Rendezvous Part 25 (The end)

“Really?” Natalie responded doubtfully. “You said that with the arrogance I first met you with,” Natalie mused.

“Natalie,” Derrick paused, “I won’t lie, it hasn’t been easy acting like you didn’t happen, but I handled it. During that time, I amply recognized that my wife and I know why we’re together and while I’m sure she’d be more than pissed if she found out I cheated, I don’t think she’d press the issue.” Derrick cleared his throat. “I’ll give you the details of my marriage I failed to share before, but for now, it’s not something we need to worry about. You heard what my mother said so I don’t need to reiterate that now. Natalie, if you want to see me in whatever capacity we both agree to, I can deal with that.” Derrick concluded with certainty.

Derrick wasn’t quite sure where his current strength to make that pledge came from, but he knew he was being honest and sincere and to him, that’s was all that was important.

“Wow!” Natalie was stunned. She hadn’t anticipated such a profound response. “So, my conceding to basically being your lover doesn’t cheapen me in your eyes?”

“Not at all. God, Natalie, there’s nothing cheap about you,” Derrick complimented. “At some point this is something you’ve obviously given thought to and if you’re willing to accept me even with my limitations, I feel honored.” Natalie didn’t respond. “You realize you answered the question right?” Derrick teased.

Natalie laughed, “Yeah, I guess I did. A little convoluted, but answered nonetheless right?”

Natalie and Derrick continued to discuss the terms of their relationship and agreed to meet bimonthly at an agreed location and more often when their respective schedules permitted.

“So, the Hyatt twice a month during the week and Philly once a month right?” Natalie went over their plans for their first meeting.

“Yup. I can’t wait to see you girl,” Derrick’s enthusiasm escalated.

“See you soon.” Natalie hung up. “Meeeee aaaand, Mr. Mr. P, Mr. P, Mr. P, Mr. P; we got a thing going on. We both know that it’s wrong, but it’s much too late to turn back now.”

The end of their conversation was the start of things to come.

Rendezvous Part 24

Derrick and Natalie went back on forth on who was doing what to whom; soon forgetting Mrs. Parker’s call. The easy banter between them gave room for professional discussion in addition to the flirting and teasing.

“So, do you want me to come to your lecture or do you want to keep me all to yourself?” Derrick probed with sexy confidence.

Silence interrupted the question as Natalie digressed into the little girl Derrick made her feel like.

“Your silence betrays you Nat,” Derrick confidently stated.

“Huh? What?” Natalie broke from her thoughts. “Say that again.”

“My point exactly,” Derrick lowered his voice. “Tell me Ms. Connors, why did you really call?” Suggestion filled Derrick’s tone.

Natalie adjusted in her seat. There was something in the way Derrick was talking that threw her off. “Are you trying to seduce me Derrick?” Natalie boldly inquired.

“Only if you want me to.” Long pause. “Nat?” Derrick queried.

“Yeah. I’m still here,” she resumed. “Just contemplating your question against my own thoughts,” she sheepishly replied. More silence. “May I ask you something? Something very personal,” Natalie cautiously inquired.

“I told you not to censor yourself, so go for it.”

Derrick’s directive aroused her, making her open her legs a little. Thoughts of their making love gave way to vivid memories; prompting a strong yearning.

Derrick was caught off guard by his lack of inhibition and the feelings he’d sent back to the abyss were now rising again. Even with his mother’s prompting, a part of Derrick was still a little apprehensive of any further intimacies with Natalie. He inhaled a deep breath and exhaled slowly rubbing his goatee as he waited for Natalie’s response.

“Before I reply to that question, may I ask you something?”

“Again, you don’t need to censor yourself,” Derrick became a little uneasy at the pending question, but braced for it.

“Are absolutely, and I do mean absolutely sure you can hide this from your wife? Will you be able to deal with what our being together could cause?” Natalie sighed.

“Yes!” Derrick replied without hesitation.

Rendezvous Part 23

“Uhm, I, I have feelings for Derrick,” Natalie’s voice croaked. “He’s become very dear to me.”

“Baby girl,” Mrs. Parker said very softly. “My age has given me great wisdom and I think it’s obvious that you have feelings for Derrick just by the way you’re talking,” Mrs. Parker’s maternal prowess were now very apparent. “What I want to know is would you act upon them.” Mrs. Parker’s forthrightness both stunned and amused Natalie.

