GraceRyan
Rock n' Roll Doggie FOB
Title: Seconds
Authors: GraceRyan & WithoutSpeaking
Rating: R - adult themes and adult reactions to adult things
Disclaimer: This is not true. U2 were not born until the 1960's. But....maybe there was a Paul, David, Adam and Larry that were friends during WW2.
This has been edited. You can go to Live Journal - Burning Down Love for the chapter in its entirety. http://u2fanfic.livejournal.com/
Here is edited version.
David tugged his scarf around his neck, shivering in the cold wind as he trudged along the icy path to the barn. He had to get out of there; he didn’t want to feel that close to any other woman. He craved some cool evening air - a walk in the garden to clear his head and to lessen his lust. The garden was dusted with icy crystals crunching beneath his boots. There was a building just past the trees, on further inspection it looked to be a disused dairy barn. It was somewhere out of the wind, at least. Somewhere quiet.
He pulled open the door with a loud creak; the barn was lit dimly by a single lightbulb hanging on a wire - it flickered in such a way that it seemed it would go out at any minute. It was definitely much warmer inside the wooden walls, as the wind no longer chilled him to the bone. He sat on an old milk can, gazing around the barn, his eyes finally adjusting to the dim light. The barn must have been disused since at least before the Great War, the equipment was rusted and the smell long since gone. It was a peaceful place, the perfect setting in which to clear his head.
He let Leigh touch him in a way that he had reserved for Lyneth - the memory of the deliberate touch of her fingers still burned against his lower back, the phantom feeling of her hips against his still so vivid in his mind.
He sat in silence, taking deep breaths to calm his thoughts, and just when he’d found a bit of peace he heard voices outside the door. He hopped up from the milk can and slipped into a nearby storage room, not wishing to be found. Heaven forbid that Leigh followed him out here... The voices grew louder - he heard a female giggle and a familiar posh English accent.
They entered the barn together, coming dangerously close to his hiding place. He shifted slightly to try to get a better view of the couple, quickly holding his hand in front of his face to check whether the light made him visible. He took a silent breath of relief as he noted it remained in shadow. The man stood with his back to him, blocking his view of the woman, who had yet to speak.
“Lyneth,” he whispered, “let’s warm each other up, love...”
David stifled a gasp. He shouldn’t be here. He shouldn’t be here right now. Yet he was trapped.
“Adam,” she breathed, her face flushed as he slowly removed the scarf from around her neck.
David wanted to hear her say his name like that. He closed his eyes, trying so desperately to get the thought of Adam out of his head. Why couldn’t it be him, easing her scarf and her coat from her shoulders, revealing the soft skin that he’d touched ever so lightly only an hour ago.
His trousers were getting tighter by the minute. He leaned against the wall, where he could no longer see the two of them. He loosened his tie, his breath hitching in his throat as he listened to Lyneth’s sighs. Instead of being repulsed, the sweet sound of her voice brought him back to their dance earlier tonight, her voice softly humming in his ear - it was doing nothing to quell the feeling in his trousers.
David imagined that it was his hands on her body, his fingertips gently teasing her ivory skin as she cried out for him.
<<<<edit>>>>
“Oh Lyn....Oh Jesus....oh feck....Lynn,” he murmured softly, finally allowing himself to utter something, anything; there was no way he’d be heard over her moans of delight so he took the chance.
“Now... David... now!” he wanted to hear her cry out in a commanding tone, and at that thought he could hold back no longer, his heat finally escaping as his toes went numb and he felt a moment of instant clarity.
His other hand curled tightly around his discarded tie as he began to come back down to earth, a smile curving upward on his lips as he opened his eyes to the realization that he’d finally broken the curse that had haunted him for so long. He used his tie to clean himself up - he’d answer for its absence later - right now he couldn’t care less about fashion.
The barn was quiet now save for Lyneth’s hushed whispers that he couldn’t quite make out, and David chose not to think about her partner - thankful that he wasn’t nearly as vocal as she was. He wanted to savour this moment, knowing that although she wasn’t his, she meant more to him now than she’d ever care to know - she’d made him feel real again, if only just in his own fantasies.
Paul waited at the bottom of the stairs to the stage with a whiskey on the rocks in his hand. He waited all night for some quality time alone with her. Everyone was off on their own separate missions, and now, it was just them.
"Thank you, sugar," her fingers brushed his. "Where's Molly?"
"She was looking for Larry," he said. He held out his hand. "Come on, it's almost midnight. Let's get one more dance in."
She entwined her fingers through his. "I was hoping we'd get another one."
"Larry is guarding you like a Doberman," he led her to fringe of the party, someplace with more privacy and less light.
"Yeah, not sure why. We've danced once," Ava said.
"Maybe he's protecting you from me," he pulled her into his arms.
She looked up. "Do I need protection?"
"I'm putty in your hands, you know that," he murmured.
They pressed together as the music started and she felt his body heat radiate through his wool suit. If anyone saw them, alarms would certainly go off. However Larry and Lyneth were nowhere in sight. She closed her eyes, feeling his breath on her neck. Lowly, he hummed in her ear with his body vibrating against hers. She never felt this flushed with Richard; the thought of Paul’s lips making contact with her skin caused her to quiver. As he pressed his cheek to hers, she held on tighter - afraid she would faint.
Ava felt like heaven in his arms. Her hair piled on top of her head, revealed a long neck that begged to be kissed. He was closer than he ever thought he'd be; if she said the word, he'd do anything for her. She shivered as his hand slipped down her spine to the small of her back, pressing her closer. He brought her hand to his lips, placing a soft kiss on her fingertips.
