to express it in so many different ways…"
Keeping Natalie safely ensconced on his lap, he began to feed her bread, cheese, fruit, taking bites for himself in between. They also began to taste each others' lips, mouths in between, and when one of those kisses deepened and their breathing grew erratic, he picked her up and carried her to the bed, gently placing her on it. Soon they were savoring the feeling of their naked bodies sliding against each other, a journey of rediscovery in the dappled sunlight pouring through the windows. At first John moved Natalie over him, on top of him, but after kissing him ardently while stretched out along his body, grinding against him, she whispered, "I want you on top of me… I need to feel your weight, pressing me into the mattress…"
John gently rolled them over and soon her legs were spread wide, his hips planted between them. Keeping their fiery gazes locked, he entered her in one easy stroke, and when he was seated deeply within her he opted not to move for a moment so she could adjust to him and so they could note the changes in their expressions… in the color of their eyes as they once again became so profoundly and intimately joined. Soon their hips were rolling together, their arms banded around each other, while their mouths took turns sliding along each others' sensitive throats and necks and then fusing together again. John could feel Natalie's orgasm start as a ripple along his entire length as he continued to bury himself inside her, but then it intensified into fierce contractions as his name spilled from her in a gasp and she bit down on his shoulder. Five, six, seven more powerful thrusts were met with whimpers and the continued quaking of her body, and then he exploded, collapsing against her and rasping, "Natalie!".
They didn't sleep, but quietly held each other for a very long time, deeply content to simply feel each others' hearts and breath communicating… blending… co-existing in the same space.
Chapter 73
The next two-plus weeks flew by as the entourage traveled through Asia - Japan, Beijing, Shanghai, Hong Kong, South Korea. It was such an interesting experience, such different cultures, and Natalie found so much of it fascinating: The Great Wall, Tiananmen Square, the Terra Cotta Soldiers, and the energy of Hong Kong was amazing - almost like Manhattan on steroids. They stayed at The Peninsula Hotel, which many considered the best hotel in the world, and it was a perfectly located home base for them as they spent three days in Hong Kong. Natalie and John had snagged at least one meeting in almost every country, and they even managed to share a quiet dinner at Café Deco at the top of Victoria Peak, with a commanding view of the harbor, the sky-scrapers of the massive city sprawling below and providing an incredible light show. They never seemed to run out of things to talk about, yet even when they were quiet, it was comfortable… perfect. But creeping in around the edges was a bit of tension since the next afternoon they were heading to Russia, which not only held more possible danger for the President and his family - and would have some tense diplomatic meetings - but which also held the possibility, in fact the likelihood, of a run-in with Javier Lezama.
John could tell Natalie was a bit pensive and he asked, "Anything wrong, Natalie?"
She shook her head and looked at him directly in the eye. "Not really…just thinking that Russia is going to be a bit trickier a trip… and about, well, whether we'll end up seeing Javier… hell, of course we will. He's sure to be invited to something with the King and Queen of Kuman around…"
John gripped her hands in his and said, "I think we have to assume that we'll see him, but Natalie, you have my word, I will not allow you to be a sitting duck again, and if that bastard Mahmed-"
"He's not going to be there. Zoë and Greg have been in constant communication, obviously, and while he'll be there, neither of his buddies are going. So, that's something. Small favors…"
The Australia-Asia-Russian tour was a three week sojourn taking them through the first week of August, and they were spending the final three days in Russia. In advance of their arrival there had been some increased activity in Chechnya, including two car-bombs. A variety of complicated, multi-lateral discussions were to take place among the US, Russia, Kuman and Laurentius. The US-Russia aspect was not surprising, but the potential impact and actions of the two smaller nations were significant. The King of Kuman was hoping to provide a bridge of understanding between the Muslim world and the US/Russia, teasing out some of the underlying, valid issues that got lost under the avalanche of radical insurgency. If he could help his large allies see some of the gray areas, perhaps some headway could me made and the support for the insurgents would further diminish among more level-headed factions. The situation with Laurentius was a bit trickier - the Russians wanted permission to refuel some of their naval fleet there, and the US had some concerns that that could be a toe-hold for them eventually pushing for the right to either base some of their fleet there, or at least use it as a periodic staging area. Laurentius could benefit economically from a tighter relationship with Russia. Since they also had good relations in the Middle East and the US could benefit from their pro-activity on behalf of the US in that region - it could make sense for the US to "approve" of Laurentius granting refueling permission to the Russian Navy - which would also soften a bit of the tension between the US and Russia. Yes, lots of complexities.
All of this created some security headaches as well. Chase had sent for additional Secret Service agents, but the real problem was he wanted his A-Teams - John, Mason, Willows and Steinberg - in two places at once: with the President during the meetings and transfers to/from, and with Zoë. Sven Larsen, Head of the Laurentian Royal Guard proffered a possible solution, and he met with Chase and the four A-Team members.
"Like you all, we prefer to believe that every one of our guards is top-notch - and they are. But let's face it, not all of them can have the same degree of experience and seasoning as the most senior. Also like you, we are faced with stretching our best resources thinly, trying to simultaneously protect the King and then Crown Prince Greger - not to mention the Queen. We feel we need some of our very best guards in each place, yet at the same time we really want them concentrated. So, this is my proposition, and we would be happy to provide as much detail and insight to prove our ability. We suggest that we pool our resources. That you - all your best agents - take care of protecting The President and the King during the official meetings, and that the best of the Royal Guard take the lead in protecting the other family members while those meetings are underway. This way, "A-Teams" are fully concentrated in each place, of course supplemented by other agents and guards in each location."
Chase looked closely at John, Mason and his other two senior agents. Sven had, of course, suggested this first to him as his peer, and Chase had to admit it had merit. He could see from the expressions on his agents' faces that they thought so, too.
"John?" Chase asked.
"I think it has definite possibilities. Sven, you were kind enough to share a good bit with us when we were in Laurentius, and I know the security challenges you've faced and handled - even some scary moments when there was an assassination attempt four years ago. It probably doesn't make sense stretching two security teams thin when deploying them almost in full, separately, will enhance security."
Sven smiled and said, "Very well. Let me call the rest of my key team members in and we can get to work. It's really only two major blocks of time - five hours tomorrow, five hours the following day - when it will be necessary. The rest of the time we will be apart, or all together at parties and the like."
Within two hours the plans had been drawn and everyone felt the security of their leaders as well as the families would be solid.
The Presidential Entourage was staying at Spaso House, official residence of the US Ambassador, located just one mile west of the Kremlin. It was an impressive edifice with a main hall some 82 feet in length with a soaring ceiling and beautiful chandeliers. Natalie and Zoë were sharing a suite that had a small sitting room and a large bedroom with two full-size beds, plus adjoining bathroom. Natalie could tell that Zoë was stewing over something so she asked, "Something on your mind, Zoë?"
"Yes, but I'm not sure exactly how to ask it… say it…"
Natalie looked at the younger woman in a bit of surprise because she never seemed to hold back on saying or asking anything. "Zoë, you can say anything to me… ask me anything - not saying I'll answer though" Natalie chuckled.
Zoë laughed too and said, "OK, here's the thing. Greg and I need some time together. The afternoons will probably be best - our dads in meetings, moms out doing charitable visits or some such thing… but, well, I don't have my own room, and I'm not sure I can get away with traipsing over to his hotel for a booty call…"
Natalie laughed outright at that and said, "Oh, you need me to get out of the way… let you have the room…"
Zoë's features twisted into a guilty grimace as she said, "Yes, and I feel so mean about that!"