Natalie giggled shyly. “Yes, Val, I would act on them,” Natalie said without hesitation.

“Okay, now you now that mommy, how does that make you an al…Ah, now I get it. Slick. Very slick indeed.” Derrick smirked and gave a high-five to the air.

“You kids today now nothing about discretion and allies”. Mrs. Parker laughed out loud. “I know my manner is rather unorthodox, but so is what we’re all dealing with; however, life is short and sometimes you just have to grab the proverbial bull by the horns and take control of what you can.”

“Amen!” Natalie cosigned. “Derrick?”

“How could I turn it down or refute what my dear and sweet mother has said.”

“Very good.” Mrs. Parker affirmed. “Now, before I go, I’d like to get Natalie’s contact information. I have email so I’ll give you my address and you can provide it for me okay?”

“Okay.”

“It’s force tranquille@hotmail.com”.

“That’s French right?” Natalie inquired. “Uhm, quiet strength right?” Its meaning was obvious and Natalie smiled at Mrs. Parker’s creativity.

“Yes. I’m impressed,” Mrs. Parker chuckled. “Well, I need to get going. But in the meantime, please be good to yourself and thank you for allowing an old woman her say. Oh, one last thing. I will let Bizzy know of this conversation and if there’s anything she can do for you, please let her know. After I speak with her, I’ll provide her information for you also.”

“Thanks mommy,” Derrick was beaming. “Thank you for everything and please forgive my initial tone with you.”

“It’s okay honey; no need for apologies. It’s not everyday a mother does what I’m doing. Natalie, are you okay?” Mrs. Parker cautiously inquired.

Mrs. Parker indeed sounded so much like a friend than a mother and now ally leaving Natalie overwhelmed with compassion.

“Oh, yes! I’m more than satisfied. Thank you infinitum for your willingness to help us. I look forward to our getting to know each other more.”

“As do I. Now I shall let you both continue. Bye for now Natalie and I’ll speak with you soon Derrick.”

Mrs. Parker ended her part of the call.

“She’s some woman,” Derrick spoke seemingly to himself. “I could never in a thousand years have seen that coming. She’s more amazing than I’ve ever given her credit for.” Derrick’s monolog continued.

“I agree.” Natalie smiled to herself. “Yes, unique to say the least.”

“Well, if you ever doubted our closeness, you now have proof.”

“Sweetie, I never doubted it, but it’s nice to experience first hand.” Natalie was now anxious to meet Derrick’s mother. “By the way, I think it’s adorable that you still call your mother “mommy”,” Natalie said affectionately.

Derrick and Natalie remained silent as they each reflected on the conversation.

“Yeah, that’s my girl. She’s the absolute best,” Derrick smiled to himself. “So, now that’s done. Where were we?” Derrick asked. Natalie was still nursing her thoughts. “Ms. Connors?” Derrick’s formality released Natalie from her thoughts.

“Uh, yes?”

“I was asking where we were before my mother called.”

“You know I think I’ve forgotten.” Natalie rewound her mental tape. “Oh, I think you were trying to seduce me,” Natalie giggled.

Rendezvous Part 22

“I’ll get straight to the point,” Mrs. Parker, directly stated. “I know my son very well dear. There’s not much about him I couldn’t pick up on.” It was obvious Mrs. Parker was smiling. “I also know my lifelong friend Beatrice keeps no secrets from me,” Mrs. Parker allowed for pause. “Beatrice lives next to our Philadelphia home and informed me a young woman had stayed there. Derrick didn’t mention names when he said someone needed to use it. Being an inquisitive woman, I pressed Bizzy, that’s the pet name I have for her,” Mrs. Parker chuckled. “I’m sorry dear, it’s a joke between Bizzy and I. Anyway, I pressed for details and she described you.”

“Mommy?!” Derrick’s shock interrupted the conversation. “I can’t believe you did that. How is Aunt Bea anyway? She didn’t let on she was around while I was there.” Nostalgia jogged Derrick’s memories.

