Mic watched as his new man left the wool barn. He hated having to train someone so near to the sheering season, but with Walt’s passing he had little choice. They were already short handed after four people walked off the job two weeks ago, leading him to wonder just exactly how they were going to get through this season. Of course they would, he’d done it before with fewer hands than he had now. But he had just thought he was past this part of ranching. Being one of the largest ranches in this area of Australia brought with it good and bad. He could afford to pay his men better than the other ranches, but he still had to make a profit so sometimes his men found they worked harder than on the smaller ranches around. He removed his tattered brown Stetson, the one he always wore during the sheering season going on twenty years now and wiped his brow. He closed the stall’s gate and walked towards the back of the woolen barn to put some of the things away. He instilled in his men his organizational ethic, and he wasn’t about to stray from that today regardless of how tired he was.
Suddenly a small movement barely caught his eye and the next thing he knew someone fell out of the loft landing right on top of him. She knocked him over even though in retrospect she weighed next to nothing. Her blonde hair was matted and dirty and the rest of her looked pretty mangled as well but her essential basic features were breath-takingly beautiful. Her eyes were a soft expressive baby blue framed by high cheekbones and her lips were full and sensuous. "Thank-you for breaking my fall," she said in a distinctly non-Australian accent.
He stared at her incredulously, “you’re thanking me for breaking your fall?” His accent was thick, though his voice was soothing almost sensual when he spoke. He narrowed his eyes, his well-tanned face accentuating his ice blue eyes and blonde hair. “Just what were you doing up there?”
"Sleeping," the blonde replied, "staying out of the rain."
“You’re going to have to do better than that if you don’t want me to call the authorities, young lady.” He eyed her curiously, she obviously wasn’t from here he realized by the way she spoke. “We don’t take kindly to trespassers around here.” Despite the fact she was a trespasser on his land, he removed his hat out of courtesy and left it at his side.
"Oh please don't call the authorities," the woman panicked suddenly, "I know I'm trespassing but I wandered onto your land by accident. I was just trying to hide and get away, from my uncle. He was...he's a very powerful and ruthless man."
“And what makes you think I’m not powerful and ruthless? Though being powerful isn’t all that bad. And you must have wandered quite some distance if you wandered into my barn.”
"I've been out there, wherever the heck I am wandering around for four days!" she said frantically her voice breaking as she fought back tears simply from being overwrought. She looked weak and pale. "Now if you'll just keep quiet about this I'll be on my way..." she took a couple of steps and dropped from exhaustion, nerves and having not eaten in four days.
“Bloody great,” he muttered under his breath. He placed his hat on his head and picked her up. He walked out to his pick up truck and set her in the bed of the truck. He went back into the barn and locked up, spotting a blanket on his way out he grabbed it and placed it around her. He opened the passenger’s door and lifted up the seat, returning to her he picked her up again and placed her in the back seat of the truck. He drove back to the main house with care. He looked back at her, as still as she was a few minutes ago and got out of the pickup truck before taking her out from the passenger’s side. He carried her up the porch steps and into the house, laying her on the couch in the sitting room. He left her and went to find Birdie, his cook and told her that the girl would probably be hungry and to make sure there was enough to feed the both of them. He poured himself a gin and tonic and sat in his chair, reading the paper.
After quite sometime her eyes finally fluttered open and a raspy sound escaped her parched throat. She looked around at her surroundings with a lack of comprehension on her face. She sat up and caught sight of him causing another gasp.
He pulled the paper aside and gazed at her, his blue eyes focusing intently on her. “Am I that frightening?” He folded the paper neatly and set it on a table next to him. “I wouldn’t try to do anything too abruptly, you’re obviously quite weak from thirst and hunger. Dinner should be ready shortly. The least I can do is feed you while you tell me whom it is you’re running away from and why? If my property is going to be somehow involved with something I need to know what it is, and what to tell someone who comes inquiring about you.” His eyes scanned her petite form briefly, “and I’m sure someone’s going to miss you.”
"Tell them I'm not here and you haven't seen or heard of me," the blonde replied. Her hair was matted but because of some free strands he could tell that her hair fell about three inches past her shoulders. "I'm running away from my uncle Joseph Nammarth. I'm sure you've heard of him. He has company holdings practically everywhere. Anyhow he wants me to get engaged to some horny fifty-year-old man just so he can close a multi million-dollar business deal. He threatened to kill me if I didn't. I'm not going back there."
He chuckled lightly, “I can imagine your lack of desire not to return. But I must admit running away to a ranch where the men out number the women thirty to one probably wasn’t very wise, the women that are here are either my servants or the wives of my employees. Luckily you fell upon me and not one of my, how did you put it, horny twenty year old workers.” He stood and offered her his hand, sensing her hesitation he spoke in his most soothing tone. “You passed out not more than two hours ago after I assume not eating or drinking for a number of days. I mean you no harm, just offering my assistance to get you to the dinner table.”
"For your information I wouldn't mind a horny 20 year old and my own will," the blonde replied. "It's just being forced to deal with someone against my choosing that upsets me." She let him help her to the table and went through two glasses of water before the meal was even served.
He watched, speaking only after she started in on her third glass of water. He placed his hand over hers, preventing her from raising the glass to her mouth. “If you drink to fast you’re liable to make yourself sick. Eat some stew, that’s good for settling your stomach.”
Donna regarded him a moment and then took his advice to heart. She was thankful when the stew arrived and she was careful to eat it slowly. All in total she put away three bowls.
Once her eating had slowed down, he decided it was time to ask her some questions. Something didn’t sit right with him and before getting further involved he wanted some answers. “You’re not from Australia, judging by your accent. What are you American? Did your uncle bring you here for this business deal? And what about your parents? Why didn’t they stop it?”
"Yes I was from America," Donna replied, "My mother died giving birth to me and my father gave me all a girl could ever ask for in the world and more and I loved him dearly but he died in a small plane crash in Mexico last year and my uncle only had eyes on what I was worth and how to get rid of me since the day he got a hold of me and my father's share of the fortune."
“I wasn’t aware Mr. Nammarth had any family, but I imagine he manages to keep that to himself. I’m sorry to hear of your father’s passing. Well, I’m not sure what exactly I’m supposed to do with you. If you were a stray cat or a dog I found on my property I’d care for you, but you’re a person not an animal. My instincts tell me I should return you to your uncle and be done with this whole ordeal. But,” he offered her a wide smile; “I’d certainly hate to be the cause for a pretty girl like you ending up married to someone over twice your age.”
Donna gave a sigh of relief. She looked at him then, "you're not going to turn me out then?"
“Not tonight at any rate. I’ll show you upstairs to a room you should find suitable. You’ll have your own bathroom and there should be some clothes in the closet and dressers that should fit you, or at least come close.” He cleared his throat as Birdie cleared their places, “whenever you’re ready. I believe I heard mention of apple pie if you’d like some.”
"I'd love some," Donna replied giving him the first soft smile that he was privy to.
Birdie was obviously listening because no more than five minutes had gone by of it being mentioned and two pieces of apple pie fresh from the oven with cinnamon ice cream was presented before them. “Are you going to tell me your name? I assume your last name is Nammarth?” He offered her a slight smile, sensing her hesitation. “My name is Mitchell Hall, folks usually call me Mic. Either will do.”
"My name is Donatella Jolie Nammarth," Donna replied, "most people call me Donna."
“Let me show you to your room.” Normally he would have pulled her chair out for her, but he saw no reason to. He led her down the hall past a number of rooms and up a flight of stairs and along the hallway to a room offering a view of the outback. He flicked on the light switch, an antique lamp with a pink floral design sitting on the nightstand next to the bed came on. The bedspread was white with a deep pink floral print; the window valances were the same print. He walked through the room and to the right flicking another light switch, “you’re bathroom is here.” The towels matched the deep pink of the bedspread, and there were antique floral prints along the walls of the room. He gestured to the closet; “you should find something to fit you in there. I believe my wife had some nightgowns or something in there.”
"Your wife?!" Donna gasped, "you're married?! Where is she? I'm sorry I haven't met her yet. Don't you think she'll object?"
He gave her a half smile. “No, I don’t think she’ll mind. She has no use for them anymore,” he placed his hands in his pants pockets and shrugged. “She died,” he paused and then continued. “Anyway, should you need anything else let me know. But I believe there should be bath oils and all sorts of things you could desire below the sink. I’ll check on you in a little while.”
Donna stood there stunned long after he had left her. Finally she went into the bathroom knowing she needed a bath. The tub was nice and deep and Donna filled it up adding lavender to her bath. She brushed her hair out and then washed it. She was thankful to be clean. She looked through the closet and found a beautiful sage green sleeveless satin dress she chose to wear. Then having nothing else to do she laid down on the bed and decided to take a nap.
Mic knocked on the door a couple of hours later and entered when he heard her sleepy voice tell him to come in. “I’m sorry to bother you, but I just wanted to make sure you were all right,” he breathed in slightly the sight of her in Jaci’s dress. At that moment soft footsteps were heard running in the hallway followed by little hands going around his leg. He looked from her, slightly embarrassed and then down at the culprit, a boy of about two. He cleared his throat and picked up the boy. “You, little man, are supposed to be in your room.” He ruffled the boy’s blonde hair as he set him down and turned his attention back to Donna. “We were about to go down for some hot chocolate. Would you like to join us?”
Donna regarded the little boy for a couple of moments with a smile, which faded when she found him watching her. “Yes, I think some hot chocolate would be nice. Thank-you for asking." She rose from bed and straightened herself quickly. "And what might your name be handsome?" She asked the little boy as she gracefully squatted down to be on his level.
He grabbed onto Mic’s leg and buried his head shyly against the back of his leg. “He’s a little shy, sorry. His name is Casey.” He squatted to pick up the child once more. “If you’re ready you can come down with us.” He paused slightly, clearly a bit uncomfortable with the situation.
"Sure," Donna replied, as uncertain as him. She descended the stairs after Mic and she knew for certain that the boy in his arms was his son. The little boy was adorable and Donna was drawn to him immediately.
He set Casey in a high chair that hadn’t been there when he and Donna had dinner, gesturing to Donna to sit. He sat next to Casey, across from her. “Are you feeling better now that you’ve eaten and bathed?” Oddly he was growing used to seeing her in Jaci’s dress, it was a little strange but it wasn’t disturbing. He stood, realizing he’d forgotten to tell Birdie they were ready for their nightly treat and returned to the table.
"Much better thank-you," Donna replied. She looked down at the dress realizing he was looking at it. She flushed softly. "I'm sorry...I'm sure this must bother you. I can put my things back on as soon as they're clean and I stitch them up a little...."
“Don’t be silly, it’s just odd to see how well it fits you is all.” He paused as Birdie brought out the hot chocolate and a plate of warm bread. “Have you thought about what it is you’re going to do, Donna? I mean if you don’t want to marry this man you spoke of, it seems going back to your uncle is out of the question. But do you have anywhere else to go?”
"No," Donna answered softly, "I just know the farther I get from him the better. I don't even want my money. I just never want to see him again. Do you know where I should go?" She asked hopefully.
“No,” he chuckled lightly as Casey downed his sippy cup. “I can’t wait until he’s older and realizes that it isn’t really hot chocolate he’s been getting all this time, only chocolate milk. But it’s a tradition of sorts.” He smiled slightly at the boy then turned his attentions back to her. “As far as where you should go. I really have no idea. You’re welcome to stay here for a while if you need to to figure out where to go.” He cleared his throat, “if the room isn’t suitable to you there are others that can be made up for you. But none of the others have a private bath.”
"No...I...I like that one if you don't mind," Donna replied softly, "It's beautiful. Your wife must have been a very loving and graceful person to have such a tranquil room."
He smiled, his attention drawn to Casey as he banged his now empty cup on his tray. He stood and got him out of the chair, shutting the doors to the room before setting him on the floor allowing him to walk around. “All the rooms have the sliding doors if they don’t have regular doors. I quickly learned in a house this size he has to be confined.” He chuckled as Birdie came in and removed the high chair and the sippy cup. Sensing Casey was content he returned his attentions to Donna. “It was meant to be tranquil, that was her favorite room in the house. She decorated it for when we had female company, and when she took ill that’s where she chose to be.” He cleared his throat, “and I don’t mind your staying there at all. It’s good to know her efforts weren’t wasted because other than her no female has stayed in this house for me to know if the room was adequately decorated.” He shrugged slightly with a half smile.
"I....I'm sorry to hear about your wife," Donna attempted kindness. Her eyes followed Casey wherever he went and she smiled at his curious antics. "He's so precious," she cooed without thinking.
“Yes, he is. Outwardly he’s me, but inwardly he’s her I can already tell. He’s stubborn and opinionated already.” He chuckled lightly as he stood and opened the door leading to the hallway. “Let’s get you to bed, buddy.” He extended his hand to Casey who took it then tugged on Mic’s pants pointing at the ceiling. Mic rolled his eyes, “you’re getting too big for me to carry you all the time. You can make those stairs, I’ve seen you.” He picked him up and turned to Donna. “If you follow me I’ll show you were the family room is. There’s a TV, stereo, computer, pool table, and anything else you can want in there.” He waited for her and led her down the long hallway and opened the door across from the stairway. “I’ll be down in a minute.” He left her at the doorway and made his way upstairs.
