# Chapter 34

The loud music emanating from the bedside radio woke the two occupants of the bed. “Make it stop, J. Please.” Mumbled the shorter, blonder woman. “It’s still dark outside. What time is it?”

JJ rolled over. “Time for me to get up, honey. I did warn you I was an early riser. It’s quarter of five.”

“Uhh. You do this every morning?” Came the muffled response.

JJ kissed her lover’s cheek. “I know mornings aren’t your thing. I have a long commute, and I train at the gym near the main campus. Go back to sleep. You need your strength today. I’ll try and be quiet.” She kissed Cory again, and smiled when the blonde’s arms wrapped round her torso.

“Stay here. Kiss me. I’m a better workout than the gym.”

JJ couldn’t deny that statement. “Babe…” She kissed Cory’s neck. “You…” then kissed down the neck. “Are… definitely… worth …” She caught the blonde’s nipple between her teeth. “staying… in… bed… longer.” She paused to give all her attention to the hardened nipple. She nibbled and blew over the body part, and then lifted herself off the bed. “Unfortunately, every other Monday morning commuter will still be on the road, and if I leave too late I’ll be stuck in traffic.”

Cory wriggled around in the bed. “You’re a tease. Now I’m all horny!”

“Later, I promise. Think of the test today. That should cool you down.” JJ wandered down the hallway toward the bathroom.

In frustration, Cory banged her head on the pillow. The test! For one minute she’d forgotten all about it. Now her stomach was churning. She’d never make it through the morning. She snuggled around JJ’s pillow. It smelt of her lover. She closed her eyes and drifted back to sleep.

JJ returned from the bathroom to silence. She crept into the room and collected her gym gear. She pulled it on quickly, then bent over the blonde woman. She didn’t want to wake her a second time. Cory looked so peaceful. JJ reset the alarm for 8am, kissed the younger woman, and closed the bedroom door. She’d leave her a note instead. The test was at 2pm. She aimed to be home for 1pm.

JJ pulled onto the driveway. She was running late. She’d left work on time, but the traffic had been hell. She’d called Cory from the truck to tell her to be ready as soon as she arrived. Right on cue, Cory flew out of the side door. She looked drop dead gorgeous. JJ began to drool. It had been very hard leaving the blonde in bed that morning, and her libido was waking up again. It certainly picked its times.

“Hey, babe. You miss me?” She pulled Cory into a hug. “Have you got everything?”

Cory checked her cargo trouser pockets. “Yeah. I have my passport and the letter. How long will it take us to get there?”

“Not long. Fifteen minutes. We have time. Relax. I was hoping to be home earlier, and then I could have given you a massage.” She wiggled her eyebrows. “Babe, I am so proud of you for taking this test. Just do your best, and we’ll go from there.”

Cory stared out of the window. Do her best? There was so much riding on this test. She didn’t want to let JJ down. “I’ll try.”

JJ caught hold of Cory’s left hand and squeezed it. “That’s my girl.” She placed the hand on her lap and they drove in silence.

JJ and Cory walked through the doors of the Achievement Center. JJ released Cory’s hand, and nudged her in the direction of the receptionist. “Hello. I’m here to sit for the GRE.” Cory could barely stand. Her head was swimming, and her heart pounding. She fiddled with the buttons on her jacket.

The lady smiled up at Cory. “All I need is the confirmation letter, and a photo ID.” Cory tried to return the smile but her stomach lurched and she ran out of the door.

JJ stood and stared at the door as it swung back at her. She turned to the receptionist. “She’s a little nervous.”

“I’ve seen a few nervous people come through these doors, but not quite that bad.” She smiled sympathetically at JJ. “Tell her not to worry. She can take the test whenever she’s ready.”

“Thanks. I’ll go and find her.” JJ walked through the door, and looked for signs leading to the bathroom.

Cory was in the ladies room. Her stomach had stopped rebelling, and she’d managed to keep down her lunch. She wiped her face with a damp paper towel. She began to practice her breathing techniques. She looked up as the door opened.

“Hey babe.” JJ couldn’t believe how green Cory looked. “We don’t have to do this. We can walk away now and look at other options. There are other ways we can be together.” She rubbed Cory’s back.

Cory smiled meekly. “I’ll be okay. This is the easiest and quickest option. We’ve talked this through already. Just give me a few minutes, and I’ll be ready to go back in.”

They went outside for some fresh air. JJ walked with Cory, and rubbed her back. She could feel Cory’s breathing and heart rate slow down.

After a few minutes, Cory turned to JJ. Her hands were sweaty, and her throat dry. “I’m ready to go back in, J.”

