Patience's Haven

(THE PLAZA PART TWO)

By Mavis Applewater

April 2002

PART ONE

Boston 1939

Patience rubbed her throbbing temples once again. Mrs. Greeley was working her last nerve. Her mother-in-law had employed the woman along with the rest of the staff. Mother Styles may have been living on the other side of the Atlantic Ocean but she was still controlling her family. The only member of the staff that hadn't been employed by Mother Styles was the governess, Bonnie.

Bonnie, the demure blonde who had captured her heart, was one of the few bright spots in a dreary existence. "Tired?" Bonnie's soft voice inquired. Patience felt a smile appear on her face. She hadn't been aware that the smaller woman had entered her bedroom. Patience nodded in response. Her heart began to beat just a little faster as Bonnie's hands came to rest on her shoulders.

She looked into the mirror of the vanity she was sitting in front of; her breathing became ragged as she saw the image of her lover. "Mrs. Greeley hasn't taken her eyes off me since she began her employment," Patience grumbled. The scowl on her face slipped away as Bonnie's knowing hands gently kneaded the back of her neck.

"She needs to reminded who she works for," Bonnie responded in a soft tone.

"She knows who she works for," Patience responded in an ominous tone. "She works for Mrs. Styles. My husband's mother employed her. She pays the bills and she chose the staff."

"You got rid of Hilda," Bonnie teased as she continued to rub the knots out of Patience's neck.

"She was a scary one." Patience trembled at the memory of the mannish woman who had been hired as her ladies' maid. "Practically tore my buttons. Hilda even frightened Cedric."

"I think she had a crush on your poor husband," Bonnie said lightly as she began to unbutton the tiny pearl buttons on the back of Patience's collar.

"I think you are quite correct in that." Patience sighed as she felt the back of her dress open. "Mother Styles probably hired the ugliest biggest hag she could find, thinking she would keep me amused and out of trouble." Patience snorted in disgust.

"Little did she know that Hilda isn't your type," Bonnie teased as her hands drifted down across Patience's shoulders.

Feeling her lover's delicate touch roam across her back, Patience's eyes fluttered shut. "What are you doing, my sweet?" She moaned as her lover's hands drifted down her exposed back.

"Helping you relax," Bonnie whispered softly in her ear. "Aldred is taking his nap and now it's time for his mommy to get a little rest."

"Mrs. Greeley," Patience protested meekly.

"Is seeing to the rest of the household," Bonnie explained softly as she tenderly nipped at the nape of Patience's neck. "The boy is down for his nap and you and I have a few moments of solitude."

"Only a few?" Patience whimpered as her lover's lips explored the back of her neck.

"Sadly, yes," Bonnie responded in a breathy tone. "Come, my love; let's lay down and simply hold one another. I'll ease your tension so you can face the rest of your day."

"You know if we climb onto my bed, dear one, I'll not be responsible for my actions," Patience cautioned her young lover as Bonnie took her gently by the hand to guide her to the large four-poster bed.

Patience allowed the smaller woman to lower her down onto the bed. She smiled up at the blonde who was reaching behind her head, pulling the ribbon from her hair. Patience's heart beat just a little faster as she watched the golden hair cascade down onto Bonnie's shoulders. The brunette licked her pouting lips in anticipation as she held out her hand to the beauty that was standing beside her bed.

"Come lie down beside me, my love," Patience said enticingly as she held out her hand. "I need to hold you." Bonnie smiled slyly, the fire burning brightly in her emerald eyes. Patience's thighs quivered as Bonnie climbed onto the bed and nestled her head against her bosom.

Patience smiled as the scent of her lover filled her senses. "The door?" she inquired softly as she made gentle circles on Bonnie's back.

"I locked it," the governess murmured softly, "and mine as well when I came in through the closet. Mrs. Greeley would probably have a stroke if she knew that our rooms are connected by that closet." Bonnie chuckled lightly.

"It was designed that way so married couples could visit one another's boudoirs without the staff or the servants knowing what was going on," Patience explained.

"The silliness you rich people go to just to spend the night with your mate." Bonnie laughed lightly as she lifted her head, revealing the sweet smile that always warmed Patience heart and made her weak in the knees. "I'm not complaining, mind you," Bonnie said softly as she began to trace Patience's lips delicately with her fingers. "I get to slip in here every evening and we're both close to the boys' rooms if they need us. And just far enough away that they can't hear anything that they shouldn't"

"And Cedric is at the other end of the house," Patience added with a smirk. "Much to his displeasure, I might add. He was more than a little put out when I suggested he take the large room on the next floor. I couldn't risk him coming home drunk and mistakenly thinking he could perform his husbandly duty."

"I would kill him first," Bonnie stated coldly. "His room is perfect. It's large and has a separate entrance so he can come and go as he pleases. This house was the perfect choice. We can be together; Cedric has his privacy; and Mrs. Greeley and the rest of the staff are safely tucked away in the servants quarters."

"It's almost perfect," Patience added as she nipped at Bonnie's still wandering fingertips.

"Is there something you lack, my lady?" Bonnie whispered playfully. "Something you desire?"