"Ava," he breathed.
Knowing it was dangerous to do so, she looked up into his blue eyes, filled with desire.
"Happy New Year, Ava," he whispered.
"Happy New Year, Paul," she swallowed hard, eager for what was next.
He dipped his head and his lips brushed her ever so lightly, making her shudder. He stopped dancing and gazed into her eyes before he took her face in his hands. His thumbs caressed her skin as he pulled her mouth to his. Their lips touched, tentatively at first. Her hands gripped the lapels of his jacket and brought him closer as his tongue dipped inside to meet hers. He savored the sweet taste of whiskey as he explored deeper.
Her fingers wound in his thick, unruly hair. Many nights, she thought of raking her fingers through it - either in the throes of passion or in a post lovemaking cuddle. His mouth crushed against hers in a fever; he would give anything to disappear into a corner to drink her in. Teasing her tongue with his, he heard her sigh against his mouth. Suddenly, they parted - out of breath with wide eyes. The sound of the crowd singing Auld Lang Syne rang aloud suddenly in their ears.
“Ava,” he breathed, his chest heaving. His wool uniform felt constricting and itchy.
His lips were swollen from their kiss, and she wanted to feel them again. She moved in for another taste.
“Ava!” a call from the stage stopped her suddenly. “Ava! Where are you?”
“Oh, sweet Lord,” she swore.
“You better go,” he croaked. “I’ll wait right here for you.”
Maybe it was good to take a step back, she thought. She just kissed another man, and it was amazing.
Ava climbed the stairs of the stage, tossing Paul a flirtatious smile. "Happy New Year, everyone! Y'all having a good time?"
The room erupted in cheers and hollers. From her post, she saw couples still locked in a New Years kiss. She glanced at Paul longing to be there again; she had never been kissed like that before. Granted, before Richard, she had only kissed a handful of young men. Those were awkward, rushed and sometimes sloppy kisses. Richard may have had technique, but after what she just experienced, he had no real passion behind it. Paul had both, and it set her on fire.
Larry chewed on his bottom lip as he watched it all unfold - from the dance to this kiss. There was no way he could stop this from happening - as much as he tried, he couldn't keep them apart. As he regarded their furtive glances and smiles, Larry wasn't convinced this was a terrible thing - Paul had become much more pleasant lately. Always a bit of a daredevil, he had calmed significantly since her. What did Larry know of this fiancé anyway? Without that little detail, he'd be thrilled that his brother found a great woman like Ava. He couldn't help but be worried for Paul, however - from the rumors Larry had heard, Richard was high ranking and very possessive of his things.
Ava couldn't belt out her last song fast enough. As promised, Paul waited by the stage for her.
"Amazing as always," he sighed against her cheek.
"My biggest fan," she fanned herself.
"You have no idea how big..."
He longed to be alone with her.
He took her hand and placed a light kiss on her palm, sending a shiver through her body.
"Listen....." his voice dropped to a conspiratorial level. "I was thinking...."
Ava's face dropped as her gaze focused past him. Her brow creased. "Dave?"
Paul looked over his shoulder and was stunned by the sight of David. Under his flushed cheeks, he looked almost yellow. Ava rushed to him and placed her hand on his clammy forehead. His hair stuck to his neck and face.
"He's burning up," Ava said.
"Dave," Paul tried to make contact. "What's wrong?"
David's eyes focused on Ava's worried face. Suddenly, shame overwhelmed him. Why did she have to be the first woman he encountered after he'd just done... that?
"I don't feel very well," he shook his head to forget the images and sounds he just witnessed. Quickly, his eyes scanned the ballroom for Lyneth. It was hard to focus when everything felt fuzzy.
"Is he all right?" Larry asked.
"I think he's coming down with something," Ava offered.
"There were a few lads sick in the barracks..." Paul couldn't decipher the look on David's face. "Where's your tie, Dave?"
Absently, David's hand felt around his opened shirt. Immediately he remembered that he discarded the evidence of his sin.
"I don't know," he muttered.
"Did you get sick?" Larry asked.
"Kind of," David felt Ava watching him.
If she knew, she'd be disgusted with me and tell Lyn he thought.
"We need to get him home now," Paul said. "He could get into real trouble for being out of uniform at a formal event..."
David cared very little what happened to him now. Lyneth was Adam's - soul and body.
"Dave, honey, are you okay?" Ava touched his icy cheek.
David nodded unconvincingly.
"You both should get him home," she suggested.
"How will you get home?" Paul asked.
"I can get a ride with one of the girls," she shrugged.
Paul didn't fancy leaving here without an escort.
"Paul, you take Ava home," Larry fished in his pocket for the keys to the jeep. "I'll get a ride for Dave and me."
Paul cocked his head to the side. Why would Larry let Paul be alone Ava after spending the night trying to keep them apart?
"Are you sure?" he asked.
"Get her home......safely," Larry said sternly.
Paul had an inkling he understood Larry's meaning. "Can you get Dave home alone?"
David eyes snapped to life as he looked at Paul. "I'll be fine. See Ava home."
Paul nodded, it almost sounded like an order. "Right then."
“I’m worried about you,” Ava frowned as she moved to David.
David looked her directly in the eye. “Ava, I’ll be fine. It’s probably just a flu....please, let Paul escort you home.”
She nodded. “Okay, I’ll be checking up on you now.”