“Are you sure? The lady said to take your time. You really worried me and her when you ran out.”

Cory blushed. “I’m sorry. I felt sick. I needed fresh air. I’m ready now. I promise.”

JJ pulled Cory into a hug. “I hate seeing you this nervous. Are you sure?”

“Yes. Time to grow up. I’ll be out soon. I love you.”

“Love you too. I’ll be here waiting for you.” JJ held Cory’s hand until they reached the exam proctor.

The woman smiled warmly at Cory. “Ready?”

Cory swallowed, took a deep breath, and followed the woman through the double doors.

JJ paced. Cory had been gone for over three hours. She’d tried reading, but she hadn’t been able to relax enough to let any of the words sink in. She’d listened to her CD player, but the songs seemed to irritate her rather than calm. She’d thought about going to the café, but she didn’t want to be missing should Cory appear. In the end, she’d picked up a college catalogue and read through the various sections. Finally, the double doors opened, and an exhausted Cory walked toward her. JJ tried to judge from Cory’s face the results. Helen had informed them that the results were posted on the screen at the end of the test. Cory looked so disappointed. JJ’s heart sank. She ran up to the blonde and enveloped her in her biggest bear hug.

“I tried, J. I really tried.” Cory whispered into her partner’s shoulder.

“Shush. We’ll work something out. I love you.” JJ pulled the woman closer. She wanted to take the pain away.

“It was hard. They gave me two math tests. Can you believe it?”

JJ pushed Cory slightly away, and saw tears running down her eyes. “Those bastards, huh. Giving my girl two math tests!” She joked, trying to lighten the mood.

Cory nodded and snuggled back into JJ. She smiled. “I had the analytical section first. I got 600 in that one. It’s a pity they don’t count that test. Followed by the first math section, the English and then another math. Thank God for year 6 percentages and data handling. I think the second math test was the trial one, as the questions were all about mean, mode, median and working out percentages. I teach the kids that. Anyway I got a 500 on the math and 470 on the English.” She could feel JJ’s muscles tense. She counted in her head, 1… 2… 3…Bingo.

JJ jumped away from Cory. “You did it! You got over 950!” She jumped up and down. She saw Cory grinning from ear to ear.

“Gotcha!” Cory was so relieved.

“Oh, I’ll getcha back!” JJ said in her best Irish brogue. “That wasn’t very nice. You made me think you’d failed.” She caught Cory in her arms and lifted her up. “I’m so proud of you. You did it, babe. You fucking did it!”

Cory gently slapped JJ. “Now, now, watch that language!”

“I’m sorry, but there are no words to describe it.” She pulled Cory back into her. Tears came thick and furious from the deep blue eyes. “I am so proud of you, even more than I was before, if that is possible.” She choked out.

Cory kissed her partner. She’d been so dumbstruck when she’d seen the results. It had taken a few minutes to digest the information. “We still have the interview and application, J. I don’t mean to rain on the parade, but I don’t want to get our hopes up.”

JJ wiped her eyes with her sleeve. “I know. I know. Still, it’s good news.” She checked her watch. “We have to move it. I’m supposed to be on the ice in an hour.” She pulled Cory into a deep kiss. “You aced it, babe. You’ve got the brains, and I’m about to show you my brawn! What a pair.” They walked arm in arm to the car. Neither caring what the world thought of their relationship.

Sarah had watched JJ walk in with Cory. She’d felt so jealous. JJ had never looked at her with such adoration. She’d watched Helen swing Cory around and hug her. Sarah had turned away at that point. She’d never had a good relationship with JJ’s best friend. She hated the fact that Cory seemed to be accepted so quickly into the group. She needed to see what all the fuss was about. She’d watched JJ kiss Cory tenderly before pointing out a good seat. Sarah decided this could be her one and only chance to catch the younger woman alone.

The arena was beginning to fill up. Cory sat in the seats a few rows back from JJ’s team. Her eyes moved to her right as a woman sat beside her. She smiled politely and then returned her eyes to the ice.

Sarah looked Cory over. She had to admit JJ had good taste. The woman was pretty. Her short, blonde hair highlighted the petite face. Her features were cute. Her nose seemed to fit perfectly. There didn’t seem to be any flaw to her. Sarah wanted to hate the girl, but then she’d turned and smiled at her. Those green eyes had held so much honesty, kindness and trust, that all Sarah’s plans flew out of the window. She’d even smiled back.

Cory waited patiently. Suddenly, a team dressed in red and white skated onto the ice. She spotted her partner immediately. She thought the American looked great all padded out in her gear. The taller woman seemed to float on the ice. She watched them warm up. JJ was by far the tallest player. The other team was on the ice and Cory was trying to settle her nerves. She knew this game was an important one for JJ.