Natalie laughed and smiled at Derrick’s comfort in saying mommy instead of mother. “It’s okay Derrick,” Natalie spoke up. “I would probably do the same thing given the circumstances. Please go on Val. Beatrice sounds like a lovely woman.”

“She is,” Mrs. Parker confirmed. “Moving right along. Upon Derrick’s return, I noticed a change. Subtle as it was, but I knew something was different about him. I asked various questions though never letting on I was prying for information about you,” Mrs. Parker casually admitted. “I must say, you’ve done rather well for yourself young lady,” Mrs. Parker complimented and continued keeping her remaining methods to herself. Derrick sighed and coughed as if somewhat offended by the revelation. “Derrick honey, it’s okay. I assure you that neither your father nor your wife know or suspect anything,” Mrs. Parker paused again. “Each too consumed with themselves!” The sidebar commented stunned both Derrick and Natalie.

“Mommy, excuse me for a second. Why did you do all of this?” Derrick sounded like a little boy.

“I have to agree with Derrick Val, what prompted the interest in me.” Natalie was trying to imagine the women with whom had taken so much interest in her. Did she look like Derrick? Was she tall, short; thin? Her voice gave no indication of her age.

“Curiosity and happiness.” Mrs. Parker said in a hurry. “I don’t mean to be intrusive Natalie and I’m not sure how much Derrick has told you about his life, but I stand by my son enough to know that it’s probably been nothing short of the truth,” the echoes of pride encased Mrs. Parker’s words. “Behind that huge exterior is a kind, gentle, and warm man who wants nothing more than some happiness in his life. His children mean everything to him, as he and his brother do to me, but for reasons somewhat beyond our control; though moreso his, he can’t leave her. I…”

“Save the details for me mommy; I’ll tell her.” Derrick interrupted impatiently. “What I want to know is your interest. Actually, you used the word ally.”

“Slow down Derrick,” Natalie returned. “Please allow your mother her voice.”

“I apologize honey. I’ll stick to the point,” Mrs. Parker digressed. “Natalie, how do you feel about my son?”

Natalie was stunned. Although she had an idea of where the conversation was heading, she didn’t expect to be hit so bluntly.

Rendezvous Part 21

Derrick reached in his pocket. “Nat, can you hold for a second? We’ll pick up where we left once this call is over.”

“Yeah; sure.”

Natalie returned her attention to some paperwork while she waited. She dismissed the numerous and even amorous thoughts that vied for her attention. Derrick's easy nature amazed her for the amount of stress she knew he dealt with between work and home. Having increased her own responsibilities afforded her some empathy. The amorous thoughts soon arrived at the finish line.

“Sorry about that,” Derrick excused, “ that was my mother.”

Natalie shook her head silently disgarding to her thoughts.

“She…she, uh, wants to talk to you,” Derrick nervously stated.

“Me?" Natalie startled. "For what?” Came the prompt and nervous reply.

“She didn’t say exactly. She asked a few questions and then said she wanted to speak with you. Shall I set it up?” The equal nervousness couldn’t be missed.

Natalie rubbed her temples. She couldn’t think of why Derrick’s mother would want to speak with her, but accepted nonetheless.

“Sure.”

“I won’t if you don’t really want to,” Derrick soothed.

“I know how important she is to you Derrick. I also know from what you’ve said, that she’s protective of you, so I think it’s only fair for her to have her say; whatever it is.” Natalie wasn’t feeling half as confident as she sounded leaving her mind to work overtime.

“Hang up and I’ll set up a conference call.”

Natalie waited for what seemed like an eternity for her phone to ring. The pounding in her heart felt like wild horses set free.

“Ms. Connors, may I skip the formality and call you Natalie?” Derrick’s mother politely inquired.

“Yes, of course. What may I call you in return?”

“Valerie, but Val, will suffice. No need for the full name if we’re to become allies,” Mrs. Parker’s soft voice immediately warmed Natalie. “Derrick, hasn’t mentioned anything if you’re wondering why I called.”

Natalie leaned into her oversized seat. “Mrs. P, I mean Val, if Derrick hasn’t mentioned me, then you have me at a loss for the call.”

Rendezvous Part 20

Natalie paused and sighed loudly. “Long story short, I wasn’t handling things well between Lloyd’s death and being with you. I was working long hours, not really eating or sleeping, and it took its toll.” Natalie rambled in one long breath.

