Course of Action

The dealer had connections all over the U.S. and Canada and found the exact brand and year within two days. His mechanics installed air-conditioning, a Bose sound system, and airbags in the hardtop.

Checking the rearview mirror again, Annelie spotted Jem driving her Mustang two cars behind. Her friend had raised not one, but two, inquisitive eyebrows when Annelie revealed her surprise.

"A car?" Jem asked as she sat down in Annelie's office. "That's pretty special. I mean, it doesn't have the same connotation as giving her a diamond necklace, but…" She hesitated. "You really like her, don't you?"

Annelie leaned back in her chair, folding her hands in her lap. "Yes, I do. I know you're suspicious of her, but she's different when you manage to find the real Carolyn behind the diva."

"I saw some of that at the luncheon and then in Orlando," Jem said. "Still, her rep isn't exactly encouraging. Don't lose your head…or your heart."

Annelie tilted her head, regarding her protective friend fondly. "I think it's too late for the latter."

Jem's eyes widened. "Oh, kiddo, are you sure? You're not just… well, starstruck?"

"I'm falling head over heels, and I'm terrified. I can't help it."

"And what about her?"

"She says she's falling in love with me." Annelie could hear her voice soften and knew Jem picked up on the change. "She's bewildered, especially regarding the physical aspect. Guess she never realized she could be attracted to a woman. I'm trying to give her space and time."

"But?"

"She seems not to want it—or need it."

Jem's lips stretched into a broad grin. "So, she can't keep her hands off you?"

Blushing, Annelie shook her head. "It's mutual. You know I don't kiss and tell, but you're my best friend and…well, I haven't felt this way, ever. I'm not sure where we're heading. I want to make her happy, and giving her this car is an attempt to show her how I feel. Also, I'm dying to see the look on her face. For some reason she's as crazy about this kind of car as I am about the Mustang."

"Hey, I'm not arguing. If anything comes between me and my Beemer, I won't answer for the consequences."

After she and Jem pulled into the driveway, Annelie jumped out of the Corvette and shouted, "Wait here. I'll go in and find her. She's probably in the pool."

"All right."

Jem stepped out of the Mustang and leaned against it while Annelie walked toward the door. As she strolled through the quiet house, she saw several signs of Carolyn's presence. Her purse on the hallway table, the script on the coffee table, and in the kitchen, several bags of Royal Copenhagen stacked next to the coffeemaker.

Annelie could hear Mary humming in the laundry room as she walked out to the patio. She found Carolyn resting in a deck chair in the shade, half a glass of orange juice next to her on the ground. Annelie knelt beside the chair and kissed Carolyn's lips softly. "Hello, there."

She had to admire the other woman's composure. Carolyn merely opened her eyes and gazed at Annelie from under heavy eyelids, a lazy smile on her lips. "You're home early."

"Yes, and I have a surprise for you." Annelie tugged at Carolyn's hand. "Come on, it's out front."

"A surprise?" Carolyn raised an eyebrow. "Will I like it? Maybe I should've told you. Surprises make me nervous."

"You'll love it." Annelie tried to sound reassuring, hoping she was right. She wanted Carolyn to accept the gift in the spirit it was given. Holding her lover's hand, she led her through the house and opened the front door.

Carolyn stopped dead and stared at the Corvette. Glancing between the vehicle and Annelie, she looked like a spectator at a tennis match. "Annie?"

"It's for you. I want you to have it, for landing the role…and also I know you'd never indulge yourself."

"What do you mean, for me? Oh! Oh!" Carolyn padded on bare feet down the garden path and over to the driveway.

She waved absentmindedly at Jem, who looked astonished at the sight of the usually elegant star circling around the Corvette in only a swimsuit and damp hair. Moving her feet quickly, actually skipping from one foot to another, she looked like an eager child, even though Annelie knew the hot cement was the real cause.

Annelie sauntered down to join the other two, not taking her eyes off the dumbfounded woman, who was now opening the door and climbing into the car. Carolyn slid her hands over the wheel and up over the dashboard, a reverent look on her face as she touched the tan leather.

"Annelie, how on earth could you remember? I told you about this when I was here to swim the first time."

Annelie bent down, resting her forearms on the door. "I remember everything you tell me."

Carolyn sat still for a moment and then smiled tremulously. "You do, huh?" Her voice was a mere whisper. After a few seconds her expression changed, and a hopeful gleam appeared in her eyes. "Can we go for a drive?"