Donna found some light rock and turned on the CD player. Then she set up the pool table and sunk three in one shot. She gathered all the balls back up and set the table again. Then she wandered around and examined the furnishings. She was back at the pool table before he returned. "This is a beautiful home you have."
He poured himself a drink, watching her. “Thank you.” He pointed to the ceiling above the section of the floor that was wooden, “complete even with a disco ball.” He chuckled lightly as he flicked it on, “the kids love it. No one does much dancing.” He walked towards her and took the pool cue from her hand, laying it on the table. “Though I think I could be tempted if you’d indulge me and my two left feet, it’s a slow enough song I think I can hold my own.”
Donna shrugged and slid easily enough into his arms. She loved to dance and the smile on her face expressed it. She laughed whenever they would make a wrong step and stumble a little.
The song ended, but Mic was hesitant to release her. He stood holding her; she melded into his arms so easily. He pulled back gently, his feet taking a couple steps back. “Thank you,” he released her from his grasp his eyes watching her, the scent of the soaps and shampoos fresh on his mind. “You smell nice. You found all that in the bathroom?”
Donna nodded, "yes it was wonderful. It's lavender. I adore it." Her eyes were locked with his. Finally she flushed softly and looked elsewhere. "I think your two left feet have improved."
“I’m just out of practice, it’s been about three years I guess since I’ve danced, maybe longer. We have parties at the house and the kids use the dance floor more than I’ve ever used it.” He was rambling now, and he knew it. He closed his mouth, and then his silence seemed too abrupt. He was unsure of himself, standing on unfamiliar ground yet there was something oddly familiar about it. He held his breath for a moment, trying to gain control of his thoughts. His fist clenched and he returned to the bar. “Can I get you something to drink?” he asked softly. “I have soda if you want that.”
"Yes please," Donna smiled, "something clear if you have it. Otherwise I wouldn't mind some wine. I hear there are excellent vintages out this way."
“We’ll have wine with dinner tomorrow, I have none in here to offer you.” He poured her a Sprite and handed it to her. “So tell me what it is you do? I mean did you work? Were you a student?” He sat in a stool in front of the bar and continued, “I can’t help you figure out where to go if I don’t know that sort of thing.”
"I was actually just out of college in business administration field," Donna sighed, "I had always hoped to work from home. Of course my Uncle didn't want me to work at all."
“I can see that, if he wanted you married off you’d be of little use to him if you were self-sufficient.” He shrugged, “there’s not a whole lot out here. You’re welcome to use the computer in my office, that one has Internet access. This one in here doesn’t, because the kids use it.” He smiled, an idea coming to him. “You could work for me for a while. Jaci was my assistant, and I’ve never hired another. It would probably take you a few months to get everything in order, and I’d give you an impeccable reference when you’re through.”
"Sure..." Donna smiled, "I don't want to just free load here and I'm sure it would give me enough time to lay low. Thank-you."
“I have to warn you, it’s going to be quite a formidable task. Other than the checkbook to pay bills, nothing has been touched in that office in close to three years. So, you may run away screaming when you see it, but if you’d be willing to do it and show me where you put things so when you’re gone I can handle things on my own I’d appreciate it.” He finished his drink and stood, “I’m going to head to bed I think, Donna. Feel free to stay up if you want. There’s also a small sitting room next to the room you have, with a TV and a very comfortable sofa. Or if you’d prefer I could have one brought into your room.”
"No thank-you, that's fine," Donna smiled politely. She followed Mic back up to her room. She went next door and watched a little TV and then she lay in her room on her bed and thought of Mic and of little Casey and how odd all of this was until she fell asleep.
Mic woke the following morning before sunrise to oversee the beginnings of the sheering season. When he entered the woolen barn he couldn’t help but glance up at the loft that Donna had tumbled from and shake his head slightly, wondering if she had fallen from above for a reason. He hadn’t looked at another woman since Jaci died, the thought of women unappealing to him. But, now suddenly, he wondered if that was a foolish way to think. He shook his head again, shoving his hands in his worn jeans pockets realizing that she was just a temporary fixture in his home. He’d do well not to let Casey or himself get attached. He returned to the house about the time Casey woke up and after bathing and getting him into something he could run around in for the day he brought him down for breakfast. He was pleased yet surprised to see that Donna was already awake. “An early riser, eh? Or did this little varmint wake you?”
"Well I would have gotten him up when I heard him if I could have found him," Donna smiled, "he's so adorable, but I was up before I heard him."
“That’s all right, he’s on a pretty regular schedule by now and Maggie knows to tend to him if I’m not here.” As they ate breakfast, Casey getting more of his oatmeal on his highchair tray than he succeeded in getting in his mouth but it was obvious that Mic was willing to roll with the punches and let the boy make a mess within reason. When attempts were made to toss things on the floor he drew the line and the boy seemed to know exactly when he had pushed it too far. Birdie was heard talking to someone in the kitchen and suddenly a girl of about 12 came into the room. She smiled, her eyes narrowing slightly at Donna. She sat next to Casey and looked curiously at Mic. “I guess I’ve surprised you by coming home early,” she stated a hint of bitterness in her voice. Mic cleared his throat slightly as he sipped his coffee. “Not at all. This is Donna; she’s going to be helping out here for a while. Donna, this is my daughter, Lenae.”
Donna hid her surprise well. "Lenae, it's nice to meet you. I take it you've been away at school. Are you enjoying it?"
Lenae looked from her father to Donna, and though her mannerisms were polite it was clear by her eyes that the politeness was only skin deep. She smoothed back her raven tresses, a direct contrast to her father’s and Casey’s coloring - seeing them together one would never have suspected they were father and daughter. “No, I spent the week at my friend’s house.” She stood, placing her hands on the table. “Pardon me, Mrs.,” she trailed off, “I’m sorry Father didn’t give me your last name but I’m going to go up to my room I’m suddenly not very hungry.” She paused only to place a kiss on Casey’s cheek and left the room. Mic kept his eyes on his coffee cup, “I’m sorry. I guess I should have warned you. She’s a teenaged girl, and quite good at it.”
"It's okay. I'm sure I come as quite a shock just being here and then being in your wife's clothes..." Donna sighed. "Maybe I should stay in my room for meals...it may not be good to push things."
He held up his hand and shook his head. “Nonsense. You have nothing of your own and I’m afraid we only get into town once a week at best, and I’m afraid you wouldn’t find too much to your liking there. I’ll take care of Lenae, I think she had a different impression of who you are and why you are here.” He glanced at her hoping she caught his meaning, “I’ve often wondered if it’s not more difficult on her losing her mother than it was for me to lose my wife. I got Casey out of the deal, but I think now is the time Lenae needed Jaci most. I don’t know anything about makeup and hairdryers.”
Donna's eyes said what her lips would not. 'I do' her blue orbs said. She merely nodded in response to his speech.
Mic seemed to read the look in her eyes clearly, but he too said nothing. “Let me get him to Maggie and then I’ll show you where my office is.” He removed Casey from his high chair, setting him on the floor gently before taking a napkin and wiping off the child’s mouth and hands. “Let’s go find Miss Maggie, shall we, champ.” The boy ran off ahead of Mic in the direction he knew Maggie would be and Mic soon returned to the dining room. “If I ever speak to you like I do to him, please forgive me. But Lenae chooses not to speak to me very often, at least conversationally. So, sometimes I tend to talk to everyone, as if they were two.” He led her down the hall and to his office, flicking on the light switch revealing a spacious office expensively but tastefully and functionally designed. A conference table seating 12 was at one end of the office, his desk and an area presumably where she was to work at the other end. The condition of his office was even more severe than he had warned; it appeared that it hadn’t been used in months. He watched her closely with his back leaning against the door his arms crossed over his chest, the look of shock evident on her face.
"Umm...it's...it's going to be quite a challenge," Donna said. Then she thrust back her shoulders. "I can do it."
He chuckled. “Determination, that’s what I like to hear. I don’t expect you to slave away at this or anything, as far as I’m concerned you’re probably better off here than off on your own somewhere for a while until your uncle stops searching for you. Birdie and Maggie will say nothing and I’ll make sure Lenae knows not to tell anyone there’s a stranger at our house. It’s sheering season right now, so the ranch is busy and there are a lot of people coming and going so I’d recommend keeping to the house for the first couple of weeks. But take your time with the office. Just leave the checkbook where it is so I know where to find it and the rest you can do with as you please.” He pointed to a four-drawer filing cabinet. “That cabinet is empty so feel free to use it to stash stuff, and please take breaks. It’s not as if I’m paying you, you’re doing this in exchange for room and board so enjoy having some time off.”
Donna nodded, "Thank-you." She waited for him to go on about his way and went straight to work. She did work all day until just before dinner and her progress was definitely adequate if not more so. She then washed and dressed for dinner before finding the dining room. After dinner, she retired to her room only to fall asleep as soon as her head hit the pillow. She woke the next morning and dressed for the day, going downstairs for breakfast.
Lenae, Mic and Casey were already there; Mic stood and smiled slightly waiting for her to sit down. It was clear by Lenae’s body language that while she was not entirely pleased with Donna’s presence her father had convinced her that she was there only as a guest. “My father says you’re from America, I guess I should have known by your accent.” There was a question somewhere in her voice, but it went unasked as Lenae began to eat her dinner.
"Yes, I lived there all my life," Donna answered, "I think your country is fascinating though. It's very different from America in some ways and in some ways not. Maybe sometime you can tell me about Australia and I can tell you about America." Donna offered while they waited for dinner.
Lenae contemplated Donna quietly, not yet deciding whether or not she wanted to be nice to her. She finished her breakfast and after putting a hat on told her father she was going for a walk. Mic knew where she was going, but he bit his tongue. None of his men would touch her, not if they wanted to walk again. He watched her leave and finished his coffee. “I was thinking last night. Would your uncle recognize you dressed in my wife’s clothes?” He gave pause a moment letting his thoughts form clearly in his head. “I mean, if the three of us were to go into town to try and determine if anyone was looking for you. I don’t normally go into town, you see. And Casey has never been, so I would assume - that is to say - I would imagine people wouldn’t be looking for you to be part of a family.”
Donna nodded. "No I sincerely doubt that he'd notice me like this. Especially not if I did something with my hair or something. No one would think to look for me if I was with you and Casey. My uncle will be looking for a young blonde alone. If he's looking at all."
“Well, let me have Birdie put together a list of sorts and we can go shopping, it would be nice to get away from here for a while. I’ve been busy getting ready for the sheering season the past week, just buried one of my men last month, so a day away from here might be just what I need. How soon can you be ready?” He looked at her, his eyes really taking her in for the first time that day. He had come so close to kissing her the other night, and for some reason he knew that his eyes betrayed him.
"Oh it won't take me long," Donna replied, "maybe a half hour." She flushed softly and then hurried upstairs. She returned in a white sleeveless crepe dress with large roses printed on it. The dress fell mid-thigh and she wore white sandals to compliment it. Her hair was up in a beautiful French twist and her make-up was beautifully done. She looked a slight bit older done up as she was. "I'm ready," she said when she reached the bottom of the stairs.
Mic had changed himself, he wore a pair of black trousers and a dark maroon polo shirt and Casey wore a pair of denim overalls and a T-shirt with a pair of sneakers. “I think Birdie thought I’d grown a second head when I told her I was going to go shopping, but otherwise I think we’re all set too.” He led her to his car a silver, four-door sedan and held her door open for her before placing Casey in his car seat. Closing both doors before going to his side where he got in realizing he had left his keys with Casey. The keys were found and they started on their way. They arrived in the nearby town about 30 minutes later; Mic parked and helped them both out. “I imagine we should do the shopping last, some of the things on the list she gave me will spoil if they sit out here for any length of time. I guess I can stop at the post office first and then there’s a coffee shop that I imagine we could catch up on any gossip there.”
Donna nodded, she watched him get Casey out and she smiled at the little boy. He was absolutely precious. She waited for Mic to lead the way while she took in all the sights.
Once they’d gotten into the post office, he handed Casey over to Donna with only a moment’s hesitation. His hesitation instantly gone when Casey grabbed onto her neck and he saw that his son was comfortable in the woman’s arms. After the post office he stopped at the bank and then went to the coffee shop he had mentioned, knowing Casey would get antsy being someplace where there was food he ordered him some more oatmeal and ordered himself a Coke. “You never told me, or if you did I’ve forgotten. Did you meet the horny 50-year-old man your uncle was marrying you off to? I mean, maybe you would have liked him.”
Donna instantly shuddered with disgust. "He was a terrible man with shaky clammy hands and he pawed at me the whole time I was there. I couldn't stand him! He kept talking about how I wouldn't have to do anything all day except satisfy his needs. I am NOT a playboy bunny!"
He chuckled lightly, “well, I could see where he might get confused. Though admittedly, you’re far more attractive than any of the women I’ve ever seen in one of those magazines.” He offered her a smile and took hold of her hand politely. “If you can look without being obvious, there’s an older man to the left of Casey’s high chair. He’s been looking at us.” He handed her a Wet One, “I think his face could use being wiped off.”
Donna took the wipe and gently wiped Casey's face clean while the toddler protested good-naturedly. "That's one of my uncle's men," Donna replied in a trembling whispered when she turned back to Mic.