"Well, you shouldn't! That is a perfectly reasonable request. I mean, I know better than anyone that you have to grab whatever chances you can get. There's a great library the other side of the building - I can hang there as long as you need me gone… so, it seems like things are progressing well with you and Greg?"
"Yes! We get along so well… we talk all the time on the phone, and email… but, frankly, after some smutty conversations and reading too many Mistress Toni books I'm so horny I need sex, with someone else besides myself!"
Natalie just shook her head, but then asked carefully, "Zoë, um, you haven't shared anything about those books… from those books with Greg, have you?"
"What?! Lord no! I'm not ready for any of that in real life yet. Maybe not ever. Well, I guess I should never say never… but my physical relationship with Greg is still pretty new, and he's somewhat older than me, but nothing like your man… so how about it, Natalie? Have YOU shared any of that with John?"
Natalie couldn't help the blush that colored her cheeks.
"OH. MY. GOD!!! OK, Natalie, what did you do?!"
"We haven't done anything from the books, Zoë… he just saw me reading it one time and grabbed it and read some… and he was SHOCKED… "
"But turned on, too - wasn't he? Where were you guys? Did he grab you and ravage you right then and there?"
Again the telltale blushing.
"Natalie… oh, come ON, you can't leave me hanging?"
"But Zoë, last time I shared some details with you, you were mortified and had a hard time looking at John again…"
"I know - I've only eaten vanilla cake since then! But unless he takes to wearing leather pants with handcuffs dangling off him, I think I'll be OK without any prompting visuals… so spill…"
Shrugging, knowing Zoë would keep the secret and loving the chance to shock her a bit, Natalie said, "OK, well, it was in the wee hours of the morning on the flight to Australia… we ended up in the Media Storage Closet…"
"OH. MY. GOD!!!! You joined the mile-high club on Air Force One?! You are my SHERO!"
"Yeah well, as great as it was - and OH it was - we almost got caught by Chase and Mason… Mason figured it out, but then he understood when he grabbed the book from me and read it…"
"HA! I bet he wanted to throw you down and take you too!" Zoë had been kidding but when she saw Natalie's reactions she said, "No! He didn't? Did he? Did YOU?!"
"NO! Nothing like that… not at all…it was just embarrassing…"
"I'm sure… I mean, for them to know you have those sorts of books…."
"Oh, I told them it was yours…"
"You WHAT?! So now they know that I read shit like that?! Geez, Natalie, thanks a lot!"
The two girls just laughed then. Natalie took a sip of soda and then practically spit it through her nose when Zoë asked nonchalantly, "So, Natalie, have you ever done anal?"
Coughing, gasping for breath, Natalie asked, "What?! Zoë, my God - what a question. I mean, that's quite a personal question to just shoot out of the blue… you were afraid to ask me to vacate our room for a bit, but you ask me that?!"
Zoë's eyes crinkled in laughter but she prodded, "Well, are you going to answer my question?"
"The answer is 'no', I haven't… "
"Have you guys discussed it?"
"No! It hasn't been a topic of discussion, OK… but why are you asking this? Zoë, is that just on your mind from the books, or is that something Greg has pressed you for?"
"No! Not at all… it was more a curiosity because of reading… and wondering how things develop as a long-term physical relationship goes on… and, OK, I'm nosy. You know I live a bit vicariously through you right now, and John McBain is all man, with what I am sure are pretty healthy appetites, especially for his tasty redhead…" she waggled her eyebrows and Natalie couldn't help but laugh.
"You ARE oversexed, Zoë"
"No, au contraire, THAT'S the problem. I am UNDERSEXED. Underserved… On the wagon via situations beyond my control… I don't have my bucking bronco available for regular trysts…"
Natalie willed herself not to flush more at the bucking bronco comment, remembering her last meeting with John at the Omni in DC, and then she said, "You're right, Zoë. You really do need to get laid".
"That's all I'm saying, Natalie… that's all I'm saying…"
A bit later, they began the process of taking showers and getting ready for the big bash at the US Embassy. Natalie felt her throat tighten a bit, since she'd been alerted that Javier Lezama was indeed on the guest list, coming with the Kumani delegation. She found, however, that she wasn't dreading it as much as usual because all he could do was talk to her - and she felt like she was ready, willing and able to spar verbally with him should the need arise.
Zoë was a vision in pale pink silk - a halter-style gown that had a full skirt and only a modest plunge. Natalie could see how appreciative Greg was when he first saw her, and with him in his tuxedo they made a stunning pair as they stood together in the official receiving line, which was comprised of The US First Family, Laurentian Royal Family, King and Queen of Kuman, Russian Prime Minister and his wife, plus the US Ambassador and his wife. Again, Natalie was glad to avoid such a stultifying pastime.
As per usual, she found her way over to John and Mason who were standing just inside the entrance to the grand ballroom. Natalie was dressed in an elegant midnight blue satin dress that she'd selected because it would hide the last remaining traces of her injuries suffered at Mahmed's hands. It was a long, straight sheath that fell to her ankles and tastefully outlined her curves. A relatively demure slit up the back made it possible for her to walk. The satin was cut as a sleeveless mock turtleneck, but the neck of the dress was actually a two-inch band of Swarovski Crystals. Rather than leaving her shoulders and arms bare, attached to the satin was midnight blue illusion that essentially converted the dress into one that completely covered her, though with a sheer fabric. At the wrist of each long illusion sleeve was a three inch band of Swarovski Crystals. Finally, up the back of the satin, which plunged decently low, and the continuing illusion fabric were Swarovski Crysal buttons. Her midnight blue satin sling-backs had straps made of the crystals, completing the effect. She wore her hair up in a loose up-do with a few tendrils playing around her ears and the diamond drop earrings. Finally, she was wearing her two necklaces from John - the infinity pendant visible in the middle of her chest, while the chain with her engagement ring hung between the hollow of her breasts, shielded from sight by the satin.
She felt a flush move into her cheeks at the look in John's eyes when he saw her, since it was clear he was appreciating how she looked - as was Mason.
"Hey, guys" she said when she got in range.
John expelled a breath and had to fight the urge to reach out and stroke her face… grab her hand…"Hey, Natalie. You look really beautiful tonight."
She beamed as Mason seconded his words saying, "Honestly, you do, darlin'. Very elegant…"
At that moment, she saw Mason's eyes narrow, and John must have noticed as well since he turned along with Natalie to see Javier Lezama enter the ballroom - with a redhead in tow. At that, Natalie just laughed, and both men looked at her in surprise.
"It's just so ridiculous….and I'm done letting him get to me. I almost look forward to a verbal sparring match tonight, if he wants to go there… "
"Well, try to keep your distance if you can, Natalie… I hate him anywhere near you…"
"I know, John, but let's face it - he's going to make sure we run into each other…"
Mason sighed and said, "She's right… but we are going to keep a tight eye on you… and at least his reprobate cousin is nowhere to be found…"
"Amen to that…."
Javier didn't wait long to approach Natalie - just until she'd gotten herself a drink at the bar and was waiting patiently for Zoë to be finished. She saw him approaching and made sure to stiffen her spine and show no reaction.