Jem had walked up to Annelie's side. "I think you should. But there's just one problem, Carolyn."

"What?"

"You don't have anything on but a swimsuit."

Annelie started laughing at the surprised look on Carolyn's face as she looked down at herself.

"Not a problem," Carolyn insisted. "Two seconds!" She jumped out of the car, almost knocking the other women over in the process, and ran up the garden path and into the house. Before either of them had time to utter a word, she rushed back out again, ran down the path, and hugged Annelie fiercely. "Oh, I forgot…thank you, thank you, thank you!" Letting go, she disappeared again.

"I think she likes it," Jem offered. "I make this assessment despite her restrained and ladylike reaction."

Sending an elbow into Jem's side for being a smart-ass, Annelie shook her head. "I hoped she'd be happy, but I had no idea she'd be this excited. Think my idea was a brilliant move?"

"Yup, that, or she'll expect childhood dreams to be fulfilled at the drop of a hat from now on." Jem elegantly avoided elbow number two. "She damn near choked you—I think you must've picked the perfect present."

"Funny. As a matter of fact, I wouldn't mind fulfilling a few more dreams—if she reacts this way."

As they began to stroll toward the house, Jem glanced at Annelie musingly. "And all jokes aside, I really hadn't expected Carolyn to be this…well, I guess, not blasé. Goes to show you should never assume."

"True."

To their surprise, Carolyn met them just inside the door in khaki shorts and a green tank top with the text "A verbal contract isn't worth the paper it's written on." Her hair was pulled back into a simple ponytail, still damp.

Jem nodded approvingly. "Cool outfit, but you might need shoes."

"Damn!"

Carolyn slapped her forehead and disappeared again, while Jem reached into her purse for her cell phone. "You two go ahead. I can let myself out when the cab gets here. If we keep her waiting, she'll explode."

"I think you're right. Here she is now."

"Oh, Annie, I can't wait to drive that beauty," she enthused. "Where should we go?"

"You decide. It's your car."

Hooking her arm around Annelie's, Carolyn smiled brightly. "I'm going to have to pinch myself to really believe that."

"No pinching—can't have bruises on Diana Maddox." Jem grinned as she approached them. "The cab'll be here in a few minutes, so you girls have fun."

Carolyn grabbed Annelie by the hand, pulling her toward the door. "Thanks, Jem! Bye!"

Running down the path toward the car, Carolyn suddenly stopped, releasing her hands and pressing them over her mouth.

"Carolyn?"

"It's beautiful."

"And yours. I had all sorts of reasons for buying it for you—but mostly, I just wanted to make you happy."

Not caring if anyone saw them, Carolyn turned around and hugged Annelie close. "And you did. You have no idea how much."

After they climbed into the vehicle, its new owner made the powerful V8 thunder. Carefully, she backed out into the cul-de-sac and turned around.

"You buckled up?" Carolyn asked, winking at her lover.

"Of course."

"Tweety and I are going to take you for a spin, baby!" Tweety? Baby? Annelie groaned out loud. Carolyn grinned broadly, slid the car into gear, and roared down the road.

***

Annelie turned off her computer and switched off the light in her study. Going through the e-mails marked "urgent" had taken longer than she expected.

"Carolyn?" Annelie poked her head into the living room but got no reply. After a quick glance into the kitchen and the bedroom, she smiled knowingly and opened the front door.

Carolyn was sitting on the top step of the four that led down to the driveway. Her eyes were fastened on the yellow car she had driven for two hours that afternoon.

"Carolyn?" Annelie repeated, walking down the path and sitting down next to her. "Hard to tear yourself away from your new love?" she joked.

Carolyn turned her head and smiled. "Yes. I still can't believe you went to all that trouble. I wonder if you have any idea how incredible this is?"

"I think I have some idea, but why don't you tell me?"

Scooting close, Carolyn sighed. "You know, when Daddy died I gave up several dreams. I lost some things, and some people, because I didn't want to let Beth and John down or have them miss out on anything. Don't get me wrong—I've never resented that—or them. It was my choice to make the sacrifices I did, and I'd make them again.

"But you giving me the Corvette—it means a lot. I dreamed of so many things growing up, especially this car. But I denied myself such dreams. You've given me back part of my youth. Thank you."