Cory could feel eyes on her. She turned to her right and caught guilty brown eyes on her. She wriggled uncomfortably in her seat. “I’ve never been to a game before. Are you a regular?”

Sarah looked surprised that Cory had spoken to her. She’d been caught staring. Cory eyes hadn’t left JJ all the time the team had been warming up. Sarah had seen the same adoring stare on Cory’s face that she’d seen earlier on JJ’s. It made Sarah sick. “I’ve been a few times. I’m not really interested in the game.”

Cory digested the information. It seemed strange to her that someone would come and watch a game if they didn’t like it. “Oh. I was hoping you’d give me some pointers as to the rules. I know a little bit about the game.”

Sarah looked over to the ice. “I can try. You’re not from this side of the pond, are you?”

“That obvious, huh?”

Sarah nodded and grinned. “The accent kind of gives you away.” The cute blonde definitely had a contagious charm about her.

The game was about to begin. She saw JJ looking over at Cory. The blonde beside her waved enthusiastically and held her thumbs up to the tall woman. Sarah could tell JJ had seen her. The woman’s relaxed stance had become rigid. She saw Helen looking toward them too. She turned to Cory. “So you know someone on the team?”

Cory blushed. “Yeah. My err… my girlfriend plays defense on the red and white team. The tall one.” Cory pointed JJ out to the curious woman.

Sarah smiled. She decided to play with Cory a little bit more. “Oh. I recognize her. Isn’t that AJ or TJ, something like that?”

“JJ.” Cory informed her. “Do you know her?”

“Oh, I’ve heard of her.”

“Really. That sounds intriguing.”

Sarah watched JJ as she spoke. “No. I know she’s a great player. I’ve seen her at the Country Club a few times. I knew she was in a steady relationship, but you’re not the girl I’ve seen her with. I know down at the club there are many people who would die to be with her. You’re a very lucky woman.” There was some sincerity in her voice. She wished she’d been a better girlfriend to JJ. Maybe, if she’d looked after JJ’s needs more, they’d still be together.

“I feel very lucky.” Cory watched as JJ defended the goal area. Her partner seemed more intent on looking in her direction than that of the puck. She watched as the black puck shot past her partner, through the goalie’s legs and into her team’s goal. JJ didn’t seem to be happy at all. Her attention switched from the game to the dark haired woman beside her. “Shit. J’s going to be so pissed off about that.” Returning her thoughts to the previous conversation, she added. “She was involved with someone but they split.” Cory felt uncomfortable discussing JJ’s relationships with a stranger. She turned her attention back to the bench, and saw that JJ was in an animated discussion with Helen.

“JJ, you need to calm down. You need to focus your attention on the game.” Helen wiped her brow.

“How the fuck can I concentrate when Sarah is up there talking to Cory.” She turned to look at Cory. The blonde was talking to Sarah. She caught a smile on Cory’s face. Things looked to be going okay.

Helen patted JJ on the back. “You can’t do anything about it. Sarah promised she wouldn’t mess with Cory. We’re in a crowded arena. Now focus on the game. We need you. We can make up the one goal but not two. J, please don’t blow our chances of getting to the playoffs. That last goal was your fault. You blocked Brenda’s view. You’re not paying attention to the game, or your position on the ice. Your head is constantly turned toward the stands. We need our best defender out there. Please.” Helen stood up and put her helmet back on her head. It was ready to get back in the game. JJ followed suit.

The game was fast paced and exciting to watch. It seemed JJ was all over the ice, and whatever she did turned to gold. Cory was proud to say JJ was her girl. She cheered when JJ skated with the puck from one end of the rink, dodged a few opponents and took a blazing shot on net from just inside the blue line. Scoring the come back goal. Cory jumped up and cheered loud. She settled back into her seat. “Way to go, babe!”

Sarah could tell Cory was totally into JJ. She felt bad for not introducing herself earlier, but her curiosity wanted to hear Cory’s side of the story. As the second period ended and the players went off the ice, she turned her attention back to Cory. “So, I’m curious. How long have you and JJ been together?”

“Not long. A few weeks.” Cory didn’t divulge anymore, although the woman seemed friendly enough. She’d explained some of the rules to Cory and certain positions of the game.

“So you live in the US?”

“No, just here for a visit.”

“Wow. I’m probably snooping but I have to ask, how did you two meet?” Sarah knew she was asking too many questions, but she couldn’t stop. Cory didn’t appear to know who she was.