He smiled at the two of them, “just sit back down.” When she had, he took her hand in his familiarly. “You’ll need to keep your left hand out of view,” he said softly as he took a sip of his Coke. As the man scanned the room once more, Mic released his hold on her hand and brushed her cheek lightly with his thumb. “An eyelash,” he winked, the gesture was tender and suggested an intimacy that he hoped the man would pick up on and turn his attentions elsewhere.
It worked like a charm and after speaking with a few other people the man left and walked across the street to a nearby shop. "Do you think he recognized me?" she trembled.
He felt her trembling, but wasn’t sure if it was out of fear or due to his touch. “No, I don’t. As you said, he’s looking for a 22 year old, blonde girl who’s alone. Not a woman with a local man with a 2-year-old child, and in that dress and your makeup as it is you do not look 22. You look every bit a woman.”
Donna smiled, "Thank-you. Thank-you for taking care of me."
He smiled, “no reason to thank me. If I were in your shoes I don’t think I’d be too pleased at the prospects your uncle had planned out for you either.” He paid their bill and took Casey from the high chair and walked with her to the grocery store. He glanced at her clearly embarrassed, “I do hope you know something about grocery shopping, I wouldn’t know the difference between bread and milk to save my life.”
Donna smiled, "You don't grocery shop...this is an interesting place." She took Casey onto her hip and cooed at him while she picked up the things on the list like an expert.
He watched her and shook his head slightly; it bothered him in a way to see Casey take so easily to the young woman. A feeling of guilt came over Mitchell, wondering if he hadn’t been depriving his son of something important. Birdie and Maggie were servants, hired help, and while they loved the boy chances were if they were relieved of their duties they’d never return. At the same time, Mitchell wondered, what were the chances this woman would return either once she was settled back in America. “No, I’m afraid I leave shopping up to the people in the household who use the things they buy. They cook and clean, so it seems fair they should be able to select what items they prefer. Now, ask me about different types of feed and hay and I can talk to you until the sun goes down and then some about that.” “Is he too heavy for you?”
"No...I love him," Donna smiled, "he's precious and I don't mind looking after him at all."
“I’m surprised he’s taken to you so easily, you’re the first woman he’s ever seen aside from Birdie and Maggie, a few of the ranch hands wives, but they normally stay away from him for some reason.” He ruffled his son’s hair gently, his fingers gently brushing against her bare arm as he removed his hand and while normally he would have apologized for such contact, he found somehow he didn’t want to. He focused his attentions on the different varieties of ketchup on the shelf. “It’s a good thing I don’t do this, too many choices.”
"It's not hard. Birdie gave the brands she wanted too," Donna smiled, "huh little one?" she cooed to Casey. The shopping was very soon accomplished. "I think maybe no one wants to intrude on your wife's space."
He placed the groceries in the trunk while she got Casey settled in his car seat. When they arrived home Casey was more than ready for a nap, Mic took him upstairs and got him settled taking the opportunity to change into a pair of jeans. He found her in his office, “you’ve really taken to your task I see. I can actually see my desk, I had forgotten what it looked like.” He laughed lightly, his eyes narrowed slightly as he watched her. “Are you all right?”
"Yeah, I'm fine," Donna replied. "I just got so nervous. He could have taken me!"
“I wouldn’t have let him take you, Donna.” He chuckled lightly, “I know of no one else who would dare set foot in this office to clean it.” He saw her look at him and removed his hand from his front pocket and held it up, “I’m kidding, Donna. Really. You’re welcome to stay here as long as you need to, it’s about time we had some feminine influences here at Amulet. Maybe you’ll bring us some luck, too. I’m hoping for the fifth consecutive sheering season to have no deaths or injuries, to the men or the sheep.” He chuckled lightly, returning his hand to his pocket and his shoulder to lean against the door jam watching her.
"Can I watch them sheer?" Donna suddenly asked enthusiastically. "I've never seen it before. Maybe I can get some hands on experience."
“Well, we’d best wait a week or so for that. I’m just thinking in case your uncle or his henchmen come looking for you, you’re better off staying near the house where there’s only the household staff who has to lie about there being anyone new on Amulet. But, yes I see no reason why you can’t watch and maybe even participate a bit.” He watched with a raised brow as Birdie came in with a glass of iced tea for Donna. “I’ll let you get to work, I’ll see you for dinner I hope.”
"Of course, I wouldn't miss a meal here," Donna smiled, "You have an excellent cook." Donna watched him go and then got back to work. Organizing was easy Jaci had left everything in perfectly logical order. Donna found herself admiring his business sense.
Lenae came in a little while later, assuming it was her dad in the room. Her eyes opened widely when she saw it was Donna. “Oh,” she paused, startled though it was difficult for her to hide the amusement in her eyes. “I was looking for Dad. Is he inside do you know?”
"No I'm afraid I don't know. Anything I can do to help?" Donna asked, "or maybe you would like to help me?"
“Help you? I don’t know what I could help you with.” She looked down, biting her lip. “But I think I’d like that. Are you sure Dad won’t mind?”
"I'm sure he won't," Donna smiled, happy that the girl was giving her a chance. "Okay you see these files with the numbers, just match the number up here in the right corner with the file number please."
Lenae set to her task and worked for a while quietly. “So what’s America like? My mother was American,” she said softly. “But she never told me much about it.”
"Well the part that I'm from, Georgia is very beautiful," Donna began, "I used to live in Savannah which is one of the United States oldest cities. The houses are very pretty there. America has lots of different climates. The north even gets snow. We're not very spread out like Australia and you won't find a lot of sheep but you can find cows."
“Mom was from South Dakota I think, wherever Mount Rushmore is.” She shrugged lightly, “how did you end up here? Australia I mean? And here at Amulet?”
"Well...that's really a strange story," Donna smiled, "You see my father was killed in an accident and I was put off on my uncle. He didn't want me and he was always gone so eventually when I got old enough he brought me down here to marry a man so he could get money. I didn't like the man and knew it wasn't right so I ran away and I was hiding here." She looked gently at the girl, "please don't tell anyone about that."
Lenae shook her head, “of course not. Dad told me I wasn’t to tell anyone you were here, or that someone new was here. But I had no idea. I can’t imagine what I’d do without my dad, he’s pretty cool compared to most dads I know.” She shrugged slightly, “though I wish he’d quit being so protective.”
"He's only protective of you because he loves you so much," Donna said softly, "and probably because you remind him of your mom..."
“You know, that’s what’s so weird about it. I don’t look like either of them. I’ve often wondered if I wasn’t left on their doorstep or something,” she laughed lightly but it was obvious she wasn’t truly kidding. “Anyway, I take it you’re not married then? No kids? What happened to your mom?”
"My mom died giving birth to me," Donna said, her expression falling, "I never knew her." She was silent a long moment and then attempted to recover the good mood. "No, I'm not married and I don't have any children, but I think you and Casey are great. You're very smart for your age."
“That’s what happened to my mom,” she sighed. “Well, sort of. She was seven months pregnant when she died, since she was already hospitalized they were able to take Casey out in time I guess. I don’t really understand all of it. Sometimes I get so mad at her for getting pregnant.”
"Maybe it wasn't Casey who caused it," Donna replied softly, "maybe your mom was already sick and the pregnancy had nothing to do with it. You don't know that her being pregnant killed her. But still, even if it did, she didn't know that was going to happen. I'm sure she just wanted another wonderful child like you."
“How old were you when your dad died?” Lenae looked at Donna, “I mean you’re so young. I’ve never thought about my dad dying. He just seems too strong sometimes to let anything happen to him.” She looked out the room’s window as Mic and Casey came into the room. He chuckled lightly, “I just came to make sure you weren’t overly bored, but I see you have company.” He kissed the top of Lenae’s head, “dinner will be ready in a while ladies. I’m going out to the barn for a while to check on everything, but I’ll be back and then we’ll eat.” He picked Casey up and left the room. “You’re not going to stay, are you?” Lenae asked quietly.
"I'd like to for a while if that's okay with you," Donna replied. "I like it here. This is a nice house and besides I want to learn how to sheer sheep in a few days. Right now though we've got this to work on. You're doing really well. I can't believe you've almost got all of those filed."
“Thanks,” she finished putting the stack away she had in her lap. “I’m going to go upstairs for a while, but thanks for letting me help you. And thanks for talking to me like I’m a person; I think sometimes Dad still sees me as being Casey’s age. It gets annoying sometimes.”
Donna laughed softly, "Yeah I can imagine. He just needs a little tuning up. Thank-you for the help." Donna watched Lenae go upstairs and then went back to work. She finally finished cleaning it all up just before dinner. Now it was all organized and all she needed to do was make sense of it all and update it. She washed her hands and face and hurried to the dining room hoping she wouldn't be late.
Lenae was just putting Casey in his high chair when Donna came in; both children offered her a smile, Casey’s a little wider than Lenae’s. Mic came in a short while after Birdie had already served the dinner. “Sorry I’m late,” he glanced at Donna. “We’re pretty informal around here, but dinner is always at the same time every night. But, since you’re not one of my children if you ever don’t care to eat with us just let Birdie know.” Casey was talkative at the table, though most of it was difficult to decipher.
"You adorable little boy you," Donna enthused. She was very attentive to Casey and she tried to be to Lenae as well. "You daughter was such a giant help this afternoon. I would still be at it if it wasn't for her," Donna told Mic.
“I’m glad you found her something to do, school starts again in a week and I’m afraid I have little to keep her busy.” After dinner, Mic let Lenae deal with Casey for a little while and led Donna outside. “Would you like to see some of my ranch? You were passed out the other day when I brought you back to the house.”
"I'd love to," Donna smiled, "you're right I haven't seen much of it."
He walked with her to a Jeep and took her for a tour of his property. He stopped in front of a barn, “do you ride? Horses I mean? We’ve got about an hour of daylight left if you’re interested.”
"My father owned a ranch that I spent a good deal of time at. I can ride them anyway you please," Donna smiled. True to her word she mounted the horse he offered her effortlessly and easily opened the gate from the corral out into the pasture.
He followed her out and they rode together for over an hour, leading her back when clouds rolled in to avoid the rain. He helped her down from the horse she rode, his hand remaining in hers once she stood on the ground. He raised his free hand to her face, brushing her cheek lightly with the back of his hand. “Thank you for the company,” he said softly.
"You-you're welcome," Donna replied a flush creeping up her neck and onto her face. She moved from him and lowered her head as she headed back towards the house.
He cursed himself quietly, “Donna wait!” He walked towards her, “I’m sorry. You don’t need to walk back.” His voice was soft and sincere.
She turned back, still flushed bright red. "I'm sorry I just...I wasn't expecting..."
“And you shouldn’t have expected it, I’m sorry. You come here speaking of a man who paws you, and what do I do?” He ran his fingers through his hair slowly, his eyes avoiding her. “I hope you won’t rethink staying here, I assure you I don’t pose a threat to you.”
Donna opened her mouth. She wanted to tell him she had liked it, but then what would he think of her. She closed her mouth again and smiled at him. "I'm not going anywhere."
“Well, I’m glad because I have to admit you’re a welcome intrusion in our lives, to all of us it seems.” He pointed off to the horizon as they got into the Jeep. “We’re going to have a good storm tonight, probably about an hour or so away yet. We’ll probably lose power for a while so if you have anything you need to do I’d take care of it when we get back.”
Donna nodded, "maybe we should all find some lanterns and play a board game with Lenae in the living room."
He laughed lightly. “We’re well prepared for these types of things, storms roll in without advance warning sometimes. The power going out is a common occurrence. I think Lenae is going back to her friend’s house for the next couple of nights, but I think you could find me interested in playing some cards if she’s not available.”
Donna smiled, "Okay then...but I play a mean hand of cards. They don't like me in several of the casinos in Vegas in the US and practically every one on the Riviera. Of course my favorite game is Gin Rummy."
He laughed lightly, “I can just imagine.” They returned to the house and Mitchell walked in behind her, no sooner had they walked in then Casey ran in from his playroom into his dad’s arms. Mitchell picked him up and listened as he told him about the new toy Maggie had brought for him. He walked holding Casey into the hallway, and met with Birdie who told him Lenae had gone over to Shari’s for the night. “I guess it’s just us. She’ll probably end up staying there until school starts. I’m somewhat surprised she didn’t have Shari come here to meet you.”
"I don't know if she knows what to think of me," Donna replied honestly. "Maybe we should find something to do with Casey. You know it's important to spend time with your children. They'll remember it all their lives."
“Yes, I’m well aware of that. You just happened to come at a busy time around here. Being that most of Lenae’s friends live miles from here she doesn’t see them during the school week normally. And Casey normally comes out with me to do my overseeing, but with sheering season underway I keep him out of harm’s way. He’s too curious for his own good. I’ll read to him for a while, then we’ll have our hot chocolate and it will time for his bath and bed. Then we can play cards.” He cocked his head slightly, “isn’t there anyone you need to call to tell them you’re all right? Friends or anything?”
Donna shook her head, "No one. There's no one."
“All right, I just didn’t want you to feel like a prisoner here or that I was preventing you from calling someone.” He headed for the stairs, “we’ll be down in a minute, he’s not much for taking baths lately so it’s a pretty quick process.” He returned about 45 minutes later with Casey dressed in footie pajamas holding onto the book he wanted Mic to read to him. He found Donna in the living room on a love seat watching the rain as it started to fall, “care to join us for hot chocolate or does the weather have your attention?”