“Why didn’t you reach out?" Derrick pressed. "I would have been there for you babe.” The comfort in Derrick’s tone almost made Natalie cry. She’d wanted to; she really did. But she didn't want to admit to herself that she’d begun to fall in love; though it seemed to be too much and certainly too soon for it to be real.

“I know that Derrick, but I just couldn’t,” Natalie fought the tears back. “I had to handle things the best way I could and trust me I’m better now and at least I told someone I don’t have to deal with unless I want to. I’m sorry if that hurt you in any way.” She concluded and wiped the stray tears away.

Derrick let out a heavy sigh. So many things ran through his mind trying to imagine what had happened to Natalie, but the here and now was on the phone and he had to focus on that.

“I’ll admit it does hurt hearing that things got that heavy for you; however, I’m happy that you were able to deal with it and you seem much better now. You are aren’t you?” A hint of apprehension resumed.

“Yes. Yes, I’m much better now.”

“Good,” Derrick was smiling again. “So, now you can go back to telling me about your student.”

Natalie smiled, partly recalling her own initial reaction to Derrick. Well, the physical one. “It’s funny, I think she was partly taken by your looks and then by your paper,” Natalie teased. “I think she might have even done a Google search on you.” Natalie laughed at her having Googled him. “She asked if I knew you, which prompted this call, but I get the impression that she’d like to get to know you herself,” Natalie laughed through the implication.

Derrick tapped his pen against the desk. He smiled and decided he’d humor Natalie a little. “So, what would the good instructor do in a case like this?” Derrick teased. “Would she invite said author to a lecture so said student could meet said author or would she harbor him to herself?”

Natalie let out a hearty laugh. “Oh, now I recall the arrogance I was initially greeted with,” she stated between fits of laughter. “I’m not sure she could handle you the way I can though. She’s just starting out,” Natalie added.

Derrick snickered and mulled over the double entendre. Seeing as Natalie had previously ribbed him about his arrogance, he decided to play the hand. “So, you can handle me huh? Is that a fact? And how pray tell can you do that?” Derrick questioned in a pointed tone.

“Oh shit!” Natalie blushed. “I can’t believe I said that.”

“Yeah, you did,” Derrick laughed loudly. “Is your subconscious overriding your conscious Ms. Connors?”

Rendezvous Part 19

Natalie tried to imagine Derrick’s mother; wondering what kind of life she’d been living and how she’d managed to do it for so long. Natalie didn’t think she could be that noble. Or at least do it without a companion of some kind.

“It’s admirable that you both are so close, but I guess with the shared weight of a bad situation, I guess it all makes sense.” Natalie emerged from her thoughts.

“Have you..?” Derrick was almost afraid to ask. “Have you told anyone about us?”

Natalie nodded. She didn’t want say out loud to whom, but in order to preserve their integrity, she have to.

“Uhm, yes.” Natalie stuttered. “Yes, I have. I had to.” Natalie’s voiced weakened. “I couldn’t hold it in anymore.”

A sudden sense of urgency came over Derrick. He smiled and then frowned wondering whom she might have told and why. Natalie was close to her sister and thought maybe she’d told her. A small relief entered his stomach to satisfy the butterflies.

“May I ask whom?”

Silence! Natalie couldn’t speak. She opened and closed her mouth; struggling to put the explanation together. Warm saliva slid down her throat, but the words froze each time they surfaced.

“Nat?” Derrick queried. “Nat are you still there?”

“You know..." Natalie searched for an out. "A student came across your white paper and her receptiveness to you made me smile,” Natalie nervously chuckled.

“Receptiveness?” Derrick queried. “Though I know you’re trying to evade answering my question.” Derrick quicky noted.

Natalie coughed and swallowed hard. She should have known Derrick was too keen to let her get away with not speaking. He had a right to know seeing as she’d brought it up.

“I spoke with a counselor,” she replied bluntly, almost painfully.

Derrick stopped in his tracks and leaned against a cabinet. “A counselor? Natalie, is there something I need to know,” Derrick anxiously inquired.

“No! No, not like you think,” Natalie refuted.

“Then what?” Derrick pressed not wanting to speculate anything.

