STANDARD DISCLAIMER: Please read the disclaimers from Chapter 1 Personal Assistant. It takes up a lot of data to repeat these disclaimers.

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ALERT! Oops! This is where things get a little, ummm, steamy. <VBWG>

Comments? xenakat98@yahoo.com

  The story of love is not important.
What is important is that one is capable of love.
It is perhaps the only glimpse we are permitted of eternity.

CHAPTER SEVEN: And the band played on . . . . .

Michael was the first to make a suggestion about getting Jessica to the studio, and then back again. "I think we should either hire another car, or check with the hotel, and see if they can transport you. Oh, and I would highly recommend that you contact Mr. Director, and make sure that he does everything he can to keep Gregory occupied. Event though it's your money that's financing the show now, it's made to look like Gregory is the one. He might make a major scene, and then he's close to you. Too close! I really think it is a good idea for Kate to be going with you. In the meantime, I'll see if I can get us something realiable for transport after this. As long as we can keep him out of here, we should be okay."

Jessica mulled over his suggestions, and then the group made their minor suggestions. Kate was surprisingly quiet. She seemed to be somewhere else entirely. And not necessarily a bad place, judging by the look on her face. Steve was just plain excited about the whole thing. It was like playing international spy.

Michael and Steven decided to take off for a while, and check on the car situation. Jessica waited until they were gone, and then decided to take a shower, and get ready for work. Kate was sitting at the table staring out into space again, a silly grin on her face. However, when Jessica started to take her clothes off, Kate's attention was suddenly drawn back to the here and now. Like lightening striking the back of her head. She was not sure where to look, or what to look at.

Jessica not even thinking, grabbed her bag, and started to dig through it looking for something to wear to the studio. She heard very faintly, a sort of strangling sound from behind her. Again without thinking, she turned around to see if Kate was all right. Kate was trying desperately to count threads in the carpet, and to not stare. She could feel the crimson heat creeping up the back of her neck again.

Jessica could have slapped herself. "Oh God, I am so sorry. I forget that real people might not be as immodest as I am. I'm so used to undressing for costumers, and studio people, that it just comes naturally. I never was very modest anyway. I mean we're all born naked aren't we?" She smiled, and tried to make Kate giggle.

Kate swallowed four or five times, and then tried desperately to speak. "It's okay, fine, not a problem. I'm a big girl, I can handle it. I mean we're both adults, aren't we? Of course we are. Umm, tell you what, while you're in the shower, I'll see if I can catch Laura. If I don't check in with her every once in a while, she panics, and starts calling 911 to all of my friends down here. Not that I have any, but well, she's unpredictable. Yeah, that's just what I'll do. Uh huh, you betcha."

Jessica shrugged her shoulders, stirring up another of many successive jolts of lightening that ran up and down Kate's spine. "Tell you what, when I get out, I'll call the director, and get things going, then I'll call the office, and have my Executive Secretary set up all of your personnel stuff. If you have a bank account where you want your checks to be deposited, leave the name of the bank, and the number on the table by the phone. It will be easier that way." Then she turned, and went into the large bathroom.

As soon as she was out of sight, Kate threw her head between her knees, and breathed deeply ten times. All along, ever since she had been a fan, the internet topic would stray to the subject of what Jessica Ryan looked like without her clothes. Well, no more mystery there. Nope, no way. Okay, now someone needs to come and restart my heart, because I think I just might expire. Right now! Calm McKenna, calm. She needs you to protect her, not lust after her. But holy moly. I definitely will not be able to keep my mind on much for the next few. Whooo boy!

Kate took another moment to calm her nerves, and then pulled out her laptop. After a small search, she located the modem line, and plugged in, and then dialed for her E-mail. As expected, Laura left her a huge bunch of messages, about the job, and whether or not she was really taking it, and should Laura and April become worshippers now of Kate, etc. After a few moments, the buddy window popped up, indicating that Laura had signed on, and acknowledged Kate's presence on the net.

Lady Knight: Hey there Goddess, pal of mine. So what's up with you? Are you working for the true and only Jessica Ryan yet? Or is she waiting for me to relocate, and take your place? Just tell her I'm on my way.

PAK: Hey Laura. Yes, I started working for her this morning, indirectly. Umm, I can't tell you everything, but someone is trying to hurt her, and I am going to do everything I can to protect her. Can you do me a favor? Use your resources, and see what you can find out about her husband Gregory. He's bad stuff Laura. If we don't stop him, he might kill her.

Lady Knight: Whoa, no way. You aren't yanking my chain are you? That sounds like something right out of the movies.

PAK: I'm not kidding. I wish I could tell you more, but I can't. At least not yet. Other than that, things have been . . . . wonderful. She really is a neat person. Friendly, funny, and well just great. We're in hiding right now, so her husband doesn't find us. Steven is with us too. It seems he may have a new boyfriend. Michael Ryan, Jessica's brother. They are so cute together, and I just love Michael. You can tell he really love's his sister too.

As the two friends chatted away, Jessica finished with her shower, and then dressed in black jeans, and a black turtle neck sweater. She came out of the bathroom, drying her long dark hair with a towel. Kate stole a quick look at her, and again had her breath taken away. She looked down in time to notice that she had just typed a bunch of garbage to Laura. Fortunately, she hadn't sent it yet, or Laura would be on her in a second.

"How's your friend Laura doing?" Jessica called to her.

"Huh? Oh, she's fine. Just wondering where I've been. I asked her to do a project for us. She has an amazing number of contacts in the cyberworld. She is going to do some research on Gregory, and then download it to us later. I was just going to put her on standby for a moment, while I showered." Kate was rapidly typing while she spoke.

PAK: Listen, we have to leave for the studio in a little while, so I need to take a shower. Stand by for a few minutes, okay? BRB!

Lady Knight: Okey dokey kiddo. I'll be right here when you get back. I can spend some time reading my mail, and catching up.

While Kate took her bag into the bathroom to shower, Jessica used the hotel phone to call Ted, the director of her show. "Hey, Carrie, this is Jessica. Can you find Ted for me?"Jessica had to wait a few minutes, while Carrie, Ted's assistant located him. She sat down at the table, and took a look at Kate's computer, and the prior conversation with Laura. A mischievous streak took ahold of her, and she decided she would have some fun. She started typing a message to Laura, and then hit the send button.

PAK: Hey, I'm back. Fast shower. Listen, have I got a secret for you. Did you know that Jessica Ryan has four nipples. No kidding.

Lady Knight: Oh yeah, sure. And how pray tell do you know this? X-ray glasses or something. Give me a break kid! You haven't even known her long enough to see her naked or anything. I'm telling you though, my money is on the two of you getting together. And soon. It's about time too. Babe you need to put your past behind you, and find someone who can love you. Just for you, and no BS.

Jessica wished she could talk to Laura herself. She wanted to know more about Kate. Why she detected a small sorrow about her. Jessica was well aware about the rape, and that alone would be enough to mess up anyone's mind. But it seemed as though there was something else. I guess we all have our secrets!

PAK: Actually, I have seen her naked. Apparently she's not very modest. She undressed right in front of me. I almost died!

Just as Jessica hit the send button, she looked towards the bathroom to see Kate watching her mess with her friend Laura. She couldn't tell for sure, but she thought, maybe she just might be in trouble. She tried the sheepish "Kid's hand in the cookie jar" look, and was rewarded with a smile. A strained smile, but a smile just the same.

"What are you doing? I hope you aren't making trouble for me. Laura's pretty smart, but she is also a great dreamer. What did you tell her?" Kate inquired, a question in her eyes.

"I was just messing with her a bit. It's still on the screen if you want to see it?" Jessica decided there was no lying to this girl. She pushed the chair back, so that Kate could get a look at the screen.

"Oh My God! I can't believe you said that to her. Four nipples? Oh wow, she must be going crazy by now. And you told her I saw you naked? Oh man. This is too much. You're nuts, you know that. Completely nuts." Kate patted Jessica on the head, and then chucked her under the chin for good measure. Kate carefully hid her reaction to Laura's statement about the two women getting together. She pretended not to notice.

She pushed Jessica back a little further, and then pulled another chair over, so she could try to undo some of the damage that Jessica may have just caused with her friend. Kate scrolled down the screen, to check out Laura's response.

Lady Knight: Who is this? What alien has captured my friend, and taken over her body. No Kate McKenna I know would ever say that Jessica Ryan has four nipples. Not even in fun. WHO ARE YOU!

PAK: Calm down Laura! It's me, and you're right. That was her, Jessica. She thought it would be funny to mess with your head. No, you are right, she does not have four nipples. And, she's sorry.

Lady Knight: Wait a minute babe, you just said I was speaking to Jessica Ryan. NOT! Don't mess with me now. I love you kiddo, but that couldn't have been her.

Kate turned to look at Jessica, who was watching over her shoulder, while she spoke with Ted. They had been hashing out their plan for the shoot that night, and what to do about Deborah's absence. Jessica had an idea, but it involved Kate. She wasn't sure she wanted to endanger her that way, or whether Kate would want to do it anyway. She would talk to her, and then let Ted know when they got to the sight.

Jessica said goodbye, and then scooting her chair forward, put her long arms around Kate, and then reaching for the keyboard typed in something that she was sure would identify herself to Laura.

PAK: Laura, go to my fan club sight, and type in Jessica Ryan Knightly where the sign in box is. Then type ardneK for the password. You'll get to see the new screen capture's for the next three episodes. They haven't been released yet. Maybe then you'll believe it's really me.

Kate was impressed. She never would have thought that Jessica would give away such a major secret. Of course, Laura was the only one that Kate would trust with that kind of stuff, but Jessica wouldn't necessarily know that. Moments later Laura came back, totally flipping out.

Lady Knight: Holy cow girlfriend. You do have a warped sense of humor. Katie was right. Listen. Be nice to my friend, or I'll hunt you down myself. She needs someone like you in her life. And if my suspicions are correct, you need her too. Take care of her.

PAK: You bet Laura. I have every intention of taking the best possible care of her. No question about that at all. Talk to you later.

Kate sat quietly while her two friends, old and new signed off with each other. Part of her was scared. She couldn't help wonder what the future might hold for her, and she was deeply afraid of rejection. Even before the rape, she had that succession of one or two nighters, except for Gina.