"I love to watch a good thunderstorm," Donna said, "can we watch it here."
He smiled at her enthusiasm for something most took for granted. “Of course,” he set Casey and the book down and went to tell Birdie to bring their drinks into the living room. He started a fire in the fireplace and lay down on his stomach on the floor with Casey to read.
"This is wonderful," Donna smiled. She looked down fondly at Casey with Mic.
Mic looked up at her with a slight smile when Birdie came in with their drinks. “Yes, it is kind of nice, isn’t it?” He sat up and held Casey in his lap, taking a sip of his hot chocolate as it thundered and lightening outside. “He loves storms. Lenae was scared to pieces of them. She crawled into bed with Jaci and I until she was about seven whenever it stormed.”
"I hope she's alright," Donna smiled softly, "I've always loved storms. Well as long as they're not terribly bad of course. I just love to watch the lightening and the rain calms me."
“I’m sure she’s fine, and she’d probably hate me for telling you that about her. She likes everyone to think she’s so brave all the time. Rain is calming, I agree. It washes away all the dust and grime and things start fresh.” After Casey had finished his chocolate milk, Mic excused himself and took Casey up to bed. He returned a little while later, “I wish I was that small. He was asleep on my shoulder before we got to the stairs.”
Donna smiled softly, "Babies and little children are so precious that way. They're so beautiful in sleep. I used to go to the hospital sometimes just to look in the nursery windows at them all. Their faces calm and fists curled up in sleep." Donna smiled and she was obviously elsewhere.
He walked to the French doors, his back towards her. “I remember the first time I saw Lenae. I didn’t want to look at her at first, but the minute I did any doubts I had flew out the window.” He clenched his fist tightly as he looked out the window, his mind obviously elsewhere as well.
"Why did you not want to look at her? You didn't want children when Jaci got pregnant?" Donna asked curious.
He looked at her almost as if he’d forgotten she was there, and then her question sunk in. “No, no. Lenae’s not my daughter. Jaci was sixteen when she got pregnant by one of the men that worked here at Amulet, she was one of the hands’ daughters and she thought the guy loved her. Well, he did for one night and then when he found out she thought she was pregnant he left.” He turned his back to her again and ran his hands through his hair. “I married her, I guess out of a sense of duty or honor. Whatever you want to call it, but she wanted the baby and for some reason she chose to come to me with this problem. Maybe she knew what I’d do, I don’t know. Anyway, I vowed that I would raise her as mine; it’s my name on her birth certificate. We were married within three weeks of her becoming pregnant, and Lenae was two weeks late so though people had their suspicions, only her doctor knows truly how far along she was.” He sighed heavily, “no one else knows what I’ve told you.”
"Oh I wouldn't say a word!" Donna quickly assured, "poor Jaci that must've been horrible for her and only 16..." Donna's mind began in a frenzy to work dates. Jaci was less than 30 when she had died. Donna began to wonder if Mic had loved her all along, or if he had grown to love her. She wondered if he resented Lenae. There were so many things to think about then. To escape them she quickly rose and hurried to the front door, taking the blanket she had around her with her and she fled out onto the front porch, curling up in the hammock on the side.
He left her alone for a while and when he finally did go to fetch her he found she had fallen asleep in the hammock. He chuckled lightly and watched as she slept, she looked so peaceful. His thoughts crept to Jaci’s last few months and how she slept, or didn’t sleep would be more accurate. Caught in his thoughts, he brushed the hair back from Donna’s face lightly before taking her into his arms. “You’re going to catch your death if you stay out here, the temperature can drop to almost freezing in no time during one of our storms.” She felt so light in his arms, easy to carry. Other than Casey, it had been so long since he’d held another human being he’d almost forgotten what it had felt like to hold a woman against him like this. He discounted the day he’d found her; he hadn’t been thinking clearly enough to think about it. He stood watching her face so peaceful as he held her, startled when she opened her eyes.
Unconsciously she curled closer against him. "We could get more blankets...it's so nice to listen to the rain out here. You could keep me warm." She added in her half-awake daze, smiling softly up at him with her sensual lips and her half-lidded eyes.
“I’ve got a better idea,” he whispered. He led her indoors and up the stairs to his room. After setting her on his bed gently he opened the French doors that led to a balcony overlooking the vast nothingness that was his backyard. His bed was mere feet from the doors, he had placed it here for exactly this reason - to be able to lie in bed and enjoy the weather. He sat on the edge of his bed and brushed back her hair, “you can enjoy the storm from here without catching your death.” His breathing was uneven, his voice caught as he spoke what he was thinking. “Would you still like me to keep you warm?”
"Mmm...." Donna smiled, "I wouldn't mind..."
He stood and walked to the other side of the bed, kneeling and then shifting so he was lying beside her on the bed. He brushed back her hair gently, “I don’t think you really need me.” His hand dropped to the blanket she had around her. “You’ve got this and your clothes. But I’m happy to oblige a lady in need.” He moved the blanket aside gently and traced her lower neck with his fingertip lightly.
Donna curled up against him. "I like thunderstorms..." she said softly and she turned to look out the window, perfectly comfortable.
He rolled onto his side, propping his head in his hand while his elbow rested on the pillow below him. He watched as the rain came down, the sound of the raindrops hitting the wooden floor of the balcony outside his room soothing him. “What’s your story, Miss Nammarth? Why does your uncle need to find you a beau? Are you too shy to find your own or is there another reason entirely?”
"He wanted to be rid of me without it costing him a fortune and my marriage would have given him access to a business merger he very much wanted." Donna replied.
“Yes,” he replied softly. “You’ve mentioned that. What I meant was. You’re a smart girl; you’ve gone to college. You’re a pretty girl; you’ve certainly managed to gather my attention, which is quite honestly more than I can say for anyone else in my 32 years of existence. So, my question, Miss Nammarth, is why wasn’t there a man back home asking for your hand? And for that matter just where in America are you from? I don’t know that you told me.”
"Georgia, Savannah Georgia," Donna replied, "and I was always with my father traveling so I never formed anything lasting and then my uncle was always sending me everywhere and again nothing lasting. It's not that I don't enjoy a handsome man's company..." Donna shrugged.
He nodded slightly, “I thought I detected a southern drawl.” He chuckled lightly. “So does that mean you are interested in something lasting? If you were to find the right handsome man that is.”
"Of course...I want a loving husband and a family same as any other young woman. I'm not the kind that likes a casual fling. I mean I guess they're alright but I never let them get too far."
He turned over onto his back, placing his hands behind his head as he stared at the ceiling. “When Jaci died I figured finally I had my chance to live my life the way I wanted to, but with Lenae and Casey that’s not possible. Not to mention living out here isn’t exactly the hot bed of social activities. Anyway now that Casey’s approaching three here in a few months, I’ve grown content with it just being the three of us. Lenae is going to go to boarding school next year,” he turned his head to look at her. “Only because I want her to have the best possible education I can give her and out here is not it. I’ve done fine so far, but I want her to go to college and get a degree of some sort. And then it’ll be me and Casey,” he shrugged slightly not wanting to admit exactly how lonely the prospect of that was to him.
"Sounds like you're going to miss her," Donna voiced her opinion. "You know I think it's nice out here. I can't see where you're missing anything."
“Oh, it’s nice enough. I’m certainly not complaining. But it’s not exactly prime territory for me to find someone I care about and court them. To be honest I guess Jaci did me a favor; I never had time for women and certainly not marriage or children. But she made it all not so bad, she was a good wife and took good care of our home. Obviously by the state of my office you can see who it was that really ran things. I’m sure if you hadn’t tumbled out from the loft in my barn I would have gone through and tackled it sooner or later, but I was in no hurry.”
"Obviously," Donna laughed. "So would you have married her if she hadn't been pregnant? Do you ever think you'll marry again?"
“No, I wouldn’t have married her. I was fond of her don’t get me wrong. She was smart and pretty and a good person, but I really had no intentions on staying here. But her father didn’t have the money to send her away anywhere and she wanted to keep the baby, Lenae.” He sighed heavily, “I’m not sorry. And I love Lenae just as much as Casey even if she does look like her father.” He turned his attentions back to the storm outside, “I suppose I’d marry again for the right reasons though. Admittedly I could have done worse, we were friends and I think that’s why we managed to stay happy as long as we did. She gave up her life to give me my son, I don’t know that many people would have done that husband or no husband.”
"What....what happened?" Donna asked turning doe eyes to Mic. She looked rather upset.
He looked down at her, “she had cervical cancer. Advanced stages, she got pregnant and stopped her treatments knowing that she may not survive. I tried to talk her out of it, we had Lenae after all, but she seemed to think for some reason that it was important to me to have a child of my own. I don’t know what exactly she was thinking, so now instead I was a 30 year old man with a 10 year old daughter and a newborn son who had never gotten to touch his mother. I’m not sure I won anything.”
Donna burst into tears. "Oh that's so terrible!" She buried herself against his chest instinctively to cry. Then she got embarrassed and tried to move from the bed, still sobbing.
He pulled her back against him instinctively, and smoothed her hair down. “It’s all right, really. I miss her don’t get me wrong. But I think I had time to adjust to life without her. That may sound harsh, and I don’t mean it that way. But when someone has a terminal illness I think you emotionally prepare for it before it physically happens.” He ran his hands through her hair gently. “I probably just made myself out to be a heartless bastard, and I’m sorry. I’m not really. But life hasn’t exactly turned out how I planned.”
"Well neither has mine," Donna answered sniffling. She drew her tears to a close. "Look at me a guest in your house taking over your bed and crying against your shirt, all this AFTER I fell out of your loft!"
He smoothed his hand along her arm with a slight laugh. “I have to admit this isn’t exactly how I envisioned your joining me in my bed, but it will do. And I’m not sorry at all you fell out of my loft, Donna. Really. You’re a welcome intrusion.” He tilted her head up to face him, drying her tears with his thumb and noticing he missed one he lowered his lips and kissed her cheek, gently kissing the tear away.
Donna flushed red all over and then for some reason she didn't know she leaned in and kissed him passionately. "Oh I'm sorry!" she exclaimed.
He took hold of her arm and prevented her from pulling back, “why are you apologizing?” He looked at her closely, his mouth inches from hers. “I liked it. I’d like to do it again. There’s something about a rainstorm and a pretty girl sitting on my bed that brings out the romantic in me.”
"But the children and your wife and...." Donna said breathily but she found herself kissing him again anyhow.
He touched her cheek lightly. “Jaci’s not here, Donna. Lenae is at her friend’s house and Casey is asleep. She never slept in this bed if that’s on your mind.”
"You want me to sleep with you?" she asked breathily as the storm raged on outside. "I...I can't do that without some sort of commitment. I'm not asking for marriage I just..." she flushed the worst he'd ever seen. "I've never...never..."
“Honey, I was just enjoying kissing you. You’re the one who seemed to think my former wife and my children should prevent me from kissing you. We happen to be here, laying on my bed and you like storms. It doesn’t seem to be letting up and my bed offers a perfect view.” His thumb brushed her cheek again lightly. “You can kiss me without a commitment, can’t you?”
Donna leaned in and began the kiss nervously but it ended up being as wonderfully and shyly passionate as she was. She followed that kiss with another and another.
He smiled slightly, obviously surprised by her assertiveness. “Was that so difficult?” He kissed her again, rubbing her back lightly.
"Um...no," Donna answered truthfully but nervously. "You make it hard to resist."
He raised a brow slightly, “do I? Well, in that case, perhaps I should do it again.” He offered her a smile as he traced her jaw line with the pad of his thumb. He pushed her back lightly on the bed and kissed her deeply, his tongue tracing her lips. He groaned appreciatively at the warmth of her lips. It had been so long, too long he reminded himself as a clap of thunder was heard nearby.
Donna wrapped her arms around his neck, holding him there as they continued to kiss. Her breathing had changed and he could feel her chest heaving beneath him. Her face was beautifully colored, not with shyness or embarrassment but with sensuality.
Mitchell pulled away briefly noting the change in her breathing, wanting to be sure she was all right. Noticing the flushness of her face he smiled slightly, his desire clearly registered in his eyes. He brushed her hair back from her neck and kissed the side of her neck lightly, his teeth nipping lightly until he reached her ear. “You smell wonderful,” he whispered heavily in her ear before returning his attentions to her ear with his mouth. Slow, sensual kisses and caresses from his tongue which oddly aroused him more. He groaned at the effect she was having on him, that he was having on himself.
She was trembling against him, "Oh Mic," she gasped softly, "don't stop...don't stop this is wonderful."
“Mm,” was his soft response as he traced her neck lightly with kisses moving his hand to work the button at the top of her dress allowing him to kiss lower on her neck and collarbones. He placed his hand against her face, his thumb rubbing her lips before his fingers traced down her neck lightly stopping when he cupped her breast in the palm of his hand. He lifted his mouth from her neck to look at his hand resting on her covered breast his thumb gently caressing her nipple. He looked from his hand to her face hesitantly.
Donna took a deep breath and trembled. "I'm okay..." she finally decided to whisper softly.