"Kiss me," Patience pleaded.

Before she could say another word, Bonnie's soft warm lips tasted her own as their bodies melted together. Patience's mind drifted into a serene valley as Bonnie's tongue caressed her lips. With a yearning sigh Patience parted her lips, inviting her lover in to taste the warmth of her mouth.

Patience's tongue greeted her lover's with urgency and soon the two women were entangled in a feverish battle for control. The brunette threaded her long fingers through Bonnie's strawberry-blonde locks as she pulled her closer. Her heart pounded against her chest as she lost herself in the fire of Bonnie's kiss.

Patience's nipples hardened as her desire grew. They were gasping as the kiss came to a blissful end. "Bonnie, my love, I need to touch you," Patience pleaded in a breathy tone.

"Pay," Bonnie whimpered softly as Patience rolled her over onto her back.

Patience drank in her lover's flushed features and the glazed look that clouded her emerald orbs. "Bonnie, let me make love to you," Patience whispered hotly in the trembling blonde's ear.

"Yes," Bonnie responded in an urgent hiss.

Patience leaned over her lover's body as she slowly raised the hem of her simple pewter dress. The brunette ran her hands possessively over her lover's hips before she began to lower her undergarments. Her crystal-blue eyes never left her lover's face as she revealed her wetness. Bonnie's body squirmed with desire beneath her as she ran her fingers through the golden curls.

"Oh," Patience sighed in pleasure as she felt her lover's desire caress the tips of her fingers. "Do I want to know what you've been thinking about today?"

"You," Bonnie gasped as Patience's fingers drifted between her swollen lips. "Your touch, your body, your kiss, all my thoughts have been of you."

"I love you so very much, Bonnie," Patience confessed as she ran her fingers along Bonnie's slick folds. She could feel her own desire grow as she continued her gentle exploration.

"Pay," Bonnie whispered, her voice dripping with desire as her thighs parted and her hips arched. Patience's fingers slipped deeper into her lover's folds as her thumb grazed her pulsating nub. "I'm yours. I belong to you," Bonnie growled as Patience continued to tease her. Patience's body was straining against her clothing as she felt the rapid beating of her lover's desire press against her thumb.

The blonde's legs opened wider as Patience's hand pressed insistently against her mound. The brunette's fingers were coated with Bonnie's nectar as she pressed them against her lover's overheated center. Bonnie's body swayed as a desperate moan escaped from deep inside of her. Patience lowered her lips to her lover's mouth.

She kissed the smaller woman deeply as she slipped two fingers into her center. Her mind danced in excitement as she felt the warmth that greeted her touch. She felt the walls grip her fingers as she began to stoke the fire burning within her lover. Bonnie's body heaved as Patience's tongue plunged into her mouth while her fingers matched her rhythm.

Bonnie clutched her shoulders tightly as her hips lunged against Patience's touch in a demanding rhythm. Patience wished that they had more time and privacy so she could make love to the blonde until they both were unable to move or speak. For now, she would settle for feeling her lover explode from her touch.

She tore her mouth away from Bonnie's delectable lips and tried to fill her lungs with air. Her hand was covered with Bonnie's desire as she took her deeper and harder. "Bonnie," she moaned as her lover's body ground against her. "Let go," Patience pleaded, knowing that reality would soon invade their bliss.

"Pay," Bonnie whimpered into Patience's neck as her grip on her shoulders tightened. "I love you," Bonnie choked out as her body shivered furiously. The blonde's thighs tightened, trapping Patience's hand. The brunette felt her own body trembling as Bonnie exploded against her.

Patience lowered Bonnie's quivering body down as she felt the last waves of passion flow through her. Her fingers stilled inside her lover as she brushed her sweat-soaked locks from her brow before giving her a loving kiss. She looked down at her lover, knowing that she was still lost in the throes of their passion.

As Bonnie's breathing began to slow, Patience finally removed her fingers from their warm cocoon. She brought her fingers to her lips, the scent of her lover's passion filling her as she tasted the sweet ambrosia.

They looked over at the bedroom door in unison, both aware that someone was there. Bonnie frowned slightly as she began to adjust her clothing. She refastened the buttons on the back of Patience's dress before exiting through the walk-in closet. Patience's heart dropped slightly as she stared at the closed closet door.

PART TWO

Bonnie quickly checked her appearance before exiting her bedroom to find the woman she knew would be lurking in the hallway. "Mrs. Greeley, what are you doing up here?" she inquired, somehow managing to add a hint of surprise to her voice.

The plump gray-haired woman seemed truly surprised to see Bonnie emerge from her own bedroom. She peered over Bonnie's shoulder to look into the governess' bedroom. Bonnie folded her arms over her chest in a defiant manner. She knew what Mrs. Greeley was doing and it made her blood boil. Patience's husband didn't give a wit that they were carrying on, so why was this old biddy so concerned?

"Mrs. Greeley, I asked you a question," Bonnie reasserted firmly.

"As head of the staff, I do not answer to you," Mrs. Greeley responded gruffly.