Gina was a beautiful 35-ish studio ornament. Executive Secretary this week, bit actress the next. She never seemed to quite find her knitch in life. Kate met her at an AIDS auction, and fell instantly in like with her. Unfortunately she hadn't realized what a good actress Gina was. They started dating, going all kinds of places having a great time together. Whenever they had sex though, it was always at Kate's house. Gina also started to have mysterious gaps in time. She would cancel dates, or have to rush off somewhere. Kate began to wonder if she wasn't seeing someone else.

Two or three months after they began seeing each other, Gina invited Kate to her home. The two had been drinking, and Kate was pretty drunk. Gina began undressing her, and Kate went along. Suddenly she heard a noise from the corner of the room, and realized that they were not alone. Apparently Gina was married. She and her husband would use Gina as bait, and lure women home, and then try to get them to participate in sex with first the wife, and then both of them. On this particular occasion, there were others as well. Another couple was present and observing as though watching a play at the theater, or a movie.

Kate was so disgusted, and sickened, she gathered her things and fled. She never spoke to Gina again, and she never went back to any of the places she knew Gina would probably frequent. She stayed in bed for days, and was physically ill for a large part of the time she was down. Kate finally told Laura, and then Steven. They were the only ones to know what happened.

Kate thought about that time while she watched Jessica talking to Laura. The thoughts made her start to shake slightly, and she felt as though she might be ill. She quickly turned away, so that Jessica couldn't see the fear in her eyes. She had no way of knowing if Jessica could ever do anything like that to her, and she very seriously doubted it. Even Laura had already cast her vote of confidence. It just made Kate so scared to open herself up to anyone again. She alternately felt ugly, and unclean. Or just not deserving of anyone's care and love. This was not going to be easy.

Kate walked over to the window, and stared out for a moment. She had already allowed herself to let Jessica kiss her, and she had kissed her back. From that extent she knew she was still capable of feelings. Boy was she ever. But, trusting someone with her heart. There in lay the dilemma. She was scared. Really scared.

Kate shook herself from her dark thoughts, and decided not to decide. Concentrate on her job, and let time bring her what may. What was it that Laura was always saying? Oh yeah, go with the flow, and ride with the tide.

Jessica turned to Kate, and interrupted any further thought on the subject. "Okay, so what do I do to shut this thing off. We're done talking, I guess."

Kate walked back over, and reaching for the laptop, signed off the internet, and then shut the power off. Closing the computer, she unplugged it, and slipped it into it's case. As she crossed over to where her things were stowed, Jessica noticed the tenseness, and the pale color of Kate's skin.

"Are you alright? You don't look like you feel very well." Jessica asked concerned.

"Oh, I'm okay thanks. Just . . . I don't know, I guess someone just walked across my grave or something. I'll be fine. We should start getting together the things we want to take to the studio." Kate tried to shrug off her fears, and change the subject.

Jessica kind of felt that this had to do with her, but she wasn't sure what the problem was. She figured that if she kept her mouth shut, and tried to feel what Kate was feeling before she took advantage of her, then maybe things would be okay. The last thing she wanted to do was scare, or hurt Kate in any way. Jessica went over where Kate was sorting through her equipment bag, and stood quietly waiting until she was needed.

Kate babbled on about this weapon, and that weapon. She had decided that they definitely needed the flak jackets, and maybe a boot dagger for each of them. She also reluctantly included a small .38 caliber ladies pistol in a shoulder holster under her arm. She doubted she could use it, but if push came to shove, she didn't know what she might be capable of. She also pulled out her special keychain. It was a small bar of steel, that when used correctly, could severely disable an attacker.

Jessica continued to watch, used to going through weapons inventories, especially because of the show. She greatly admired the ease with which her friend, and employee rambled on, sorting through all of the instruments of death at her disposal. Jessica was quite familiar with most of the weapons. Both from her own past, from her current job, and from her own training. She was content to continue listening, when she remembered what she and Ted had talked about concerning Deborah's absence.

"Oh, I almost forgot. We have a small problem for the shoot tonight, and I was wondering if you might want to help out." Jessica tried not to sound pushy, but she was hoping Kate would take her offer.

"Anything you want. What's the problem?" Kate inquired, curious now.

"Well, with Deborah down, they have been having a hard time finding someone of the same size, and the same martial arts abilities to take her place. I was thinking that maybe you might be able to fill in. Most of the face is covered with prosthetics anyway, so it would be easy to slip you in. And the voice can be done after using Deborah for overdubbing. What do you think?" Jessica waited, mentally crossing her fingers.

Kate considered the offer. She had never had any aspirations of being an actress, but the idea wasn't totally distasteful to her. "Well, if it will help you guys out, then sure. Just don't expect great things from me, because I've never done anything like this before. Besides, it will allow me to be closer to you during the shoot. In case Gregory or any of his cronies try something. I just hope I don't mess things up for you is all."

Jessica smiled. "Don't worry. I'll help you through it. We'll be together for the entire shoot, so we should be okay. I appreciate you wanting to help us."

"Well hey, that's where I can most effectively do my job, so that's where I'll be." Kate tried desperately to convince herself.

Soon after settling the evening's plan, Kate set herself on the task of feeding the cats, and then getting them ready to spend the evening by themselves in the hotel room. She originally wanted to keep them locked away in the bathroom, but Jessica told her it wasn't necessary. That the staff would check on them, and if there were any problems, they would take care of them. Kate was quite frankly stunned that the hotel would let them keep the two animals in the room with them. She had assumed that they would be exiled to the kitty prison. But once again, Jessica came through. She refused to let them separate Kate from her pets. Jessica wasn't normally a demanding guest, but sometimes being a star came in handy.

Michael and Steven returned soon after. Michael assured both women that the car that was coming for them was a trusted friend of his. The man danced at one or two clubs in the area, and hung out with some of the same people that Michael did. He had been driving for various companies in Hollywood for quite a few years, and was well trained in terrorist aversion etc.

Michael took off to take care of some business he had, and left Steven to fend for himself for a while. Steven called Diane, and she hooked him up with a dinner party gig for the evening. He was to escort the wife of a studio owner to some charity benefit. He quickly said his goodbye to the women, so that he could have some time to get showered and dressed for the party. Diane arranged for a car to pick him up at around sevenish.

That left the two women. Kate stood at the window idly looking out. Clouds had started to come in, and they were expecting some rain. She was just thinking how appropriate it was for her mood, when she realized that she was blatantly ignoring Jessica's presence in the room.

Kate turned to address her, and was startled to see her with her head in her hands, a small trickle of tears slipping between her fingers. Kate quickly strode to her side, and crouching down in front of her, put her hands on Jessica's knees to steady herself.

"What's wrong? Why are you crying?" Kate didn't want to push her.

Jessica took Kate's hands, and stood helping her to her feet. "I feel like I am repeating myself, but I can't stand to think I have contributed to your unhappiness. Please, if you don't want to do this it's alright. Just don't stay because you think you have to. I'll understand."

Kate smiled a small half smile. "So, I'm that obvious am I? It's not because of you that I'm unhappy right now. And it has nothing to do with the job. I want this job. The more time I spend with you the more sure of that fact I become. It's just other stuff that's bothering me. After reading Laura's lecture to you about taking care of me, I dredged up some terrible things that have happened to me. Even before the rape. It has made it very hard to get close to anyone again. To feel loved or cared about. I don't want you to feel as though I am leading you on. I am just so scared. I want to be happy, and I want you to be happy as well, but it is so hard for me to let go. To drop my carefully cultivated shields."

Jessica smiled back, even through her tears. "Didn't I just tell you that about myself not too long ago? I have admittedly built what I have felt was an impenetrable fortress around myself. No feelings, no happiness, no love. My little personal kingdom runs on survival, and duty. It has nothing to do with something so soft as personal happiness. And yet. Suddenly there is a small chink in the castle wall, and I see a very scared, but somehow determined little entity trying to gain entrance. I quite frankly like that little ray of sunshine that's peeking in. There may be some dark clouds hovering over both of us, but I think it's something we can get past. Until then, just know that I will understand, if you feel the need to bolt. I couldn't, nor would I want, to make you think that you had to be a part of my life in any way."

Totally without thinking on both their parts, the two women embraced each other, in a close tight hug. Kate without much thought, rubbed Jessica's back to reassure her, that she was willing to work past their problems together. Jessica stroked Kate's hair, silently praying that nothing she might do would bring harm, or scare Kate out of her life.

They separated, when a knock sounded on the door. Jessica quickly stepped to the spy hole, and looked to make sure that it was Michael's friend, and not someone else. The driver held his ID up to the viewer, so that she could identify him. Satisfied that he was who he said he was, she opened the door. Kate grabbed the bag with the flak jackets in it, and then putting her winter coat on, dashed out the door, Jessica right behind her. They made sure that the door was locked tight behind them, and the alarm was set. The hotel management was very careful about having the codes changed each time a new person occupied the cottage.

The driver led them to the car, and after putting their things in the trunk, they took off for the set. The driver was very friendly, but also very alert to their surroundings. He took a round about way to the factory. Jessica had prearranged to have the costume and makeup people waiting for them on site.

When they arrived, they could see her limousine parked in the distance, away from the actual area. The studio had obviously spared no expense in the need to protect their star. At 10 foot intervals surrounding the entire grounds they had stationed a National Guard officer. The studio had pulled some strings, and convinced the Guard, that there had been some kind of terrorist death threats made against Ms. Ryan. Since most of them were fans of the show, they gladly volunteered their time, and equipment to insure her safety. Most of them didn't believe there really was a threat, but it was good training for them should there be a terrorist assault on the country.

Inside the grounds, the studio had hired security guards, carefully placed in discreet locations throughout the entire facility. Not a single unauthorized person, was going to gain access to the grounds if anyone could help it. The expense was small considering what they would lose should their star be killed or injured.

Kate and Jessica were equally amazed at how extensive the coverage was. Jessica was still concerned about Gregory being so close. She almost suspected that he would go so far as to launch a bomb over the fence, but realized how silly that notion was. Still and all, she was glad that the protection was there even though she knew it couldn't last.

Jessica led Kate over to the costume and makeup tent, and after explaining to the staff that she would be standing in for Deborah, she headed out to find Ted the director. He was busy with the camera crew setting up for the first shots. One of his assistants saw her approaching, and gave him the heads up. He turned and was visibly relieved to see her.