He nodded slightly and brought his mouth again to hers, kissing her softly. He moved his hand from her breast to the top of her dress, unbuttoning more buttons so that he was able to reach under her dress with his hand. He sought her breast again, his warm hand slid under the cup of her bra to touch her bare breast. His hand was still and unmoving as his kisses grew in intensity.
Donna felt sensations rushing through her that she had never felt before. She liked the feelings but they frightened her. Be brave little one, her father had always told her. She held out, returning his kisses and caressing his chest and his nipples as well.
He finished unbuttoning her dress, pushing it open so he could look at her body. He broke his kiss when he felt her bare stomach against his hand. He inhaled sharply, then trailed kisses down from her lips along her neck and upper chest to her breasts. He reached around her back and unfastened her bra watching her chest heave up and down. He took a nipple between his thumb and index finger rubbing it gently then lowered his mouth to claim her now erect nipple. He looked up at her, “tell me to stop, honey, and I will but I’m going to reach a point here pretty soon that it’s going to be awfully difficult to do.”
"I don't...I don't know that I want you to," Donna gasped out, surprised by her own words. She took her turn with her mouth on his nipples and then his ears before recapturing his mouth.
He kissed her passionately as he got himself out of his shirt, taking her hand and placing it against his chest. His hands explored her breasts, stomach and hips before resting on her thigh. He placed himself gently between her thighs, a hand caressing her thigh possessively as he broke the kiss. “I don’t want me to either, sweetheart.” His arousal was evident even through his jeans as he pressed himself against her.
Donna's hands explored his chest while her mouth played with his Adam’s apple. She moaned and writhed against him, begging for more of his attentions.
He lifted her towards him to remove her dress and bra and after a brief kiss to her mouth lowered his lips to her breasts, circling both nipples with his tongue leaving them taut and wet from his attentions before trailing kisses along her stomach. He slid her panties down along her thighs before returning his hands to her womanhood a finger sliding in gently as his thumb grazed the spot above. He brought his mouth to her breasts as he continued his gentle thrusts with his finger. “Are you all right, honey?” he asked before taking a nipple in between his teeth, teasing it mercilessly. “Lord knows you feel more than all right.”
Donna was making small mewing, gasping noises. She was trembling against him. "This feels so good but I'm scared," she gasped out.
Encouraged by the noises she made he increased the intensity of his thumb, the finger within her still for the moment. “Scared of what, honey? Me?” His breath was warm on her breast as he spoke. “It’s not like I do this every day, if that’s what you’re thinking. Far from it, there’s been no one since Jaci.”
"Scared of what I'm allowing to happen to me," Donna replied, "I've never....and here I am..."
He smiled slightly, bringing his mouth to hers. “Yes, and here you are.” He kissed her again before standing from the bed slowly, removing his jeans quickly. He was obviously comfortable standing before her this way as he reached over her and opened his nightstand drawer. He returned to the bed, resuming his spot on top of her his manhood pressing against her. “It’ll be good, Donna. I’ll be gentle.” He kissed her, nibbling on her upper lip as his hand grazed her waist and thigh lightly.
Donna trembled and looked up at him. Her eyes locked with his. She wrapped her arms about his neck again and kissed him passionately.
He broke the kiss and knelt before her as he placed a condom on then returned to her. “Look at me, Donna. I need to hear you say yes, as nice as your kissing me is I don’t want to force you into this.” How he had the willpower at this point he had no idea, but he had to know that she knew what she was about to do, they were about to do. He placed a finger inside her again, a mistake he realized because all that did was make him think about how she would feel around him when he made love to her.
Donna was quiet and still for a long time. "Yes," she finally squeaked out in a voice she hardly recognized.
With that yes, his mouth reclaimed hers as he guided himself inside her. He inhaled sharply, pausing briefly to let her body adjust to him being inside of her. He lowered his mouth to capture her breast resuming his thrust inside of her. He moved his mouth to her neck, kissing lightly. “Good God,” he whispered softly. “You’re so tight, like a glove around me.” He moved gently, his thrusts slow and short as he kissed her.
Donna moaned and gasped and writhed begging for more. She began to meet him thrust for thrust as she enjoyed his attentions.
His thrusts grew bolder as she responded to him, his kisses increasing in intensity as one hand went around her waist to hold her close to him, the other attentive to her breast. His breathing grew ragged and short as his desire built, he wouldn’t be able to hold back much longer. Finally, his lips parted as he kissed her and a groan escaped his mouth as he spent himself. He continued thrusting within her wanting nothing more than to please her. “I’m so sorry,” he whispered softly, his mouth near her ear.
The husky sound of his voice made her body climax and she clung to him tightly, fear obvious as her eyes opened wide. She was panting wildly and two tears escaped down her cheeks, "sorry for what?" she panted back.
He kissed her lightly as he stood and walked into his bathroom returning a minute later to lie beside her on his side, his hands tracing lightly over her naked body. “About it being so fast. I’ve never been with anyone who’s never before. I had no idea it would feel so unbelievably good. It’s a good thing I had a condom on or I probably wouldn’t have lasted as long as I did.” He leaned down and kissed her. “Are you all right, Donna?”
"I...I think so," Donna replied, "I certainly can't say I regret it now that it's done...I know this sounds stupid to you I'm sure but...I'm officially a woman now."
“Sweetheart, you were a woman before now. Believe me, you wouldn’t be laying here with me now if that hadn’t been the case.” He chuckled lightly then looked outside to where it still stormed. “You will stay here, won’t you? I mean tonight, I’d feel awful foolish if you got up and went to your room after that.”
She looked at him a moment with surprise thinking of the staff and the children but then she remember Lenae was gone and Casey could not reach them. They would not be disturbed. "Umm...I need some pajamas?" she suggested not knowing anything about romance and adult relationships.
He chuckled lightly with his eyebrow raised. “Do you now?” He stood from the bed and went to his dresser, pulling out a plain white T-shirt and tossed it to her on the bed. “That’ll have to do, ma’am. I’m afraid I have nothing with frills or lace on it. But I’d quite honestly prefer you sleep as you are, if I have any say in the matter.” He returned to the bed and stretched out on his stomach, his feet hanging off the edge of the bed, his face buried in his pillow.
Donna shrugged and discarded the shirt and then she pulled up the covers and snuggled in. "Mmm...I could get used this bed."
He turned his head on the pillow to look at her with an amused smile on his face. “Well, I’d be a fool to tell you that you weren’t welcome in this bed whenever you care to grace it with your presence. So, please get used to it. I certainly won’t complain.” He gestured to the king size bed, “and there’s certainly enough room for the both of us.”
She smiled at him and then it occurred to her to ask something. "Why Mic? Why me? Why now? What did all this mean? Please at least tell me it wasn't just sex. I think I'd have to cry if I realized I lost my virginity to just sex."
He sighed heavily and sat up in the bed. “No, it wasn’t just sex. If by “just sex” you mean something I could have equally shared in with a woman I had absolutely no knowledge of. But I can’t really tell you what it was, more than I kissed you and you responded and it went from there. I certainly wasn’t planning on this happening if that’s what you’re asking. I didn’t see you topple out of my loft and quickly ascertain that I could have you in my bed within a week’s time if that’s what you’re asking me.” He ran his fingers through his hair, “It wasn’t just sex, Donna, but it wasn’t more than that either. I don’t know if I’m making myself clear, and I’m probably pissing you off in the process.”
"You might want to quit while I'm still thinking positively about the whole thing," Donna sighed, "I guess it's enough that you want me to stay." She snuggled close and then turned so she could watch the rain as she fell to sleep. "I thought it was wonderful," was the last thing she said sleepily before she drifted off entirely.
He held her close to him through the night, thankful that Casey wasn’t an early riser. He kissed her cheek lightly when he woke up, “the rain’s stopped.” His head returned to the pillow, his arm at her waist keeping her close by.
"It's too early to get up..." Donna moaned softly, "I feel like just cuddling in bed and laying for a while...feel how wonderful the air is...." She turned around and with a smile she kissed him.
He chuckled lightly and returned the kiss. He stood from the bed and tossed her the T-shirt he had offered her the night before as he slid on a pair of boxers. “Why don’t we go see the effects of that storm out on my balcony?”
"Mm....okay," she said languidly as she stretched and then slipping on the shirt she followed him out onto the balcony, "oh it's beautiful!" she gasped, enjoying the view. "Oh my goodness a roo!" she exclaimed with overzealous excitement as she pointed down below them.
He laughed lightly, enjoying the sparkle in her eyes as he wrapped his arms around her from behind. “I’m sorry, Donna. Not about what happened, but what I said afterward. I don’t know what you wanted me to say, but I can’t lie to you either.” He kissed the back of her neck lightly. “I like you, I can’t deny that. You’re interesting, but I also don’t want you thinking I’m a horny 30-something year old man who can’t stop from pawing you either.”
"I just wanted to know that you did it because I was special, because something about me made me somewhat unique," Donna said with her back to him. "That you don't just plan on doing it once and expecting me to move on and forget it happened or treat it like a mistake."
“Honey, if you moved on and forgot it happened then I would have done something terribly wrong last night.” He chuckled lightly, “but I certainly don’t consider it a mistake and I’d welcome the opportunity to show you that I have a little more stamina and restraint than I demonstrated to you last night.” He lowered his hands to her buttocks, rubbing it lightly. “You were just too much for this old man.”
Donna burst into the giggles, "You? old? Ha! You'd easily pass for 27 and my father always said I need a man older than me to be able to understand me and one that could properly take care of me given my nature." She laughed lightly, "that aside I do not think you're old and I don't think I want to go back to the way things were before last night."
“Well, I’m glad because I don’t know that I could stand it. Now that we’ve shared such closeness, I may act like that man that couldn’t keep his hands off. I’m sure you may not understand exactly how long three plus years is, but I’d sure like to demonstrate.” His hands moved from her buttocks to her hips then between her thighs, “or are you sore?”
"Unfortunately I'm really pretty sore..." Donna sighed.
He picked her up abruptly and brought her back indoors, placing her on the bed. He pushed the T-shirt up to her waist and watched as he gently placed a finger within her. “Too sore, eh? Let me see if I can help.” He brought his mouth to meet his hand, his tongue and teeth latching on to her nub teasing it gently. He looked up at her briefly before returning his attentions to pleasing her.
Donna began to moan and writhe almost immediately and he was soon rewarded with her heat. "Oh wow, oh wow that feels good!" she gasped out. He could already feel her beginning to tense.
He increased the attention from his tongue, a second finger joined the first as he gently thrust them within her. He broke away slightly as he felt her respond. “It’s all right, honey. Make love to my fingers,” he whispered softly as he watched her body respond, a soft groan leaving his lips as he felt himself grow hard. He brought his other hand up to her breasts and caressed them lightly. He stopped moving his fingers within her, a wicked grin crossing his lips. “Are you sure you’re too sore?”
"Oh please Mic," she cried out, "make love to me!" she practically demanded.
“Donna, I don’t want to hurt you. Just let yourself go, close your eyes and pretend my fingers are other parts of me if that helps.” He started his fingers thrusting gently within her again, returned his mouth to her womanhood while his free hand cupped her breast in the palm of his hand.
Donna felt herself tense so much she began to shake and then he was coated with her orgasm. It wasn't very long before he could feel her tensing again. "Please oh please don't stop."
He didn’t stop, but kept going the only thing changing was the pressure he applied to her nipples as her body orgasmed. When he was confident she was done, he trailed up her stomach and breasts with his tongue and mouth to her neck and ears. “You’re delicious, honey.” His arousal was evident as his erection rested against her thigh. He took her hand and placed it around him, “touch me, Donna.”
Hesitantly at first she touched him the feeling strange and new to her. Then as she got more confident she began to stroke him better, more sensually. "Like this?" she asked nervously wanting to please him as much as he had pleased her.
He moaned in response enjoying her eagerness to please him. After a while he placed his hand on hers. “We’d better stop now,” he kissed her lightly, biting her upper lip gently. “Either that or I’m going to make a mess on your leg right here in about two minutes.” He inhaled sharply as she touched him in an overly sensitive spot.
She obediently withdrew her hand and scooted back over onto her pillow lying languidly out on the bed she smiled, satisfied. "I feel better now."
He groaned lightly in response, “better enough to …” His voice trailed off as he gestured to his still aroused state. “Either that, or continue with what you were doing. You have to shower anyway, right? I can't go down to breakfast like this.” He shrugged helplessly.
"I'd rather have you make love to me but I don't mind the other," Donna shrugged.
He smiled slightly before kissing her, “I kinda hoped you’d say that.” He reached over her and put on the condom he took out, “I haven’t needed one of these in quite some time and now I use two in less than 24 hours. I guess I should buy some more maybe.” He smiled and pulled himself on top of her, “let me know if I hurt you. I’m admittedly not used to having to be quite so concerned about that.” He held onto her hips as he thrust into her gently but boldly. He kept his upper body off hers this time, wanting to watch her. He brushed back her hair and brought his hand to her face wondering how he could continue doing this without giving her his heart. He closed his eyes, willing himself not to think about it. “You feel so perfect around me, honey.”
"It's amazing having you inside me," she called back. Again she met his thrusts with her own counter thrusts, wanting to make the sensations greater and greater. She felt herself truly tensing this time and after holding out as long as she could which wasn't very long she exploded, her inner muscles caressing him.