Bonnie was tired of this woman's domineering manner. "And as the governess, I don't answer to you either. But I do wish to know why you are skulking around my bedroom door," Bonnie demanded in a soft yet firm voice.

"I take offense at your attitude, young lady," Mrs. Greeley said as she flashed Bonnie a fierce scowl. The older woman towered over the small blonde. Bonnie simply scoffed at the attempt to intimidate her. Bonnie's grandmother had raised her and that lady could make the bravest of men quake in their boots.

Neither woman would budge. Bonnie quickly tired of this woman's attitude, and with a roll of her eyes, she moved to pass the woman who was blocking her path. "If you are so fascinated by my bedroom, feel free to look around," Bonnie snarled. "I need to wake Master Aldred from his nap."

Bonnie's movements were halted as Mrs. Greeley gripped her arm tightly with her meaty paw. "You are a disgusting creature," the woman hissed into Bonnie's ear. The smell of the woman's breath made the blonde cringe. "I will see to it that you are turned out on the street where you belong."

"Mrs. Greeley!" Patience shouted angrily from her bedroom door. "Would you care to explain why you are manhandling Miss Greyson?"

The older woman squeezed Bonnie's arm painfully before releasing her hold. Her icy gray eyes turned towards Patience. "Mrs. Styles," Mrs. Greeley greeted her coldly.

"Mrs. Greeley, I asked you a question," Patience persisted in a bitter tone. "What is going on?"

"Nothing," Mrs. Greeley lied. "I was simply having a discussion with her regarding the children."

"Why?" Patience pushed with a knowing smirk as Bonnie smiled at her lover. "The care of my sons is Miss Greyson's responsibility. I do believe that I have explained that to you before."

"I was simply making an inquiry for the cook," Mrs. Greeley lied.

Bonnie rolled her eyes in disgust. "Fine. Now if you are finished, I suggest you return to your duties and allow Miss Greyson to do the same," Patience instructed firmly. Mrs. Greeley simply nodded, glaring at Bonnie as she left the hallway.

"She knows," Bonnie stated dryly as she shook her head in disgust. "What I don't understand is why she gives a wit?"

"It is what my mother-in-law employed her for," Patience explained dryly.

"Patience, forgive my rudeness but this is your home, is it not?" Bonnie asked in bewilderment. She had never fully comprehended just what hold Cedric's mother had over the family.

"Yes and no." Patience sighed heavily. "It is difficult to explain. But Cedric and I were never taught to oversee our own finances. Our parents and solicitors handled all of those matters for us. We simply sign for things. I have investigated some of my holdings, but I could never fully find out just what is mine. I'm a woman and therefore I've been scolded each time I try to handle my own finances."

"Your solicitors?" Bonnie asked in confusion. "Oh, you mean lawyer. You know, my dear, solicitation has an entirely different meaning over here. So what you're telling me is that a bunch of bean counters hold the purse strings and you could be dirt poor and not even know it?" Bonnie teased.

"That's not funny." Patience laughed lightly. "I've seen that happen. You do have a very good point. I think Cedric needs to contact our solicitors . . . I mean lawyers and become more active in our finances."

"Why Cedric?" Bonnie scoffed. Despite her fondness for Patience's husband, the man was completely irresponsible.

"He is the man." Patience scowled.

"Humph," Bonnie snorted indignantly. "I need to get Aldred up. Trayton should be home soon as well. We need to be more careful," Bonnie added. "She threatened to turn me out in the streets."

"That will never happen," Patience stated firmly as she placed a comforting hand on Bonnie's shoulder.

"I wish I could believe that," Bonnie responded sadly as she placed her hand over Patience's. She gave her lover's hand a light pat. "Now I'm off to tend to Aldred. I fear he will be quite grumpy."

Aldred was indeed grumpy when Bonnie woke him. The dark-haired youngster brightened up quickly when she offered to take him outside to play. As Bonnie watched the energetic youngster run about the park, she kept a careful eye on him. The move to the new house had been a blessing and a curse. When they had resided at the Plaza Hotel, their lives were quiet and uncomplicated. Bonnie could spend her evening safely in Patience's bedchamber without fear of reprisal.

But the boys needed a settled life and a home. Unfortunately their new home in the nice affluent neighborhood just west of the city meant that the household needed to expand. There was John, the driver; he seemed nice enough but he kept to himself mostly. When he wasn't off with Cedric, he was tending to the family cars. There was Charlotte, the cook. She was fun and warm and didn't seem to appreciate Mrs. Greeley's overbearing attitude anymore than Bonnie did. Trudy was the cook's assistant. She was just a slip of a girl who tried to learn her duties but was far too busy daydreaming about Clark Gable. Then there was Fergus, the butler; Lily, the upstairs maid; Fiona, the downstairs maid; and Frederick, Cedric's valet. They were all long in the tooth, very capable and diligent at their positions, and defiantly loyal to the elder Mrs. Styles. Since Patience had managed to finally send Hilda packing, she had no personal attendant, which suited Bonnie since she still treasured her time alone with Patience. Finally there was the formable Mrs. Greeley who ran the household with an iron hand.