Rendezvous Part 18

Natalie paused and wished she hadn’t spoken so quickly. She suddenly felt embarrassed and knew Derrick would not concede easily. Natalie sighed heavily.

“I’ve called and hung up before you could answer and I’ve even disguised my voice and pretended to be someone else just to hear your voice,” Natalie woefully admitted. Derrick chuckled. “That’s not funny,” Natalie defended. “It’s pathetic and I’m mortified that I’m even admitting I did it.”

“Easy, easy, it’s okay,” Derrick comforted. “I find it rather endearing actually.”

“Endearing?” Natalie made a face. “I acted like a schoolgirl.”

“And I’ve acted like a school boy since the night we made love and I’m still acting like it now,” Derrick’s words soothed Natalie’s embarrassment. “It’s almost like having a crush on a teacher and having to keep it to yourself because no one can know,” Derrick said with a laugh.

“You’ve told no one about us?” A mélange of awe and sadness enveloped Natalie’s tone.

“Unfortunately not; I’ve often wanted to tell someone though.” Derrick mindlessly scribbled Natalie’s name on the blotter. “Mother senses something though,” Derrick craftily added.

“She does?” Natalie stared at Derrick’s online photo. “How so?” Natalie felt a sudden shift on the direction of the conversation.

Derrick got up and paced. He’d been smart enough to have his desk phone replaced with a cordless one. Derrick walked over to the window and stared into the darkening sky.

“Given that she and I share a similar existence, it’s not hard for her to notice a change in me; even the slightest ones,” Derrick explained. “Although she hasn’t asked me anything, I’ve seen a change in her demeanor. She’s a little more relaxed with me; more subtle in her approach to my situation, for lack of better wording,” softness warmed Derrick’s words.

“Will she?”

“No! Not at all," Derrick quickly reassured. "She’s on my side even if she doesn't know the details," Derrick paused. "And if I’m ever able to tell her about you, I'm sure she’ll smile, ask if you make me happy; which is obvious, and then she’ll simply caution me on how to maintain face,” Derrick smiled.

Rendezvous Part 17

Although Natalie initiated the “no regrets” clause of their union, a part of her felt guilty for allowing her emotions and vulnerability to get the best of her. Even worse, she felt bad for how Derrick had to live with what they’d shared. His home life was toll enough, and now having to contain such a huge secret seemed unfair. Natalie toyed several times with the idea of encouraging him to tell someone he trusted implicitly so the burden could be somewhat alleviated; however, she never went through with it. Life would have to go on as agreed. Once Natalie resolved herself from the mini affair, she returned to work a revived and more productive woman. Natalie became a prominent figure amongst her colleagues and was offered a teaching position at the local University in conjunction to her post as the CSU head. During one of her classes, a student presented her with a white paper written by Derrick Parker and asked if they were acquainted. Natalie had read the paper, but the sound of Derrick’s name was music to her ears and she instantly wanted to reach out to him. Their communication had dwindled of late and Natalie missed him. She felt a wave of desire rise within her.

“Parker!” Derrick curtly answered.

Natalie paused. It was not the tone she expected. “Derrick, it’s Natalie,” she said sweetly.

Derrick leaned back in his chair and tried to rub the stress out of his temples. “Hey Nat, I’m sorry for my tone. It’s been one hell of a day,” his voice softened.

“Wanna talk about it?”

“No, not really,” Derrick discarded. “Work mostly,” he lied. “I’m happy to hear from you; what’s up?”

“Well, it’s been a while since we’ve spoken and even longer since I’ve se…” Natalie rambled and then stopped. “I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to...” Sudden doubt came over her.

“It’s okay,” Derrick encouraged, “please don’t censor yourself.”

Natalie paused to gauge Derrick’s mood. She wanted to be free and open, but erred on the side of caution, at least for the moment as she indulged the vivid memories in her mind. The clause came back to mind too, but she couldn’t deny herself the opportunity to change where they stood.

“Derrick, I’ve missed you,” Natalie stated firmly. “I’ve thought about you often and naturally hoped you were thinking about me too.”

Derrick pushed his work aside and allowed himself to relax in his seat. The bonhomie of Natalie’s voice erased Derrick’s previous demeanor and made him smile.