Her tensing brought him over the edge himself he called her name softly before bringing his head to her chest. He kissed her lightly then after a few minutes lifted himself off of her and returned to her after he walked to the bathroom. He lay down next to her on the bed and traced her upper lip with his index finger. “What am I going to do with you? This has nothing but trouble written all over it, you realize that don’t you?” He narrowed his eyes slightly as he looked up at her.
"What do you mean?" she asked sitting up in sudden alarm.
“Mm, you’re young, college educated. I’m not so young, not college educated, and am perfectly content living here alone with my kids. You want a commitment of some sort, and I’m not so sure I can offer you that. I can offer you a commitment for here and now, and admit the desire to know more about you. But nothing more than that. I don’t want to hurt you, but I like this too and don’t want to give it up.”
Donna looked at him quietly a moment and then walked serenely out onto the balcony. She dropped her head. "I want to be with you," she said soft enough that he could just barely make out and understand what she had said.
“But is that enough for you, Donna? I guess that’s what I need to know, and if it is I’d like to make a suggestion.” He watched her not going out to the balcony to join her. “Thank God for servants,” he mumbled as he noticed the time.
"I...I don't know....I mean it is right now but I can't say....I can't even say in a year's time that it will be enough," Donna said turning around. "I guess you can't see it from my point of view or no maybe you can. Anyhow, I just feel like, I've never been in love never been married before and I'd like to sometime, maybe not now but I don't want to give up the idea forever."
He stood slowly and walked towards her, “I’m not asking for a year from now, honey. I’m just making sure for now that this is all right. If in a month you decide you’ve had enough and you want to leave, I’ll understand.” He leaned over the railing, “I’m still going to make that suggestion though. I’ll pay for it.” He looked at her, “let me take you to the doctor for birth control. I’ve only been with Jaci, she’d only been with one man before me, and you’ve never been with anyone but me so I think we’re safe medically. And I feel like it cheapens it when I have to get up out of bed afterwards. I’d rather be able to stay inside you, linger, kiss, feel myself get hard within you again.”
Donna had heard plenty about birth control and knew the sensibility of his request. She nodded, "Okay...we can do that."
He breathed out a sigh of relief, “now are you hungry? Casey’s probably been up for an hour at least, and I really do have things to tend to outside of my bedroom as much as I’d enjoy spending the day here.” He brushed her cheek lightly with the back of his fingers and kissed her, “come to the barns with me, I’ll introduce you as my girl friend.” He met her gaze, “is that enough commitment for you for now, Donna?”
Donna smiled and kissed him. "Sounds good to me," she flushed softly. She left him and went to shower. She met him again at the breakfast table not surprised to find Casey there as well. She had on a peach dress that flattered her coloring and her hair was up in a beautiful French twist in the back. "I hope no one here works for my uncle or I'll have gotten you into more trouble than I'm worth I'm sure." She dove into her breakfast, attacking it with her appetite but still being very much the wealthy, classy lady she had been raised to be.
“How would they know if we don’t tell them your last name,” he caressed the top of her hand lightly. “It will be all right, Donna. Really. I’m not quite as well off as your uncle, but I can hold my own and I’m respected well enough that I think I could get him to leave you alone if he dared come on my property.” He chuckled lightly, “besides now you can tell that 50 year old man that you’ve been with a man and I bet he loses interest right away.”
Donna smiled and flushed softly immediately turning her interest to her breakfast which she amazingly enough finished. She was done before him and so she scooped Casey out of his highchair. "Hello there young man. What do you want to do today?" she cooed at him walking around the room with him in her arms.
“He’s luckier than I am,” Mic said as he finished his breakfast. “Even had I wanted to I couldn’t be held like that by you.” He winked and grabbed jackets for all of them, helping Casey into his while Donna held him. He took Donna’s hand then. “Let’s go look at the sheep shall we little man?”
Donna was glowing with his sentiments and adoring Casey's affection as he curled against her, willingly accepting her. "Sheep!" he exclaimed when he saw one. Donna laughed delighted. "Very good," she commented, "you're adorable." She kissed the toddler on the cheek.
Casey wiggled free to get down and go exploring, obviously a familiar sight as the men said hello first to their boss than to Casey. More than one of them glanced back at Mic and the lady’s hand he was holding, though he said very little other than about the status of the sheering. He pulled his foreman aside, a young man in his early twenties. He released Donna’s hand for a moment and walked with Billy to the opening of the barn. They returned a few minutes later and Mic reclaimed Donna’s hand, “pardon my manners. Donna this is Billy, my foreman.” Billy tipped his hat politely with a smile. “It’s a pleasure to meet you, miss. Mitchell tells me you’re from the States, I hope you’re enjoying our piece of heaven.”
"Loving it. It's beautiful country, you don't get scenes like this in America, not even close," Donna enthused with a smile. "I even saw a kangaroo out here this morning!"
He smiled and took a final glance at Donna before returning his attention to Mic, “I guess I need to rethink the whole Internet thing. I’ve always wondered what you had against Australian women, Boss, but I should have known if the former misses was any indication.” He tipped his hat again at Donna and returned to work. Mic turned his attentions to Donna with a shrug, “I had to tell him we met somehow, sorry. It seemed more believable than my stumbling across you in town the other day.”
"Or my falling out of your loft?" Donna laughed lightly, "we met over the internet hmm? so what does that make me, an electronically ordered girlfriend?" She laughed lightly. "What did he mean about your having a thing against Australian women and the former misses?"
“No, I certainly didn’t order you,” he laughed. “Well, Jaci was American. And I’ve never had any interest in dating anyone since Jaci died. So I guess he thinks it has something to do with Australian girls.” He watched Casey out of the corner of his eye, though it was obvious when he smiled it was meant for her.
"Oh," Donna said, again surprised. She took a couple of steps from him then and looked all about her at the landscape. It was absolutely beautiful. The home was large with balcony and porch all the way around it. There was a tower on one corner that reached all the way up to the third floor. There were several barns and stables out across from that and beyond them kilometers and kilometers of fence as far as she could see. The landscape was beautiful too and she couldn't help the gasp of wonder that escaped her.
He turned his attention fully to her when he heard her gasp, “what’s wrong?” He looked at the direction she was looking and seeing nothing was more than curious.
"Nothing it's just so beautiful out here," Donna replied. "It's so gorgeous it almost takes your breath away. I think I could take pictures forever out here and never get a duplicate." She walked over towards where Casey was, "now what?" she asked turning back to him a moment later.
“Well, I’ll show you around Amulet if you’d like to see it. You mentioned a relative having a ranch, I’m sure it’s not too different from that. But I always enjoy showing off my land, and Casey loves to see the animals.”
"Okay then," Donna smiled, "let's go see the animals Casey. Let's see what makes your father such a well-known and respected dingo," she laughed.
He picked up Casey and took Donna by the hand and led her out of the sheering barn. The first stop was the dairy barn, “we’re pretty self sufficient here on Amulet. We make our own milk, slaughter our own steers and hogs, Jaci used to have a nice vegetable garden but that’s been defunct for quite some time now. No one else seems to know how to tend it right, I keep hoping Lenae will take an interest in it.” He shrugged and stopped as they walked past one of the stalls where a worker was putting the equipment on the cow to begin milking her. “There are some men who work here that are so young they don’t even remember when we had to milk cows with our own hands,” he laughed lightly as Casey pointed at the cow.
"I have milked a cow by hand before but I prefer not to," Donna laughed lightly. "And what sound do cows make Casey?" she asked the toddler.
Casey laughed in response to the two of them and buried his head shyly against his dad’s shoulder as he moo’d. They walked through the dairy farm to the back where the steers and bulls were kept. “I’ve got two bulls, the rest are steers. One of the bulls remains a bull because he’s just so damned ornery no one will go near him to try and castrate him. Not that I can complain, he’s made me some damn nice calves over the years.” They left the barn and went into another where the calves were, “the mothers are left here until they can start milking again. Right now I don’t think we have any that have given birth that recently. Though we’ve got four calves due within the next month I believe.” He kept walking and they entered a barn with horses, the same one they had been in the other day. He set Casey down as they came upon a mare that was pure white aside from a few small splotches of brown, he reached up and touched her nose affectionately. “This here is Ismene she’s a great animal. She was Jaci’s and is now Lenae, though Lenae doesn’t ride her often anymore.” He turned to Donna, “she’s a wonderful rider. I’ve tried to encourage her but she just doesn’t seem to hold any interest in the things Jaci did. I’m not sure why.”
"Probably because they remind her too much of her mother," Donna said gently, "she's at that age where she really needs a mother to talk to. You know...the changes of life and everything...boys."
“Yes, I’m well aware of that, which is why I think she enjoys spending so much time at her friend Shari’s house.” He shrugged slightly, “I guess I’m afraid she’ll stop doing all these things to prevent from thinking about her and then she’ll forget. Does that make sense? The garden I can understand, but riding I don’t. She’s good, and she’s small enough build wise I’ve often thought she could be a jockey. She can control any horse like the best men around here. That’s what I’m afraid of, that not only will she lose her mother’s memory but her gift as well.” He picked up Casey again, letting him pet the horse. “You want to hear the most ironic thing about this?” He laughed lightly, “her father came back after Jaci died. I’m not sure why he did exactly, but he did. He didn’t even ask about the child they made. And I certainly didn’t rush out to offer him any information about Lenae; she’s mine as far as I’m concerned. I didn’t make her, but I raised her. I hope she and Casey will take over and run Amulet one day. I just couldn’t believe a man could be so uncaring about something, even 10 years later. It made me realize all the more that I’d done the right thing.”
Donna nodded, "She and I had a real good talk yesterday while she was helping me. I worry about her too, even though it's not my place."
“Well, you’re a woman and closer to her age than I am, so I imagine she’d talk to you about things she won’t to me.” He shrugged and kissed her spontaneously, his mouth lingering on hers briefly before he pulled away. He smoothed down Casey’s hair, his eyes remaining on her. “What else would you like to see, sweetheart?”
"Well maybe Casey and I had better go do something and let you get your work finished so we'll have time tonight," she looked at him seductively. It was easy to see the change in her even in the last 24 hours.
He leaned towards her as he gave her Casey. “Keep looking at me like that and I’ll be tempted to forget all about my work.” He kissed Casey and kissed her on the cheek politely. “I’ll be in for lunch in a few hours, and then I’ll have to spend some time this afternoon doing paperwork. Maybe if I’m lucky enough it’ll be timed to coincide with Casey’s nap,” he winked as Casey shook his head no to the idea of a nap. “No, it’s not naptime now, slugger.”
Donna laughed lightly, "No...no nap right now Casey," she assured him. “Right now I think we're going to go and build with your blocks." She kissed Mic and then took Casey up to his room and closing the door to make sure he couldn't go anywhere she sat down with him to play.
A while later, Birdie entered the room with lunch for both of them. “Mr. Hall suggested I bring this up for the two of you, he said he wouldn’t be in to eat until dinner.” She smiled slightly at Casey as she set the tray down and left the room. “I’ll be back in a while to get the dishes,” she closed the door behind her.”
Donna got Casey ready to eat and then carefully watched him while she ate her sandwich. Once they had both finished she sat him in the chair to read to him. Luckily for her he fell asleep halfway through the story and she tucked him in. Then she went to her room but she couldn't get comfy so she went to his room and curled up on the comforter and went to sleep.
Mitchell came in from outdoors tired and filthy from head to toe. One of the bulls had managed to get out of his stall and it had been hell trying to get him back in, one of his men had almost been gorged in the back by the bull’s horns. Mic had seen that happen before and was glad he didn’t have to watch it happen again. A more bloody and painful way to die he didn’t know existed. He was peeling off his shirt, by now it was stuck to his body before he fully entered his room. He tossed it in the hamper and was startled to see a sleeping figure on his bed, and with seeing her came desire and arousal. “Damn,” he whispered softly. “Perhaps I should be taking a cold shower.” He went into the bathroom and showered returning to his bed with just a towel around his waist. He stood over her, watching as she slept something he really hadn’t had the chance to do the night before. “You’re beautiful,” he said, his voice catching in his throat.
Donna opened her eyes halfway and then suddenly sat up. "Oh I napped too long," she thought aloud, "I hadn't planned on occupying your bedroom all afternoon but I just couldn't get to sleep in mine. Obviously yours must have worked well." She was flushed softly from his compliment.
“Obviously, and had I known I had a beautiful woman waiting for me in my bed I would have gathered the strength of ten men to recapture the damned bull that got loose this afternoon.” He sat on the edge of the bed, “I hope I didn’t wear you out last night, honey.”
"If you did I've slept enough to recover now," Donna smiled.
He smiled, “well that’s good. Are you ready for dinner? Birdie is cooking her famous pork roast and I admit my appetite for food is winning out over my other appetites right now.” He ran his fingers through his hair, “besides I think Lenae will be home shortly and I’m not sure how good it will be for her to find you in here.” He looked at her, hoping she understood what he meant.
Donna nodded and scooted off the bed. "I'd imagine not very." She kissed Mic and then pulled the door to as she left. She quickly changed into a green dinner dress and brushed her hair before making her way downstairs.
Mic knocked on Lenae’s door; Maggie had brought Casey downstairs after Donna went down so it was just the two of them. She was lying on her bed reading a magazine. “Do you have a minute?” He sat on the edge of her bed, not wanting to intimidate her by standing over her.