“Online. We sent emails back and forth. Got to know each other. We were both in relationships, but having similar problems with our partners. JJ needed a break, and she came to visit me. While she was there, her girlfriend broke up with her. Things kind of went from there. We both tried to ignore the chemistry at first. Neither of us went looking for the other, it just happened. Best decision I ever made though.” She stopped speaking as she saw the players come back out.

Sarah looked at the ice. Cory’s story had pretty much matched JJ’s. She liked the woman beside her. It killed her to admit it, but maybe Cory was the best thing for JJ. She made her mind up and stood up. “It’s been nice meeting you, Cory. I have to go. I hope you enjoy the rest of the game.” She held her hand out to Cory.

Cory took the hand and shook it gently. “Thanks for explaining the game to me. Have a good evening.” With that said her attention returned to her partner.

Cory was pleased when the final buzzer went off, and the Cardinals skated off the ice the winners. It had been a close game, and she was pleased that JJ had been a vital player in the game. She was pissed she was going to miss the rest of the games. She would have loved to see her girlfriend lift the winning trophy. If they made it to the finals, she’d have to get Jo to take photos. She walked down to just outside the locker room, and waited patiently for the players to come out after their showers.

JJ couldn’t shower fast enough. She dressed in record time, and ran out of the room, straight into Cory. “Thank god you’re okay.” She kissed the girl. She didn’t care who saw.

“Whoa. Now that’s a greeting and a half.” She looked at JJ. “What’s wrong? You saw me all through the game. What’s the problem?”

“Sarah.” JJ hugged Cory.

Cory looked perplexed. “What about Sarah? Oh! Is she here?” The shorter woman looked around them. “Which one is she?”

“What do you mean which one is she? You were sitting next to her. What did she say to you?”

Realization hit Cory. “Oh. That was Sarah?”

They walked out of the arena. “Didn’t you know? She must have said something. I saw you talking.”

Pieces began to fit together in Cory’s head. The dark haired woman’s interest in JJ, her constant questions about how they had gotten together. She reran the conversation. Sarah had called her by her name. Cory hadn’t thought anything of it at the time, but thinking back she’d never told the woman her name. “She seemed very nice. She never told me who she was. God, I feel so stupid.”

“So, she was okay with you?” Cory nodded in response. “She didn’t hurt you?”

“J, she was very nice. She told me about the game. I have to say, looking back, all the clues were there. I just never had any reason to think she was Sarah. So, that’s why you were so off your game in the first period.”

JJ opened the door of the truck for Cory. “Yeah. I was so worried about you. Helen gave me a good talking to. She pointed out that unless I left the ice and went to you, there was nothing else I could do. I felt helpless. So, what did you talk about?”

Cory pulled the seat belt across her, and waited for her partner to get in the other side. Once JJ had started the car, and had pulled out of the tight spot, Cory retold the conversation.

“She seemed okay, J. She shook my hand at the end, and said it was nice meeting me. Maybe she’s worked out how we feel about each other. I can see why you were worried about her meeting me, though. She’s a pretty intimidating woman. Hopefully, she’s over the jealous part, and one day you two can be friends. I hope Sam’s as gracious with you if we end up going back to England.”

Cory was bored. JJ had left for work at her normal time, and Cory had been left to amuse herself. She’d puttered around most of the morning, and watched a few more DVDs. But now she was going crazy. The weather was cool, which ruled out lying in the garden. She’d been online for a while, and chatted with Rachel on MSN messenger. But she still had a few hours until JJ returned. She flicked through the catalogue JJ had gotten the previous day from the college. It was time to read up on the college, and see what courses she really wanted to study. Her nerves weren’t too bad. The test had been the real obstacle. The interview did seem to be more of a formality. She thought about how she’d explain all this to her parents and friends. Would they think she was crazy? Would they understand? The school where she worked was due for an inspection. She wasn’t sure she could leave them in the lurch. She shook her head. She needed to think about herself for a change. She needed to think to the future. She knew JJ was worried about her making the move. She’d never been out of the Midlands, let alone England, for longer than three weeks. She had no idea how she would cope with the homesickness. She settled onto the couch. All she knew was that she loved JJ, and some things were worth taking a chance for. The way the school system was, she knew she could get a job anywhere if things didn’t work out.

Her mind set on her future, she wrote a plan of what she needed to do to qualify for the college. She read the admissions policy. She needed to get letters of referral. That wouldn’t be a problem. She read on. She needed her college transcript. She’d packed her degree certificate, but wasn’t sure if that counted as a transcript. She continued to read through the college catalogue. Slowly her eyes shut, and she drifted off to sleep.