"She has to go," Bonnie mumbled bitterly as she watched Aldred chasing the pigeons. She smiled at the youngster's antics. "So much like your mother," she added with a gentle smile. "Come along, my little man," she called out to him. "We need to get back to greet your brother." Aldred pouted slightly. "Come along now," she added sternly. Aldred ran to her and she swept him up in her arms. She gave the youngster a warm hug before setting him down. She took him by the hand and led him back to the large house that was now their home.

Not long after returning home, John delivered Trayton after his day at the private school he was attending. She settled both boys in the kitchen for their afternoon snack. Charlotte seemed to enjoy this ritual as much as the boys did. Bonnie loved to watch the older woman dote on the youngsters whom she loved as if they were her own. It added to her enjoyment knowing that Mrs. Greeley disapproved of the boys having a snack in the middle of the day. And having the boys eat in the kitchen really ruffled the old bird's feathers.

"I hear the old battle ax was lurking around upstairs," Charlotte said softly to Bonnie. The blonde governess simply nodded in response as she sipped her tea. "I don't know what she expects to find up there." Charlotte snorted gruffly, keeping her voice low so the boys wouldn't hear their conversation.

"Probably looking for the opium den Mrs. Styles has hidden up there," Bonnie teased lightly. She enjoyed her conversations with Charlotte since the friendly cook was one of the few members of the staff that would actually talk to her. The rest, with the exception of Trudy, treated the young governess like a leper.

"She's in the old lady's pocket, that's for sure," Charlotte grumbled. "They all are."

"I've noticed," Bonnie said with a hint of sadness. "Why not you? I mean Mrs. Greeley did put the staff together for the elder Mrs. Styles."

"I wasn't her first choice," Charlotte explained in a casual manner. "But I'm good and have good references. It just rubs her that I'm not going to cower like the rest of them. I'm a cook not a spy."

"So why do the rest of them dislike me? Bonnie asked hesitantly. "Just because Mr. Styles hired me and not Mrs. Greeley?"

"She had a fit over that, let me tell you," Charlotte prattled on. "She had someone hired for your job but the Mister and the Missus were firm. Leads to talk. You have a nice room and they assume it's so you can be close to the master."

"I need to be close to the boys," Bonnie said with a grimace. "Mr. Styles has a suite on another floor and Frederick's room is up there as well."

"I know that and you know that, but they need something to talk about," Charlotte reassured her. "Mrs. Greeley has told all of us to keep a watchful eye on you and Mrs. Styles."

"Not Mr. Styles?" Bonnie inquired with interest. "I mean if I'm purportedly having it off with the bugger . . ."

"He's a rogue, isn't he?" Charlotte snorted. "None of my business mind you, but you'd think the man would at least try to be discreet."

"Hmm," Bonnie sighed thoughtfully as she kept a watchful eye on the boys to ensure that they couldn't hear the conversation. She knew that Cedric was a cad but she had also seen some changes in the man over the past few months. He seemed more interested in his sons and drank a little less. Yet every time she felt that he was turning over a new leaf, Cedric would go off on a bender.

The temperature in the room dropped as Mrs. Greeley made her entrance. The boys instantly stiffened upon her arrival. Bonnie's temper rose as she saw the boys staring at their plates. "It's not proper," the woman said emphatically as she hovered over the boys.

"It's not for you to say," Bonnie stated in a cold determined voice.

"That will change," Mrs. Greeley said in a low threatening tone.

"Really?" Bonnie spat back, challenging the cantankerous woman as the boys and Charlotte looked on.

"You little harlot," Mrs. Greeley growled as Bonnie jumped up and stood toe-to-toe with the bitter woman.

"How dare you use that kind of language in front of the children!" Bonnie fumed at her.

"I'll do as I please," Mrs. Greeley scoffed in a dismissive tone. "You really should start packing your bags."

"Bonnie?" Trayton whimpered fearfully.

Bonnie's heart sank as she saw the frightened look on both of the young boys' faces. She flashed them a reassuring smile. "Come along, boys," she said softly, refusing to look at Mrs. Greeley who was still muttering behind her. "Trayton, we need to take a look at your homework, and Aldred, you wanted me to finish reading Winnie The Pooh." She ushered the two children out of the kitchen and into their playroom.

"Trayton, get your school bag," Bonnie instructed him softly. Neither of the boys moved. They stood there, looking up at her with frightened expressions.

"Bonnie, are you leaving?" Trayton finally asked as a tear ran down his face.

"No!" Aldred wailed as he wrapped his tiny arms around her leg.

"Come here, the both of you," she said softly as she knelt down and wrapped her arms around both the young boys. "I'm not leaving," she assured them as they both wept in her arms.

"What is going on?" Patience asked from the doorway.

"Pay . . . ," Bonnie began. She stopped suddenly when she saw Fiona lingering behind Patience. "Mrs. Styles, the boys are a little upset."

"I can see that," Patience said as she crossed over to them.

Bonnie wanted to wrap her arms around her lover and tell her everything but Fiona's presence prevented her. "Mrs. Greeley said Bonnie is leaving," Trayton whimpered.