He offered a very weak smile. “I’ll be fine.” He turned to Paul. “Take care of her.”
Paul slipped his arm around Ava. “I will.” Never did he have a more precious cargo in Larry’s jeep. “Let’s get your coat, love.”
Finally, Paul was going to be truly alone with Ava for the first time since they set up her Christmas tree. So much had gone on between them since then. Nervously, he ran a hand over his disheveled hair as he collected her coat. He took in a deep breath of her neck as he slipped the silky mink over her shoulders.
“Are you ready, Ava?” he offered his arm.
“I am,” she looked over her shoulder for David. “Are you certain he’s okay?”
“It’s probably just the flu, like he said,” he laced his fingers through hers.
Paul had not considered the glances they might raise as they walked across the front garden hand in hand. Ava paused to bid farewell to some airmen and soldiers while Paul puffed his chest in pride as he stood by her side. Gently, he guided her to the jeep parked amongst a handful of service cars.
He opened the door and offered his hand to her. “I’m sorry it’s a bit dirty. You deserve something worthy of you.”
“Paul, I ride horses back home...this is just fine,” she gracefully hopped into the jeep.
She never ceased to amaze him. He could not believe that he was escorting the high society goddess home. With a smile, he turned the jeep onto the long driveway leading away from the stately Swakeley house.
They drove in silence. Paul, typically one for a heavy foot on the pedal, drove slowly to the White Hart. He was eager to be alone for one more kiss - but didn’t want the night to end. Despite its dismal start, it had become a truly magical night. Reaching over, he took her hand in his and to his delight, she gave his hand a squeeze.
Ava’s heart raced as they zipped through the desolate countryside. The roar of the engine drowned out her conscience as she held Paul’s hand tightly. She was disappointed to see the town lights in the distance, almost praying for a flat tire. Anything to stay with him a little longer.
"We're home....and in one piece," Paul turned the ignition off.
"Despite the rumors of your driving," she teased. "Thank you for getting me home." She moved to open the door.
"Let me," he hopped out and darted to her side. "I wouldn't be a true gentleman if I didn't see you safely inside."
"You regard yourself a gentleman?" She raised an eyebrow as she slipped her hand in his.
He looked wounded. "You've made me want to be one."
He lifted her in his arms to place her on the ground softly. "Come on, it's cold."
From her beaded clutch, Ava took out her house key. He was close behind her as she pushed the heavy door open. In the hall, a dim light lit the stairwell. Paul remembered dragging that beast of a tree up the steep stairs. It seemed much longer than three short weeks ago.
"Even though you were not my date, I had a lovely time,"
"I did too, Ava." He inched closer. There were no eyes to judge them. His icy breath danced between them as his cold hands cradled her face.
Their mouths collided hungrily. He tore his tie from his neck and unbuttoned a few buttons of his shirt while her teeth grazed his bottom lip, eliciting a groan from him. He had known desire before, but never of this magnitude. Her arms wound around him bringing him closer, but he needed to touch her. His hands slipped under her fur coat to brush against the silk below.
"Can I come up to tuck you into bed?" his voice was thick with mischief.
"So I can be the next notch on your belt?" she asked. "Or do you get extra for bedding the singer?
"Ava, you should know by now it's not about that. I'm mad for you and only you." He kissed along her jawline. "There will be no other notches."
There was no hint of deception in his eyes as he gazed at her - digging her fingers into his hair, she kissed him again. Paul had kissed many girls before, but he had never been kissed - not like this. She was demanding and would not be satisfied to follow his lead and it caused a fire across his entire body, concentrated in his crotch. He slid his hands up along her sides, enjoying her shiver as he did. Fluidly, he slipped her mink off her shoulders to fall in a puddle at her feet.
She broke away, frosty breath coming out in short bursts. "We should stop."
They both panted as his thumbs traced over her lips and chin. She lunged for him again, his fingers tearing at the buttons of his coat. He was desperate to feel her against him. His wool coat joined hers on the floor. Despite the chilly hallway, he felt beads of sweat roll down his back.
Ava pulled away to catch her breath once more, gazing at his exposed neck and chest. Did she do that? She needed a moment to regain control - this was moving much too fast. As she tried to organize her thoughts, she felt his teeth nip at her earlobe. How could she stop this now?
"Let me show how much you mean to me, Ava," his whisper pleaded.
Every part of her longed to say yes and let him carry her up to bed. She never really wanted sex before, it was just something she did when asked. It was fairly quick and relatively painless. To be honest, she could never figure what the fuss was all about - until now. Whatever she was feeling deep down in her thighs, she had never experienced before. She pressed him to her, enjoying the sensation as his muscles moved under her.
He captured her mouth once more, his tongue teasing and probing - savoring her taste. He felt her resolve slide to floor as his fingertips traced the neckline of her dress, across her collarbone and down into the valley of her breasts. His lips traveled over her chin to her neck. She held on for dear life.
"You'll get in trouble if you don't go back," her voice wavered.
"I don't care," his voice shook. As her strap slipped over her shoulder, he longed for his lips to follow its path.
She kissed him tenderly and pressed her forehead to his. "I can't, Paul. In light of my current situation, it would be wrong."
He knew that would be her final word tonight. The tightness in his trousers would have to wait for another night - to make love to her and hold her all through the night. He had come this far, he could wait a little longer. Her tone indicated to him that perhaps the current situation might change; perhaps soon she'd be free to be with him.
"God Ava...what you do to me," he mused. He kissed her forehead, the tip of her nose and softly on the lips. "I'll let you off the hook for tonight."