Annelie swallowed hard, fighting back tears. She'd detected that the car was somehow important to Carolyn, but had no idea what it symbolized. Carolyn's gratitude untied a knot deep inside that she had not even realized was there. Warmth spread through her veins as she regarded the soft expression on Carolyn's face.

"I'm glad you like it. I'm even happier I followed through on a spur-of-the-moment idea. As I said, I have several reasons for this gift, but most of all I wanted to make you happy. Honestly, when I drove the car home to you, I was afraid you'd think I was nuts."

"No, never. Nobody has ever done anything like this for me. Nobody. You've introduced me to more firsts than anyone else."

"I hope that's a good thing."

"It is."

After a brief silence, Carolyn reached out and stroked Annelie's arm. "It's getting late. Want to go to bed?"

"Yes."

They rose and went up to the house, switching off the lights and undressing in silence. Carolyn had put on one of Annelie's T-shirts, and Annelie kept her matching La Perla camisole and panties on as they climbed into bed.

Reaching out for Carolyn, Annelie nuzzled her hair, placing a trail of kisses across her smooth forehead and down her temple and cheek, only to find Carolyn's mouth half open, ready to be devoured. She slipped her tongue inside and caressed its counterpart, which met hers eagerly. The kiss went on until they both were out of breath and began to tug at what little clothes they wore.

"Please, let me…" Annelie whispered, pulling Carolyn's shirt up. "I want to touch you."

Wordlessly, Carolyn pulled it up the rest of the way and over her head, then tossed it into the shadows. "Then touch me." Her voice, a low purr, made Annelie tremble.

Moving closer, half on top of her, Annelie felt Carolyn's nude body. She let her hands move along the irresistible curve of her lover's slender hips, up toward her chest. Annelie greedily filled her hand with Carolyn's small breasts. The dark nipples pebbled into hard peaks, and Carolyn inhaled sharply when Annelie's fingers tugged gently at them, molding them into even harder points.

"Annie…" Carolyn arched into the touch. "More…"

Not about to object, her own heart pounding hard in her chest, Annelie lowered her head and took one nipple between her lips. She sucked it deep into her mouth, letting her tongue work it relentlessly before grazing it with her teeth. Carolyn whimpered and moved her legs restlessly, as if trying to get closer.

"Shh…" Annelie said around the wet, rigid nipple. "There's no rush, Carolyn. Just relax and enjoy it." She moved to the other nipple, rewarding it with the same attention. The incredible sound of the famous voice moaning her name over and over caused Annelie's own body to respond. Moisture pooled between her thighs, and she knew she wouldn't pull back tonight.

She temporarily let go of the reddened nipple and moved atop Carolyn, careful not to place too much weight on her. Carolyn readily parted her legs, making room for her.

"I want you," Annelie whispered into the delicate ear beneath her lips. "If you want to stop, you have to tell me now."

"No, no, don't stop. I'm on fire…burning for you." Carolyn's voice was barely audible. "I want you so much. But…"

Annelie waited a moment, but when Carolyn didn't continue, she supported herself on one elbow, tipped Carolyn's head back, and looked into her eyes. "Yes? Tell me."

"I want you…but please, can I take your clothes off?"

Annelie tried to moisten her suddenly dry lips. "Of course." Sitting up, she pulled Carolyn with her. Annelie raised her arms, allowing Carolyn to pull the camisole over her head. Lying down in one fluid motion, she raised her hips, indicating with her hands for Carolyn to pull her panties off.

***

Carolyn watched as Annelie stretched out next to her, her hips elevated to make it possible for Carolyn to remove her last garment. With trembling fingers, Carolyn pulled at the hem of the panties, totally sheer except for a modest triangle of embroidered roses. She slowly slid them off the long legs that seemed to go on forever and tossed them on the floor, registering the fact they were damp from Annelie's arousal.

She looked at the soft shadows forming valleys and hills all over Annelie's sensuous body. She had naturally pale skin, which tanned slightly in the Florida sun. Blond curls at the apex of her thighs made her catch her breath.

"You're so beautiful. It makes me nervous to touch you. I'm afraid I'll do something wrong…even hurt you."

"You could never hurt me." Annelie's voice was low, trusting.

"You can do anything you want. Touch me anywhere. Nothing is forbidden or wrong."

"You sure?" Carolyn bit her lower lip, wanting nothing but to explore her lover's mysteries.