"Oh man, I am so glad to see you. So, what do you think about our security tonight? Pretty slick huh? I guess Justin was not too happy about Gregory threatening you. He's launched a full scale investigation on his activities. It seems . . ." He stood close, and whispered conspiratorially. "well, supposedly he's been embezzling from the studio, and if I were you, I would call an accountant, and a lawyer, and have your own books checked out. By what I've heard, they are going to put him away for a long, long time."

Jessica regarded him thoughtfully. "Hmm, Justin huh? I think this the first time I could ever recall him getting directly involved in a situation like this. Most of the time he is content to be the studio owner, and let the peons drive the boat. Very interesting. I can only hope that somehow, someone will nail Gregory. Did you know he's parked outside?"

Ted jumped, and looked behind him like Gregory was standing right there. "Shit, why didn't you say something. I'll have one of the girls get in touch with the head of the security team. I don't want him anywhere near here. What if he launches a bomb over the fence or something."

Jessica realized after he said it, how truly lame it sounded. She patted him on the shoulder, and was going to ask more questions, when a runner came and told her that they needed her in wardrobe. She politely excused herself, and headed back to the tent where she had left Kate. Judging by the noise emanating from behind the canvas, it was probably a good thing she did. She strode through the tent flaps, and stopped short at the spectacle in front of her.

Kate was on the floor, sitting on one of the male costumers, and holding his hands behind his back. She had leaned down close to his ear, and was whispering something to him. Jessica was sure it wasn't "sweet nothings".

"What ya doing there, red?" Jessica called good naturedly to her obviously unhappy friend.

Kate finished what she was saying to the costumer, and then turning scowled darkly at Jessica. "I am teaching this man some manners. No one, and I mean no one grabs me where he did, without an invitation. He has no idea how close he came to losing his arm."

Jessica walked over, and putting her hands gently on Kate's shoulders, persuaded her to let the poor guy go. "Hey slugger, it's okay. He was only doing his job. Come on now, let him go. I'll help you myself. Will that make you feel better?"

Kate reluctantly turned her captive loose, and then standing up, she brushed off her clothes, and then backed toward Jessica. Jessica encircled her from behind with her arm, and gently put her chin on the top of Kate's head. Addressing the costumer, she smiled gently, and then tilting her head slightly put him to the test. "Tell me Jerry, were you trying to cop an uninvited feel, or were you actually helping her with her costume?"

Jerry, the costumer, blushed deeply effectively giving away his intentions. Jessica called the supervisor over, and asked her if for the time being she wouldn't mind only having women as dressers for Kate. The staff had been together for so long, that if Jerry had tried to pull something like that on Jessica, or even Deborah, he probably would have gotten slapped, but with no harm done. Kate however was a different situation, and Jessica would not allow that kind of treatment where she was concerned.

After the staff had returned to their jobs, and the men had all exited to other parts of the set, Kate finally calmed down, and allowed Jessica to let go of her. "I'm sorry I reacted so harshly, but I wasn't ready for that. I could have hurt him pretty badly. He just grabbed me, well . . . .in a not so nice manner, and then expected me to laugh at him. I suppose it was harmless, it just caught me by surprise."

Jessica hugged her one more time, and then placing her hand lightly alongside Kate's cheek, bent down slightly to look her directly in the eyes. "Don't ever be concerned where your personal integrity is concerned. That guy has managed to grab just about every woman, and half the men on the staff. He thinks he's really clever, but most of us can't stand him. The last time he grabbed one of the guys, he received a black eye in exchange."

Kate smiled, a little relieved that Jessica wasn't mad at her. While she mulled over her reaction, Jessica had the supervisor bring over Kate's gear. She insisted that they slip the flak jacket on first, and then fit the rest of the pieces over it. Kate was slightly smaller in size than Deborah, so the addition of the vest actually helped with the fit. After they fit the chest pieces, Jessic had to step over, and get into her own jumpsuit. The flak jacket didn't fit as well, but she convinced them it was necessary. One of the women took the vest, and then after a few stitches brought it back in a more form fitting design.

After more than 30 minutes of struggling with all of the straps and catches, they finally had Kate encased in her plastic prison. The makeup person added the necessary color, and shading to the parts of her face that were showing. Not too much later, Jessica returned to see how she was doing. With the exception of the grimace on her face, she looked great. At least in the entire staff's opinion. Jessica thought she looked cute, but she refrained from saying so.

Soon, the director's assistant came and summoned them both to the set. The weapons master brought Jessica's laser rifle, pistols, and other assorted hardware. Kate's costume had been outfitted with all kinds of trick items, but most of them had been temporarily disabled, since there hadn't been a lot of time to train her how to use them. She was only mildly disappointed, but determined to learn more, if they decided they needed her again after tonight.

Jessica led her to their first mark for the night. Jessica was to stand just short of a large pillar, while Kate approached her from behind. Just as Kate reached her next mark, and large valve was supposed to release steam directly behind her, just missing her. Her part was to bend forward, thereby allowing the steam to pass harmlessly above her. It had already been established, that steam or water played havoc with her characters programming. There wouldn't actually be any steam, as that would be added later via some pretty sophisticated computer graphics.

The director called action, and Jessica stood in her spot looking as though she were scouting their next step. Kate counted the correct number of steps, and then as required bent forward at the right time. Unfortunately, she leaned too far forward, and miscalculating the weight of the suit, fell forward, and landed face down on the cement floor. Rather than call cut, the director went ahead and filmed Jessica trying desperately to help her back to her feet. Even though it was spontaneous, it made a great piece of film.

Kate was devasted. She was sure the entire cast was laughing hysterically at her. Jessica whispered encouragement to her, and told her not to worry about it. When the director finally called cut, Jessica had managed to get her upright again, and then the two had continued the progression into the next shot. Much to Kate's surprise, the entire group applauded her most heartily for her efforts.

She smiled broadly, and then blushed with all of the attention. Jessica took her hand, and gave it a swift squeeze. She remembered how hard it was when she walked onto a set for the first time. People could be merciless. Fortunately she knew that this group was a pretty fair, and close bunch of folks.

The next shot was to take place on a cat walk high above the factory floor. A particularly nasty cyber terrorist, built from extremely sophisticated mechanics was going to be climbing the scaffolding leg that supported the catwalk. The mech unit was actually designed and built for exactly this purpose. It had been equipped with a set of extremely complicated claws, that through some incredible software, and a dedicated group of cyber nerds, allowed it to really climb. It had been decided that using a computer generated graphic enemy for this shoot, would just not be the same as using a real one.

The tech crew mounted the mech unit onto the scaffold. The two women were being escorted to the top of the catwalk via a back stairway, in the company of the head of the stunt team. They were only going to be walking across the decking, and then the stunt team would replace them for the actual shot. No one wanted to take a chance with endangering the two women. A misstep, and both could fall to their deaths. Even though they had been tethered to the beams above the catwalk, they didn't want to take the risk.

This time, Kate took the lead, she took a few tentative steps, then for some reason Jessica couldn't identify, she stopped. As quickly as the suit would allow her, she turned and trying to run back towards Jessica, she almost got entangled in the safety lines that were protecting her from falling. Jessica became aware of her approach just as Kate managed to launch herself at her companion. Kate landed flat against Jessica effectively knocking her to the deck.

After Jessica recovered from having the wind knocked out of her, she noticed that Kate was struggling to breath. Carefully sliding out from under her, she checked the suit and noticed a hole about the size of a dime in the back of the suit. There was a small amount of smoke lazily drifting from the opening. It only took a second to realize that Kate had been shot.

Praying to every God she could think of, Jessica tried frantically to disentangle the two of them from their safety lines, and then release the back catches to the suit. She was in the process of releasing the stubborn latch pieces, when the first of the stunt crew reached them. Fearing a repeat of the previous night, they quickly removed the plate, and checked Kate over for injury. Much to everyone's relief, the flak jacket effectively protected her from any grave injury.

Jessica took personal responsibility for lifting Kate's shirt to examine her for any hidden damage. There was definitely going to be some bruising, but no skin was broken. After checking her back, Jessica carefully removed her helmet. She checked the stitches from her previous injury, and then made sure that no other shots might have injured her. A few moments more, and then Kate finally began to breath a little easier. She motioned for them to help her sit up on her behind, so she could get more air into her lungs.

"I'm okay, don't worry. I just had the wind knocked out of me. That son of a bitch. Now he's really made me mad. If I catch him, it will surely be a sorry day in his life." Kate was absolutely furious.

Jessica was visibly relieved. "Come on, let’s get you down from here. I want to make sure that you really are okay."

The crew cleared the rest of the cables, and then helped the women back down the stairways. Jessica stayed right with Kate, not letting her out of her sight. The security teams were busy tracking the sniper. Gregory hadn’t moved an inch. He was surprisingly unarmed, and refused any knowledge of the sniper, or the incident. They brought him to the main guard base, along with his buddy Jerald, and the limo driver.

Gregory protested loudly. "You are violating my personal rights. What gives you the right to restrain me. I’ve done nothing wrong. I want to see my wife. Someone give me my phone, I’m going to call my lawyer." He reached for a passing soldier. "You boy, go in there and have someone find my wife and bring her back here. I need to talk to her, it’s very important."

The soldier looked to his superior officer for confirmation. Getting an affirmative nod, he dashed through the gates, and set about the task of locating Jessica. He wandered around a bit, and then noticed a group gathering near the scaffold where the most recent filming took place. He knew instantly who Jessica was. Being a fan, he couldn’t miss the tall dark haired woman in the black jumpsuit. She was carefully removing the rest of the torso pieces on her sidekick’s costume.

"Umm, excuse me ma’am?" He stumbled on his words.

Jessica turned when he approached her. "What’s up there? Can I help you."

Immediately several internal security people closed in on the group, not willing to let anyone else endanger their star. One rather large individual stood directly behind the smaller soldier. If Jessica gave the sign, they would restrain him. Jessica made eye contact with the security officer, and slightly shook her head. She didn’t want these guys going crazy, and hurting anyone.

Jessica smiled again at the soldier to encourage him to deliver his message. He cleared his throat again, and finally was able to speak. "Umm, uh, well ma’am, it seems that we have your husband restrained outside the gates, and he is demanding to speak to you. He’s pretty insistent if you know what I mean? Threatening lawyers and all. They can’t get him to be quiet." The kid was blushing by now.