She wanted to change her mind and drag him upstairs. With a steadying breath, she gathered her coat from the floor. She didn't dare open her mouth,-- unsure of what she might say.
Paul slipped his coat on while never tearing his eyes from her. One night, her hair would spill out from under him as he brought them to ecstasy. They would sleep tangled in damp sheets and limbs. Tonight was not that night - but he could wait. He knew she was worth it.
"You better button up, you'll catch your death," she said as she buttoned his coat.
"I feel like I could live forever," he grinned.
"Well, let's not take a chance, shall we?" she smiled up into his eyes.
He slipped his arms around her once more. "I had an extraordinary time with you tonight."
She laid her head against his chest, unwilling to say farewell. "I did too."
"When do you sing again? When can I see you?" he asked.
"I sing on Friday night,"
He hugged her tighter. "Only a few days away. I'll see you then?"
"Absolutely darling," she winked.
He planted a final soul-shaking kiss on her lips as his fingertips brushed the back of her neck, and she resisted the desire to pull him against her again. As they parted, the chilly air settled between them.
"Goodnight, sugar," she purred. "Sweet dreams."
He kissed her hand. "Of you of course. G'night love."
He tore himself from her and walked into the dark night. He looked over his shoulder to see her lounging in the doorway watching him. The sight nearly broke his heart as he climbed into the jeep.
* * * * *
“Dave, go to bed. All you do is write in that damned journal,” Larry snapped as he covered his head with the pillow.
“Sorry Lar,” David apologized. “Thanks for seeing me home.”
David held his pen to his chest as he slumped back onto his pillow, listening to Adam snoring contently above him. He shut his eyes thinking of where Adam had been earlier tonight. He imagined briefly what it would be like to hold his pillow over Adam’s head...
“Turn the feckin’ light off, would ya?”
“Oh, right, yeah... I’m sorry Lar,” David answered, tucking his journal quickly underneath his mattress before flicking off the lamp next to his bunk. He pulled his scratchy blanket up to his chin, trying desperately to relax for the night.
He lay there for an eternity, his eyes wide open as he sought an impossible slumber. Did the RAF suddenly turn the heat on? Most nights he nearly froze to death in his bed, but tonight he was soaking his sheets. He laced his fingers behind his head and sighed silently and deeply.
He squeezed his eyes shut, his mind returning to the barn as Lyneth’s cries replayed over and over in his ears. He flashed to a vision of her face, her teeth biting her lip gently as he rocked above her, his hands softly cupping her breasts. He banished the thought of the man above him from his head - Lyneth was his, tonight.
David’s hand slipped down over his bare chest, resting tentatively on his stomach as he bit his lip, quelling the thoughts that were threatening to overcome him.
Not here.
I can’t.
His eyes flew open as he let out a frustrated breath, visions of her in her nurses uniform calming the lust he had allowed himself to ponder.
Dearest Lyneth, he thought, his hand clutching the sheets below before throwing the blanket away from his body. He fumbled in the darkness for the pen on his nightstand, reaching under the mattress for his journal. The floodlights outside the window provided just enough light for him to make out the shape of his trousers thrown over the chair nearby, and he quickly pulled them on over his shorts. He grabbed his coat and slipped his journal and pen into the pocket, tiptoeing stealthily to the door, careful not to wake Larry and...
Where was Paul, anyway?
* * * * *
As Paul rounded the corner, he noticed a figure huddled outside the barracks blowing on his hands. Was that Dave?
"Hey, making sure I made it home in piece?" he joked.
David's head jerked up as he tucked his pen inside his journal and snapped it closed.
"It's unbearably hot in there," he straightened his back.
"And you decided to write a sonnet about it?" Paul cocked an eyebrow.
David offered a lopsided grin. "No, a letter to Churchill. "
"Going straight to the top, eh?" Paul had a feeling his journal entry was a bit more personal. "Are Larry and Adam asleep?"
David's face soured. "Yes, that's why I came out here."
"I see Adam made it home safely," Paul mused.
"Appears so," David couldn't disguise his disgust.
Paul peered closer. “How do you feel? You were a little...err...green at the party.”
“Yes, I’m fine. It was hot in the party. I feel better now,” he lied. "Did you take the long way to Ava's?"
Paul smirked. "I did walk her to her door and made certain she was in safely.
"I'm sure you did," David pulled his coat around him. Now he was getting cold.
Paul placed his hand on David's shoulder. "Can I tell you something in confidence?"
He knew Paul was bursting at the seams. "You know me, I'm discreet."
Paul leaned closer. "Her lips feel like rose petals," he sighed. "It was the most amazing kiss I've ever had."
David nodded. "That's what happens when you mean it. Or are you going to lump her in with all your others?"
"No, she's very different," his face was serious.
"Now what?" David asked.
Paul shrugged. "I don't know. Dick presents a problem. But, if he stays in Africa, then he's not much of threat."
David wanted to warn him to be careful - plenty knew Ava was engaged. However, tonight Paul had stars in his eyes. He was well on his way to falling in love.
“All right then, Romeo,” David motioned toward the door. “I'll be along shortly - you should get some sleep.”
“Are you certain you’re all right?” Paul finally found his way out of his thoughts.
David nodded. “Yeah, I think my fever broke. I'm just doing a bit of writing, helps me relax."
David could do everything but.