Lenae quickly flung the magazine closed, her legs bobbing back and forth in the air over her back as she lay on her stomach. "Yeah Dad what is it?" she asked pushing the magazine, her hand still marking her place, halfway under the pillow.
“Well, I wanted to talk to you about Donna - and your mother.” He paused slightly, “I mean, I just want to make sure that you’re all right with her being here and all. I find myself liking her, and would like her to stay for a while.”
"She's okay I guess," Lenae consented, "She's not telling me what to do." she added after a moment.
He laughed lightly, “of course not, though she seems to like you. I just want to make sure you are all right with my being interested in someone. I haven’t dated anyone since your mom died, and I don’t want you to think I’ve forgotten about her or am trying to forget about her.”
"She's not coming back," Lenae shrugged, "Donna's okay for you to like I guess."
“Well, if you change your mind and decide you do have a problem with it, I hope you’ll come talk to me about it rather than take it out on Donna. She doesn’t want to hurt you anymore than I do.” He kissed the top of her head, “are you going to come eat with us? I miss you when you spend all of your time at Shari’s.”
Lenae rolled her eyes and with a sigh she got off the bed and followed her father from the room, leaving the magazine open on her bed to the page she'd been reading. "Are you going to marry her?" Lenae chose the top of the stairs to pose her next question.
Mitchell stopped descending the stairs and turned to face her. “Well, I don’t rightly know that. That’s the purpose of getting to know someone better. But you’d be the first to know, before her even, should I decide to marry anyone. I would never marry someone you didn’t approve of, Lenae, at least as long as you’re living here.”
Lenae smiled, "Okay. Thanks." She hurried past him down the rest of the stairs and into the dining room. "Hello Lenae," Donna smiled, "how was your day?"
She smiled slightly at Donna, “it was fine. We sat in the Jacuzzi and sauna for a while.” She sat next to Casey and looked from Donna to her dad, then helped Casey with his dinner. Mitchell relayed to Lenae the details of the bull getting loose, which surprisingly seemed to capture her attention for the time being. After dinner, Lenae took Casey from his high chair saying they were going to go outside to his sandbox for a while. Mic poured himself a drink, turning to her as he prepared it, “do you want anything?”
"Merlot please," Donna smiled.
Mitchell poured her a glass of the requested wine, and set it before her. “Would you like to go into the living room or stay in here?” He stood behind her chair, his hands resting lightly on her shoulders.
"Let's go to the living room. The dining room is not comfortable enough to linger in," Donna smiled and she went with him into the living room and curled up on the love seat. "I was worried about you hearing that bull story. It sounded fierce."
He shrugged slightly, “well, if you’ve been on ranches before you know. There’s always the chance of getting hurt, whether it’s a bull or a horse or a heifer. But it’s nice to know you worry about me. We also had a horse delivered today that I’m supposed to take a look at, I’m hoping Lenae will come with me. Apparently it was abused by its previous owner and has some problems. Lenae has a way with horses, she can get into their soul sometimes.” He sipped his drink, shifting slightly on the chair he sat in near the love seat. “I told her about you and me, well within reason of course. But she seemed okay with it.”
"Oh," Donna said startled at first, "that's good I'm glad. I'm sure she'll enjoy the horse too."
“Well, I can’t lie to her and I’d rather her not stumble across us one day when I’m kissing you and be surprised.” He smiled slightly, placing his left foot on his right knee. “The last thing I need is her being mad at me or you, I don’t know what I would have done had she disapproved. Thankfully she didn’t, and Casey’s really too young for it to be necessary to explain anything to him.” He watched her casually, she looked so comfortable sitting there curled up on his love seat and the thought was a little disturbing.
Donna turned the wine around in her glass and then took another sip. With her other hand she was caressing her neck and the top of her breasts absently. "So what's on the agenda for tomorrow?"
It took him a minute to pull his eyes away from her hand and realize she’d asked him a question. “Tomorrow? Well, it’s Monday. I imagine we both have work to do. All those accounts receivables and payables you’ve been filing away need to be entered onto the computer, too.” He offered her a slight smile with a shrug. “I told you you might run away screaming.”
Donna smiled, "No...I'm up for it. I was just wondering when I was going to need to fit the doctor into my schedule."
“Oh yes, that. I had sort of forgotten, forgive me. I’ll give you the doctor’s number and you can call and schedule an appointment. You can drive yourself if you want, I’ll just tell him to put it on my account. Or I’ll go with you, but I realize that’s usually something private for women. It’ll be a month after your, uh, next cycle before we can stop using what we’re using now I believe.” He rubbed his head slightly, “I haven’t had to think about this for a while but I believe that’s how it worked.”
"Do you mind going with me?" Donna asked gently, "I'd really like your company and I want both of us to be clear on all this."
“Uh, sure, I’ll go with you.” He set his glass down and cleared his throat, clearly uncomfortable with what he was about to say. “I just need to say this, so I hope you won’t get upset with me. I trust you to do what you’re supposed to so that you don’t get pregnant. I have my two kids and while I’m certainly not averse to having anymore I’d like to be married and all this time around before the girl’s pregnant. I’ve done the getting married out of obligation thing once and while I grew fond of Jaci over the years I don’t know that I’d want to do that again.” He looked at her, his voice soft as he continued. “I’m not accusing you of anything, I’m just letting you know how I feel. I’m placing my trust in your hands and admittedly that’s not an easy thing to do since yesterday you mentioned you didn’t want a sexual relationship without some sort of commitment.”
"I'm not that low Mic!" Donna immediately went to her defense coming up off the couch.
“Sit down, Donna, I’m not suggesting you are. I’m trying to be honest with you. If you’d rather I not then we’ll go on from this point that way, but I’d like to think if you’re willing to share my bed with me and take the risk of getting pregnant by me that we should be honest with one another. And there is a risk, nothing is fool proof - Casey is walking proof of that.”
"You mean she was on...when Casey was conceived?" Donna asked settling back on the couch. "I'm sorry I just...that just...I bristled a little too easy. I'm sorry."
“No, she wasn’t, but we were careful making sure we skipped the days she was most likely to get pregnant even though I was protected. She wasn’t supposed to get pregnant, had she survived she would have gotten a hysterectomy but things happened and that wasn’t one of them. The doctor wanted her on the chemotherapy and radiation for a while before they did that, hoping she’d be in remission and she’d be fine. I still don’t know what happened exactly, obviously one broke somewhere along the line. But that’s why I asked if you’d do this, it’s certainly better protection at any rate.” He offered her a smile, “and we’re not limited to my bedroom either which holds its appeal to me.”
"You're a little devil," Donna laughed lightly. "In fact I'm surprised you haven't seduced me yet!" she laughed teasingly. She noticed he wasn't going to join her on the love seat so she stretched her feet out rubbing the bottoms before she settled again.
“Not for lack of thought, honey. But I’m afraid Birdie and Maggie, and Lenae and Casey, aren’t used to my requiring privacy. We’re a pretty casual household and other than the bathrooms and my bedroom doors generally don’t require a knock to gain entrance. I imagine they’d catch on real quick if the door was locked, but I’d rather take you up to my bed where I can enjoy you for the rest of the night. Here we’d have to dress again when we had finished and go upstairs and that simply is not acceptable to me - yet.” He winked with a slight smirk.
"Okay then," Donna smiled. "What shall we do to pass the time then. I'm afraid if we get quiet I'm going to have to pick out one of those novels over there.”
“So you’re telling me I have to either take you upstairs to bed or you’re going to read,” he chuckled lightly. “And you’re calling me a devil? Feel free to read if that’s what you want to do, Lenae and Casey should be coming in pretty soon.” He pointed out the window where it was growing dark outdoors. “Please don’t feel like you have to sit here and talk to me to keep me occupied. Read, write, go work out in the gym or whatever you want to do.”
Donna laughed, "now of course I'd rather be here with you! Just what do you want to talk about though? I don't know what to say..." She finished the wine.
“Who says we have to talk about anything? I’m perfectly content to sit here with you and watch you read, or whatever.” He laughed lightly, “I can tell now that you’ve never been married. That’s part of seeing someone every day, sweetheart. Sometimes there’s just nothing to say.”
Donna sighed, tossed her feet off the couch and went up to her room to change. She then went to the exercise room and began a vigorous routine of weight and resistance exercises on the machine.
He stood in the doorway to the exercise room and watched quietly, wishing momentarily he could be the stair machine she was climbing up and down on. Dismissing that thought from his mind he cleared his throat to announce his entrance. “I was thinking. Do you dance?”
"I love to dance," Donna said working the stair stepper over. "Are you asking me if I'd love to dance...if so the answer is yes."
“Well, I was thinking if you’re not busy, ma’am, that I might interest you in a night of dancing and maybe a beer or two. There’s a bar actually almost right at the end of the road that leads to Amulet, and I figure if I have to be tortured to being with you with your clothes on I may as well give myself an excuse to touch you and hold you against me. Are you game?”
"Okay then," Donna smiled. She went upstairs to dress and reappeared in a little black leather miniskirt and a metallic silver sparkly halter top.
He walked towards her with a slight smile on his face, he drew his hand up and gently grazed her nipples, watching them react. “No bra? Are you trying to torment me or see to it that I want you more than I can remember wanting anything?” He kissed her as his thumb continued its pressure on one of her nipples.
"I'd say the latter," Donna smiled, "torturing you doesn't turn me on...making you want me more than you can remember wanting anything turns me on." She kissed him.
He broke the kiss hesitantly. “Well, you are going to be torturing me having to watch you in that outfit all night and keep my hands respectably placed,” he paused. “Let’s go before I completely forget that I wanted to take you out,” he gave her nipple one last brush with his thumb.
Donna sauntered seductively out in front of him and then once off the porch halted to wait for him to show her to the vehicle.
He placed his hand in hers and led her to his car, opening the door for her. “A little chilly for the Jeep tonight, I think.” He walked over to his side after closing her door and got in. They arrived at the bar about fifteen minutes later; a fairly nice place considering it was in the middle of nowhere. He halted her when she started to open her door and went around to her side, opening it for her. “Lady, let a gentleman be a gentleman. Lord knows when I get you home I won’t want to act like one at all, I should at least put on a good show in front of my neighbors.” He dropped her hand into hers. “Ready? You know it’s been about 13 years since I’ve been on a date. I have a feeling we’re going to be watched.”
Donna smiled, "Well it's been about 23 years since I've truly been on a date so I don't expect any less."
He stopped and took hold of her elbow. “Wait a minute, you’ve never been on a date? Is that what you just dropped on me?” His eyes looked at her with genuine shock and surprise.
"Never," Donna smiled and shrugged nonchalantly, "I got to go with my father to his parties and I've been to some extravagant ones in my day. I've been to group dinners at some exclusive hotels, but never have I been alone with a man whom I had affections for."
“And you let me,” he paused. “I mean I realize you were there too, but as if I don’t feel like I’ve played the part of heel enough. Good lord, I had no idea. The way you talked, I assumed you’d had boy friends before.”
"Oh don't tell me you're going to be all turned off now," Donna sighed, "why do you think I didn't tell you. I didn't want you to hold me at arm's length like a little girl."
He brushed her cheek lightly with the back of his fingers. “Sugar, nothing you could tell me would turn me off. It’s just that had I known well I probably would have courted you a little bit before seducing you, at least taken you out to dinner. I just don’t like the idea that I somehow took advantage of you, took something from you that should have been special.”
"It was special," Donna countered, "we're just doing it all at once. I'm adventuresome." She walked with him into the bar then and immediately had all of the male attention.
He let her find them a table while he stopped at the bar and got them drinks. He found her and sat in an empty chair next to her after setting the glass of wine in front of her. “It’s not high quality but I don’t know what else you drink, so I figured I’d start with this until you tell me what you’d prefer.” He took a sip of his beer. “Now I know how that bull feels, no wonder he wants to get loose now and then,” he winked at her.
Donna smiled and nudged him. "I'll take a martini next time please, dry, extra olives."
He nodded, “all right.” He leaned in and whispered softly, “you look beautiful by the way. I know I said that in a round about way earlier, but I thought I’d say it outright.” He brushed her ear lightly with his lips, “I’m not much of a dancer, but I’m willing to give it a shot if you are.”
"I love to dance." Donna smiled and drew him out onto the floor. They danced easily and she laughed lightly, enjoying and not caring if she made a fool of herself or not.
When a slow song was finally played, Mitchell took her in his arms and placed his hands possessively along the small of her back, holding her as close against him as he could. He kissed her, his lips searching hers hungrily for a response. This was not something he normally did and he had to admit to a certain rush of excitement that it brought him, Jaci was lucky if he held her hand in front of anyone else. But as with everything else about Donna, reason seemed to fly out the window for him and here he stood kissing her like he was a fifteen-year-old boy at a high school dance. “Kiss me like you mean it, Donna. Let them ogle and stare.”
Donna wrapped her arms around his neck and kissed him, slipping her tongue in his mouth and kissing him passionately.
He pulled away slightly, “wow. That was much more than I expected, but I liked it. A lot.” He rested his head against hers, “you’re encouraging me to do all sorts of new things.”
Donna smiled, "New and different can be good you know." she leaned up and kissed him again, much softer this time as the song ended. They had most of the attention in the room.