"Very sure. I want your touch."

"Promise to tell me if I—"

"Carolyn…I promise."

Reassured enough to move on top of her lover, Carolyn sighed in relief when she finally felt all of Annelie's body against her own. They fit so well together, despite their difference in height.

Carolyn placed kisses in a blazing-hot trail along Annelie's neck, tasting the warm, damp skin. Tight nipples filled her mouth, creating a need to suck them hard, bite them, but she relented, merely licking them until Annelie arched her back, begging her to do more. Carolyn obliged, wanting to please. She let her teeth rasp over the sensitive skin, eliciting moans from Annelie at each touch.

When both nipples were pink and raw from her lavish attention, Carolyn moved down and kissed the taut stomach, circling the belly button before blowing into it and making Annelie shudder. "Ticklish, huh?" Carolyn murmured. "Good to know."

She moved farther down, hesitant to touch the damp curls. Annelie trustingly parted her legs farther. "Carolyn, please touch me. Any way you want."

Lying along Annelie's right side, Carolyn placed her palm against the warmth of her moist sex. Amazed at the familiar silky feeling, she moved her fingers while looking into Annelie's eyes, searching for signs she was doing this right. Darkening eyes narrowed and full lips grew even fuller when she slid her fingers between the drenched folds to find the swollen clitoris.

Gently, slowly, Carolyn circled it, spreading the wetness around the protruding ridge of nerves as she did when touching herself. Annelie whimpered almost inaudibly at the careful touch. Reveling in the feel of her, Carolyn slid her free arm under Annelie's neck, pulling her closer as she kissed the damp hair at her temple. "There. Like that?"

"Mmm…yes…and more."

Pleased she was on the right track, Carolyn tried to disregard her own aching body, aware of how utterly aroused she was. When Annelie pulled her legs up, involuntarily moving toward her hand, she hummed in response. "Yes, that's right. Open up to me…" She moved her fingers down to find her lover's entrance. Circling it, she felt Annelie turn toward her and hide her face in her neck.

Taking this movement as a sign of approval, Carolyn slid two fingertips inside, delighted to feel Annelie's muscles contract as if to draw her in. Though she had no idea where she found the courage, she plunged her fingers inside, careful not to let her blunt nails scratch the sensitive tissues.

"Ah!" Annelie arched her back and placed her feet on the bed again, her hips undulating against the tentative hand. "Carolyn!"

Resting on her elbow, making sure she held Annelie close with her left arm, Carolyn thrust her soaked fingers in and out, a variety of feelings rushing through her as she realized Annelie was about to come.

When Carolyn felt a small, fluttering sensation around her fingers, she pressed her thumb against her lover's engorged clitoris, rubbing it fiercely until Annelie gave a muted cry against her neck. Muscles clenched around her, over and over, and the slender body in her arms trembled long after Carolyn had gently extracted her fingers.

Slowly, Annelie caught her breath, still clinging to Carolyn, who was rocking her. Feeling protective, proud, and almost giddy, she placed a series of kisses on the damp forehead beneath her. "You okay, sweetie?" she asked, her voice husky.

"Mmm…more than okay. More like wonderful." Annelie sighed, moving to look at Carolyn. "You sent me through the ceiling."

Still in awe at the experience of being able to drive this amazing woman over the abyss, Carolyn willingly spread her legs to accommodate Annelie as she settled between them. "Oh."

"Your turn," Annelie murmured. "Your turn to go flying." She slid an arm under Carolyn's leg, raising it as she allowed her sex to rub against Carolyn's.

Carolyn felt her moisture blend with Annelie's, and the aching need between her legs reignited, making her hips move. Annelie lowered her head and sucked a stiff nipple into her mouth, a hot sensation traveling along the sensitized nerve ends as she used her tongue relentlessly.

Carolyn buried her fingers in Annelie's hair, holding her close while murmuring her name. Soon she realized her lover was moving down slowly, placing open-mouth kisses along Carolyn's stomach.

When she reached the damp curls between Carolyn's trembling legs, she spread them more, caressing the inside of her thighs. Moaning aloud in anticipation, Carolyn felt Annelie part her folds, and then a hot tongue was there, finding every inflamed nerve ending, not relenting until the fire consumed her.