Jessica looked at Kate for support. Kate shrugged her shoulders. "Let’s go. I’d love to get a piece of him right now. Let’s take a few of these rather large, armed men with us just in case. If he’s as psychotic as we think he is, he might try something stupid. But yeah, I’m ready."

Jessica grinned broadly at her smaller friend’s spunk. She started to believe that if Gregory were a 12 foot tall bear, Kate would still probably stand up to him. She placed her hands on Kate’s shoulders. "You be careful. You’ve had enough injuries to last a while. I don’t want you to get into a fistfight with Gregory, or Jerald. Those boys are pretty nasty."

Kate snorted. Patting Jessica’s hands, she smiled a winning smile, and then assured her she wouldn’t do anything stupid. She managed to stand up on her own, even with the bottom half of the costume in place. One of the crew members had brought her winter coat over, and Jessica helped her put it on. The two women, with an entourage of six security guards worked their way towards the gate.

They could hear the sounds of the continued filming going on behind them. A special helicopter had been brought in as well. It was supposed to drop a line, and rescue the two heroines from the approaching Mech Warrior. Of course the stunt people were in place instead of Jessica and Kate. Too much risk, and the insurance companies these days wouldn’t allow it.

As they approached the gate, the gathering crowd of soldiers parted, and Jessica could see Gregory sitting on a crate, Jerald not too far behind him. He looked up just in time to make eye contact with her. Before anyone could react, he was off his seat and charging her, intent on doing her harm. Apparently his level of sanity was rapidly slipping away.

Gregory managed to get within about four feet of Jessica, when Kate stepped out from behind her, and round housed him with a right to the jaw. She followed with a swift sweep of her left leg, and effectively grounded him. Landing square in the middle of his chest, she drew back and prepared to slam his nose into his head, when Jessica caught her from behind.

"Whoa there! I don’t want to have to bail you out of jail tonight. Calm down, calm down. Don’t waste your energy on that pig. Come on over here, and we’ll let the guards pick him up." Jessica took Kate by the arm, and dragged her over to the side. Kate struggled a little with her anger, and then she subsided.

Gregory was being helped off the ground by his buddy Jerald. None of the other’s present wanted to have anything to do with him. He was obviously nuts, and the sooner someone locked him up, the better. One of the soldiers handed him a dirty rag to wipe the blood off his face. It was highly possible he had a broken nose.

"JESSICA, you get that little dyke bitch of yours under control. I’ll sue you and her. No court in the land would stand against me when they find out that you’re a dyke. You are supposed to be my wife, not some whoring slut who goes around sleeping with women. No one does that to me, and gets away with it. I’ll ruin you, YOU JUST WAIT!" Gregory was positively foaming at the mouth.

Behind him, Jessica could see a sleek charcoal gray limousine pulling onto the property. That could only mean one thing. Justin Graves, the owner of the studio had decided to pay a visit to the site. His timing couldn’t be better as far as she was concerned. She smiled inwardly, while maintaining her outward mask of non-involvement.

Kate on the other hand was furious. She wanted to make him pay. How dare he talk to Jessica like that? Ha! What marriage? That pig wouldn’t know how to find his way through a relationship if it had a map. Grrr, I hate him! She started to step forward again, hands curled into fists, when Jessica caught her arm and pulled her back. Shaking her head, she pleaded with her eyes to have Kate wait a minute. Something big was about to take place, and she wanted to see what was coming.

Justin Graves stepped from his car. Jessica was only mildly surprised to see that he was not alone. Riding with him were two of the companies seven lawyers, and Jessica’s personal lawyer, Meg Hopewell. The last passenger to emerge from the interior of the car was the studio accountant. Jessica used the same firm, and was relieved that she wouldn’t have to call them herself.

Justin strode purposely towards the group. He was a formidable man, but Jessica had learned over the last couple of years, that he could be quite the teddy bear once you got to know him. He pulled her into a strong hug, and then holding her at arms length, smiled, and then chucked her under the chin.

"How’s my favorite little girl? Doing okay, now that big daddy is here?" Gregory interrupted him.

"Justin, I am so glad to see you. Justin I want you to fire all of these people. Just look at what they’ve done to me. This isn’t right! She’s my wife, and she’s allowing them to treat me this way. You need to stop her." He continued to whine, over and over about the injustice of it all.

Justin turned his gaze in Gregory’s direction. "Gregory, if I were you, I would make my best effort to keep my mouth shut right about now. You don’t think I brought all of these folks out here for a picnic now do you? I am just waiting a few more minutes for my extra special guest to arrive, and then we can begin. Now, sit down and shut up, or I’ll have someone shut you up." Justin turned back to the group, and offered them a grin the Cheshire Cat would be proud of.

"So, Jessie my sweet. Introduce me to your friend here. She comes highly recommended by several of my associates, including that Diane from the agency. She plays tennis with my wife every so often, and Carol swears by her word." Justin extended his hand to Kate. He was surprised at how strong her grip was for such a small thing.

"I’m uh, pleased to meet you sir. I’m sorry that I hit him, but I couldn’t help myself. He could have killed both of us." Kate was clearly embarrassed.

"Oh no need to feel bad little lady. I’m just sorry I missed it. Seems to me that our Jessie here made a good choice when she picked you to be her PA. I would have been seriously pissed off, if Gregory’s goons had managed to kill her. By the way, I hear you took one in the back, how are you feeling?" Justin was genuinely concerned.

Kate was thoroughly charmed. "Oh, I’m okay. A little bruised, but I’ll live. So, if you don’t mind my asking? What brought all of you out here?"

Jessica turned and looked at her as if she had just swallowed nails, and Justin burst out laughing. "Straight forward. I like that in a woman. Well, our Jessie here was a guest of another friend of mine. That would be Deborah’s momma. We just saw Deborah not but a few hours ago. She’ doing right fine by the way. Anyway, Momma started us on our way here, and then we stopped to pick up Meg here on the way. It seems she got a mysterious E-mail from a person who goes by the moniker of Lady Knight. Is that someone you all might know?"

Kate covered her mouth with her hand. She shot a glance at Jessica, and the two almost burst into giggles. "Um, yes sir, she’s a friend of mine in Northern California. I asked her earlier today if she wouldn’t mind doing some digging for me. I didn’t realize that she would bypass me, and go straight to the top. She must have uncovered something important."

Justin smiled broadly again, and pulled a large cigar out of his coat pocket. "You can bet on that there honey. She downloaded a whole chamber pot full of information on this sewer rat. Meg started the wheel’s turning, and the information that came back so far was enough to get me to come on out and see you gals."

Justin was extremely proud of himself for being up on all the latest terminology. He beamed at the assembled group, before he tipped his hand. His missing guests arrived as he was about to tell what they found. The new arrivals stood back several feet, and politely waited until they were summoned.

"It seems that Gregory here, has been scammin’ just about everyone in this entire company. Not to mention several people outside the company as well. Where he failed, was being too greedy. He’s managed to embezzle upwards of almost $100 million from various entities including, me personally, the studio, and of course his lovely wife. Somehow he managed to completely drain her entire bank accounts, and was in the process of attempting to dissolve several of her investments as well. We gathered, and were not too far off, that he was planning to dump the whole thing, or at least a large percentage of it into some sort of offshore investment deal. The problem for him would have been that the investment deal was being run by a combination of US Marshalls, and the Inspector here." He gestured to the men standing behind him. Kate recognized the police captain she had spoken to earlier that morning.

Gregory tried to make himself smaller, and slowly back away from the group. The careful placement of a semi-automatic rifle behind his ear, stopped his progress.

"Anyway, in the next day or two, your funds should be returned to you in their entirety. Meg here assures me that your investments will be reevaluated, and reinstated as well. Now, how about you two lovely ladies show me around this here lovely shoot site, while these boys do the job that our taxes pay them so well for." Justin took an arm offered by each of the women, and the three wandered away. Meg and the lawyers headed off to find coffee. They knew it would be a long night ahead of them.

CHAPTER 8: The calm before the storm . . . .

Kate discovered early on in the evening's travails that Justin Graves was a good person to have on their side. Gregory had been arrested, and taken to jail. Good fortune had smiled upon them in the fact that a judge had been around, to both issue warrants to several of Gregory's properties, and to set bail at a whopping 3 million plus dollars. With all of his assets frozen pending investigation, it would be extremely hard for Gregory to come up with the bail. Jerald, the limo driver, and the hired sniper were all incarcerated as well, until a hearing could be arranged, and each person's involvement be sorted out.

All Justin could hear was the sound of money falling from the sky. He was pleased as punch that his star was safe, and that they had managed to recover a large percentage of everyone's money. Jessica probably paid the highest price, but she had survived worse battles in her time. The residual publicity alone would boost the show's rating ten fold.

Jessica and Kate were done showing Justin around the site. He gave Kate a big bear hug, picking her up off the ground, while she squealed. Jessica received a smaller ground level hug, and then Justin whispered something in her ear. She blushed a deep crimson color, and then kissing him on the cheek bade him farewell. She promised to call him the next day, and let him know how she was doing.

Kate watched the exchange between Jessica and Justin carefully. She was curious as ever to find out what he said that made Jessica blush so deeply. She decided to be bold and just ask. "So, have you known him long?"

Jessica seemed to be far away. She turned at the sound of Kate's voice. "Hmm? Oh, Justin? Yeah, I guess so. He's a really . . . . great man."

Kate thought she read admiration in Jessica's tone, along with a great deal of respect, and something else. She couldn't quite put her finger on it, but it kind of made her jealous. She changed her mind, and decided not to ask any more questions. Somewhere inside of her she felt something ping. Kate began to wonder if in fact Jessica's feelings for her were because of undue stress, or something lame like that, and that maybe she was actually interested in someone else.

The two women continued on back to the area where the crew was shooting. The costumers came back, and re-outfitted Kate in her cyber suit. Jessica had noticed that her friend was extremely quiet, and passed it off as fatigue, and shock after all of the evenings trouble. She decided not to bother her, but made sure to stay nearby, in case Kate needed her.

Jessica's thoughts turned to Justin. She had known him for a long time. They had met each other a number of years before, when Jessica was attending to some personal business in Northern California. Her visit involved a trip to a private mental health facility there. Justin had a son who had serious emotional problems which made it necessary for him to be under constant care. Jessica also knew someone who was being cared for at the same facility, whose treatment she personally subsidized.