Authors: GraceRyan & WithoutSpeaking
Rating: R - adult themes and adult reactions to adult things
Disclaimer: This is not true. U2 were not born until the 1960's. But....maybe there was a Paul, David, Adam and Larry that were friends during WW2.
This has been edited. You can go to Live Journal - Burning Down Love for the chapter in its entirety. http://u2fanfic.livejournal.com/
Here is edited version.
David tugged his scarf around his neck, shivering in the cold wind as he trudged along the icy path to the barn. He had to get out of there; he didn’t want to feel that close to any other woman. He craved some cool evening air - a walk in the garden to clear his head and to lessen his lust. The garden was dusted with icy crystals crunching beneath his boots. There was a building just past the trees, on further inspection it looked to be a disused dairy barn. It was somewhere out of the wind, at least. Somewhere quiet.
He pulled open the door with a loud creak; the barn was lit dimly by a single lightbulb hanging on a wire - it flickered in such a way that it seemed it would go out at any minute. It was definitely much warmer inside the wooden walls, as the wind no longer chilled him to the bone. He sat on an old milk can, gazing around the barn, his eyes finally adjusting to the dim light. The barn must have been disused since at least before the Great War, the equipment was rusted and the smell long since gone. It was a peaceful place, the perfect setting in which to clear his head.
He let Leigh touch him in a way that he had reserved for Lyneth - the memory of the deliberate touch of her fingers still burned against his lower back, the phantom feeling of her hips against his still so vivid in his mind.
He sat in silence, taking deep breaths to calm his thoughts, and just when he’d found a bit of peace he heard voices outside the door. He hopped up from the milk can and slipped into a nearby storage room, not wishing to be found. Heaven forbid that Leigh followed him out here... The voices grew louder - he heard a female giggle and a familiar posh English accent.
They entered the barn together, coming dangerously close to his hiding place. He shifted slightly to try to get a better view of the couple, quickly holding his hand in front of his face to check whether the light made him visible. He took a silent breath of relief as he noted it remained in shadow. The man stood with his back to him, blocking his view of the woman, who had yet to speak.
“Lyneth,” he whispered, “let’s warm each other up, love...”
David stifled a gasp. He shouldn’t be here. He shouldn’t be here right now. Yet he was trapped.
“Adam,” she breathed, her face flushed as he slowly removed the scarf from around her neck.
David wanted to hear her say his name like that. He closed his eyes, trying so desperately to get the thought of Adam out of his head. Why couldn’t it be him, easing her scarf and her coat from her shoulders, revealing the soft skin that he’d touched ever so lightly only an hour ago.
His trousers were getting tighter by the minute. He leaned against the wall, where he could no longer see the two of them. He loosened his tie, his breath hitching in his throat as he listened to Lyneth’s sighs. Instead of being repulsed, the sweet sound of her voice brought him back to their dance earlier tonight, her voice softly humming in his ear - it was doing nothing to quell the feeling in his trousers.
David imagined that it was his hands on her body, his fingertips gently teasing her ivory skin as she cried out for him.
<<<<edit>>>>
“Oh Lyn....Oh Jesus....oh feck....Lynn,” he murmured softly, finally allowing himself to utter something, anything; there was no way he’d be heard over her moans of delight so he took the chance.
“Now... David... now!” he wanted to hear her cry out in a commanding tone, and at that thought he could hold back no longer, his heat finally escaping as his toes went numb and he felt a moment of instant clarity.
His other hand curled tightly around his discarded tie as he began to come back down to earth, a smile curving upward on his lips as he opened his eyes to the realization that he’d finally broken the curse that had haunted him for so long. He used his tie to clean himself up - he’d answer for its absence later - right now he couldn’t care less about fashion.
The barn was quiet now save for Lyneth’s hushed whispers that he couldn’t quite make out, and David chose not to think about her partner - thankful that he wasn’t nearly as vocal as she was. He wanted to savour this moment, knowing that although she wasn’t his, she meant more to him now than she’d ever care to know - she’d made him feel real again, if only just in his own fantasies.
* * * * * *
Paul waited at the bottom of the stairs to the stage with a whiskey on the rocks in his hand. He waited all night for some quality time alone with her. Everyone was off on their own separate missions, and now, it was just them.
"Thank you, sugar," her fingers brushed his. "Where's Molly?"
"She was looking for Larry," he said. He held out his hand. "Come on, it's almost midnight. Let's get one more dance in."
She entwined her fingers through his. "I was hoping we'd get another one."
"Larry is guarding you like a Doberman," he led her to fringe of the party, someplace with more privacy and less light.
"Yeah, not sure why. We've danced once," Ava said.
"Maybe he's protecting you from me," he pulled her into his arms.
She looked up. "Do I need protection?"
"I'm putty in your hands, you know that," he murmured.
They pressed together as the music started and she felt his body heat radiate through his wool suit. If anyone saw them, alarms would certainly go off. However Larry and Lyneth were nowhere in sight. She closed her eyes, feeling his breath on her neck. Lowly, he hummed in her ear with his body vibrating against hers. She never felt this flushed with Richard; the thought of Paul’s lips making contact with her skin caused her to quiver. As he pressed his cheek to hers, she held on tighter - afraid she would faint.
Ava felt like heaven in his arms. Her hair piled on top of her head, revealed a long neck that begged to be kissed. He was closer than he ever thought he'd be; if she said the word, he'd do anything for her. She shivered as his hand slipped down her spine to the small of her back, pressing her closer. He brought her hand to his lips, placing a soft kiss on her fingertips.
"Ava," he breathed.