"Cara Mia… don't you look beautiful this evening… then again you always do, whether dressed in evening attire or sex club attire… I'm not sure if you remember my companion from Germany - she was one of them, anyway. She agreed to accompany to Russia, compliant thing that she is… Sylvia, this is Natalie, Natalie Sylvia…"
Sylvia simply gave Natalie a cool once-over and didn't even bother to put out a hand for a handshake, which suited Natalie fine.
Javier smirked but then said with a bit of steel in his voice, "Sylvia, you disappoint me… your jealousy is childish, and given how much you know Natalie means to me, I'd think you'd understand that it was in your interest to be nice to her… leave us right now - go get yourself a drink and wait for me over there… over by that potted tree…" With a pout Sylvia slouched off.
Natalie could feel Javier's appraising eyes on her as she watched Sylvia slink away. Finally she turned to meet his gaze head-on.
"Cara Mia, I hope you'll permit me a question…"
"Like I could stop you?"
He laughed at that and continued. "Well, don't get me wrong, you look lovely… stunning really. It's just that, well, I'm not sure I've ever seen you so covered up in your evening attire, even though a good bit of the fabric is quite sheer. And the look over all - cuffs and collar… well, if you'll excuse me for being so bold, it has a BDSM flavor to it, my sweet. Have you gone there, now? Is your agent really your master… is this a secret way for him to make sure you're wearing his collar?"
She arched her eyebrow and willed herself not to blush. "No, Javier. John didn't see this dress until just a few moments ago. I chose it because I liked it - and it is a bit cooler here in Russia so I thought it a safe bet…"
"Hmmm, plausible. Yet I can't help wondering if subconsciously your choice was driven by other feelings and orientations…. We both know how much you like him to claim you hard… and where some of your darker desires might tend towards… of course there also could be a much more practical reason for your costume as well…"
She asked "Oh?" feeling her pulse rate because she wasn't sure where he was going with this.
"Indeed. As a way to capture your self discovery while hiding the consequences of it…" As he said that he grabbed her left hand and raised her arm up a bit, gently peeling back her cuff. While her injuries were almost healed, there was still residual redness and pale yellow bruising. He sucked in a breath and his eyes gleamed at her when he said, "Ooooh, you HAVE been restrained… you naughty little thing… this looks pretty harsh, though… did you just use standard-issue cuffs? I'd use fleece-lined ones on you myself…" He caressed her wrist with his thumb and she felt her stomach churn for a moment before she firmly detached herself from his grip. She decided then and there to let him know exactly how she'd gotten her injuries since it was clear he didn't know and she wanted to see how he'd react.
Natalie smirked at Javier and he asked, "What? Why the smirk, Cara Mia? I don't like to be laughed at…."
"Javier, you are right. These marks are left over from when I was restrained by handcuffs several weeks ago… but John didn't do this to me…"
He was clearly surprised and he asked, "You have someone else? In addition-"
"No. These are from when your cousin, Mahmed, snuck into my room when we were at the Palace in Laurentius, cuffed me to my headboard and tried to rape me - almost succeeding, by the way."
Javier reared back as if struck, then said with simmering anger, "That's not possible!"
"Oh, I assure you it is!"
"But I told him-"
"Yes, I know. But apparently he's not as concerned about listening to you as you think… Do you want do know what he did?"
Through gritted teeth Javier said, "Yes!"
"Very well. I awoke to him lying on top of me just after he'd cuffed me to my bed. I had no way to fight him with my hands. I tried to use my legs. He proceeded to choke me and then to pull a knife on me. He stripped me naked, then spread my legs open, pinning them that way with his knees. I can't wear shorts or short skirts yet, either, by the way…"
"How… how… when was he stopped?"
"Oh, are you asking how close he came to raping me?"
"Yes!"
She leaned closer and looked him straight in the eye when she whispered, "The head of his penis was pressed against my opening, about to go in for the first thrust. But at that moment his buddy Scott yanked him off me. That's how close, Javier. How close he came to raping me… defying your orders… and he didn't care if you knew or not, because as pathetic as it is for me to admit it, I tried to use the threat of you to stop him because at that moment I would have done anything not to have him take me…."
"You are telling me the truth". It was a statement, not a question, so Natalie just continued to meet his gaze.
Natalie saw rage and hate burning in Javier's eyes, and he was fighting for control. In an ominous tone he said, "Cara Mia, there is nothing I can say that is adequate as an apology for what he did. He apparently is from the worst side of my bloodlines… or hopefully he gets it from his father, not his mother... my aunt… believe me when I tell you, he will be punished in the end… " Then, as if to himself, forgetting Natalie could hear, "And I'll no longer feel any guilt for what I've planned for him…"
Natalie thought that a very curious comment, but schooled her features not to show it had registered.
"Why did your agent not react, Natalie?"
"Oh, he did… as did Mason. But out of deference to Zoë and Greg, I begged him to do nothing since Mahmed ultimately did not succeed…"
Javier simply nodded, and he was as subdued as she had ever seen him. He actually looked at her with kindness, with gentleness as he said softly, "I am very sorry. I know that my own boorish behavior has caused you pain at times, but I would never lay my hands on you like that… as I told you, we'd be together when you come to me… I would not take you by force… it will be so much sweeter when you come to me, with me willingly…"
He said that with such certainty that her blood ran cold, and she remembered him in her dream, manipulating her and killing John anyway. She said nothing, but looked up to see Zoë and Greg heading her way, and she said quietly, "I must go talk to Zoë" and left Javier there seemingly still partially lost in his thoughts. She was puzzled by what he'd said about Mahmed, not having enough context to understand his true meaning.
Later in the evening, Javier sought her out again, but kept his distance and seemed quite formal. "Natalie, my Aunt, the Queen, would love to meet you - she's already been charmed by Zoë and I explained that she would feel at least that about you… would you come with me so I might introduce you?"
"Of course, I'd like to meet her…"
She really had no choice but to take Javier's proffered elbow as he escorted her to the Queen's side - she was speaking with Madeleine Caldwell.
"Natalie" Madeleine greeted. "So lovely to see you…" she said this with genuine warmth which faded somewhat as she nodded at Javier and said, "Mr. Lezama…"
He bowed and then said, "A pleasure, Mrs. Caldwell. I wanted to introduce Natalie to the Queen, whom I've gotten to know through my business in the region… but I think it would be most appropriate for you to make the formal introductions…" He moved back a step to allow Madeleine to do just that.
Queen A'lia of Kuman, former Saudi Princess, was a beautiful and elegant woman. She greeted Natalie warmly and they made small talk for a little bit, and Natalie found hit hard to fathom her son could be such an animal. She was careful to draw Javier into the circle of their conversation. "Mr. Lezama has become a trusted friend to us… and a great supporter of business in our country and the region… good business that helps us all… yes, a very dear friend…" Natalie and Javier shared a glance, his smile seeming very warm and open at the words of the Queen, whom she knew of course was actually his aunt. The conversation went on for several more minutes as Madeleine was also a skilled conversationalist. At one point when the First Lady and the Queen were talking Natalie looked quickly to see if she could spot John, but she didn't make it past Javier's face. He had no idea she was looking at him, because he was looking at the Queen, and for a brief second, maybe not even a full second, his mask dropped and there was such naked, venomous hate in his eyes and steeling his features as he looked at his aunt. Natalie quickly averted her eyes, then when she turned back to him more obviously the warmth was back as he laughed at something ostensibly charming the Queen had said. But Natalie knew what she'd seen. Javier loathed his aunt with a fury that was breathtaking. This could change things… or open up new avenues of analysis. And it might help her put his comments about Mahmed in context. She needed to let John know.