It turned out that she had actually met Gregory through Justin. Justin had inadvertently told Gregory about seeing Jessica at the hospital, and why. He started out relatively nice to her, but when she expressed no interest in him especially sexually speaking, he became more aggressive. That was the beginning of his reign of terror over her. Justin had felt guilty, and had tried to interfere any number of times, but Jessica always held him at bay. She did not want her personal business aired in public, and preferred to suffer the extortion, until she could find a more equitable way out of her dilemma. It had taken 3 years of hell, and meeting Kate to start to realize that she was worth more than Gregory had made her believe.

It had been Justin's idea to take on Jessica and have her star in his new TV show. Unfortunately, Gregory was so entrenched in Jessica's business, and had so terrorized her, that there was no way to take one without the other. It made for a nice, cushy situation for Gregory, but it made it worse for Jessica. Now she was working everyday to fill his pockets. She loved the show, and she got along great with the crew, but Gregory always seemed to make things turn bad.

Jessica's thoughts were interrupted by the arrival of Ted the director, and the stunt coordinator. They talked idly amongst themselves about the evenings events, and then got back down to the business of producing a hit television series. The stunt coordinator began the arduous task of outfitting both women with a sophisticated harness system. The idea was that in the process of an attack, Jessica was to fire her batman winch device, and the two would soar 40 feet into the air, and land on a scaffold. They were actually only going up about 10 feet, and then the action would cut back in from the scaffolding, making it seem like they were actually flying up there. Ever since the incident of the prior year, they weren't willing to take any more chances.

The setup for the shot involved Jessica quickly reaching under Kate's arm, and making it look as though she was actually hanging on to all 700 pounds of mechanical sidekick while the line carried them up. In reality, the line equally supported both actresses, and there would be no strain on Jessica's part at all. With the exception of course of stretching her acting abilities.

The two women practiced the grab several times, to assure that all looked good from the director's vantage point. Kate was still surprisingly quiet. She hadn't been able to shake the feeling that maybe her attraction to Jessica Ryan was seriously misplaced, and that maybe she was just being an overzealous fan. She was so confused. Lost in her thoughts, she failed to hear the director call action. One minute she was standing with her back to Jessica, and the next she was pulled tightly to the actress' chest, and flying upwards rather rapidly. Kate thought she could handle it, but with the prior injury to her head, and the bruising to her back, the jolt made her almost toss her cookies. She refused to let Jessica find out about her discomfort.

They reached the ten foot mark, and then the crew slowly lowered them to the ground. The stunt doubles took over on the top of the scaffolding, so that no further danger came to Jessica or Kate. Jessica checked with the scheduling coordinator, and was glad to see that they weren't needed again for the rest of the evening.

Kate was standing next to the wardrobe tent, when Jessica caught up to her. "Hey, guess what? It seems they scheduled the rest of the evening to do location, and background shots. So they aren't going to need us any longer. How about we get you out of that suit, and then head back to the hotel for some dinner, and a good night's rest?"

Kate was having second thoughts about staying in the hotel now. Gregory had been caught, and most of the trouble seemed to be behind them. She didn't want to seem like a burden to Jessica, or like she was taking advantage of her.

Jessica noticed the reticence on Kate's face. "Are you okay?"

Kate tried to pass it off as nothing. "I guess I'm feeling a little shaky. The flight up the scaffold kind of made me sick. Normally I'm not like that. I love roller coasters and stuff. Anyway, I was thinking, maybe you don't want, or should I say need me to stay with you tonight. I mean, I could pick up the girls, and get out of your hair."

"Hmmm, and what pray tell gave you that idea?" Jessica responded with a slight arch in her eyebrow.

"Well, I was thinking, that I'm just a PA, and well, you've got all of these powerful friends, like Justin. And maybe, well, maybe you would rather spend a quiet evening with him than with me. I mean I understand, and it's great." The sadness in her voice gave away Kate's real feelings.

Jessica turned her back for a moment, and then burst out laughing. Her response almost made Kate mad. This was serious. She hadn't felt like this about another person in a very long time, and now she was willing to swallow her own feelings, and let Jessica go to someone more in line with her stature, and her own feelings be damned, and the woman had the audacity to laugh at her. Didn't she know how painful this was for Kate? Her heart was breaking in two, and she was being made a mockery of. Typical actress. Typical Hollywood attitude.

Jessica regained control of herself, but she couldn't hide the grin stretched across her face. Taking Kate's arm, she pulled her along behind her until they were well away from the rest of the numerous staff, and crew that were running around the area. Kate tried to pull loose at one point, but Jessica kept a firm grip on her arm until they reached Jessica's chosen spot. She pulled Kate between two very large shipping containers, and then without much prompting, gathered her into her arms, and kissed her resoundingly on the lips.

Kate fought her for control for several seconds, but her suddenly ignited passion betrayed her, and she found herself melting into a warm, and promising embrace. Before she had a chance to think, she was returning the kiss. Deeply, passionately, with a hunger that completely wiped out any second thoughts or doubts she had about a possibility of a future alongside this exciting and misunderstood woman. McKenna! You worry too much! Enjoy yourself. She must be delirious, she could hear her grandmother's voice in the back of her mind, telling her she was being stupid.

So deep was the passion being unleashed between them, Jessica realized almost too late that she had best slow them down, or they were going to end up in an embarrassing, or uncompromising position right then and there. She gradually toned down their contact, until they finally broke their kiss, and settled into a tight and unyielding embrace.

"Don't shut me out Kate. Please don't turn away from me." Jessica pleaded.

Kate almost sobbed at Jessica's impassioned plea. "I wouldn't, I mean I won't. I just thought that I should be a good PA, and not throw myself at you like some love struck kid. I just thought . . . . . ."

Jessica held her out, and using the sleeve to her costume, wiped away the tears that were falling unbidden from Kate's misty emerald eyes. Her own crystal blue ones were beginning to leak as well. She placed her forehead on Kate's, and closed her eyes and let them fall.

It was several moments before either of them spoke. Kate was naturally the first, considering her propensity for talking. "I'm sorry. I didn't want to make you feel bad. I just wanted to give you a graceful out. Please don't cry. I won't go away, until you want me to."

Jessica chuckled at that last statement. "Honey trust me. If I didn't want you around, we wouldn't be here right now. I need you in my life. I need you to help me scare away the darkness that seems to linger in my soul. There's plenty of time, and I know we don't want to move too fast. For both of us. I can't lie to you, I'm a tortured soul. Prone to moodiness, and keeping my thoughts inside. You're the first person that makes me want to share a part of myself. But I'll understand too, if that scares you away. I don't want to be considered like most other entertainers. I'm not. I'm just me. Cranky, complex, complicated. The three C's. What does Popeye say? I yam what I yam, and that's all that I yam!"

Kate started to laugh through her tears as well, and managed to stumble out Popeye's saying with Jessica. She curled back into the security of Jessica's arms, and closed her eyes for a moment or two more. Jessica tilted Kate's head back, and placed tiny kisses along her jawline, and behind both ears. She kissed away Kate's tears, and then planted a small but reassuring kiss on Kate's lips, to seal their future. Whether it be a short time, or a long time, no one knew or cared. What mattered, was right this minute.

"Hey, we should probably get you out of this suit, and return it to the wardrobe gang. It is worth quite a bit of money, and I know they are going to want to work on the bullet hole." Jessica let a moment of sadness cross her eyes.

"Was that for me? Don't worry, I'm alright. Really. We'll look at it later, when we get to the hotel. You know something? I could stay like this forever." She smiled broadly to her companion.

"You could huh? Me too. But by the sound of that growling stomach of yours, I think food is going to be a priority." Jessica chuckled again. Then another thought occurred to her as well. "You know, most of my family and friends call me Jessie, or Jess. You can too. I mean, I think I'd like that."

Kate considered it for only a second. "Okay, I'd like that too."

They separated, and started heading back to the wardrobe tent. Kate fought every ounce of her being, to keep herself from grasping Jessie's hand. She knew it would be inappropriate, but she certainly would enjoy it. Almost as though she were reading Kate's mind, Jessica reached out and took her friend's hand, entwining Kate's fingers through her own. When Kate looked at her with surprise in her eyes, she just smiled, and kept on walking.

They arrived at the tent, and Jessica started the process of releasing Kate from her plastic tomb. Others had seen them holding hands, but most had the good sense to keep their mouths shut. It was common knowledge in Hollywood, that if you wanted to lose your job, and never work again, then go ahead and tell all the studio secrets. Some people felt they could do it and get away with it. Most ended up with a couple hundred thousand dollars or so, and then before you knew it they were broke and on the street.

Kate sat quietly, while the dressers started work on her costume pieces. She hadn't realized until then how truly tired she was. Jess shrugged out of her "high tech" jumpsuit, and then dressing back in her street clothes, came and taking Kate's hand again, led her out to the waiting limo.

At the hotel, both Michael and Steven had returned to their room, and settled in for the night. Michael had called a friend from the studio, and he had updated them on all of the events of the evening, including Gregory's arrest. They were excited, and they couldn't wait to see the girls, but Steven suggested they wait until morning.

"After all, the girls will probably be extremely tired, hungry, and well, who knows what else. I have an idea! Let's order room service for them. Food, champagne, all the best stuff. Then when they get here, all they have to do is shower, and eat." Steven was running around excited, waving his arms in the air.

"Okay, let's see you know what Kate likes, and I know what Jessie likes. Although it takes major persuasion to get her to eat at all. Get that note pad, and the menu, and let's get to work." Michael had picked up on Steven's enthusiasm.

As the limousine pulled into the entry of the hotel, Michael and Steven were making final adjustments to Jessica and Kate's cottage. Michael took the opportunity to start the extra large jacuzzi tub in the bathroom, while Steven lit candles at the small dining table. They had a cart brought in with a beautiful display of all types of different foods. Last but not least, they packed the cats, and the cat box, and took them to their cottage. They figured the girls would like some time alone, without the cats in their faces. Steven thought ahead, and left them a note congratulating them about Gregory, and informing them where the cats were.

Kate was dozing, her head on Jessie's shoulder. Even though Gregory was in jail, Jessie couldn't seem to drop her guard. She had the uncomfortable feeling, that they weren't done yet. That somehow it wouldn't be that easy.