“How could I not?” Derrick stated. “Just hearing your voice does me in Nat,” Derrick affectionately offered. “It sure beats the choleric one I’m used to,” Derrick frowned for a moment. “What made you call,” Derrick quickly changed thoughts.

“I’ve called you several times,” Natalie admitted.

“Really?” Derrick creased his brow in thought. “You did? When?” Curiosity etched his tone.

Rendezvous Part 16

Natalie ignored Derrick’s comment and continued to make love to him. Derrick allowed Natalie her fill of him and then carefully turned as not to separate them and returned in magnitude what she’d done for him. It was well after noon before they finally got their pleasantly aching bodies out of bed. Derrick went to check his messages while Natalie showered. The missed call was Derrick’s mother, but the message wasn’t urgent for him to call back, so Derrick joined Natalie to make her shower even steamier.

For the rest of the day, Derrick and Natalie did next to nothing other than enjoy each other’s company and talk. Derrick ordered take out instead of cooking and Natalie found movies to watch On Demand. By nightfall, Derrick and Natalie found themselves in a repeat of the previous night and by the end of Derrick’s time in Philly, he felt like he’d fallen for Natalie; and was afraid to speak about it. He recalled his promise, but it was hard to send his feelings back to the darkness and his biggest fear was his change being noticed at home. Dread filled him and temporarily eclipsed his happiness.

Natalie wrapped her arms around Derrick’s waist. “Penny for your thoughts?”

“Might need about 99 cents more,” Derrick huffed.

“Oh?” Natalie looked into Derrick’s eyes. “What’s wrong?”

Derrick sat Natalie at the table. “I don’t know how to do this Natalie,” Derrick spoke softly. “Look at me,” Derrick was beaming. “I feel like I just took off my armor and I’m a hundred pounds lighter. I’m smiling now and I’m not usually this cheerful.” Derrick turned away from Natalie for a moment and then looked into her questioning eyes. “I have no idea how I’m supposed to contain this once I go home,” Derrick frowned. “Nat, what am I gonna do?”

Natalie took Derrick’s hand in hers. “Honestly hun, I don’t know what to say. It’s been less than a year since Lloyd’s death and I let you in. I’m in a precarious place too,” Natalie tried to comfort, but knew her words weren’t really the solace he wanted.

Derrick got up and paced. “I know you said no regrets, and babe I have none,” Derrick stopped pacing. “I just don’t know how to put what I’m feeling into the recesses again.” Sadness filled his tone.

Natalie got up and put her arms around Derrick again. “Kiss me,” she affectionately demanded.

Derrick kissed her knowing it would be the last time their lips would meet. There was no way out of his marriage unless his wife died and Natalie needed time to completely heal. This was all too much and too soon for either of them to commit to anything other than maintaining their friendship.

Natalie left for home the day before Derrick leaving him alone with his thoughts. They slept in separate beds the night before her departure to prevent their parting from being any harder than it already would be. Natalie called to say she’d arrived safely and the conversation was limited to that. Derrick went home and on with his quasi life and tried to focus on having a friendship with Natalie rather than nothing at all. The months passed and Derrick and Natalie continued to talk via phone and email as they’d done before. With the same applied intensity to his work, Derrick managed to bury his feelings toward Natalie and have his wife be none the wiser of his indiscretion. Natalie received her promotion and became the first black woman to head up a CSU. Derrick sent flowers instead of accepting her invitation to the formal dinner held in her honor. Facing her was too hard.

Rendezvous Part 15

“Yes.” Natalie cried out. “Baby, that’s good. So good.”

The erotic moanings enticed and aroused Derrick making him smile, confirming that he was doing the right things.

Natalie’s body writhed each time Derrick’s finger slid in and out of her. She could feel his warm, cool breath breeze across her thighs and between the folds of skin. He continued on. Derrick positioned himself between Natalie’s raised legs and slowly ran his tongue into each crease, tasting her. Derrick squeezed his eyes closed even tighter, delighting in the flavor of Natalie’s special meal. Skillfully, Derrick used his mouth to play oral surgeon on Natalie.

“Ooooh! J…jeez…Derrick, oh…” Natalie’s passioned scream filled the otherwise quiet room.