"Annie…oh, God…" Arching, Carolyn pressed against the greedy, loving mouth, wanting to experience it all. After a brief pause, which almost drove her insane, slow fingers entered her, pushing inside with gentle force as the agile tongue resumed its activities.

Unable to hold back, and unsure if she was even supposed to, Carolyn let the waves wash over her, flood her system when she was tossed over the edge. Arrows of pleasure shot from between her legs, through her legs and stomach. Tugging at Annelie, she pulled her up on top of her, clinging to her lover as she kissed her deeply. Tasting herself on Annelie's lips, she lost the last of her fear of inadequacy, in bed or otherwise—at least during this shared moment of safety, security, and intimacy.

"Oh, sweetie," Carolyn sighed as Annelie settled next to her, pulling up the sheets to cover them. "Annie…" She snuggled close, slowly catching her breath.

Annelie stroked Carolyn's hair and smiled faintly, gazing deeply into Carolyn's eyes.

"I'm not sure if what you're looking for can be found in a person's eyes," Carolyn said.

"So, what am I looking for?" Annelie frowned.

"You're looking for how I feel, aren't you?"

Annelie looked caught. "I guess I am."

"Let's do it this way. Let's use words." Carolyn cupped Annelie's chin. "I've already told you I'm falling in love with you. It's true, Annie. I love you."

Tears welled up in Annelie's eyes. "Carolyn…" She coughed, blushing profusely.

Carolyn winked at her. "Now, don't choke. I'm not dangerous or anything."

"Yes, you are," Annelie said, sounding serious. "You're very dangerous to my peace of mind, my heart, and my concentration. Then again, I wouldn't have it any other way." She paused and drew a trembling breath. "I love you too."

Carolyn leaned in for a kiss. "I'm glad. I think I knew, but I love hearing it." She snuggled close again, getting comfortable against the pillows. "This feels so good."

Mimicking Carolyn's movements, Annelie spooned behind her, nuzzling her hair. "I agree. I don't think this bed has ever felt better." She slid her hand down the curve of a hip. "I hope you're not too tired."

"Still a little breathless, but not really tired. Why?"

Annelie's low alto voice reverberated against Carolyn's skin. "I want you again."

***

In a drafty trailer far from Annelie's home, a thin, balding man raised a bottle of beer to his lips and sipped it while he kept his eyes glued to the old TV set. The beautiful blonde on the screen had changed from a scrawny, gangly child into a stunning woman. His lips parted in a smirk to reveal nicotine-stained teeth, and he gave a husky chuckle.

"How about that. Little Annie grew up."

Chapter Twelve

Carolyn's hair fluttered in the wind from the open window as she drove toward a newly opened shopping mall. Handling the yellow vehicle as if it were an extension of herself, Carolyn looked more content and relaxed than Annelie had ever seen her.

After a quick breakfast of Carolyn's Royal Copenhagen coffee and toasted bagels with cream cheese, Annelie had announced she would take the day off and just be available via her cell phone.

"What about going shopping?" Carolyn had asked, glancing at Annelie over the rim of her mug. "I need to pick up a few things, and we could take the Corvette." Carolyn wiggled her eyebrows at her own suggestion, making Annelie laugh aloud before she agreed.

Annelie was amazed by the calm and soothing ambiance between them, a restful camaraderie that she hadn't expected. Leaning back in the passenger seat, she enjoyed the ride to the mall.

When Carolyn pulled into a large parking lot and carefully parked away from any other vehicles, Annelie smiled at her knowingly, the smile turning into a worried frown when she heard Carolyn groan after she got out of the car.

"What's wrong?"

Carolyn sighed, smiling sheepishly. "I used muscles last night I didn't know I had. All night, I might add."

"Oh, my. Well, that'll teach us not to be so enthusiastic," Annelie joked.

"Don't say that. Practice makes perfect."

Hooking her arm under Carolyn's, Annelie leaned down to whisper in her ear. "Well, in that case, I'm all for perfection."

Once inside the mall, they headed for a store that carried clothes by several famous designers. An efficient shopper, Carolyn bought several pairs of chinos and short-sleeved shirts, as well as a new denim jacket and sneakers, which Annelie suggested.

"Are you planning something special, since you want me in shoes like these?" Carolyn asked, winking as she pulled out her credit card.

"As a matter of fact, I do." Annelie hadn't realized until that very second she had a plan brewing. "I have a brilliant idea."