Knowing it was dangerous to do so, she looked up into his blue eyes, filled with desire.
"Happy New Year, Ava," he whispered.
"Happy New Year, Paul," she swallowed hard, eager for what was next.
He dipped his head and his lips brushed her ever so lightly, making her shudder. He stopped dancing and gazed into her eyes before he took her face in his hands. His thumbs caressed her skin as he pulled her mouth to his. Their lips touched, tentatively at first. Her hands gripped the lapels of his jacket and brought him closer as his tongue dipped inside to meet hers. He savored the sweet taste of whiskey as he explored deeper.
Her fingers wound in his thick, unruly hair. Many nights, she thought of raking her fingers through it - either in the throes of passion or in a post lovemaking cuddle. His mouth crushed against hers in a fever; he would give anything to disappear into a corner to drink her in. Teasing her tongue with his, he heard her sigh against his mouth. Suddenly, they parted - out of breath with wide eyes. The sound of the crowd singing Auld Lang Syne rang aloud suddenly in their ears.
“Ava,” he breathed, his chest heaving. His wool uniform felt constricting and itchy.
His lips were swollen from their kiss, and she wanted to feel them again. She moved in for another taste.
“Ava!” a call from the stage stopped her suddenly. “Ava! Where are you?”
“Oh, sweet Lord,” she swore.
“You better go,” he croaked. “I’ll wait right here for you.”
Maybe it was good to take a step back, she thought. She just kissed another man, and it was amazing.
Ava climbed the stairs of the stage, tossing Paul a flirtatious smile. "Happy New Year, everyone! Y'all having a good time?"
The room erupted in cheers and hollers. From her post, she saw couples still locked in a New Years kiss. She glanced at Paul longing to be there again; she had never been kissed like that before. Granted, before Richard, she had only kissed a handful of young men. Those were awkward, rushed and sometimes sloppy kisses. Richard may have had technique, but after what she just experienced, he had no real passion behind it. Paul had both, and it set her on fire.
Larry chewed on his bottom lip as he watched it all unfold - from the dance to this kiss. There was no way he could stop this from happening - as much as he tried, he couldn't keep them apart. As he regarded their furtive glances and smiles, Larry wasn't convinced this was a terrible thing - Paul had become much more pleasant lately. Always a bit of a daredevil, he had calmed significantly since her. What did Larry know of this fiancé anyway? Without that little detail, he'd be thrilled that his brother found a great woman like Ava. He couldn't help but be worried for Paul, however - from the rumors Larry had heard, Richard was high ranking and very possessive of his things.
Ava couldn't belt out her last song fast enough. As promised, Paul waited by the stage for her.
"Amazing as always," he sighed against her cheek.
"My biggest fan," she fanned herself.
"You have no idea how big..."
He longed to be alone with her.
He took her hand and placed a light kiss on her palm, sending a shiver through her body.
"Listen....." his voice dropped to a conspiratorial level. "I was thinking...."
Ava's face dropped as her gaze focused past him. Her brow creased. "Dave?"
Paul looked over his shoulder and was stunned by the sight of David. Under his flushed cheeks, he looked almost yellow. Ava rushed to him and placed her hand on his clammy forehead. His hair stuck to his neck and face.
"He's burning up," Ava said.
"Dave," Paul tried to make contact. "What's wrong?"
David's eyes focused on Ava's worried face. Suddenly, shame overwhelmed him. Why did she have to be the first woman he encountered after he'd just done... that?
"I don't feel very well," he shook his head to forget the images and sounds he just witnessed. Quickly, his eyes scanned the ballroom for Lyneth. It was hard to focus when everything felt fuzzy.
"Is he all right?" Larry asked.
"I think he's coming down with something," Ava offered.
"There were a few lads sick in the barracks..." Paul couldn't decipher the look on David's face. "Where's your tie, Dave?"
Absently, David's hand felt around his opened shirt. Immediately he remembered that he discarded the evidence of his sin.
"I don't know," he muttered.
"Did you get sick?" Larry asked.
"Kind of," David felt Ava watching him.
If she knew, she'd be disgusted with me and tell Lyn he thought.
"We need to get him home now," Paul said. "He could get into real trouble for being out of uniform at a formal event..."
David cared very little what happened to him now. Lyneth was Adam's - soul and body.
"Dave, honey, are you okay?" Ava touched his icy cheek.
David nodded unconvincingly.
"You both should get him home," she suggested.
"How will you get home?" Paul asked.
"I can get a ride with one of the girls," she shrugged.
Paul didn't fancy leaving here without an escort.
"Paul, you take Ava home," Larry fished in his pocket for the keys to the jeep. "I'll get a ride for Dave and me."
Paul cocked his head to the side. Why would Larry let Paul be alone Ava after spending the night trying to keep them apart?
"Are you sure?" he asked.
"Get her home......safely," Larry said sternly.
Paul had an inkling he understood Larry's meaning. "Can you get Dave home alone?"
David eyes snapped to life as he looked at Paul. "I'll be fine. See Ava home."
Paul nodded, it almost sounded like an order. "Right then."
“I’m worried about you,” Ava frowned as she moved to David.
David looked her directly in the eye. “Ava, I’ll be fine. It’s probably just a flu....please, let Paul escort you home.”
She nodded. “Okay, I’ll be checking up on you now.”
He offered a very weak smile. “I’ll be fine.” He turned to Paul. “Take care of her.”
Paul slipped his arm around Ava. “I will.” Never did he have a more precious cargo in Larry’s jeep. “Let’s get your coat, love.”