It was Wednesday evening, middle of the week, and JJ was exhausted. She flopped onto the sofa, not bothering to take her jacket off or remove her shoes. Cory was in the bathroom. She reflected on the day’s events. The interview had gone well. She’d been surprised at how informal things were. Cory had definitely been more relaxed, and JJ could tell the guy had been impressed with her. Mr. Pointer had invited both women into the room at the start of the interview. JJ had been psyched. She’d expected to be pacing the carpet like she’d done the previous time. She looked up as Cory walked into the living room. “I bet you’re pleased that’s over with.”

“For sure. I was expecting a more in depth interview, like I had for my undergraduate degree. But it felt more like a chat. I was so pleased he allowed you to stay. That helped me settle, babe. He seemed to think the paperwork would be just a formality. All I need to do now is go home, and set it all in progress. I should be able to get the items by the end of next week. Can you believe I’m going to be going to college in September?” Cory snuggled up closer to JJ. She felt the taller woman’s arm encircle her.

“Are you sure about this, Cory? You still have time to think about it. It’s a big step. I know when I spent time in Germany, I missed my mother so much. It hurt. Looking back, if I’d known my mother had so few years left on this Earth, I’d have stayed here. I don’t want you to have any regrets.” She continued to stroke Cory’s arm.

Cory didn’t talk right away. She sat and processed what JJ had said. Finally, she spoke. “J, we all go through life thinking we’ve got an eternity. Nobody knows for sure how long we have. If I constantly worried about how long people were going to be around, I’d never do anything. The person I loved with all my heart is dead. I dreaded it happening. But for some reason, you came along just when I needed you, to replace that love. You fill the gap he left. I want to be with you. If I was to die tomorrow, I’d go happy.”

“Well, I wouldn’t be. I want you around for a very long time.” She kissed the blonde’s head. “What about your parents? I’ve met your family, Cor. They seem to adore you.” JJ stroked the fine, blonde hair. She loved being this close to Cory. It felt right. She felt content.

“They’ll survive. Plus, I need the time away. Mum is never going to come to terms with Sam and I splitting up. If I stay in England, she’ll meddle. If you come over to be with me, she’ll interfere, and never give us the time we need to build a relationship. We need time together J, without my family butting in. I know we get on great, but all relationships take time to work out the kinks. I want that time with you. I’ll miss my family, but I’ve never been close to my mum. I guess I’ve always blamed her for not staying with my real father, and for not making him keep in touch with us. There’s a man out there who’s my flesh and blood, and I’ve never seen him. I know it wasn’t all her fault, but it hurt me. I hurt knowing she could have done more about it. Don’t get me wrong I love dad. He’s looked after me since I was three. He is my father in everything but blood. Still, there’s always been a barrier. They have Mike and Kerry to look after them. Mike’s about to give them their first grandchild, she’ll have a new focus. They have things to keep them going. It’s time for me to be selfish. I’ve done everything to please them. Time to please me.”

JJ kissed Cory’s head. She knew through emails and previous discussions that Cory’s past still haunted her.

Cory leaned further into JJ, trying to absorb as much love from the woman as she could. Knowing that her birth father didn’t want her, and hadn’t wanted to keep in touch with Kerry or her, hurt Cory more than she’d ever admit. “I’ll miss Holly though, and the cats.” She smiled meekly. “J, I want to be with you. I don’t know how I’m going to get through the next few weeks without you around. I don’t want to go home.”

JJ hugged Cory as hard as she could. “I don’t want you to go. Just think the next count down will be our last, babe. You never know, I might be able to make a trip over. Let’s finish this time together. Then make plans. Are you okay with going out with Helen and Jo tomorrow?”

Cory sniffed back tears. “Yes. It beats hanging around here on my own. I miss you so much in the daytime. I just wish you could come as well.”

JJ held Cory. She had her own plans for the next day. Plans she hadn’t wanted to worry Cory about, or get her hopes up. Helen and Jo had offered to show Cory Cape Cod. They were thinking of taking Cory to Provincetown. It pained JJ to know Cory would be going there without her, but she had a job interview. JJ had heard rumors that the college campuses she worked on were going to cut back on the technician support. She had listened to the grapevine for a few weeks, but hadn’t acted on these rumors until Cory had taken the test. There was a job opening at the corporate headquarters of one of the leading sports manufacturers. An old friend who had worked there for over ten years had recommended JJ, and they’d called to see if she was interested. She had arranged an interview with them at nine the following morning. If she got the job, she’d be in a more secure position, with extra money. She’d make enough to support her and Cory. A graduate assistantship was Cory’s, if she wanted one. Mr. Pointer had pretty much agreed to Cory’s acceptance there and then. It was time for JJ to look to the future, too.