"What?" Patience gasped.

Bonnie could see the veins in her lover's neck bulge. Before she could think of what to say, Aldred decided to explain things in his own way. "She's mean," the younger child whimpered.

"Calm down, boys," Patience said softly as she hugged her youngest son. "Bonnie isn't leaving us," she reassured them as she stared deeply into Bonnie's eyes.

"Momma, what's a harlot?" Trayton asked in an innocent tone.

Bonnie choked as she watched Patience's eyes widen in horror. "What?" Patience stammered in disbelief. "Where did you hear that word?"

"She called me that," Bonnie explained in a quick hushed tone.

Patience released her hold on her son and stood quickly. Bonnie could feel the fiery heat emanating from Patience's body. "Pay, don't," she cautioned her lover. Her plea went unheeded as Patience stormed out of the room, almost knocking a stunned Fiona over.

"Trayton, do not repeat that word. It isn't nice," Bonnie explained. "Now sometimes grownups do and say things that are wrong." She held the children tightly and dried their tears. "Now Trayton, it's time to take a look at your schoolwork. Aldred, while I'm helping your brother, why don't you go and get that book."

Her voice was calm as the boys carried out their tasks, seemingly pacified for the moment. Her heart was racing as she worried about Patience. As she looked over Trayton's schoolwork, she noticed that Fiona was still standing in the doorway. She watched out of the corner of her eye as the woman dusted the same spot over and over again until Fergus asked what she was doing. Bonnie settled the children down as she tried to hear the hushed conversation between the butler and the maid. The only words she could decipher was when Fergus blurted out, 'She said what in front of the children?'

Bonnie rubbed her throbbing temple as worry seized her heart. 'It's going to be a long night,' she thought fearfully.

PART THREE

Patience stormed around the house looking for Mrs. Greeley. She wanted to throttle the woman; she wanted to wring her flabby neck until the old biddy begged for mercy. Charlotte jumped when she stormed into the kitchen. "Have you seen Mrs. Greeley?" Patience shouted. She instantly regretted using such a harsh tone on the innocent cook.

"She left not long after Miss Greyson took the children out of here," Charlotte explained quickly as her eyes filled with fear.

"I'm sorry, Mrs. Comstock," Patience apologized as she tried to settle her nerves. "I didn't mean to snap at you. It's just that the boys are very upset and I need a word with Mrs. Greeley."

"I would imagine that you do," Charlotte responded in a polite tone.

"You were here?" Patience inquired slowly in an effort to calm herself. "Could you tell me what happened?"

"Ma'am, you have every reason to be upset," Charlotte offered in a friendly yet respectful tone.

"Did Mrs. Greeley say something about Miss Greyson leaving and use inappropriate language in front of my children?" Patience inquired carefully.

"Yes," Charlotte's voice was firm and direct.

"Thank you," Patience said with a nod before spinning on her heel and storming out of the kitchen.

As she stormed through the foyer, Fiona and Fergus quickly scurried out of her way. Just then the front door opened and Cedric came in. He was smiling until he caught the angry glare she cast at him. "What happened?" he stammered.

"Mrs. Greeley," she snapped. "I'm going to fire her."

"You can't," he stammered.

"Just watch me," she flared as Cedric smiled slightly.

"Nothing would please me more, my dear wife," Cedric offered in a light tone, which only served to further infuriate Patience. "But as you well know, that is not possible at this time. Now why don't you tell me what happened and I will try to handle this situation. Where is Fergus?" he added in bewilderment.

"Probably hiding with the rest of the staff," Patience said as she clenched her jaw tightly.

"Well, you are certainly in a mood today." Cedric sighed heavily as he removed his coat. "Tell me what happened so I can try to set things right."

"Things will not be right until that woman is out of my house," Patience shouted, unaware that Bonnie had entered the foyer. The light touch on her arm instantly calmed her.

"Please," Bonnie said softly. "The boys can hear you."

Patience felt the anger slip away as Bonnie caressed her arm. "Thank you," she said softly as she turned to her young lover. "Cedric, can we go into your study and discuss this?"

"Of course." He nodded in agreement.

"Perhaps Mr. Styles would like to say hello to the children first?" Bonnie suggested softly.

Patience smiled at the suggestion. Bonnie, in her own quiet way, had really made strides in helping Cedric learn the joys of spending time with his children. She didn't miss the smile he sported at the blonde's suggestion. "Go. I'll be waiting in your study," Patience said.

"What happened?" he whispered to Bonnie.

"Go see your sons," Bonnie instructed him firmly.

Patience couldn't help but smile at the fiery look in her lover's eyes. "I'll be waiting for you," she told Cedric quietly as he headed off towards the playroom. "He is changing, thanks to you," she said to Bonnie.

"I haven't . . . ,"Bonnie began shyly, her emerald eyes filled with emotions.

"Tonight," Patience said with a soft promise as she fought the urge to take the blonde in her arms and kiss her senseless. She smiled with amusement as she watched her lover's chest rise and fall in an erratic rhythm. She could see the hunger spring to life in her lover's eyes when she said that one word. It meant the world to both of them.