Finally, Paul was going to be truly alone with Ava for the first time since they set up her Christmas tree. So much had gone on between them since then. Nervously, he ran a hand over his disheveled hair as he collected her coat. He took in a deep breath of her neck as he slipped the silky mink over her shoulders.
“Are you ready, Ava?” he offered his arm.
“I am,” she looked over her shoulder for David. “Are you certain he’s okay?”
“It’s probably just the flu, like he said,” he laced his fingers through hers.
Paul had not considered the glances they might raise as they walked across the front garden hand in hand. Ava paused to bid farewell to some airmen and soldiers while Paul puffed his chest in pride as he stood by her side. Gently, he guided her to the jeep parked amongst a handful of service cars.
He opened the door and offered his hand to her. “I’m sorry it’s a bit dirty. You deserve something worthy of you.”
“Paul, I ride horses back home...this is just fine,” she gracefully hopped into the jeep.
She never ceased to amaze him. He could not believe that he was escorting the high society goddess home. With a smile, he turned the jeep onto the long driveway leading away from the stately Swakeley house.
They drove in silence. Paul, typically one for a heavy foot on the pedal, drove slowly to the White Hart. He was eager to be alone for one more kiss - but didn’t want the night to end. Despite its dismal start, it had become a truly magical night. Reaching over, he took her hand in his and to his delight, she gave his hand a squeeze.
Ava’s heart raced as they zipped through the desolate countryside. The roar of the engine drowned out her conscience as she held Paul’s hand tightly. She was disappointed to see the town lights in the distance, almost praying for a flat tire. Anything to stay with him a little longer.
"We're home....and in one piece," Paul turned the ignition off.
"Despite the rumors of your driving," she teased. "Thank you for getting me home." She moved to open the door.
"Let me," he hopped out and darted to her side. "I wouldn't be a true gentleman if I didn't see you safely inside."
"You regard yourself a gentleman?" She raised an eyebrow as she slipped her hand in his.
He looked wounded. "You've made me want to be one."
He lifted her in his arms to place her on the ground softly. "Come on, it's cold."
From her beaded clutch, Ava took out her house key. He was close behind her as she pushed the heavy door open. In the hall, a dim light lit the stairwell. Paul remembered dragging that beast of a tree up the steep stairs. It seemed much longer than three short weeks ago.
"Even though you were not my date, I had a lovely time,"
"I did too, Ava." He inched closer. There were no eyes to judge them. His icy breath danced between them as his cold hands cradled her face.
Their mouths collided hungrily. He tore his tie from his neck and unbuttoned a few buttons of his shirt while her teeth grazed his bottom lip, eliciting a groan from him. He had known desire before, but never of this magnitude. Her arms wound around him bringing him closer, but he needed to touch her. His hands slipped under her fur coat to brush against the silk below.
"Can I come up to tuck you into bed?" his voice was thick with mischief.
"So I can be the next notch on your belt?" she asked. "Or do you get extra for bedding the singer?
"Ava, you should know by now it's not about that. I'm mad for you and only you." He kissed along her jawline. "There will be no other notches."
There was no hint of deception in his eyes as he gazed at her - digging her fingers into his hair, she kissed him again. Paul had kissed many girls before, but he had never been kissed - not like this. She was demanding and would not be satisfied to follow his lead and it caused a fire across his entire body, concentrated in his crotch. He slid his hands up along her sides, enjoying her shiver as he did. Fluidly, he slipped her mink off her shoulders to fall in a puddle at her feet.
She broke away, frosty breath coming out in short bursts. "We should stop."
They both panted as his thumbs traced over her lips and chin. She lunged for him again, his fingers tearing at the buttons of his coat. He was desperate to feel her against him. His wool coat joined hers on the floor. Despite the chilly hallway, he felt beads of sweat roll down his back.
Ava pulled away to catch her breath once more, gazing at his exposed neck and chest. Did she do that? She needed a moment to regain control - this was moving much too fast. As she tried to organize her thoughts, she felt his teeth nip at her earlobe. How could she stop this now?
"Let me show how much you mean to me, Ava," his whisper pleaded.
Every part of her longed to say yes and let him carry her up to bed. She never really wanted sex before, it was just something she did when asked. It was fairly quick and relatively painless. To be honest, she could never figure what the fuss was all about - until now. Whatever she was feeling deep down in her thighs, she had never experienced before. She pressed him to her, enjoying the sensation as his muscles moved under her.
He captured her mouth once more, his tongue teasing and probing - savoring her taste. He felt her resolve slide to floor as his fingertips traced the neckline of her dress, across her collarbone and down into the valley of her breasts. His lips traveled over her chin to her neck. She held on for dear life.
"You'll get in trouble if you don't go back," her voice wavered.
"I don't care," his voice shook. As her strap slipped over her shoulder, he longed for his lips to follow its path.
She kissed him tenderly and pressed her forehead to his. "I can't, Paul. In light of my current situation, it would be wrong."
He knew that would be her final word tonight. The tightness in his trousers would have to wait for another night - to make love to her and hold her all through the night. He had come this far, he could wait a little longer. Her tone indicated to him that perhaps the current situation might change; perhaps soon she'd be free to be with him.
"God Ava...what you do to me," he mused. He kissed her forehead, the tip of her nose and softly on the lips. "I'll let you off the hook for tonight."
She wanted to change her mind and drag him upstairs. With a steadying breath, she gathered her coat from the floor. She didn't dare open her mouth,-- unsure of what she might say.