The driver came to the door, and opened it to let them out. He carefully scanned the area around the hotel, watching for any threats to his precious cargo. Sometimes reporters, or paparazzi hung around the entrance waiting for celebrities to arrive, so that they could take pictures, or harrass them in other ways. For some unexplained reason he felt the hair stand up on his neck. He increased his scan, and motioned for Jessica and Kate to stay in the car. Closing the door, he effectively locked them away to their unseen threat.

Waiting several minutes, nothing happened, and no one approached them, so the driver went ahead and motioned to them to exit the car, and head into the hotel. Jessica emerged first, and then turned to take Kate's hand, and help her out onto the sidewalk. As Jessica turned, she caught a flash from a camera, and out of the corner saw her arch, arch nemesis Sharon MacAfee rapidly approaching from the bushes to the side of the hotel. Jessica released Kate, and gently pushed her back into the car.

"Jessica! Jessica Ryan! Wait, I have some questions for you, about your husband? And say who was that young reddish blonde we saw you with the other day? Jessica don't go!" Sharon made a grab for Jessica's arm, while the photographer continued to take pictures. He was trying desperately to take Kate's picture, but when he finally got a clear shot to the interior of the limousine, he couldn't see her. Jessica shrugged Sharon off, and then returned to her seat in the car. The driver continued to firmly push back the reporter, and the photographer.

As the car drove away, hotel security took over, and ushered the offensive pair off the property. The driver pulled the car around the block, and then security let him in through the delivery entrance to drop the women off from there.

Jessie searched the interior of the car with her eyes, looking for her missing friend. She reached for the phone to call the driver, when a halo of reddish blond hair, framing a giggling, smiling face appeared between her feet.

Reaching for the offered hands, she burst into laughter as well. "Hey, you're pretty good at that. How did you get under there so fast?"

Kate jumped into the seat next to her, and hugged her arm. "I'm little don't you know, and wiry. As soon as I realized what was happening, I was under there in a heartbeat. Besides, there's enough room for a party down there."

The hotel security personally escorted them into the hotel, and then they headed off to their cottage for some much needed rest. The management was in a tizzy, verbally abusing the security teams for allowing any discomfort to their guest. They made sure that their entire stay at the hotel was given to them free of charge. Their bill would reflect this in the morning.

Jessica pulled the card key out of her pocket, and opened the door, letting Kate in ahead of her. Jessie wasn't looking, and almost ran right over Kate. She had stopped just a few feet in, and was staring at the splendor laid out in front of them.

"Oh my Gods! Who did this? It's absolutely wonderful!" Kate exclaimed.

After regaining her balance, Jessie took in the whole picture. She discovered the note from the boys, and read it out loud to Kate.

"Wow, this is great. Come on over here, and check out this food. Look, just about everything I like. This is cool!" Kate was busy checking out all of the delicacies.

Jessica smiled. Leave it to her brother and his new beau, to anticipate their needs. She'd have to do something really special for him. Someday. In the meantime, she joined Kate at the table. She was speechless. It seemed that all of her personal favorites were present as well. Jessie popped the champagne, and poured a glass for each of them.

Jessie handed Kate her glass, and then cleared her throat for a toast. "Umm, well, here's to the future. What's past is past."

She went to take a sip from her glass, when Kate stopped her. "Wait. I want to say something too." She held her glass up high, staring at the bubbles as they floated to the surface, oblivious to the fact that it meant their death. "To trust, honesty, and compromise. Without these elements, there is no relationship, and no future."

They touched their glasses to each other's, their eyes never separating. Slowly Jessie set her glass down, and then taking Kate's she stood, and pulling her into her arms, began a slow swirling waltz through the room. Kate began giggling, and Jessie smiled at her, one eyebrow arched high above her sparkling gaze.

"You think this is funny?" Jessie twirled Kate by one hand, all to an invisible orchestra.

"No, I think it's romantic." Kate couldn't stop giggling.

"Then why are you laughing?" Jessie asked, a mock grimace on her face.

"I'm wondering if you're hearing the same music I am?" Kate smiled coyly.

"Hmm, let's see. Bolero maybe, or do you suppose it's Marilyn Manson? I think the jacuzzi in the background is extremely appropriate, don't you?" Jessie dipped Kate carefully, not wanting to hurt her bruised back. They shifted into a tango, when Jessie set her upright again.

"Well, I was thinking more, umm, maybe Los Lobos now, or maybe En Vogue, that song from their new CD?" Kate stopped Jessie, moving in closer for an embrace.

"I don't know that one, you'll have to play it for me sometime. Actually, I don't get a lot of opportunity to listen to music, unless it's an awards show I'm appearing at. I usually don't stop moving for very long. If I did, Gregory would catch up to me. . . . ." She trailed off, not wanting her thoughts to ruin the moment.

"Oh, no problem. I'll make sure you get to hear some music every once in a while. Say, want to take advantage of that whirlpool I hear running? I bet they set that up for us." Kate suddenly turned shy again, realizing what she had just invited Jessie to do. It hadn't occurred to her that it meant taking her clothes off in front of Jessie, like naked, like totally.

Jessie considered her request for a moment. "Are you sure? I mean there's no mystery here with me, but I don't want you to do something that's going to make you uncomfortable. I mean it, you can go ahead, and then I'll go later if you want." Jessie was serious.

"No, it's time I start living life, and stop hiding from my past. Something really bad happened to me once, before the rape even. I almost consider it worse than the rape, and it's been hard for me to get close to anyone since then." Kate paused, the memories flooding her mind, and making her shake, and feel nauseous.

Jessie could feel the trembling. She wasn't sure if she should let her go, or keep holding her. She started to pull away. "You don't have to tell me, I understand. I don't want you to feel bad right now. You need to relax. It's okay."

Kate stopped her from pulling away. "Don't! It's going to be better for me to let go. I need to do this, and I need you to back me up. I've never wanted to tell anyone else. I mean Steven, and Laura know, but never, well, never anyone like you. Let's go in the bathroom, and get in the tub. That's as good a place as any to start."

Jessie was surprised, but a deep well of compassion overcame her, and she nodded her agreement. Silently they entered the bathroom, a certain shyness overcoming both of them. Steven and Michael had truly outdone themselves. Every surface had candles flickering with a soft glow. The room was filled with the soft scent of flowers in a summer rain. The tub was enormous, more than enough room for both women to spread out and be comfortable.

Kate entered cautiously. She was fighting desperately to keep her fears at bay, and go through with this. Not go through with this! Geez McKenna, you make it sound as though you were going to be tortured, and put to death. You want this, and you know it. Just take it slow, and don't be stupid! If all else fails, you'll find out if you are even capable of feeling anything anymore.

While Kate turned her back on Jessie, and started to remove her clothes, Jessie began her own internal war. Geez Ryan! What are you doing? You are not supposed to be happy, you are not supposed to allow another person into your life. You have no feelings, you are not deserving of this soft gentle soul. There is too much darkness in your heart to allow this. . . . . . Get real. You really do want this. Just don't blow it. Don't push her, or make her feel bad. Listen, and care. You might be surprised.

The splash of water broke Jessie from her thoughts. She risked a glance, in time to see the large and nasty bruise that covered part of Kate's back. She immediately began to regret not taking her to the hospital. She made a mental note to call Dr. Helen, her physician and friend in the morning.

Jessie turned back to undressing, but for some reason her hands had started to shake, and she couldn't seem to unbutton, or unzip anything. Kate was safely concealed under the water, and had her arms casually crossed over her chest. She noticed when Jessie started to shake, and realized that she was just as scared as Kate was.

"Hey, this is great. You gonna take all day?" Kate called, hoping to lighten the situation.

"Umm, sorry, my hands just don't seem to want to work." Jessie replied, her voice barely above a whisper.

"Jess, it's okay. I'm not going to melt, bite, or explode. We're both adults. Haven't you ever been skinny tubbing before? Think of it that way, just a bunch of adult kids hanging out in the hot tub. We just stayed behind to enjoy the water. Okay?" Kate was surprised that she was capable of taking the lead.

Jessie nodded, and finally got control of her hands. She finished undressing, and then turned to enter the tub. The sight of her magnificent body, long dark tresses framing her face, accented by the glow from the candles, almost made Kate stop breathing. Whatever had pinged earlier when she thought Jessie should move on, completely re-engaged at that moment. Blushing, she put her hand out to help Jessie into the tub. Too late, she realized that she had dropped her own guard, and exposed herself.

The moment that Jessie's hand made contact with Kate's, the entire outside world disappeared for them. Jessie thought for sure she might just faint. The smaller compact woman guiding her into the tub was absolutely beautiful. Every muscle rippled under the skin stretched over her abs. Jessie could only think one word, perfect. She stepped into the water. The memory of something bad in Kate's past, put a damper on the flames of passion that threatened to overwhelm her.

Kate smiled shyly. "Come on now, quit with the looks and sit down. You're scaring me."

Jessie tried to empty her mind, and stop the buzz of information good and bad from overwhelming her. She grasped Kate's hand tighter, and stepped into the swirling, heated water. Seating herself a discreet distance away from Kate, she cleared her throat, and then calmed herself.

Kate tried to still her own chaotic mind. "Okay, where do I begin. First, relax. We both need to relax. Close your eyes for a minute. Go on, don't fight it, just close your eyes. Now, take a few really deep breaths. Breath in through your nose, and out through your mouth. That's it, good. Now just let the warm water wash over you, and enjoy the bubbles for a minute or two."

Jessie followed Kate's instructions, and she did feel a lot better. The dizziness that threatened to overtake her, had begun to dissipate. After several minutes, she opened her eyes, and was met with a relaxed smiling gaze.

"Alright then, my story. Umm, I sort of got involved with, and fell for a studio ornament, you know, does anything for anyone, just to get ahead. Very beautiful . . . ." Kate went on to tell Jessie the entire story about Gina, and the way that she had been set up by her and her husband, to become a pawn in their nasty, sick little games.

When Kate finished telling the story, she looked to see Jessie's reaction. Jessie had been politely quiet during the entire story, but a certain darkness had begun to creep across her features. She was starting to get angry, a deep seated need to injure those people, who would do harm to this naïve and innocent woman.