'Tonight,' she thought as she walked away, knowing that it would bring them the bliss they both craved. As Patience sat behind the desk in her husband's office, she busied herself by going over the paperwork on the desk. "The business is improving," she commented thoughtfully when Cedric entered the room.

"Thanks to your suggestions," Cedric responded happily as he closed the door behind him. "The boys seem to be upset. Bonnie's calmed them down somewhat but I can tell that there is something wrong."

"It's amazing. A few months ago, I would have doubted you knew their names," Patience stated with warmth.

"It's true," Cedric conceded. "Bonnie has been good for all of us. So tell me what trouble Mrs. Greeley has stirred up this time."

Patience watched as Cedric ran his finger over the crystal carafe of scotch sitting on his desk. She said a silent prayer that he wouldn't give in and start drinking so early in the evening. She released a sigh of relief when he stepped away from the bottle. "Get out of my chair, Stinky," he teased her with a wink.

She laughed slightly as she stood and allowed him to take the chair. He lit a cigarette and seemed to brace himself for her tirade. "Go on," he said encouragingly as he blew out a puff of smoke.

"It would appear that Mrs. Greeley has taken it upon herself to increase our son's vocabulary," Patience said, finally feeling her anger dissipate slightly.

"And?" Cedric encouraged her.

"Harlot," she said bluntly.

She watched with some degree of amusement as her husband choked on his cigarette. "What?" he sputtered in disbelief. "She said that in front of the children?"

"Yes," Patience spat out. "And guess who she said it about?"

"You?" Cedric asked.

"No, you cheeky bugger." Patience swatted him. "She was referring to Bonnie. And she said something about Bonnie leaving which naturally upset the boys."

"Unbelievable," Cedric growled. "I wouldn't use that kind of language in front of them. Well, Mother certainly picked herself a winner."

"Oh, and she was lurking around my bedroom this afternoon," Patience added.

"She was in your bedroom?" Cedric asked in confusion.

"No, she was hanging around outside my bedroom," Patience clarified.

She watched as Cedric's muddled mind processed what she had told him. She blushed as she watched the light dawn. "Don't," she warned him as he opened his mouth to speak. He held up his hands in defense. "The two of you still have that door inside the walk-in closet covered, right?" he asked fearfully.

"Yes," Patience reassured him. "Now what about Mrs. Greeley? Surely we can sack her for this?"

"Perhaps," Cedric said thoughtfully. "No," he finally said in defeat.

"This can't go on," Patience protested. "Contact our solicitors. Surely between our combined trusts and investments we can tell you mother to sod off."

"You think?" Cedric asked eagerly.

"I need to have a look at our finances," Patience explained. "You know that they won't hand them over to me. You have to get them."

"Mother Styles will interfere." Cedric winced.

"Cedric, grow a pair," Patience fumed at him. "We've done everything she's asked. We got married, had children, even fled England. It's enough. I'm happy and I thought you were too."

"I'm getting there," Cedric confessed. "Well, time to call Mrs. Greeley onto the carpet. Can't you just scare her off like you did with Hilda?"

"Hilda was in love with you," Patience explained. "I just had to play the jealous wife. Somehow I don't think Mrs. Greeley will buy that one."

Later that evening, after a tension-filled dinner, she and Bonnie put the boys to bed. Mrs. Greeley had been more curt than normal after Cedric spoke to her. As she dressed for bed, Patience kept looking at the closet door, waiting for Bonnie to join her. She knew her lover was exhausted and wouldn't blame her if she didn't join her that evening. Still, she also knew that she couldn't sleep without Bonnie lying beside her.

She was debating on whether she should go to Bonnie when the door to the closet opened and her lover stepped into the room. "I was just going to check on you," Patience said in relief as Bonnie smiled at her. "How are you?" she asked as Bonnie wrapped her arms around her waist.

"Now that I'm in your arms, everything is perfect," Bonnie said in a soft tone.

Patience hummed contentedly as she wrapped her arms tightly around the small blonde's body. "What a day." Bonnie sighed exhaustedly. "The staff was all whispers at dinner tonight; it seems that they didn't approve of Mrs. Greeley's actions. Not that they would say anything in front of her."

"Good. We could use a few more allies," Patience contended. "Cedric is going to look into our finances. Hopefully we can tell his mother and Mrs. Greeley to sod off."

"Does that expression mean what I think it does?" Bonnie asked in a playful tone.

"Yes," Patience drawled. "Tired, my love?"

"Hmm," Bonnie murmured as she snuggled closer.

Patience smiled as she ran her fingers through the governess' golden hair. "Let's go to bed then. Let me hold you tonight," Patience suggested as she led her lover over to the bed.

"That's all you want to do?" Bonnie inquired slyly as Patience pulled back the bed covers.

"Why, just what did you have in mind, Miss Greyson?" Patience teased her as she climbed up onto the bed.

"Well, Mrs. Styles, I was planning on ravishing you," Bonnie said in a breathy tone as she opened her robe and dropped it to the floor, revealing her naked body.