Chapter 74
The rest of their stay in Russia went very quickly, and significant diplomatic headway had been made. Deputies and aides would remain in place to continue some of the discussions and negotiations, and then the US President, two Kings and Russian Prime Minister would meet again in a few weeks in Kuman. Mason was a bit disappointed because Angela was one of the State Department staffers that would remain a few days longer, so their own time back home together would be truncated. John had alerted Natalie that Chase wanted to hold a major de-brief and come up with a final recommendation to the President regarding whether Zoë should stay home or go along on the trip to the Middle East at all, or at least whether she should return early and not go to Kuman.
The slightly tricky thing was that Chase wanted Natalie in on these meetings directly, yet needed to preserve her cover. He finally suggested that John should invite Natalie to stay the night at his house, Mason should be prominently seen to come over for dinner, and then Chase would park a mile away and walk over, approaching John's house from the street/house behind and entering through the back door, which John would leave unlocked. It still was a slight risky, but one they'd have to take. John would ensure that shutters and curtains were closed for privacy so that he wouldn't be seen in the house. Natalie felt a mixture of feelings that tightened her stomach. She was excited to be back at John's, but they had to be sure that she didn't seem too at home - and of course that her things would be in the guest bedroom. Doing all of this, while knowing that Chase likely knew the truth, made the dance of deception - much of it self-deception and proactive ignorance - somehow more challenging. She was almost afraid to look in his eyes, to catch his gaze upon her and see his awareness there for a moment before he shuttered his insights again.
Natalie arrived at John's around 3pm on Wednesday, just 24 hours after their return from Russia. Mason was due at 6pm, and Chase by 7 - and John would once again order a large order of Chinese food. He pulled her into an all-encompassing hug when she arrived, and she clung to him with a slight air of desperation.
"Sweetheart, are you all right?" he asked against her hair.
She nodded against his chest and said, "Yeah, I just find myself a bit rattled in Chase's presence, with all the subtext and layers of truth and mistruths swirling around. And I need to act like I really barely know my way around here...."
He kissed her head and then pulled her away from him so he could look in her eyes. "It's going to be OK, Natalie. Truly. Chase doesn't WANT to know the truth - or more particularly, show us that he does - so he'll make it easy. And just remember, if he had a real problem with it, my ass would have been called out a long, long time ago. As long as it enhances our work rather than complicates it, we aren't going to have to worry. But for now, let me help you bring your stuff to the guest room... then I'm just going to have to figure out a way to help you relax..."
The heat in his eyes as he said that twisted her stomach in a much different way, and that wrung out moisture from her core and into her panties. "OK, but you... you can't look at me like that... or say things like that to me... or touch me at all while Chase is here... I can't... I can't handle it... or-"
John took in her flushed neck and face and grinned, "Or what, sweetheart... I'm not sure I know what you mean..." He ran his finger along her collar bone earning a gasp of her breath while her eyes popped open.
"John!"
"What, sweetheart?" He asked with such innocence that she was sure she saw him trying to bat his eyes.
"You know damn well what! Look at me! My nipples are at attention and I'm going to have to change my panties... and maybe layer three pair with jeans - or maybe use an entire box of panty-liners!"
He was laughing outright at her, but only because she was half-laughing through her tirade. "Well, I'll help you out of the ones your currently in... and I'll take care of you, sweetheart... make sure you're... fully satisfied... sated... so you're not in such an uproar when Chase is here... "
This time he trailed his finger over one of her erect nipples and she pulled back as if she'd been burned, saying, "Right, John. And that lasts just until the next moment you touch me... or look at me that way... or, or do that, that voice thing... or until I THINK of you doing any of that!"
"What voice thing?"
"Talking John. Just talking. Of course, what you choose to say makes it more deadly, but Jesus just the sound of your voice... Lord, just stop me from talking before I embarrass myself even more... to admit... oh hell, yes I AM just that out of control when it comes to you... "
"Hmmmm, you are a bit excitable... and suggestible..." With that he cupped her face in his hands and placed soft, hot, open-mouthed kisses on the side of her neck, laughing there when he felt her knees buckle a bit.
Natalie grabbed onto John's shoulders and with eyes closed moaned, "What have you turned me into... a walking sex addict... some insatiable, wanton, hussy - but only for you! I'm normal around everyone else... What IS it about you?!"
John chuckled a bit and again pulled back, gripping her upper arms so he could see her. "Natalie, are you sorry about that, truly?"
"No! I'm only sorry that, that I have to try to hide it, period. Let alone in front of our eagle-eyed boss!"
He grew a bit more serious as he looked at her with tenderness and intensity when he said, "I promise to be good... for my own benefit as much as yours, because I have, I think, even less control that you do. And I was known for my control. It was my hallmark. My specialty. But I really do think that if we work off some of this... tension.... well, it'll help."
"Uh huh" she said with an arched brow. "Isn't that a great rationalization to get me into bed?"
Arching an eyebrow in return, John asked wryly, "Given what you just said, let alone our history together, do we even need such a rationalization?"
Unable to help the grin even as she rolled her eyes she said, "No! When it comes to you I have round heels and an open-legs policy and you know it!"
On that note, he picked up her bag, grabbed her hand, and led her to the guest room. And quickly decided that bed needed to be christened, anointed in holy fluids, so to speak. After they recovered, he carried her into the master bathroom for a "quick shower" which was anything but. They were barely dressed in time for Mason's 6pm arrival.
As Natalie was getting dressed - in the master bedroom alongside John - he took note that she was putting on a thick white sports bra.
"Are you going for a run, Natalie?"
"No, but I'm wearing reinforcements, this'll keep things battened down..."
He laughed at her. "You are so damn cute!" Then he deepened his voice, knowing exactly what he was doing, and ran a finger down her breastbone as he huskily said, "You know me well enough to know I find it hard to pass up a challenge..."
"John! I am NOT kidding! Keep your mitts, voice and eyes to yourself, Mister!"
She pulled on an oversized black linen man-style shirt that she paired with black linen cropped pants.
"I wasn't paying attention, Natalie. How many pair of panties did you put on?"
"You never mind about that!"
John had pulled on jeans and a white oxford shirt that he didn't tuck in, and had just finished buttoning it when the doorbell rang. He grabbed her hand and they shared a smile that proved what they knew all along - no hard feelings, AT ALL.
Mason, dressed like John's twin, gave Natalie a big hug hello and clapped John on the arms. "So, you guys ready for show-time? Ready to hide from 'Daddy-Chase' that someone's been poking around young Natalie's hen house?"
Natalie shook her head but laughed while saying, "I'm not even sure that what you said even makes any sense at all, Mason!"
"OK, let me be blunt - you two going to be able to hide the fact that you screw like bunnies and assorted other members of the animal kingdom every time his back is turned?"
Natalie punched his massive bicep and said, "We are going to be on our very best behavior. I've warned John to keep his distance, and not even look at me funny!"
The two men smirked at each other, then Mason said, "Well, darlin' you don't want to OVER correct... Chase will smell that a mile away... perhaps even more than any arousal you're giving off..."