Paul slipped his coat on while never tearing his eyes from her. One night, her hair would spill out from under him as he brought them to ecstasy. They would sleep tangled in damp sheets and limbs. Tonight was not that night - but he could wait. He knew she was worth it.
"You better button up, you'll catch your death," she said as she buttoned his coat.
"I feel like I could live forever," he grinned.
"Well, let's not take a chance, shall we?" she smiled up into his eyes.
He slipped his arms around her once more. "I had an extraordinary time with you tonight."
She laid her head against his chest, unwilling to say farewell. "I did too."
"When do you sing again? When can I see you?" he asked.
"I sing on Friday night,"
He hugged her tighter. "Only a few days away. I'll see you then?"
"Absolutely darling," she winked.
He planted a final soul-shaking kiss on her lips as his fingertips brushed the back of her neck, and she resisted the desire to pull him against her again. As they parted, the chilly air settled between them.
"Goodnight, sugar," she purred. "Sweet dreams."
He kissed her hand. "Of you of course. G'night love."
He tore himself from her and walked into the dark night. He looked over his shoulder to see her lounging in the doorway watching him. The sight nearly broke his heart as he climbed into the jeep.
* * * * *
“Dave, go to bed. All you do is write in that damned journal,” Larry snapped as he covered his head with the pillow.
“Sorry Lar,” David apologized. “Thanks for seeing me home.”
David held his pen to his chest as he slumped back onto his pillow, listening to Adam snoring contently above him. He shut his eyes thinking of where Adam had been earlier tonight. He imagined briefly what it would be like to hold his pillow over Adam’s head...
“Turn the feckin’ light off, would ya?”
“Oh, right, yeah... I’m sorry Lar,” David answered, tucking his journal quickly underneath his mattress before flicking off the lamp next to his bunk. He pulled his scratchy blanket up to his chin, trying desperately to relax for the night.
He lay there for an eternity, his eyes wide open as he sought an impossible slumber. Did the RAF suddenly turn the heat on? Most nights he nearly froze to death in his bed, but tonight he was soaking his sheets. He laced his fingers behind his head and sighed silently and deeply.
He squeezed his eyes shut, his mind returning to the barn as Lyneth’s cries replayed over and over in his ears. He flashed to a vision of her face, her teeth biting her lip gently as he rocked above her, his hands softly cupping her breasts. He banished the thought of the man above him from his head - Lyneth was his, tonight.
David’s hand slipped down over his bare chest, resting tentatively on his stomach as he bit his lip, quelling the thoughts that were threatening to overcome him.
Not here.
I can’t.
His eyes flew open as he let out a frustrated breath, visions of her in her nurses uniform calming the lust he had allowed himself to ponder.
Dearest Lyneth, he thought, his hand clutching the sheets below before throwing the blanket away from his body. He fumbled in the darkness for the pen on his nightstand, reaching under the mattress for his journal. The floodlights outside the window provided just enough light for him to make out the shape of his trousers thrown over the chair nearby, and he quickly pulled them on over his shorts. He grabbed his coat and slipped his journal and pen into the pocket, tiptoeing stealthily to the door, careful not to wake Larry and...
Where was Paul, anyway?
* * * * *
As Paul rounded the corner, he noticed a figure huddled outside the barracks blowing on his hands. Was that Dave?
"Hey, making sure I made it home in piece?" he joked.
David's head jerked up as he tucked his pen inside his journal and snapped it closed.
"It's unbearably hot in there," he straightened his back.
"And you decided to write a sonnet about it?" Paul cocked an eyebrow.
David offered a lopsided grin. "No, a letter to Churchill. "
"Going straight to the top, eh?" Paul had a feeling his journal entry was a bit more personal. "Are Larry and Adam asleep?"
David's face soured. "Yes, that's why I came out here."
"I see Adam made it home safely," Paul mused.
"Appears so," David couldn't disguise his disgust.
Paul peered closer. “How do you feel? You were a little...err...green at the party.”
“Yes, I’m fine. It was hot in the party. I feel better now,” he lied. "Did you take the long way to Ava's?"
Paul smirked. "I did walk her to her door and made certain she was in safely.
"I'm sure you did," David pulled his coat around him. Now he was getting cold.
Paul placed his hand on David's shoulder. "Can I tell you something in confidence?"
He knew Paul was bursting at the seams. "You know me, I'm discreet."
Paul leaned closer. "Her lips feel like rose petals," he sighed. "It was the most amazing kiss I've ever had."
David nodded. "That's what happens when you mean it. Or are you going to lump her in with all your others?"
"No, she's very different," his face was serious.
"Now what?" David asked.
Paul shrugged. "I don't know. Dick presents a problem. But, if he stays in Africa, then he's not much of threat."
David wanted to warn him to be careful - plenty knew Ava was engaged. However, tonight Paul had stars in his eyes. He was well on his way to falling in love.
“All right then, Romeo,” David motioned toward the door. “I'll be along shortly - you should get some sleep.”
“Are you certain you’re all right?” Paul finally found his way out of his thoughts.
David nodded. “Yeah, I think my fever broke. I'm just doing a bit of writing, helps me relax."
David could do everything but.
Still the same cocky bastard!
It probably won't be pretty!
Can't imagine where I got that idea.
You certainly do need to get back to writing!
it's about time SOMEONE got out of their Hobo phase. 
oh dear!!! We've lost another one. Call the Bonomedics!