Patience's crystal-blue eyes widened in amazement as her mouth dropped open. "You like?" Bonnie purred. Her eyes were filled with fire as she ran a hand over one of her firm full breasts. Patience could neither speak nor move as she watched her lover rolling her nipple between two of her fingers.

"But if you're tired . . . ," Bonnie said with feigned innocence as she ceased her movements. Patience swallowed hard as her lover approached the bed and climbed over her. Bonnie straddled her body and leaned in to capture a fiery kiss. Patience yelped as Bonnie bit her bottom lip lightly. "We could snuggle and simply sleep if that's what you wish," Bonnie finally finished, her breath caressing Patience's skin.

"Don't tease me," Patience said in a slow needy tone as she reached out and grasped Bonnie's firm naked hips. She could feel the goose bumps spreading across her lover's skin as she slowly ran her fingers across exposed flesh.

"Never," Bonnie whispered as she began to kiss Patience's sensitive neck. The blonde kissed and nipped her way down as Patience's head fell back.

Patience emitted a low sensual moan as her lover's lips and teeth feasted upon her neck. She could feel Bonnie's hand running up the side of her body to the swell of her breast. The brunette's body trembled as she felt her excitement pooling between her thighs. Bonnie's lips suckled her neck more insistently as she cupped one of Patience's breasts, gently teasing it with the palm of her hand. The sensation of her lover's hand over the light material of her nightgown was causing her clit to pulsate urgently.

"Bonnie," she pleaded as her lover continued to tease her breast slowly. Bonnie leaned back slightly, the sweet smile that always warmed Patience's heart appearing on her face. She could see the playful gleam in her young lover's eyes that informed her that the blonde wasn't going to hurry. She was going to make love to Patience very slowly until the brunette begged her for release.

Bonnie slowly lowered Patience's nightgown down one of her shoulders. The blonde leaned and slowly ran her tongue over the bared shoulder and then up to her neck. Patience gave herself over to her lover's touch as Bonnie repeated her movements on her other shoulder. This time Bonnie kissed and tasted her way up to Patience's ear. Patience swooned as Bonnie nibbled on her earlobe while her hands busied themselves with lowering her nightgown further down her body.

"I love you," Bonnie whispered hotly in her ear before dipping her tongue in. Patience groaned in frustration as she pulled Bonnie closer to her. Her frustration grew as her lover pulled away from her touch.

Bonnie continued to kiss and taste her body as she lowered Patience down on the mattress. Bonnie's face was nestled between full breasts while her tongue slowly outlined them. The blonde continued to lower Patience's nightgown, her mouth feasting on the newly exposed skin. Patience tingled from the heat of her lover's mouth as her gown slipped lower and lower down her long body.

The blonde's tongue circled her erect nipple without touching it, driving Patience mad with desire. Bonnie continued moving from one breast to the other as her lover's body trembled. Patience cried out when Bonnie captured a nipple in her mouth and suckled it greedily. She arched her body, wanting the blonde to take all of her. The brunette was certain that she would faint when Bonnie released her nipple and kissed her way over to her other one. Bonnie repeated her actions, moving back and forth between Patience's tender breasts.

Finally the blonde left the firm full breasts and began to kiss her way further down Patience's quivering body.

Bonnie's tongue ran across Patience's ribcage as the brunette gripped the sheets tightly. She kissed her way down Patience's body; as her tongue dipped into her navel, the brunette's hips arched. Patience fought to control her breathing and to still her body's trembling as the blonde finally slipped her gown off and began to kiss her way up her long legs.

Patience reached for her lover only to have her hands swatted away. She groaned as she felt Bonnie's tongue flicker across the back of her knees. Patience's breathing became shallow as Bonnie began to taste the inside of her quivering thighs. She whimpered as she clutched the bedding tighter and parted her thighs, inviting her lover in.

Bonnie continued to taste the wetness that was coating her thighs as she cupped Patience's backside, lifting her lover to her. Her movements stilled for a moment as she looked up at her lover. Patience was lost in her lover's gaze as she draped her long legs over Bonnie's shoulders.

The blonde's eyes were filled with love as she ran a single finger along Patience's slick folds. Patience's jaw quivered as Bonnie traced the swollen lips. She gasped and her body arched when Bonnie finally brushed her finger across her clit that was aching with need.

"Yes," she panted urgently when Bonnie finally lowered her head and began to drink in her passion. She could feel her lover's hands pulling her in as her tongue entered her center. Patience's body heaved as Bonnie's tongue plunged in and out of the warmth. "Sweet Jesus," Patience moaned as Bonnie took her deeper while her thumb made circles across her clit.

Patience's hips lifted higher as Bonnie continued to plunge deep inside of her. Her body was trembling and her ears were buzzing; she could feel the ecstasy filling her senses. She growled as Bonnie's tongue left her. Then she was crying out as her lover's fingers filled her. The blonde suckled her clit and began to tease it with her teeth and her tongue as her fingers dipped in and out of her wetness.

"Bonnie . . . Bonnie . . . Baby . . .please . . . ," she pleaded as her lover took her deeper and harder. Patience thrust her body into her lover's touch while the blonde fought to hold her steady. The passion exploded from deep inside of her as her head fell back and her eyes snapped shut. Patience fell over the edge as her lover's fingers and mouth continued to pleasure her.