“So I’ve heard,” he finally released his arms from around her and let her back to the table. “With the way you dance I’m surprised you didn’t have your phone ringing off the hook.”
"Do you think I was let to wander on my own for a minute?" Donna asked incredulously. "I had a male escort everywhere I went. If a man even looked at me that wasn't of good standing he got the vamoose."
He raised an eyebrow flirtatiously. “Does that mean I’m your male escort now? A male escort with privileges, I like the sound of that.” He chuckled lightly and ordered her a martini as he ordered himself another beer. He placed his hand on her thigh as he moved his chair nearer to hers.
"No...you're the man I'm involved with, my lover if nothing else and I'm finished with male escorts," Donna said and she took a drink of her martini when it was brought to her.
A few more dances and drinks and too much conversing with his neighbors later, Mitchell was ready to leave. He walked with her to the car, helping her in. He reached over to fasten her seatbelt for her, kissing her when he had finished. “Thank you for an enjoyable evening.”
Donna smiled, "Anytime luv." she said in a practiced Australian accent.
He chuckled lightly, tapped her nose with the tip of his finger. “I like your real accent better, sweetheart. It makes my toes curl if you want to know the truth,” he said as he slid into the driver’s seat and drove away.
"Oh but it's your accent that turns me on," Donna replied, "mine is just plain old American, boring and plain." She fell asleep in the car on the way back.
Mic pulled the car in front of the house instead of the garage and went over to her side of the car picking her up easily and carrying her indoors. Lenae was asleep it seemed so he didn’t hesitate to bring her into his room with him. Pulling down the covers he set her gently on the bed and pulled the comforter around her. He undressed and slid under the covers next to her, kissing her lightly as he placed his arm around her waist. “Good night, Donna,” he said softly.
Donna woke in the middle of the night and rolling over in his embrace she kissed him passionately. "Make love to me Mic," she whispered softly.
He woke somewhat startled, but her soft words made him realize he wasn’t dreaming. He met her kiss his hand lightly tracing over her body. “Gladly, honey, but we need to get you out of these clothes first. I didn’t want you to think I’d taken advantage of you, so I left you as is.” He gave her a shy smile, as he traced over her arm lightly with his fingertips.
"You take advantage of me?" Donna raised a brow. "I never would have thought of these things. I guess it's good that I have you around." She kissed him. Slowly she sat up and got out of bed and then slid the garments off with no embarrassment that he might be watching.
He sat up and moved to the edge of the bed, his arms went around her waist and he brought her to him. He ran his hand up and down her thigh and across her stomach lightly chuckling at the goose bumps that appeared at his touch. Slowly his hand moved between her legs, he watched her face in the dimly lit room as he entered her with first one finger than slowly adding a second. “Is this what you had in mind, sweetheart?”
"Oh yeah," Donna moaned softly. She scooted back on the bed to join him more comfortably. "You're undoubtedly good at this."
“Only because you’re letting me,” he said softly as his fingers resumed their task once she was comfortable on the bed. He watched as her body flushed slightly, lowering his mouth to her breast. His tongue toyed and teased with her nipples before he traced a path lightly along her stomach and between her legs. He watched briefly as his fingers moved in and out of her slowly then lowered his mouth to her, using his tongue to increase her arousal.
Donna writhed and moaned happily. She arched her back and finally after a while she experienced her first orgasm. "Oh Mic."
He moved on top of her, his mouth closing over hers passionately. He reached over not breaking the kiss and reached for a condom. He pulled back slightly and looked at her, placing the wrapper in her hand. “Would you like to put it on? Touch me a little bit?”
Donna bit her lip. "I don't mind touching you but I don't know that I could get it on," she said nervously and looked at her long well manicured nails. "If you're not nervous I will..."
He brought their joined hands to his mouth, kissing her fingertips lightly. “Next time,” he kissed her lightly as he rolled onto his side to put it on. He shifted onto his back and brought her on top of him, holding onto her hips he guided him into her slowly having to stop briefly to let her adjust to him. He gasped when he was fully inside of her, his eyes opening to meet hers. “Are you all right?”
"Yeah," Donna gasped, "shouldn't I be? You're quite a package but I apparently manage pretty well." She kissed him lovingly.
“That you do, honey. I just wanted to make sure.” He kissed her, his hands lightly caressing her back and down to her buttocks. His fingers spread slightly to touch her fully to move her on him. “This position is for you, you set the tempo, sweetheart.”
Donna moved and carefully began to set their pace. She was enjoying the tempo and scrunched her face up when she finally had to let her release take over. "Oh God this feels good!"
He waited until her release was complete then moved them both so he was on top of her; his lips reclaimed hers as he entered her once more with a quick thrust. His lips moved to her neck and earlobes. “Do you trust me not to hurt you, Donna?” His question was accompanied by another quick, deep thrust.
"Yes," Donna gasped, "I trust you. I know you won't hurt me."
His mouth closed over hers as he took hold of one of her hands with his raising them above her head on the pillow. His thrusts were more intense than before, but it was obvious he was doing what he could not to hurt her. He locked his foot with hers as his time came and he was brought over the edge. He squeezed her hand lightly, his other hand he used to brush across a nipple with the back of his hand. “I’d say you manage very well,” he smiled slightly biting her upper lip gently.
"Oh my gosh, that was amazing," Donna gasped, "you're amazing."
He ran his fingers through her hair gently. “Out of the mouths of babes.” He chuckled lightly as he rose slightly from the bed to go to the bathroom. Returning to the bed, he lay next to her. “Maybe it’s not me that’s so amazing. Maybe it’s just the way that you respond to me. I don’t think I do anything that special, just feed off what you do. And, honey, you’ve got a body that was made to do this.” He placed his hands at her hips, “those hips aren’t just good at dancing on a dance floor.”
"I'm surprised it didn't take very long for me to stop hurting," Donna commented softly. "The bad thing is I like it so much I find myself looking forward to it. I'm sure that's a bad thing but I can't help it."
“Why is it a bad thing? You enjoy it, I enjoy it, we’re quite compatible together as far as I can tell.” He kissed her, moving to her neck where he bit her lightly. He pulled away, a mischievous glint in his eyes. “I imagine you’ve never had a love bite either then, have you?”
Donna put a hand to her throat. "No...I always had to try hard not to stare at girls with marks on their necks!" she laughed lightly.
He lowered his mouth to her breast, biting and sucking lightly increasing the pressure as he continued obviously getting into what he was doing. After a few minutes he broke away, his finger tracing gently over the mark he left behind. “A little less conspicuous than your neck. Not that we have anyone to hide from, but I figured I’d put your first one somewhere no one else can see in case you hate it.”
Donna smiled slyly at him, "Can't say I hate it yet..." She kissed him.
He chuckled lightly as he returned her kiss. “Well, I have to admit I’m a little odd for a man my age, I like them. I wouldn’t like to see Lenae walking around the house with them, which I suppose is hypocritical. But I like seeing my mark on you, it’s a little thrilling in its own way.” He raised an eyebrow slightly.
Donna blushed beautifully, "If you like making me yours by marking me then I guess I don't mind at all." She smiled and kissed him. "I feel a lot for you Mic."
He took a few strands of her hair in between his fingers, wrapping it around them gently. “Sweetheart, I should hope so.” He chuckled lightly, “I feel for you to, Donna. Honest. I don’t share my bed with just anyone. I wasn’t lying when I said there hadn’t been anyone but Jaci.”
Donna smiled and laughed lightly, "That's not really the way I meant it. I wanted to say that I love you without spooking you. I mean I don't out and out love you but you're making it hard not to go that way."
“You couldn’t spook me, I kind of like that thought because that means you aren’t apt to want to leave when you’re done with my office. And, honestly, I’d like you to stay. As nice as sharing my bed is with you, that’s not at all what I was looking for at this moment in time. It’s nice to have someone to spend time with.”
Donna kissed him softly, "I'm here and I'm not going until you ask me to. This place is beautiful and Casey and Lenae have me wrapped around their little fingers and the ranch is fascinating and then there's you..." she kissed him again, "you who is taming my heart."
“Good, I’m glad to hear it.” He kissed her and rolled over onto his side. “Sleep, sweetheart. I have an early day tomorrow, and long. With the bull escapade I got nothing done that needed being done, and at the rate we’re going I’m going to have my mind on you all day which will make matters worse.”
The next couple of months passed pretty uneventfully. Lenae started back at school and was busy with her school work, though she seemed to ask Donna for help here and there. When Casey wasn’t following his father around Amulet, he was with Donna at the house in the office. Mitchell almost thought of letting Maggie go, but not wanting to assume Donna was going to be around for any length of time he held off doing that. Mitchell had to stop returning to the house for lunch, Donna proved to be too much of a distraction to him. And as much as he enjoyed making love with her, he found seeing her made him not want to work. But as the days went by, Mitchell realized that he was falling in love with Donna, something he had never experienced before. He lay in bed with her one night, making love with her not on his mind. He held her as they watched the news, he kissed her gently. “You know, I’m so glad you fell into my life.”
Donna kissed him. "So am I. I never imagined that getting lost I'd find myself." She snuggled up with him and went to sleep.
It was the next day as Mic was in the corral with the sheep near the barn when the dust was stirred up and the sheep startled by a helicopter. It landed right in the drive before his house and several men got out. Donna yelped and hurried in the house meanwhile Lenae escaped out the back and ran to her father in a panic. "Bad men have come and frightened Donna Dad!" Lenae called out her face distorted with panic.
Mic and a few of his men walked slowly to the helicopter and the men who came out of it. “May I help you sir,” Mic removed his hat but other than that he made no gesture to be polite.
"Yeah you can give me back my niece you monster!" a man in a tux barked, "Donnatella Jolie you get out here!" he called loudly.
“Well, sir, I’m afraid that’s going to be a little difficult to do seeming as how she’s not only employed here at Amulet, but she’s my wife.” He stopped the man with his hand, “I don’t believe she wants to go anywhere with you so you can just turn around and leave.”
"Excuse me?" The tuxedoed man fumbled for words, "your...your wife. Donnatella!!!" he yelled louder. Finally Donna appeared on the porch. "Tell me you didn't consummate anything with this man." Donna was pale and looked to Mic. Then she stood tall and spoke, "Sorry Uncle Marcus I'm afraid we did and thoroughly enjoyed it." By now she had crossed to him and he got a good glimpse of her neck. "Good God! You're defacing her in public!" He looked to Donna, "I wanted to provide for you the way your father would've wanted but I can see you've become the tramp your mother was before he married her. You know you'll be disinherited." "You can't touch my money this way and that's what burns you up you bastard!" Donna growled at him and then she slapped him on the face. "I hope you and your husband are very happy you tramp!"
Mic slid his arm around Donna’s waist as Lenae came out to stand by them curiously. “My daughter, Lenae. The reason actually I married your niece. I fell in love with her almost immediately upon seeing her and could never carry on an affair in front of my children. I understand your surprise and if you ever wish to come back on more friendly terms, Amulet is open to you. But at this moment, I have some hungry children and I’ve had a long day. If you’ll excuse us.”
With a huff befitting Marcus' rich arrogance he trooped back to his helicopter with his men and left without another word. Donna took Lenae up onto the porch quickly to shield her from the dust that the chopper blades would stir up. When Mic reached them her eyes met his. Deep and questioning she wouldn't say anything in front of Lenae though she was dying to. She didn't have to though Lenae took the first opportunity to burst out, "You married Donna?!"
“No, sweetheart, I didn’t marry Donna. But that should keep him from coming back here for a while and taking Donna away against her will, and just in case he happens to check marriage licenses take about 60 days to get processed so he’ll be tied for a while before he can confirm whether or not it’s true. Between now and then, hopefully he’ll give up.” He shoved his hands in his jeans pockets and glanced from Donna back to Lenae, “I told a lie, Lenae. But I think you’ve grown as fond of having Donna here as I have and if I hadn’t told that lie her uncle would have taken her. And I doubt very highly we’d get the chance to see her again.”
Lenae held tightly to Donna then and nodded numbly. "Come on, I think we were just getting the ingredients out for sugar cookies," Donna put on a brave smile trying to get Lenae's mind off the incident. Lenae went with the woman she was quickly growing fond of into the kitchen and while Donna left her to get some more ingredients out she stepped back out to Mic. Wordlessly she wrapped her arms around his neck and kissed him long and lovingly. Then she laid her head against his chest.
“You’re not upset with me?” He brushed her hair from her shoulders as his arms went around her neck kissing the top of her head.
"How could I be upset? You saved me...you cared enough to save me." Donna returned with a smile before she kissed him again.
“Well, I had hoped you’d see it that way, but I wasn’t sure. I was thinking though, maybe you’d want to think about leaving for a while.” He looked at her, “I’m guessing he’s going to check and make sure we’re really married. And while I have friends who can stall him, they can’t stall him forever from finding out. I don’t want you to go, Donna, that’s not what I’m suggesting. But if he finds out I’ve mislead him, he may not come back alone next time. At least you’re over 18, so he can’t arrest me for sleeping with you. But I’m sure he can think of something.”
Donna shook her head, "not unless he wants enough ill press to ruin him for a great many years. Ill press could cost him way more business than I'm worth. I'd wager he’d be too busy trying feebly to disinherit me to worry about verifying our marriage."
“Can he do that? I mean, Donna, if I’ve just ruined your ability to