Kate saw the fire behind Jessie's gaze, and again without thinking, slipped across the tub, and curled herself into Jessie's embrace. Jessie's heart was racing, and she felt like getting up, and finding those people, and tearing them apart. Kate started murmuring quiet words, to stop the build up of power in Jessie's heart. Jessie pulled Kate closer, snuggling the smaller woman's head under her chin, and closing her arms around her shoulder's.

The two women sat like that. One dark and brooding, the other soaking in the gentle contact. Kate felt as though nothing could harm her. She felt safe, even loved. Her nakedness no longer an issue. She knew somehow that she would not be abused by this soul, but loved, protected, and cherished.

It seemed like hours had passed, since they had entered the water, and began sharing Kate's story. Jessie was the first to realize that she had dozed off, and opened her eyes, revealing a softly sleeping Kate wrapped around her, much like a child with their favorite teddy bear. She very carefully rose, picking Kate up in her arms, and carried her to the lounger in one corner of the bathroom. Quickly grabbing a towel, she wrapped her sleeping companion up, and tried her best to dry away the steamy water, without waking her.

Kate was really only semi-asleep. She found herself enjoying the care that Jessie was taking of her. She murmured a few unintelligible words, and then drifted back onto the soft clouds that occupied her mind. Jessie wrapped her lightly in the towel, and carried her into the bedroom, laying her down on the clean crisp sheets. At a loss for what she should do for sleeping arrangements, she remembered the promise she made about sleeping on the couch. With a heavy sigh she tucked the blankets up around Kate's chin, and then wrapping herself in one of the complimentary hotel robes, made herself sort of comfortable on the couch. She had to bend her knees, and kind of wedge herself into the cushions, but she figured she could manage.

Not very much time later, Jessie was tossing and turning, and trying to will herself to sleep, when she couldn't stand it any longer. She stood up, and with long strides walked to the window, and parting the curtains slightly, watched the moon cross the sky for a while. Considering that this was downtown LA, it was an unusually clear night. Her thoughts turned to the future, and she found herself not willing to think about it right at the moment.

A noise caught her attention, and she turned realizing that it was Kate. She seemed to be crying in her sleep. Quickly stepping to the side of the bed, she pulled the cover down just a little bit, and then lightly stroked Kate's hair.

"Kate? Honey wake up. Are you okay?" she whispered.

Suddenly Kate sat straight up, gasping for breath. Her eyes were still closed, and she reached for Jessie. It almost seemed as though she were reaching for a life preserver in the middle of a vast ocean.

"STOP! Don't let them hurt me!" Kate shouted.

Jessie held her tightly, and whispered soft words in Kate's ear. "Calm down, I'm here. Don't worry, I won't let them hurt you. Hey, I'm here, don't cry. I've got you."

Kate slowly opened her eyes, a little of the nightmare lingering in her stare. "Where were you?" She asked quietly.

"I well," Jessie started, guilt in her tone, "I didn't think you . . . . I mean, remember we had talked about me sleeping on the couch, and well, I didn't want to just barge right in, and you were sleeping so peacefully. I guess I . . . ." She ran her fingers through her hair nervously.

Kate pushed herself away from Jessie's hold, and then reaching for the tie on the bathrobe Jessie was wearing, untied it. In one fluid motion, she slid back and lifted the covers, inviting Jessie to join her. Jessie blushed, but then removed the robe, and slipped into the inviting depths of the soft mattress. Kate scooted over, and then wrapped herself around Jessie's naked body, resting her head on Jessie's shoulder. She stretched one leg across Jessie's legs, and then draped her arm across the solid muscular torso.

Jessie could hardly breath. She tentatively pulled Kate in closer, and held her tightly with her one arm. She could feel the heat rushing through her body, making her think she was probably glowing in the dark. One thing was for sure, she was glad it was dark. Her body was betraying what she thought was her great self control. Her nipples reacted almost immediately, to the point that they were painful, and she had to fight herself not to squeeze her thighs shut, to stop the immediate rush of sensation to her most private parts.

Kate smiled to herself. "If you don't slow down that heartbeat, you're going to explode. I would hate to have to explain that to the powers that be." Then with a mischievous grin, she rolled away from Jessica and then slid back against her, forcing Jessie to curl around her from behind. Kate could feel Jessie's body reacting to the closeness of their naked skin, and the heat emanating from both of them. All at once she came to the decision that she was going to have to be the aggressor after all, that she was wrapped in the arms of a shy and reluctant hero.

Carefully, so as to not startle her companion, Kate took Jessie's hand, and placed it over her own breast. She could hear the soft intake of Jessie's breath as she realized what Kate was doing. Slowly she moved her hand over Kate's nipple, garnering an immediate response. Not daring to interrupt the moment by facing Jessie again, Kate closed her eyes, and arched back into Jessie's embrace. Almost like a hot summer breeze blowing across her bare skin, Kate could feel the soft brush of fingertips, lightly exploring her skin. Goose bumps rose up in the wake of their trail, the soft down responding to the gentle touch.

Unbidden, a slight groan left Jessie's throat. She worked very hard to hold her passion in check, and not be too aggressive. Lightly, so light she barely touched the surface, she let her tongue brush over the soft hairs on Kate's neck, below her ear. She was rewarded with a matching groan from Kate, obviously enjoying her ministrations. Continuing with her light touches of her torso, and small tastes of the curve of Kate's ear, she finally felt brave enough to lay Kate on her back, and persue more of her personal landscape.

Kate was easily persuaded. She could not remember feeling this way, and her mind wouldn't let her take the time to try. Jessie laid on her side, one arm wrapped around Kate, the other moving in slow circles on Kate's body. Kate tried to touch Jessie, wanting to mirror the attention she was receiving, but Jessie wouldn't let her. She realized now that all she wanted to do was to lavish attention on Kate. To show her that life could be good, and that someone in the world could care for her, and be conscious of her needs.

Kate's breathing became erratic, the tension beginning to build from the inside out. All conscious thought began to escape her as she allowed the rush of heat and sensations to consume her. Later she would have sworn that she saw fireworks, stars, and heard a band all at the same time. Jessie moved her attentions to a lower spot on Kate's body. The center of all of the building volcanic activity. Kate began to move to the rhythm that Jessie was strumming, playing her like a fine instrument. Thrusting her hips to the silent music, a moan escaped her lips, encouraging Jessie to continue her heated exploration. Faster, and deeper she played, until their movements hit a crescendo, and the years of self loathing and hate, the walls of fear, came crashing down in wave after wave of sensation.

Jessie continued to touch Kate, content to guide her back to reality, an inch at a time. She was willing to take Kate to those great heights again, but Kate stopped her, wanting to cuddle in her arms, and feel their skin touching. Kate pushed Jessie onto her back, and then straddled her hips, their dampness merging. Jessie tried to stop Kate, not wanting her to believe she had to reciprocate in any way. Kate refused her attempts. Silently with her touches she made it perfectly clear that there would be no one-sided attention in their relationship.

Kate slowly moved her hips, pressing her dampness against Jessie. Jessie began to move opposite, increasing the friction that was building between them. Careful not to bite too hard, Kate playfully nipped first one and then the other of Jessie's nipples. Never once losing eye contact, she continued to touch, and to lavish attention on those most appreciative participants in their dance of lust. Soon her own deep feelings returned, and her urgent moves became more of a mutual dance. Jessie spread her thighs, and wrapped her long legs around Kate's hips, pulling her closer, tightening their contact.

The sound of heavy breathing and moans circled around them, like the winds of a hurricane. Rapidly they both approached the eye of the storm, moving faster and faster, holding each other to their silent bargain. Within moments the storm hit, bringing both women crashing over like waves, rolling one after the other. The sound of thunder roaring in their ears.

Their lips met, tongues entwined. Moaning into each other's mouths, they sealed their future. Kiss after luscious kiss, they slowly returned to the planet. Kate began to move off of Jessie's body, with the plan to lay next to her, but Jessie refused to let her go.

"No, stay here. Let me feel your heat. I don't want to let you go, because I might wake up and find myself on the couch again. Stay . . . . ." Jessie whispered.

Kate sighed happily, and settled back into Jessie’s arms. Soon both women drifted off to sleep. Sometime in the night, while they peacefully slept in each other’s arms, a dark terror began it’s slow approach.

Somehow, probably through the help of any number of slimy snakes that inhabit Hollyweird, Gregory was able to make bail. It was only a matter of time before the trouble would begin again. He had lost any shred of sanity. The only thing on his mind now was revenge. Sweet luscious revenge.

Love is a symbol of
eternity.
It wipes out all sense of time,
destroying all memory
Of a beginning, and all fear of an end.

********Madame de Stael********

CHAPTER 9: Auntie Em, Auntie Em, there’s a twister coming!

Morning came too soon for the new lovers. Jessie woke first, her mind still not engaged, a slight surprise when she realized that she still had Kate in her arms, that it had not been a dream. She lay still for a moment, just watching Kate breath, a small smile of contentment on her face. She allowed herself the luxury of a matching smile.

Having been born with unusually keen hearing, Jessie noted a light tapping on the front door. She recognized the secret signal from her brother that they had shared most of their lives together. Moments later, he appeared in the doorway, two extremely fussy felines fighting for release. Over his shoulder, Steven was standing on tiptoe, trying to peek into the room. Both men realized at the same time that what they had hoped would happen, did in fact come true. They gave each other a high five, and then gave Jessie "two thumbs up". Embarrassed, she waved them out of the room.

Seconds later, two medium sized kitties launched themselves onto the bed. Corky, the larger of the animals promptly wedged herself on Jessie's chest, under her chin, and on top of Kate's head. Purring loudly, she effectively woke Kate up. Blinking rapidly, Jessie noticed with a small bit of concern, that Kate did not look happy. She had a look of fear, and sadness on her face.

Placing her hand on Kate's back, she began to slowly rub small circles, hoping to comfort her friend. Kate's eyes fully opened, realization of where she was, and who she was with dawning on her face. More importantly, what they had done. Kate quickly rose from her place, sprawled across Jessie's body, and grabbing the robe she had just removed the prior evening, wrapped herself in the covering, and ran to the bathroom. Quickly locking the door, she sat on the edge of the tub, and burst into tears.

Jessie was left with a disgruntled cat on her exposed chest, and not just a little bit of confusion. She ran a mental inventory, and could not come up with any reasonable explanation for Kate's reaction. Carefully she removed the cat, and then wrapping herself in the bedspread, walked over and tentatively knocked on the bathroom door.