Patience's head was spinning as she felt the blonde's fingers slowing their movements. She couldn't speak; her main focus at the moment was to regain her ability to breathe normally. Bonnie's head rested on her abdomen, her fingers still inside of her as the last waves of passion trickled through her body.

As her breathing calmed, she felt her lover climb up her body. She wrapped her arms around the small blonde and clung to her tightly. The feel of Bonnie's wetness pressing against her thigh refueled her desire. She could taste her own passion as Bonnie kissed her. The kiss deepened as their tongues dueled for control.

Patience ran her hands down Bonnie's back, feeling the tender flesh respond to her touch. She slipped her hand between their sweat-covered bodies. She felt the damp wet curls caress her fingers as the blonde's body rocked against her thigh. Patience's fingers dipped into the wetness as she felt her lover touch her in the same manner. They entered each other as their bodies melted together.

They took one another deeply. Patience felt the walls tighten around her fingers. They screamed into each other's mouths as they climaxed together. They collapsed on the mattress and held tightly to one another. "Why is it that I can't stop touching you?" Bonnie asked in wonderment once their breathing had slowed.

"Because I belong to you," Patience responded honestly.

They both sat up slightly when they heard a slight noise. "Thank the heavens for creaking floorboards," Patience muttered in disdain as Bonnie climbed off the bed and grabbed her robe from the floor. Patience smiled as she saw her lover stumble slightly. She pulled on her own robe and waited until Bonnie had closed the closet door. She silently padded her way over to her bedroom door and threw it open, catching Mrs. Greeley leaning against the door.

The older woman stumbled inside. "What are you doing?" Patience demanded furiously. Mrs. Greeley looked around in surprise to find Patience's bedroom empty. "Mrs. Greeley, why are you hanging around my bedchamber at this hour of the night?"

"I thought I heard a noise," the woman lied as she peered past Patience, looking at the bed. Patience knew the old biddy was looking to see if someone was hiding underneath.

"From downstairs?" Patience flared at her. "Well, since you find my chambers so interesting, have a look around so I can go back to sleep."

The older woman's jaw dropped; she was genuinely surprised by the offer. "Mrs. Styles," Bonnie called out as she rushed into the bedroom from the hallway. Mrs. Greeley turned pale as Patience bit her bottom lip. Bonnie was now clad in a big robe and a flannel nightgown. "Mrs. Greeley, what are you doing in Mrs. Styles bedroom?" Bonnie questioned in a shocked tone.

"Miss Greyson, everything is fine," Patience said calmly as she fought with herself, trying not to break out in gales of laughter. "Please return to your room before we awaken the boys."

"Yes, ma'am," Bonnie said politely, winking at Patience from behind Mrs. Greeley's back. Then the blonde walked back to her own bedroom.

"Mrs. Greeley," Patience addressed the stunned woman coldly. "I am well aware of who hired you. But never mistake that this is my home. Now if you don't wish to leave my home tonight without references, I suggest you go back to your own bedroom and stay away from mine."

The woman looked as if she might protest. "It's not a request, Mrs. Greeley. I am the lady of this house and you had better started treating me as such and remember your position," Patience informed her in a harsh tone.

The woman actually flushed with embarrassment before leaving the room. Patience closed and locked the bedroom door. She listened carefully until she was certain that Mrs. Greeley had gone back downstairs. Bonnie must have been listening at her door as well since she appeared a few moments later.

"You were brilliant," Patience congratulated her lover as she took her by the hand and led her back to the bed. She threw her robe onto the floor and began to undress her lover. She kissed Bonnie tenderly as she lowered her naked body onto the bed.

"Pay . . . ," Bonnie began softly as the brunette slowly licked the inside of her quivering thighs. "She's not going to . . ."

"Ssh," Patience silenced her. "Later. Now just let me love you," she said softly before she captured her lover's clit in her mouth. Slowly she licked and suckled the throbbing nub until Bonnie was crying out in ecstasy.

Later they snuggled up under the covers. "What are we going to do?" Bonnie inquired fearfully as she rested her head on Patience's chest.

"We will make this work," Patience reassured her as she softly ran her fingers through her hair. "We could always tell her that I made love to you on the kitchen counter. That should drive the old bat out of here screaming." Bonnie laughed lightly as Patience blushed at the memory.

> They hadn't moved into the house yet and Patience could not resist the way the sun highlighted Bonnie's hair and cherubic features. Soon the blonde was on the counter and Patience had her hand up her skirt.

"No one has ever made me feel the way you do," Patience confessed as Bonnie's fingers made tiny circles along her shoulder.

"We won't lose each other," Bonnie said softly. "And you won't lose your boys. I love them like they were my own."

"No," Patience agreed. "They won't beat us. I'll be chasing you around the bedroom well into our eighties, my love."

Patience held her tightly as Bonnie drifted off to sleep. "I promise you that I will make this work," Patience vowed before sleep claimed her as well.

THE END

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