"Mason! Oh my God... you guys... ugh!" She stalked off towards the kitchen with them in her wake. She yanked three cold beers out of the fridge and placed them on the island in front of each of them. She twisted her cap off a took a big swig, and as the guys opened theirs Mason said, "Natalie, you shouldn't let yourself get so worked up... you're really tensing about this... it'll be OK.... shit McBain, couldn't you figure out a way to help the poor thing?"
"Well, I would have thought three orgasms would be enough-"
"John!" Natalie practically screeched in mortification, even though she couldn't help a bubble of laughter that tried to bolt out of her throat. "You guys both really suck some times, you know?"
In "that voice" John said, "Well, sweetheart, you weren't complaining about my sucking 40 minutes ago..."
She looked at him with a deadly squint, but then started laughing and they all joined in.
"Don't worry, darlin'. We ALL need this to go smoothly. I'll keep the big bad Johnny wolf away from you... in the meantime, finish your beer... maybe bolt down another, and it'll be fine..."
John placed an order for the food and then they went into the den to await Chase's arrival, knowing they'd see and hear him better from there since it was closer to the back door. He was actually 15 minutes early, and John went to meet him and bring him into the den.
"Hello Mason, Natalie... I don't believe I was followed, so I think we're fine. Why don't we dive right in, starting with Natalie's observations regarding Lezama. Then I'll summarize our latest intel and we can hash things out."
Natalie was on the couch next to Mason while John and Chase each took one of the club chairs. She swallowed and began. "I took the chance to goad Javier when I realized he had no idea what Mahmed had... had tried to do to me in Laurentius. Frankly, I also wanted to turn the tables because he was being his normal offensive self and I wanted to shut him down. He was furious, and as has happened in the past when he lost his cool, a few comments escaped before he clamped his control back in place. Not such a big deal was that Mahmed would ultimately be punished, but essentially to himself, more like musing out loud, he said that he wouldn't feel any guilt at all any more about what he had planned for Mahmed... I wasn't exactly sure how to take it, until I saw the look of naked hate on his face for a nano-second as he looked at his aunt, the Queen of Kuman. His mask only slipped for a fraction of a second, but his venom for her was crystal clear...."
Chase nodded and asked, "So what does your gut say this all means?"
"I think that he may have turned Mahmed into a weapon he can use, and who he can also make sure is the scapegoat. If he hates the Queen, he could very well in fact hate Mahmed, too. Most especially because in some ways he has to see that Mahmed got a life that was denied to him. I am not feeling sorry for Javier, but it must have been difficult to stand there and hear the Queen refer to him as a friend and business partner. He's no longer fully shunned, but still held outside the familial circle as unworthy. What a perfect way to get back at her... at them all. Corrupt the Crown Prince so that he does something horrible in the name of the greater anti-US cause... and Javier gets to stand in the distance not getting his hands dirty."
The three men mulled her assessment and she could see them nodding. Chase said, "I think you're likely right... but what else does this mean for us?"
"Well, I think we have to look carefully at one of our 'givens' - that Javier wouldn't arrange for something horrible to happen on Kumani soil out of deference to his aunt... in fact, that might be the sweetest part of all for him..."
John said, "I agree. We don't know for sure, and I know we were running scenarios that encompassed Kuman being 'ground zero' for the attack, but now we might almost want to assume that's the case..."
Chase rubbed his hands over his face. "I think you're right. Let me also re-cap the intel and then we can roll it around, come up with scenarios, and then make sure we look for counterpoints - the devil's advocate positions... The chatter has increased dramatically, and some of our assets have ear-wigged some interesting conversations. We think it is a red-herring, but now there seems to be buzz that the President is the target. Of course, he is always a possible target and there could be more than one group thinking about doing things... but some other key phrases we keep hearing help paint a picture.... one is 'prep for our visitor' coupled with a few mentions of 'the negotiator'..."
Mason jumped in, "That sounds like they're prepping for a hostage..."
Natalie sucked in a breath at that and Chase said, "Exactly. The 'event' in question could very likely be a kidnapping - of Zoë - rather than an outright assassination... imagine testing our 'no negotiations' stance by kidnapping the First Daughter..."
John added, "It also makes sense as to why they'd need and want such an insider as Mahmed... he could have access to her in ways no one else could..."
"Precisely, John. But we also have to remember that there have been rumblings about back ups... additional insiders..."
"So, is there really any question? Don't we just need to keep Zoë home?" Natalie asked.
"Well, additional intel muddies the waters... over and over we've heard talk about them being ready for a 'home or away game'... and, in talking - we believe - about our security teams, they used the term, 'taffy pulling contest'..."
"As in, 'stretched too thin'..." Mason supplied.
"That is the most likely interpretation. But let's comb through it all again..."
The food arrived, more drinks were served, and for the next three hours the four of them poured over data Chase had brought, listened to recordings and did point/counter-point analysis. Finally Chase called for a time out, saying, "I think we've reached an inescapable interpretation that we have to plan around while hoping it is all sound and fury signifying nothing... but we have to assume they definitely plan on hitting Zoë - kidnapping her. AND that they are going to do that whether she is home or in the Middle East. Given that assumption, then we have to ensure that as much security as possible has to be put around her... yet we must still protect the President - even more so since there is chatter suggesting he's a proactive target. That means that Zoë and the President need to be in one overall location - either here, or together abroad. The President - and The First Lady - understand that on the world stage right now, he cannot be seen to pull out of the key meetings in Kuman, losing the headway made in Russia. Nor can we be seen to 'admit' that we cannot keep our charges safe.... so my recommendation would be we all go to the Middle East, but with one critical thing..."
He locked his eyes on each of them one at a time and then said, "We must neutralize Mahmed immediately. There may be a back-up plan, but him out of the way will be a major blow..."
Natalie couldn't help the whispered, "Neutralize?" that slid from her mouth. Chase said nothing for a long moment, then looked over at the television for a second. He turned back to John and said, "Will you please put on CNN?"
John studied Chase and then walked over to the media cabinet, picking up the remote and doing as Chase had requested. With growing surprise, a twinge of foreboding and decidedly mixed feelings they watched and listened.
On screen was live footage of what looked to be a horrible traffic accident, and the graphic said, "London, England". The anchor said, "For those just tuning in, we are sad to inform you that Crown Prince Mahmed of Kuman was killed early this morning London time in a horrific motor vehicle accident. Reports are still sketchy but sources tell us he was in a taxi on his way home from a nightclub when a drunk driver crossed the center line and hit the Prince's taxi head-on. A newspaper delivery truck slammed into the back of the taxi, killing the Prince and taxi driver instantly. No word on the injuries sustained by the drunk driver who caused the accident, but he is in police custody. A statement issued by the Kumani Palace said the King and Queen, plus other family members, were in seclusion in their grief, but a state funeral was already being planned. It is expected that the Kingdom will observe 2-3 weeks of official mourning in terms of many government offices closed, etc. Full mourning will, of course, be in effect for at least the following year. However, sources say the planned talks between the US, Russia, Kuman and Laurentius are likely to go on as scheduled - though the leaders of those other countries will surely pay a quick visit before that to attend the Crown Prince's funeral... more information will be available after this short break..."