Cory cuddled closer to JJ. “You’re not going. Stay in bed. Please.”

JJ giggled as Cory tickled her. “Stop that. Cor, I can’t. We’ve been through this. I have to get dressed. Please… stop… ouch I’m going to pee myself if you keep that up.” She gasped as Cory’s fingers flicked over her curly patch of hair. “You’re insatiable. You already kept me up way past my bedtime.” She kissed the tousled head of her girl. “Now, are you sure you’re going to be okay with Helen and Jo?”

Cory turned onto her tummy. “Yeah, or I could come in with you. You said it would be fun.” Cory replied sulkily.

JJ winced, any day but that day. “Maybe tomorrow. I’ve got a full load.” She climbed out of the tangled sheets and stood up.

Cory turned her head when she heard the disappointment in her lover’s voice. “I’m sorry, J. I know this is hard on you.” Her mind became distracted when she saw JJ’s naked body. “I love looking at your body. You’re gorgeous.” She watched as JJ bent down to pick up her clothes. “And you know it, show off!” She watched as JJ dressed in her gym gear. “So, I’ll see you later at the restaurant?”

JJ bent over and kissed Cory gently on the lips. “For sure, babe.”

Helen and Jo picked Cory up at 10am. They greeted Cory with hugs and kisses. Cory wasn’t used to such open displays of affection from people she really didn’t know too well. She listened as the couple playfully argued with each other. She liked the casual banter the pair had. The trip was going to be a few hours, but she was assured the scenery was beautiful. Cory watched as they passed cars with many different license plates and styles. Helen had bet her she couldn’t find fifteen different out of state plates. Helen had been moaning about her tummy for a few miles, so they’d decided to stop the other side of the bridge.

The view from the huge bridge that separated the Cape from Massachusetts was breathtaking. Jo had pulled over on the other side so Cory could take photos. Helen had gone in search of a bathroom. Once she was out of view of the other two women, she flicked her phone off her belt. She dialed a familiar number, and waited for a connection.

“How’d it go?” she kept her eyes on the direction she’d come from. She didn’t want any unannounced visitors.

“It went awesome! They gave me the job right then and there! I am so psyched.”

“Congratulations! I’m so excited for you.”

“How’s Cory?”

“She’s good. Missing you, though. Jo’s giving her a tour of the Christmas Tree Shop, and they’re taking photos. I feigned a bad stomach, so they think I’m in the bathroom. How’d your boss take the news?”

“He wasn’t surprised. He knew we’d all heard the rumors. I asked him for the rest of the week off. We’ve been so slow here. He reluctantly agreed. Not that he had much choice. I’d have walked out otherwise. I have two days left with her. I’m not wasting one moment of it. Okay, I just pulled up at the house. I need to gather a few supplies, pack an overnight bag and then I’ll be on my way. I booked the hotel rooms earlier. Two kings. They are going to be so surprised. Does Jo know?”

Helen cast her eye toward the door of the shop. “No. She thinks the big bag I brought along is my hockey gear. She did moan about it being in the trunk of the car, but I told her it had to stay there, or else I’d forget it Saturday. I should be getting back. Give the cell a ring when you hit P Town. I’ll make sure we’re in an easy to spot place. Drive carefully. It’s a little busy on the roads. Everyone else must have had the same idea.” She hung up, and went in search of the other two.

The trip down had been fun. They’d collected twelve different license plates. They were now driving down the main street of the small town. Cory watched the people milling around the street. It seemed like a very small fishing village, quite similar to many she’d visited at home. Her eyes kept catching glimpses of rainbow flags, and one or two same sex couples holding hands. “Is this the Key West of Massachusetts?”

Jo turned to her and smiled. “I suppose so. It’s a very open and friendly place.” She turned her attention back to her partner. “Babe, I told you we’d never find a parking spot on Commercial Street.”

Helen glowered. She’d taken over the driving half way down, and wanted to put the car where JJ would see it. “Okay, we’ll go down Bradford Street. Point taken.”

It didn’t take long to park the vehicle in a lot away from the main street. The three women put their jackets on, and walked back to the main strip of shops. Cory peered into the shop windows. She missed JJ. She looked at some of the shirts on display. She wanted to get her lover a parting gift. She wandered into a few of the shops. She was feeling a little lonely, which seemed ironic considering her surroundings. She looked at her companions. They had their arms wrapped round each other. She smiled at them as they gave sympathetic glances her way.