They walked out of the store and headed toward the center of the mall where several smaller vendors had kiosks. "You can't hold back on me like this. You have to tell me." Carolyn raised an eyebrow.

"You're cute when you're demanding," Annelie teased. "All right, all right. Tomorrow's Friday, and I've given everyone the day off because they worked overtime to put the Orlando convention together. How would you like to drive up to Orlando and spend the weekend at Disney World?"

Annelie kept walking and finally realized Carolyn was no longer beside her. Stopping, she turned around and saw her standing a few steps behind, looking cemented to the floor. "Carolyn?"

"Disney World? As in rides, exhibits, and…Mickey Mouse?"

"Exactly. Fireworks…parades…restaurants…"

Carolyn's eyes began to twinkle, and then she tossed her head back, laughing huskily. "Oh, you never cease to amaze me, Annelie," she said. "I'd never have guessed you were thinking about Disney World…but why not! I'd love to go. Once we get back to New York, we won't have much time to run and play."

"I'll call Jem and have her make the arrangements."

They walked in silence for a moment, looking in the windows of the shops they passed. Carolyn glanced at Annelie with a thoughtful expression. "I just thought of something. You'll be stuck in New York for the time being too and won't be able to spend time with your friends down here…Annie, why don't we ask some of them to join us at Disney World? I mean, unless they already have plans."

Annelie's heart overflowed. Part of her wanted Carolyn to herself, but another part wanted to introduce her into her circle of friends, to make them understand she belonged. "Are you sure? It could be fun, of course."

"I wouldn't have suggested it otherwise. Just so I still have you to myself all night, naturally." Carolyn gave a broad grin.

"That goes without saying. We can fit several more in the Lincoln, plus luggage. How about Jem and Charlotta, and…I think Kitty and

Sam are still in Orlando."

"Great. Sounds like we could have a lot of fun."

Annelie turned to Carolyn, looking down at her smiling eyes. "So it's settled, then." "I can't wait."

***

They continued their shopping, and at one point Annelie asked Carolyn to wait while she disappeared into what Carolyn called a gizmo store. Turning around to scan the windows of the store opposite it, Carolyn had a sudden idea.

She glanced over her shoulder to make sure Annelie was occupied with the salesperson, then hurried across the marble floor toward the store. Less than ten minutes later she placed a neatly wrapped item in her large bag, smiling inwardly as she walked back to the other store just in time to greet Annelie.

"Did you find whatever you wanted in there?" Carolyn raised an eyebrow.

"Yes, I did. Sorry, it took longer than I thought."

"Not a problem, but now I'm hungry. Should we grab something in here or…?"

"Why don't we drive down to the beach and see what we can scare up?"

"Sounds like a plan. Let's go."

They gathered their bags and headed toward the parking lot. As Carolyn drove the car out of the parking lot and headed toward the highway, Annelie opened her purse and pulled out her cell phone, pressing the speed dial.

"Jem, Annelie here. Yes. Shopping, actually. Good. Now, Carolyn and I have a great idea. How would you like to join us and go to Disney World over the weekend? Friday to Sunday. You do? Great! I want to take Charlotta, if possible. As far as I know, Kitty and Sam are still in Orlando. I don't think they'd mind switching to our hotel. Can you take care of the bookings? Brilliant. Thanks. I'll call Kitty and Charlotta later. Okay, talk to you soon. Ciao."

"I take it Jem's game?" Carolyn asked.

"Yes, she didn't have any plans for the weekend. She'll take care of everything."

"Super. I look forward to it." Carolyn smiled, not taking her eyes off the traffic ahead of them. A soft touch on her thigh made her give an inaudible gasp.

"Why don't we take the scenic route, along the beach drive?" Annelie suggested, making little circles on Carolyn's leg.

"Oh, goodness, Annie, I'll do whatever you want, but you better not touch my leg like that while I'm driving."

"I thought you were completely absorbed in driving this car. How can one little caress have such an impact?"

"Depends on who's giving the little caress. Cut it out." Carolyn smiled, not taking her eyes off the traffic. "That, or I'll be forced to pull over and have my way with you."

Delighted, Carolyn heard Annelie moan quietly before withdrawing her hand. "Okay, so drive, then."

Caroyn laughed as she drove toward the beach, turning south on the smaller road following the coast. They passed the tourist-filled areas, and when the traffic thinned, Annelie pointed to the left. "What about that place?"