John switched off the TV and turned to face the others. All of them look shell-shocked, though Chase a little less so since he'd been forewarned. He cleared his throat and said, "I know I don't have to tell you that any suggestion that this was anything but an accident can NEVER leave this room..." Again he made eye contact with all of them, and they nodded. He paid special attention to Natalie, since he knew she would have the hardest time with this. John and Mason had been around the block several times - and Mason's former career well-prepared him for this sort of thing. Adding to the complexities for Natalie were the two attacks she'd experienced at Mahmed's hands. Part of her had to be relieved or even glad, but that would also bring guilt. Not to mention the pivotal role her intel played in making this decision. It briefly flashed through his mind that he was glad John would be able to take care of her through this, but then he shut down that line of thought.
Chase sighed deeply then said, "It's time I take my leave. John, Mason, you're off duty until the day after tomorrow... Natalie, you should stay here until John returns to work... we have indications that you two are still being watched and that the blackmail angle could still be under consideration - that may be even more of a possibility with their insider being out of play. Before this week is over we have to nail down some ironclad security plans - and we may think about tapping into Sven Larsen for help since they'll all be in Kuman...."
When Chase had gone, Natalie became aware that John and Mason were looking at her very carefully. She said softly, "I'm OK... I understand... it's just, wow.... I think I'm a little numb over it all..."
Mason came to her and hugged her, saying, "That's a natural reaction... I'm going to take my leave now... " She returned his hug and John saw him out. When he came back into the study Natalie had sunk back onto the couch, and he sat down beside her. When she turned to him she had tears in her eyes and he gently rubbed her face.
"I'm sorry.... I.... I don't even know why I'm emotional over this... I had a huge streak of hate going through me when it came to Mahmed... but, wow... and, do we even KNOW for sure he was going to do anything? I mean, I'm the one... so much of the case for that came from me... what if... what if I was wrong?" Her voice grew shakier as she spoke, and John gripped her shoulder hard, but he didn't hug her... he wanted to more than anything, but at this moment she needed to be more of an agent than fiancé - for her own benefit.
"Natalie... don't doubt yourself... you collected multiple pieces of information and insight that all pointed in the same direction. And not just from Javier, who could have ulterior motives, but from Mahmed himself. Plus, I've seen some other intel that corroborates it... and I'm sure there's even more to which I've not been privy - maybe not even Chase. The decision and directive to take such a major step came from elsewhere, and they would not do that to a Crown Prince of a key ally unless they were damn sure...."
Natalie had kept her eyes glued to his while he spoke, and he could see that she was taking in what he said. She understood how all of this worked, even if she was relatively inexperienced.... but this was the first time she could see the tangible connection between her work... her analysis... and a major consequence... it was a lot to take in.
John finally said, softly, "Let's put it away for tonight... come to bed with me, Natalie... let me love you..."
She caressed his face and said softly, "I need you..."
"You have me, sweetheart... you have me..."
He picked her up and carried her to their bed, and made love to her slowly, passionately. He wiped her tears away when they fell, but could tell by the time she fell asleep on his chest that she was regaining her footing.
Chapter 75
Natalie woke at 8am the next morning to the smell of fresh-brewed coffee. Opening one eye, she saw John over by the corner cabinet tending to the coffeemaker, pouring out a cup and fixing it just the way she liked it. As she watched him, feeling well cared for by that simple act, she fingered her ring which was now back on her hand. She still sometimes found herself hovering between belief and disbelief - but she was undeniably happy, and it all felt completely right. She couldn't wait to finally tell her family and introduce John, though the oddness of the situation struck her again, that he could have become so important to her - he was her future - yet her family knew nothing of him. Nor did she know John's. But they were heading into the home stretch, since in fewer than four weeks the summer tour was set to end, and she'd be free from this current life of duplicity - at least until her next assignment.
He smiled when he saw she was awake. "Morning, Natalie. Sleep well?"
She smiled back and stretched, saying, "Eventually...." and they shared another smile as they both clearly remembered what had kept them awake.
He carried their coffee over and after handing her a cup, climbed back onto the bed, propping himself up against the headboard as she did the same.
"Are you doing OK, Natalie?" he asked softly, studying her carefully.
She sighed and nodded her head. "Overall, yes. It just really hit home what a responsibility we have to make sure we are looking at the right things... making the right evaluations..."
"I know. And, honestly, in our line of work we are a bit insulated from the sorts of things we saw last night... but like I said, they had to have had plenty of corroborating evidence..."
"Do you think we'll all end up in Kuman for the funeral?"
"I do, Natalie. And I know it will be difficult, knowing what we know... but it will probably get tacked on to the beginning of the Middle Eastern tour - a quick stop, then back to the original schedule, and then we'll still finish up in Kuman as planned...."
Before they could talk any more, the phone rang, and John reached to answer it, finding Mason
on the other end. After a quick conversation, most of it entailing John just listening, he said, "OK, see you in
about an hour..." When he hung up he said, "Chase asked Mason to come by with some surveillance equipment and
a few stealthy weapons. They're for you.... to prep you for the Middle
East, just in case..." John tried to keep his tone light, but reality was
setting in. They'd faced a lot - Natalie had faced a lot - but none of that might hold a candle to what lay ahead,
and that was a sobering thought. It took everything in him not to beg her, command her to quit her job immediately and
stay right here, but he knew that just wasn't going to fly on any level. Still, he felt compelled to offer her a
way out.
"Natalie... please don't hate me for asking this... suggesting this... but are you sure you want to do this... feel you can do this? This is so much more than originally planned.... frankly, it's more than most of us on the senior staff have ever faced... if you can't... "
Natalie looked at John and saw the concern in his eyes, and she understood. She didn't feel like he was judging her and her competence. She felt his concern... his concern as the man who loved her... so rather than respond with anger or defiance, she was driven by softer emotions, including her own fear. She reached out and held his free hand in hers. "John... I'm not going to lie to you. One of the greatest gifts I've been given is the fact that I don't have to hide from you. I am nervous, and honestly, afraid a lot of the time when I think about what's coming. It IS more than I ever contemplated.... But that just makes it all the more necessary. I have to do this... I won't take any unnecessary chances, but Zoë needs me... I've... it's my duty...."
"I know... I know sweetheart. You don't know how much I want to chain you down here... keep you home... safe... but I know I can't. If it was what you wanted, I'd support you 110%. But I can't force that decision on you, even though my gut is screaming for me to do it..."
"Thank you for that... for caring enough to want to... and for caring enough not to..."
"Natalie.... I want you to feel you can tell me exactly how you're feeling... if you're afraid... so I need to do the same. I'm... I'm scared, Natalie. Not because I doubt your abilities.... but because it is a risky situation and if I could keep you from it.... but it's part of who you are... the woman I fell for... you just need to know that as long as I am still breathing I will do everything I can to keep you safe... to dive in if something... anything happens..."
"I know... I love you for that, and for so much more... for everything... How much time to do we have until Mason gets here?"
"About 45 minutes...."
"I guess we'd better get ready..."
They showered together, taking the time to wash each other with tender touches and soft kisses. They were dressed in jeans and comfortable shirts when Mason arrived, bearing a bag of bagels and cream cheese in one hand and an ominous looking silver case in another.
"Hello, my friends... sleep well, did we?" Though his tone was light, it was clear he was looking carefully at Natalie. She reached out and squeezed his hand, saying, "I'm OK, Mason. Really. I can't bring myself to be glad about what happened, but I'm not torn up about it either. I'm not looking forward to the funeral... but I'll deal with it..."