They ate in a little café. Helen had begun to check her watch constantly. Jo placed her hand on Helen’s leg. “Are you okay?”

“Yeah. Why?”

“You seem distracted. I feel like I’m spending the day with two children. There’s the child who misses her plaything so much she’s sulking.” She lifted her eyes to Cory, and smiled to show she was kidding. “Then there’s the child that won’t sit still, and is always on the go.” She turned her head in the direction of Helen. “That, my dear, would be you. We’re supposed to be enjoying ourselves. Relax.”

Cory thought about what Jo had said. She decided she’d enjoy the day. She didn’t want to ruin Jo’s day. “I’m sorry, Jo.”

After lunch, the trio wandered the shops some more. Cory had picked up a cute t-shirt for JJ. As they walked out of another shirt shop, Helen’s phone buzzed. She answered it, much to the curiosity of her partner. “Hey.”

“I’m here. I dropped the truck off at the hotel. Where are you?”

Helen thought quickly and improvised. “Sorry to hear work is a bitch. I’m enjoying my day off. Jo and I are showing a friend the sights and sounds of P Town. We’re just walking up Commercial Street. We’re about to get the finest salt-water taffy in town.” She knew JJ would know exactly where they were from that description. “The files are in the top cupboard.”

JJ caught on quickly. “Gotcha. Be there in five minutes. Take your time choosing.”

“Have a good one.” Helen frowned at Jo and Cory. “Work. What would they do without me? Oh look, taffy and fudge. You have to get some of this, Cory, to take back to England.” She guided the two women into the store.

Cory was trying to decide what flavours to choose. There were so many. She never saw the tall woman slip into the shop. Jo did, and was about to greet JJ enthusiastically, when Helen pulled her into a kiss. “Shush. Don’t give her away.”

JJ sidled up behind Cory. “Can I be of service to you, Ma’am?”

Cory recognized the lilt of the voice, and the distinct smell of her lover’s perfume. She spun round. “J! But you’re at work! How? When?” The words stuck in her mouth she was so shocked to see her girl. She flew into JJ’s arms.

JJ hugged the blonde. “Nice surprise?”

“The best. You had this planned all along. Didn’t you?” She nudged the taller woman. “You and your little side kick.” She glanced at a now beaming Helen.

“I may have had a little help.” JJ kissed her partner, and looked down at the bags she held. “I see you’ve been busy. What ya got?”

Cory tapped her nose. “That’d be telling. How’d you get more time off work?” She looked at JJ. She was looking good. She was wearing dark blue Levis that seemed to go on forever. They made her legs look long and lean. She had a white t-shirt, and a black leather jacket to match the black leather boots. She knew that every roaming eye was going to be on her lover. “You look awesome.”

“Work wasn’t a problem. I’ll tell you later.” She took hold of Cory’s hand and walked over to her friends. Jo kissed her on the cheek and Helen slapped her on the back.

The afternoon went by pleasantly. They’d strolled up and down Commercial Street a few times. Cory had been keen to buy gifts for everyone at home. The atmosphere between the four was light hearted. They’d shopped, eaten ice cream and even braved some of the more risqué shops. Tired feet had led them back to Jo’s car.

Cory glanced back towards the main strip of P Town. “It’s really pretty here, J. I wish we had more time here.”

JJ looked at Helen. Helen was waiting for her cue before turning to her own partner. “Well, as you two ladies put up with a lot from us two jokers. We decided you deserve a treat.”

Helen took over from JJ. “There have been rumors that neither of us could pull off a surprise romantic evening, but we are here to defend our honor. We’d like to invite you two ladies to wine, dine and spend the night with us here in Provincetown.”

Twin jaws hit the ground. Jo stared at Helen and Cory at JJ. “I think we did it, J. They’re speechless.”

“Are you being serious?” Cory asked looking into deep blue eyes.

JJ pulled Cory toward her. “Never been more serious, babe. I didn’t want to waste another minute. I want you to have memories of this week that will help you get through the next few weeks. Plus, I wanted to celebrate the GRE success, and my new job.” She watched Cory digest that information. “I’ll tell you about that when we get to the room. I just wanted to show you how much I appreciate the sacrifice you’re making. I love you.” She kissed the blonde softly on the lips.

After the initial shock, the two women were delighted with the rooms their partners had booked. The inn was a small, family run hotel. The couples went into their rooms, showered and changed, ready for a night on the town. Cory was pleased to see JJ had packed well. She picked out a pair of black jeans and a tight fitting white top. The choice mirrored JJ’s own outfit.