"Kate, hey there. Are you okay? I didn't . . . . . hurt you did I? Kate? Talk to me. Please . . ." Jessie realized that the pain that Kate was feeling was not physical, but purely emotional.

"I can’t . . . . please, give me a minute, okay?" Kate’s muffled sobs filtered through the closed door.

Jessica sighed deeply. "Take all the time you need. I . . . . understand."

Quietly retreating, Jessica decided to prepare for the worst. She located her bag, and pulling her clothes out, began to dress. She had decided that she would leave, and head for the office. She needed to make sure that Kate was paid for her work, and then she would begin the task of trying to find another assistant she could trust. Her heart was broken, but she understood. Jessica Ryan had no right to think that she deserved any happiness. It was unthinkable! Never again would she allow another person to see into her soul.

Moments later, as she gathered her bag, and stopped to pet the cats, and bid them farewell, Kate emerged from the bathroom. She had splashed her face with water, and tried to tidy herself up. Noticing that Jessie was attempting to make an exit, she panicked, and dashing to her side, grabbed her arm and spun her around to face her.

"Don’t just think you can sleep with me, and then sneak out Jessica Ryan! Just because you’re some big TV star, doesn’t excuse you in any way. You. . . .enjoyed it . . . ." Kate stopped, noticing simultaneously the wide grin on Jessie’s face, and the way she must sound to the bewildered actress.

At a loss for words, Jessie dropped her bag, and setting the cat down, spread her arms to invite Kate into her embrace. Blushing furiously, Kate bowed her head, and then slipped gratefully into the offered warmth, and security of that embrace.

The two women stood there for a moment, calming their nervous hearts, and soaking in each other’s closeness. Kate was the first to speak.

"I’m sorry. Not exactly what you expect to wake up to after such a wonderful experience. Of course, I’m speaking for myself, but . . . ." She trailed off, not sure how to finish the sentence.

"The most wonderful experience I’ve ever had." Jessie murmured into ear, effectively answering her unspoken question.

They continued to hold each other closely, not speaking, both sets of eyes closed to the outside world. Suddenly an annoyingly loud meow broke the spell that was winding it’s way around them. Reluctantly they separated. At the last second, Kate decided to ignore the plaintive meows of her pesky animal, and tilting her head back, locking gazes with her taller companion, invited her in for a proper good morning kiss. Eager to please, Jessie accepted the invitation passionately. Lightly she touched her lips to Kate’s, not wanting to proceed too quickly. Kate wrapped her arms around Jessie’s neck, and pulling her in tightly demanded much more than just a light kiss. Opening her lips, her tongue anxiously probed at Jessie’s own lips with an urgency born of total trust, and passion. Jessie’s mind rapidly disengaged. She eagerly returned the aggressive response to her gentle kiss.

Before too long, Kate slowly began to undress Jessica from the clothes she had put on just moments before. Kate tried to concentrate on the slow removal of those offending garments, however, her rapidly ascending passion would no longer cooperate with the rest of the program. With an uncontrolled need, she tore at Jessie’s blouse, ripping the buttons away as she struggled to access the beautiful body underneath.

Jessica unconsciously untied the belt of the robe wrapped around Kate’s smaller, yet no less beautiful frame. Using the advantage of longer arms, she slipped the robe off Kate’s shoulders, and without realizing it, effectively trapped Kate’s arms behind her. Without thought, she directed the attention of her lips in a trail of unbridled lust along the curve of Kate’s neck, kissing her collar bone, her throat, and ultimately working her way to her breasts.

Letting the robe drop, Kate stopped her own quest, and letting her head drop back, moaned quietly as Jessie lavished hot moist attention on first one nipple, and then the other. Unable to hold back any longer, Jessie dropped to her knees, and giving in to her passion unchecked, placed her lips on their final destination. An audible gasp escaped from Kate’s lips, her legs beginning to shake with the strain of their lovemaking. She placed her hands on Jessie’s shoulders to steady herself, beginning to move in sync with her lover’s ministrations.

So great were the waves of passion that washed over them, again and again, neither one realized that Kate was now on the floor, and Jessie was fully undressed. Kate’s hands never stopped, until they found their own sought after destination. Both women touching each other fervently, cried out together with their shared climax, wave after non-stop wave.

Slowly their heartbeats returned to normal. Cradling each other in their arms, they kissed slowly, tenderly. Neither woman had ever felt this . . . .wonderful. Or beautiful, or cared for. Opening their eyes, both noticed at the same time, that tears were streaming down their cheeks.

Kate smiled through her tears, "I thought you were leaving me. You know . . . actress gets what she wants, and then takes off before her conquest knows what’s going on."

Jessie blushed. "I don’t have . . . . conquests. I don’t just sleep with people to satisfy my own passions. I . . . have to care, and be cared for. Which doesn’t happen often in my life. Like never. Any other time, has been false, or even forced. But never because anyone cared about me."

Closing her eyes against her own tears she barely whispered, "I wasn’t leaving you . . . I thought you were sending me away."

Kate frowned slightly. "I don’t know what happened. I guess I was scared, and felt like I had done something wrong. I mean, it’s not everyday you are treated so well, and then not only do you get so close to your boss in such a short time, you end up in bed with her. I, guess, I thought you might decide you didn’t really want me after all. I don’t know what I guess. I panicked. I’m sorry."

Jessie smiled. "No need for sorrow. I will be here, until you send me away. And, don’t ever hesitate to let me know. I am new to this, and well, I might need some guidance. If I get out of hand, then tell me. I would never want to hurt you."

Laughing out loud, Kate kissed Jessie hard. "I don’t think you ever could hurt me, not in a million years. Now, I don’t know about you, but I have never done this on the . . . . floor before. Isn’t there something about rug burns or whatever?"

It was Jessie’s turn to laugh. "I never thought about that, since I’ve never done this before either. Let me check."

Shyly Kate turned over, and Jessie began a cursory examination. Not finding any rug burns she was dismayed to see how badly the area where Kate had been shot was bruising. Tenderly she brushed it with her fingertips. Kate gasped, the pain just now becoming noticeable, after the other sensations she had been experiencing began to subside.

"Damn!" Jessie blurted out. "I should have taken you to see Dr. Helen. This looks serious."

"It’s not as bad as it looks, but it definitely hurts. I probably should have iced it after it happened. Well, after we go to the office, and I find out what my real job is, I’ll look up Dr. MacIntyre." She tried to look convincing.

Jessie’s eyebrow shot up. "I don’t think so. We see Helen first, then we go to work. I want to talk to Helen anyway. And I think we waited long enough.

Reluctantly, Kate agreed. "Okay fine. If you say so."

Jessie was momentarily taken aback. Kate rolled over, and realized that Jessie had taken her seriously. She reached out, and poked Jess in the ribs. "Smile, before I tickle you to death."

"Oh ho! Don’t think so kiddo, I’m not ticklish." Jessie replied.

Reaching back for Kate, she began her own tickle attack in earnest. Kate giggled uncontrollably.

"STOP!" She screamed through the laughter. "STOP! You’re going to make me wet my pants!"

"You aren’t wearing any, or hadn’t you noticed." Jessie chuckled back, renewing her efforts.

Suddenly she stopped short. "Oh my!"

"What? What’s wrong." Kate was suddenly worried.

Jessie sat up, and grabbing her by the hand pulled Kate to her feet. Leading her to the bathroom, she turned her to face the full length mirror, and standing behind her, pulled her hair back.

"What? I don’t see anyth . . . ." Kate began.

"OH MY GODS! Did you do that? Oh wow. How am I ever going to explain that? Sheesh, what are you? Part vampire? Holy Cow." Kate was starting to giggle again. The reality of what Jessie had just pointed out to her sinking in.

"Damn. I didn’t know I even knew how to do that." Jessie’s fingers lightly brushed the bright reddish purple stain at the base of Kate’s neck. She had never given, nor had she ever received a hickey in her life. The gravity of this revelation caused a great deal of wonder in her mind.

Kate focused her attention on the emotions playing across Jessie’s face. She had never seen anything so comical before. Turning to hug her bewildered friend, she stopped herself, when she noticed a matching spot revealing itself in a much more noticeable place on the actress’ neck.

Quickly she turned to the mirror, and catching Jessie’s attention, pointed out the quarter sized mark to her. Groaning, Jessie touched the spot herself. All she could think of was how to conceal it from the crew at the studio.

Kate started to walk away, feeling guilty about her own lack of control. Jessie decided that it didn’t matter. She was happier than she had ever been in her life, and a hickey was an okay way to remind herself of that. Smiling, she pulled Kate back, and hugging her from behind, renewed her tickling attack.

"Oooh, that’s not fair!" Kate squealed.

Jessie continued for a moment or two, and then kissing Kate’s neck another time, led her to the shower.

"If we don’t get going, they’re going to send a search party after us. I’ll just wear a turtle neck or something. Heck, it will give them all something to gossip about. And Mickey, my makeup girl can hide it. It may not even be visible with the jumpsuit anyway." Jessie turned on the water, and checked the temperature before getting in.

Kate agreed, then stepped into the shower with Jessie. Mindful of the time, they carefully avoided too many carresses, for fear of starting up the flames of passion all over again. They systematically washed each other’s bodies, and then washed their hair. Kate made a mental note to shower with Jessie again.

When they had more time. It could be . . . . fun.

After their shower, they both quickly dried off, and dressed. While Kate began gathering her belongings, and her cats. Jessie called for the car, and then called Dr. Helen’s office to let them know she was coming in. Helen always managed to squeeze Jessie in, no matter how busy she was.

Before too long, the driver arrived, and the two women, two cats, and all the assorted luggage headed out to the car. The hotel security was much more careful this time, considering the reporter incident the previous evening. They reminded Jessica that the entire stay would be comped, because of their rude lack of protection for the actress and her guests.

Jessica balked, saying that it was okay, that they could bill the studio, but they refused. Let this be a lesson they said. No one should feel threatened at their establishment!

They climbed into the car, just in time to see Steve and Michael pulling away in their own car. Steve had driven them to the hotel, so they had his car, and did not need, nor necessarily want to hire a car. Michael waved, as the two drove away.

Unfortunately, none of the members of their group were aware that Gregory was out. And he had one thing, and only one thing on his mind. REVENGE!