John had made a larger pot of coffee in the kitchen's coffeemaker, and they spent some time toasting bagels, adding butter or cream cheese and chatting about anything but what would eventually be the main topic of conversation again. Finally, Mason sighed and reached for the silver briefcase.
"OK, darln'. First let me give you these three pens and this broach. They are actually needles with an inert poison that is activated when it mixes with human blood. Now this... this is a nano-chip that actually will act like lojack.... it would help us track you, well, if we needed to... it needs to... to be placed, well in your body...."
She had been examining the pin and broach, but now he had all her attention. "What? Where?"
With a very serious expression, Mason said, "It needs to be... you need to wear it internally... which is why we thought John would be the right one to insert it..."
Her eyes grew wide as she looked between John and Mason, but finally she realized the latter was fighting back laughter.
She slapped his hand and said, "You son of a bitch. Like I'm not freaked enough already!"
They all laughed and finally Mason said, "All kidding aside, it does need to go under your skin... up in your shoulder area, under your collar bone... I got a quick run-through of how to insert it - and I do have a topical anesthetic... "
"Is it too early to drink?" she asked with a squeak in her voice, which served to break the ice a bit more. Then she sighed and said, "Let's just get this over with..."
Mason smiled and said, "John, why don't you hold Natalie on your lap, give her some support... "
John nodded and said, let's go into the den. When they got there he sat in one of the club chairs and said, "Come here, sweetheart..." she climbed onto his lap and was quickly enveloped in his arms, and she tilted back against him to fully enjoy the feeling.
"I promise this won't hurt, darlin'..." Mason said. He gently pushed her shirt collar aside and rubbed an alcohol pad on her upper chest just below her collar bone. Then he rubbed a topical anesthetic over that patch of skin. Finally he took a large needle and gently pressed it into the deadened skin, depressing the plunger. He then pulled back and said, "OK, done."
Natalie looked at him in amazement, "That's it?"
"That's it, Natalie. It isn't perfect.... there will be some blackout spots, but by and large it will be a good back up for us - not that we intend to need it, of course... plus, Chase wants you to wear your tennis bracelet whenever you aren't right with us.... especially when it's just you and Zoë... "
"OK. Just curious... why not put this... this nano-chip in my arm or leg or something?"
John and Mason locked eyes for a second and then John whispered softly, "Uh... well, extremities can be amputated.... " He tightened his arms around her as she shivered and said, "Oh..." yet another bite of reality...
John quickly dove in to change the subject though he didn't loosen his grip on Natalie and she seemed to have no interest in leaving the safety of his lap. "Any update on the impact of Mahmed's accident... plans or chatter...?"
Mason took a swig of his coffee and said, "Well, we are leaving a day ahead of schedule for the Middle East and will head right to Kuman. We'll carve a day out of the Israel stop in order to keep everything else on schedule. And, of course, we'll end up back in Kuman as planned. The President and First Lady have been in contact with the King and Queen of Kuman, who are understandably devastated..." Mason noted tears spring into Natalie's eyes at that and said softly, "Natalie, you didn't do this... it wasn't your decision. And take a good look at your wrists, darlin' - they still have faint marks from his visit to your room in Laurentius. You KNOW he wasn't a good guy. I am not going to lecture you - you know your job... you're good at it. And you will be careful to have an appropriate reaction when you are at the funeral - for your own sake... for all of ours.."
She nodded, "I know... I just feel badly for his parents..." John had begun to gently rub her arms and she felt calmed by it.
Mason continued, "We have learned that Javier has headed directly to Kuman to support the Queen - so, no surprise, he'll be at the funeral. He may be one of the most dangerous aspects since he is a savvy player and might suspect something, even though it was a very well-engineered accident. At minimum he may be in a foul mood and looking for someone to take it out on - and we know how he gravitates to you. You'll have to be more on your game than you ever have been, but I know - we know - you can handle it. There has been an explosion of chatter. They seem to be big on sports metaphors right now, and initially there was questioning about 'forfeiture' and 'missing the play-offs'... but quickly that was replaced by talk of 'second string' and 'bench-warmers' - and again the references to home and away games... from what I understand our brethren in other branches are combing over players in Kuman, connections to Mahmed, etc., in order to ferret out who the other participants could be. There are a few red flags that have been raised among the brothers of his fiancé - one of whom is studying in DC, by the way - so we'll see. Well, we leave the day after tomorrow. John and I are back on duty tomorrow at noon. I am going to leave you to enjoy your remaining free time since the next few weeks are going to be tense. Happily, the lovely Miss Angela is back in town and she is waiting for me now..."
Natalie smiled at that, "Please give her our best... she's a doll..."
"Yes, she is... even if she may have hastened my going gray by the little games she started to play that night in Australia... "
Natalie laughed, "She was great! I just tried to keep up... not loose my cool..."
"Oh, you more than kept up, darlin'... anyway, I'll give her your regards... you two stay out of trouble..."
Natalie slid off John's lap and they walked Mason to the door. As soon as it closed behind him she turned around to hug John and he gladly brought her into his embrace, kissing her temple. "You OK?"
She exhaled, "Yeah... I am overall... I just... I just always feel so... well, just better when you're hugging me... I hope I'm not being too clingy... too needy..."
He pulled back to cup her face, "Natalie, you are one of the least needy people I've ever met... In the space of a few months you've shaken off and moved on from more terrible things than others face in a lifetime. It makes me feel useful to be able to hold you and know it helps... lean on me... cling to me... I feel better when I've got you tucked against me, too..."
They didn't leave the house for the rest of the day or night. John had gone grocery shopping the day before, and they spent the afternoon making homemade pasta, meatballs, Italian sausage and red gravy, then enjoyed it all for dinner, adding a mixed green salad, crusty bread and Chianti for good measure. Sometimes they were quiet, but the silence was calm and restorative, not laden with heavy emotions - they had managed to put all that to the side and not let it impact their precious time together. They even had fun during clean up, finding themselves in a vicious water fight that left them soaked and required four large bath towels to soak up the water on the floor.
"Lord, Natalie... this reminds me of that day that you and Zoë had your water fight... your clothes were literally transparent and I felt like such a dirty old man... I had tried so hard to not think of you as anything but a young college co-ed - someone much too young for me... but it was a challenge, and never more than that day..."
Natalie buried her face in her hands, "I was beyond mortified. It was horrifying... I wished I could have put on a burqa or something! Did you really... did you find me attractive even back then?"
"From the moment I saw you... but a 19 year-old college kid was just not something I felt right about... and Mason and I had made a pledge to try to date women closer to our own age..."
Chuckling she said, "Oh, you mean like Penny and Stella..."
John groaned, "Yeah... but they were so bitchy to you, we never saw them again..."
"Really? Is that what ended it?"
"Well, those relationships weren't exactly taking off anyway, but when we saw how mean they were..."
"I could handle them!"
"Yes, you could... and you did... now, enough of that... I think we need to get you out of those wet clothes before you catch your death of cold..." he said with a distinct purr.
"Maybe we could be totally decadent and put the fire on upstairs - if we can boost the AC again...?"
"How about a warm bath by firelight... with a final glass of Chianti... "
She reached up to kiss him then, "I love that idea..."