"Barnacle Bill's Crab Shack?" Carolyn read. "You've been there?"

"No, but it looks genuinely quaint enough to be worth a try."

Feeling her stomach growl, Carolyn agreed. She turned into the gravel parking lot, looking for a remote spot for her beloved car. Under a group of palm trees, she switched off the ignition and stretched before she opened the door.

"Still sore?" Annelie frowned. "We might have to get you to a massage parlor before you start working next week. We can't have Diana Maddox limping or flinching every time she moves."

"Very funny. No, I'm not sore—just…a little tender."

They stepped up on the large veranda that circled the house, noticing the rustic tables and chairs. The door was flung open, startling both of them, and a tall, skinny man boasting a red ponytail and mustache stepped outside.

"You like seafood?" he asked abruptly, glaring at them.

"Yes," Annelie replied, raising an eyebrow.

A broad smile spread across his freckled face. "Then you've come to the right place! Step inside where it's nice and cool, and I'll pour you a glass of our homemade iced tea."

Carolyn sighed inwardly. "You have coffee?"

"Sure do! We don't have any of the fancy latte stuff, but we have fresh-ground beans, and the brew is strong enough to knock your socks off."

"Sounds wonderful." Carolyn sighed in relief at the prospect of not having to drink tea, since she detested the stuff. "Are you Barnacle Bill, perhaps?"

"Nope, I'm Pete. His son."

Annelie smiled faintly. "There really is a Bill, then?"

"Yup, he's in the kitchen."

Carolyn had to stifle a giggle or risk offending the colorful man showing them inside.

Large ceiling fans kept the air cool around tables with red-and-white checkered tablecloths. The walls were covered with postcards, odd signs, and maritime art, together with fishnets. Pete showed them to a corner booth, motioning for them to sit down before handing them worn leather-covered menus. "I'll bring you your drinks. One iced tea and one coffee?"

"Yes, please," Annelie said.

Carolyn opened the menu, and she widened her eyes at the many choices of different seafood. "I think we might have stumbled on something extraordinary," she said. "If it tastes as good as it sounds on the menu, we have a winner."

"I agree. I think I'll have the medium seafood platter."

"Me too."

They placed their order when Pete returned with their drinks, Carolyn hard-pressed not to giggle when he nodded in agreement at their choice.

Remembering the small package in her pocket, she pulled it out discreetly, holding it in her hand before raising her glance to Annelie.

"I have something for you," she began, "and I hope you'll like it."

"You do? What?"

Mutely, Carolyn pushed the gift across the table, not taking her eyes off Annelie as she took the small package. Shooting Carolyn a curious glance, she slowly removed the black-and-gold paper. When

Annelie looked at the brand name on the small wooden box, her eyebrows rose.

"When did you have time…?"

"When you were in the gizmo shop."

"Ah." Annelie carefully opened the box and lifted the cotton to reveal the item underneath. "Oh, Carolyn, it's beautiful," she breathed. Tears suddenly welled up in her eyes, startling Carolyn.

"Annie, don't cry." She reached across the table. "Here, let me put it on for you." She lifted from the box a white gold bracelet, a simple chain with three charms attached to it—a heart, a cross, and an anchor. Carolyn had fallen for its old-fashioned look and immediately thought of Annelie. "There. It looks wonderful on your wrist, but of course you can take it back if you—"

"Never," Annelie said huskily. "I love it. Nobody has ever given me anything so romantic."

Carolyn couldn't hold back a broad smile. "I'm glad you like it."

Annelie looked up, her face composed once again. "I do." She held on to Carolyn's hand. "I can't believe I'm here with you. I'm afraid I'll wake up and find it's a dream."

Carolyn stroked her thumb across the back of Annelie's hand. "In that case, we're having the same dream," she said. "I never thought I'd ever feel this way about anybody—and there's no place I'd rather be."

Approaching steps announced Pete's presence, but Annelie kept Carolyn's hand in hers. Whistling off-key, Pete placed their food in front of them, giving no indication he had noticed their joined hands.

"Eat and be merry," he said and walked away to greet a new group of guests.

Carolyn winked at Annelie as she tackled a jumbo shrimp. "Be merry…sounds good to me."

"Speaking of that, I picked up something for you, but I'll give it to you in the car."

Carolyn licked her lips suggestively. "Something you can't give me in public. Now I'm curious."