They all met up in the inn’s foyer. They’d decided to eat at The Lobster Pot. Cory wanted to try the locally caught lobster. It was usually an expensive choice of meal back in England. The couples walked hand in hand down the main street. Some of the shops were still open. JJ had an idea. Impulsively, she pulled Cory up some steps toward a jewellers shop.

The blonde was confused, “Where we going?”

“I have an idea. Humor me.”

Cory followed JJ into the store. “Okay. I’m humouring you. Now what?”

“Let’s get our ears pierced. Just the one. I mean, it’ll be like a commitment to each other. We’ll have the same ear done. Then every day when we touch the earring we’ll think of each other. Not that I need anything to remember you by. No one will ask questions about it, so you won’t have to hide it like you would a ring. What do you think?” She looked at Cory’s pale face. “Stupid idea?” Her face dropped.

Cory squeezed her hand. “No. It’s a really cute idea. It’s more the pain. I’m a big weenie. But for you, babe, I’ll do it.”

“You sure?”

“Yep. I think it’s a great idea. How about we have one done now, and then the other ear done when we return here together in the summer.” Cory stood tall and kissed JJ on the cheek. “Promise me you’ll hold my hand?”

“I promise.”

Helen and Jo waited patiently on the steps of the store. Helen was quite content to hold her girl and watch the world go by. She was happy that JJ had finally found someone who made her as happy as she was with Jo. Every now and then, they would glance back in the store to where the duo were supporting each other in their time of self inflicted pain

Cory kept feeling the new stud in her right ear. It felt sore but every time she touched the spot, she smiled. JJ looked awesome wearing the matching star in her right lobe. All four women had ordered the Lobster Clambake. Cory relaxed into the chair, and let the atmosphere envelope her. She felt alive. The restaurant had a great atmosphere, the conversation was pleasant, and the constant presence of her partner comforting.

Her first taste of clam chowder was delightful. She’d been unsure at first, but the other three had told her she couldn’t return to England without first tasting the delights of New England cuisine. When the main course arrived, Cory passed on the side dish of mussels. They looked too chewy for her taste palette. Helen and Jo had traded their mussels for oysters. JJ had wound them up about needing a kick-start to their sex life. The lobsters were huge. Cory had tasted it once before, when her mum had ordered one a few years ago. But she’d never shelled her own before. She felt a little guilty about killing the live lobster, but all doubts fled her mind when JJ fed her a little of the light meat. She watched the other three, followed what they did, and savored the sweet taste. It was a lot of work for such a small amount of meat, but it was well worth it. Every now and again, JJ would feed Cory, and Cory would return the favor. Over the dinner, JJ filled her friends in on her new job. She’d told Cory about it when they’d gone to the room. At first, Cory had been disappointed that JJ hadn’t told her about the interview, but it had soon turned into a congratulatory love making session. As nobody was driving, the foursome had shared a few bottles of wine. JJ wanted to finish the evening off with a walk along the sea front. Jo and Helen were keen to go to a local bar and play pool. They all agreed to meet up at the nightclub attached to the lesbian bar later on.

The sea breeze felt good against JJ’s skin, but she felt her partner shiver. Gallantly, she wrapped her leather jacket across Cory’s shoulder. “Thanks, babe.”

“You're welcome.”

“I mean for everything…for last week, for your support, and for the surprise today. It’s been wonderful. I feel like I’m starring in the movies. My dreams really are coming true.”

JJ pulled Cory in front of her, and they both looked out over the ocean. She rested her chin on Cory’s neck. “I think it’s because we’re both dreaming the same dream. I think it’s definitely the fates. Things happen for a reason, Cory. Look at us, the way we met, the feelings we have for each other, the college acceptance, and my new job for instance. It’s all way too coincidental. I think it’s the fates way of telling us we’re meant to be.”

Cory sighed. “I know you’re right. I feel it too.”

“I know it’s not going to be easy. There are still a few more obstacles for us to get over, but we’ll be together babe. Just a few more months apart, then nothing is going to separate us. We’ll be together.”

“Forever.” Whispered Cory. She felt the arms around her tighten. The images from her dreams came back to her…the same arms, the same feelings. Her warrior had returned to her in one piece. Forever.

THE END (For the time being anyways!!!)

Thank you to Kelly for beta reading, and sending me encouraging notes – they really helped motivate me to finish this story. A huge thanks goes to Tiggs and Midgit for hosting the story. To all those that emailed with ideas, words of support; every single email was appreciated. Finally, thank you to my girl who made my dreams a reality and helped me get my ideas onto paper… I love you.

I am considering a sequel to this – let me know what you think.

Jules

Mail Jules

Back to the Academy