They shared a deeply relaxing bath, Natalie tucked up against John in the V of his legs, then headed to bed where they made love by firelight, much as they had her first night in the house. It felt like time had stopped as they savored every moment, every touch, layering emotions and passion until the room was heavy with them... full of their sounds and murmurings... but though full almost beyond capacity, their hearts were light.
Chapter 76
While Natalie and John were enjoying their time together, Zoë was entertaining Greg at the White House - he had made a quick trip over from London to see her, with security detail in tow, though Sven was back in Laurentius prepping for the unplanned trip to Kuman for the funeral. Zoë and Greg were sitting in the den of the President's Residence in the White House, and he was still clearly reeling from Mahmed's accident.
"Zoë, thank you for letting me come.... I should really thank your parents... it just felt too strange to stay in London after... after everything..."
She drew him into a hug, "Of course you should have come here! I'm... I'm glad you felt you could... that you wanted to..."
They kissed softly for a moment and then Greg ran his hands over his face. "It's just surreal... We went through Harvard together... and were halfway through grad school... I almost got into that taxi with him, but then I realized I didn't want to go on to that next club... I just wanted to go home... Scott had already left with his newest conquest... I guess I just feel a bit guilty..."
"Guilty? Because you didn't' go? Because you weren't killed?"
"Not that... not entirely... I - well, Scott and I both - we pulled away from him a bit, after what he did to Natalie... we just hadn't seen that part of him before... to stalk a girl and force himself on her... that type of violence... I mean, I know we live in a violent world... there's always some war going on somewhere... that's one thing... but to do what he did... we tried to move past it, and we still got together all the time, but it didn't quite feel the same..."
"Greg....I'm glad you said this, because I really find myself torn. I don't wish death on anyone... and I'm sorry you lost your friend... but what he did to Natalie... what he ALMOST got away with... Part of me is glad he can't ever hurt her again... I was really worried about her, about what could happen when we were all in Kuman..."
"I know, Zoë - just trust me... he had some really great qualities, too... I'm not sure how he got so warped..."
They watched a movie, but also spent some time necking like teenagers, though they were careful to keep an ear out for either of her parents. Greg would be staying in the Lincoln Bedroom while at the White House so they weren't going to be able to be together the way they wanted - that would have to wait for Kuman. On a happier note, Greg was catching a lift to the funeral in Kuman on Air Force One. Zoë couldn't help but think about the media storage closet and what John and Natalie were able to accomplish there - but on this trip the media would be along, so she knew that was a long shot. But one could dream...
A little more than 48 hours later the weary Presidential Entourage had arrived in Kuman. Ten additional Secret Service Agents were along for the ride to flesh out all the teams with extra personnel. It was dinner time when they arrived at the Kuman Royal Compound - a 700 acre property with a massive, luxurious main Palace, two "guest Palaces" that were smaller but equally opulent, plus an recreation/entertainment center, and a separate administration building with extensive facilities for meetings plus a gourmet cafeteria. The US Delegation was staying in one of the guest Palaces, those from Laurentius in the other. A few other dignitaries were being put up at the main Palace, but most of the world leaders attending the funeral were staying elsewhere.
Natalie was bone-weary as she unpacked just a few key items in her lavish suite, which was directly across from Zoë's. They had marveled as the gold plumbing fixtures, 1,000 thread-count cotton sheets, and overall plushness of the surroundings. She wanted nothing more than to stretch out on the pillow-top bed and sink into oblivion, but she was expected to sit with the First Family for a light supper in 30 minutes. Just after she'd washed her face there was a soft knock at the door and she opened it to see John standing there, much to her delighted surprise. He quickly ducked into the room shutting the door behind him.
"John-"
Before she could say another word he'd pulled her tightly against him and had claimed her mouth in a deeply passionate kiss. She felt every bone and muscle in her body melt... every nerve relax... and she sighed into his mouth though it quickly became a soft moan when he cupped her ass and pulled her up against him.
Finally he pulled away, "God, I've wanted to do that for three time zones....maybe four..."
She giggled and asked, "Is that why you're here?"
"Well, no, but first things first in my book... no, I told Chase I'd quickly give you an update - and he's expecting me back in his suite shortly... all the newest chatter points to 'game time' on the night of the final gala during our pre-scheduled trip to Kuman. We aren't scheduled to leave until after a lunch the next day, but the gala appears to be the back drop they want to carry out their plans - a lot going on to shield them... and it's still all pointing to a kidnapping... "
"Well, that isn't great, but still better than an outright attempt to kill her... should the worst happen it gives us SOME room... though I've often thought that immediate death would be preferable to having to survive whatever torture could be visited upon me... I have to say, for the first time I'm actually glad I went through torture training - even that Hawkins was my torturer. If I ever had to face it, I could..."
John felt his blood run cold and he gripped her shoulders, "Don't talk like that... that isn't going to happen... we are going to be everywhere... and we're meeting again with Sven tomorrow morning behind the funeral to discuss how to keep everyone covered when we're back here. We'll likely do something like we did in Russia, since that worked so well... Oh, you aren't going to be in the front row with the First Family... you'll sit with other mourners, out of the line of photographers since the footage will be widely played and we can't take the risk of anyone recognizing you.... the protocol people have already made the seating arrangements and the First Lady didn't put you on the list for reserved seating up frong...OK... now enough of that... let me kiss you for a few minutes before I have to get back to Chase..."
Natalie grabbed his hand and pulled him with her, turning him around and pushing him into a large armchair. Before he could protest - not that he would - she had straddled him and wound her arms around his neck. His immediately banded around her back.
"Bold move..." John said huskily.
"I remembered you liked it so much in Calgary... and Dubln..."
"Yes, those are some favorite memories..."
"For me, too..."
"I loved how I learned how aroused I'd made you.... no chance you could hide the evidence..."
Natalie blushed furiously and he laughed, "You are so adorable... "
"Adorable, schmorable... just kiss me!"
Their mouths were soon wide open against each other, tongues mating while she ground down onto his hardness, aided by his hands which had moved to her ass. He was spurred on by the increasingly urgent moans vibrating against his tongue and the heat he could feel where the juncture between her legs was pressed against him. They finally had to break apart to catch their breaths as well as to pull back from the perilously close point of no return. Gasping, Natalie buried her face in the crook of John's neck as his arms once again wrapped around her.
"Shit, Natalie... how am I supposed to leave you like this... and go see Chase..."
"Well, I've got to face the President of the United States... "
"I hate to even say these words, but you have to get off me, sweetheart..."
"I know..." she whined, but did so. John stood and she laughed at him as he re-adjusted himself, and he gave her an evil squint which was canceled out by his twitching lips. He gave her one final, hard kiss and left her with a wink.
By noon the next day Natalie was in the Royal Mosque on the far side of the Royal Compound. She was sitting halfway back in the crowd when she felt eyes on her and turned to see Javier looking at her intently from his seat across the aisle. He was not invited to sit up front either, and she wondered how he felt about that. She wondered what he thought and felt about Mahmed's death, but figured she'd likely find out in the reception afterwards at the main Palace. Just prior to the service she'd briefly spent time with Zoë, Greg and Scott, and they were all subdued. The hour long service was appropriately somber, and even from her distant vantage point Natalie could see and hear how distraught the Queen was, and again she couldn't help the stab of guilt that went through her. The Queen clung to Mahmed's fiancé, Noor, who seemed truly shellshocked.
Ninety minutes later Natalie was on her