Derrick continued pleasing Natalie until she could take no more and pulled him upward. Her legs quivered and her body shook as the orgasm resounded in her. Derrick slowed his entry into Natalie’s eagerly waiting well of desire, fearing instant release. He laid on top of her enjoying her orgasm through osmosis. Then, slowly, Natalie raised her legs, wrapping them around Derrick’s waist and eased herself upward for him to enter her. Without guidance, Derrick entered Natalie.

“Ahh!” Derrick sighed as the warmth from Natalie’s inside encased him. “You feel incredible,” he went on. “God! I'd damn near forgot what a woman feels like,” Derrick shamelessly admitted.

Natalie said nothing and inhaled his mouth into a deep and passionate kiss. Their bodies bounced against each other’s as they made love in several positions. For hours, they shared their innermost secrecies, explored every known and unknown detail of each other’s bodies, and found a place in each other to reside. After their bodies couldn’t take anymore, they fell asleep in each other’s arms until the sound of the phone roused Derrick from his sleep. Reluctant to have his bliss disturbed so early, Derrick ignored the phone and wrapped is body around Natalie’s and went back to sleep. At 9:20 am, Natalie stirred and smiled knowing Derrick was still next to her.

“Morning handsome,” Natalie cooed.

“Hey beautiful.” Derrick ran his hand through Natalie’s hair. “Sleep well?”

“Like a baby. You?”

“The same. You were amazing,” Derrick offered. “I hope I…”

“No complaints. No worries; no regrets remember?” Natalie reminded. “You were wonderful.”

The smile that emerged on Derrick’s face illumunated the room. Natalie was pleased and climbed on top of him, rubbing herself on Derrick’s semi hard erection until it was hard enough to enter her.

“I think he likes me,” Natalie teased.

“How could he not?” Derrick grinned and gyrated underneath her. “Though I shouldn’t get used to this,” Derrick pensively noted.

Rendezvous Part 14

“God. Natalie,” Derrick moaned. “This…I’ve…you have no idea…”

“Yes. I think I do,” Natalie challenged. “Forget for a moment. Just be. I am,” she whispered as she pressed her mouth against his.

Derrick was too weak to fight. His will had been stripped the moment Natalie called out to him. Making love was a faded memory and its resurrection into reality only occurred when his wife obliged his marital right, which tended to be more selfishly driven on her part. But this — this feeling of mutual want and desire was almost foreign to him.

“Forgive any performance issues I may…”

“No need for that,” Natalie hushed him. “Whatever happens; no regrets okay? Promise?”

Derrick nodded. He wanted to speak, but the words knotted in his throat. Tears threatened.

“Say it to me Derrick,” Natalie coaxed. “Tell me there’ll be no worries and no regrets. Life’s short. Let’s live while we have the time.”

“No regrets," Derrick nodded again. "No worries. Just right now," his words softened.

With that said, Derrick and Natalie consummated their friendship. Handling her as if she were fine china, Derrick caressed Natalie’s breasts, gently devouring each one until he had his fill. He turned her over and trailed kisses down her spine and rested in the small of her back. The delicate scent of her bath oils aroused his nasal passages and increased his desires. Derrick massaged Natalie’s shoulders and back, precisely hitting each aching muscle. He treated her body with the same meticulous attention he did while working. Natalie cooed and moaned as she enjoyed the sensations of Derrick’s touch. Anxious to reciprocate, Natalie slid from under Derrick and pushed him back onto his heals. She ran her hands over his chest, studying every detail of his chiseled frame. A small scar sat just below Derrick’s rib cage and she kissed it. She trailed the kisses upward to his taut nipples and sucked them.

“Oh…damn Nat…that feels so good.” Derrick moaned as the warmth of Natalie’s mouth inflicted intense pleasure.

He held her head to his chest as she continued to kiss and suck him into loud, breathy moans. Derrick cupped Natalie’s butt, pulling her into him and eased her backward onto the bed. They completely removed each other’s clothes and Derrick teased and caressed Natalie’s pelvic bones. She giggled and tried to move, but Derrick was enjoying the sound of her laughter. Slowly, he moved his head downward and inched his way between her thighs. Derrick rested on Natalie’s thigh and used his hand to stimulate her tender folds of moistened flesh.