"I can see what you're thinking, but don't let that imagination run away with you," Annelie warned, raising her fork in mock admonishment.

"What are you talking about? What imagination?" Carolyn did her best to look innocent.

"You know what I mean." Annelie grinned. "Eat your lunch and stop trying to make me blush."

Carolyn gave a resounding husky laugh, making several people turn their heads. "All right, Annie. I'll behave and let you reveal your gift in private later."

Annelie looked down at her bracelet, the expression in her eyes softening. "It's beautiful."

Carolyn found it impossible not to smile as she gazed at the beauty before her. She leaned in closer. "It's pretty," she agreed in a low voice. "But you're beautiful."

***

Annelie had to laugh at the expression on Carolyn's face when she gave her the hands-free device for her cell phone.

"What's this?" Carolyn frowned. "You know me and tech stuff. We're not compatible."

"Yes, I know. This is to make your life easier. You plug it in here, in the cigarette lighter, like this. Then you attach your cell phone to the cord…like this…and now you can talk without using your hands. And also, it charges your phone. Smart, huh?"

"Very smart…wait, how do you mean, without using my hands?"

"All you have to do is press one button if the phone rings, and then you can just talk out loud. It's like a speakerphone. It'll make your driving safer. You can focus on the traffic around you instead of the cell phone."

"Amazing." Carolyn grinned. "And here I thought you'd bought something naughty."

Annelie rolled her eyes and laughed. Feeling a slight blush creep up her cheeks at involuntary images flashing before her eyes, she had to ask. "Naughty? Such as?"

It was Carolyn's turn to blush. "Oh, I don't know. Like massage oil, or…well, some tech toy, or something. I mean, after all, you were in one of those stores. They have all sorts of things."

"Oh, Carolyn." Annelie smiled. "If I wanted to buy something like that, I'd be a little more subtle about it. You're just teasing me."

"A little. This was a very thoughtful gift. Thanks, Annie." Carolyn leaned in and kissed Annelie's cheek.

"You're very welcome. As for the other suggestions, I'll give it some thought. I'm all for massage oils and, well, I suppose a toy can be fun." Annelie winked at Carolyn, who promptly started the car and pulled out of the parking lot.

***

The sun was low on the horizon, barely above the waterfront, as Annelie stepped out of the Lincoln in the parking lot outside her office.

"About time." Jem greeted her and Carolyn with a yawn. "Here I set four different alarm clocks to not be late, and you have the nerve to show up…" She checked her watch. "Six minutes late."

"Ah, quit whining, Jem." Annelie grinned. "So we're ready to go, then?"

She glanced around and saw Charlotta walking toward them, pulling a small bag on wheels. Waving to the diminutive redhead, Annelie turned to Carolyn.

"Looks like we can take off right away."

"Mmm," the husky voice behind her agreed. "Want to drive? You sound incredibly perky."

The soft purr took the sting out of the words, and Annelie just smiled. "Sure. You had a hard time waking up this morning."

Jem raised an eyebrow at the information, but refrained from commenting. "I wouldn't mind driving," she suggested.

"That's okay. I'll take the car through the morning traffic," Annelie offered diplomatically. Jem was a good driver but possessed a fiery temper, which made being a passenger quite an experience. On more than one occasion, Annelie had tried to point out that the driver in the offending car couldn't hear her colorful remarks.

Looking slightly disgruntled, Jem opened the trunk to the Lincoln and stowed her bag inside. Charlotta followed suit and then climbed in the backseat next to Jem.

"Everybody set?" Annelie asked, glancing over her shoulder.

The morning traffic wasn't too congested yet, so they drove quickly through the city and headed north.

Annelie sat lost in thought as the other women chatted behind her. Such an ordinary thing to do, going away for the weekend with friends. Still, so much rides on this. Will they accept Carolyn when they realize I love her? Will she be comfortable around them, knowing they know? This'll be her first, granted, very small, experience of being out. She glanced down at her right wrist and watched the bracelet sparkle, the small charms glimmering as the rising sun shone through the windows.

"I haven't been to the House of Mouse in at least five years," Jem said from the backseat. "It's really one of my favorite places, but I guess I've just been too busy lately."

Annelie smiled inwardly at her chief editor's words. Not many people knew of Jem's more playful side, and she could see by Carolyn's raised eyebrows that she was surprised.

"I went to Disneyland with my brother and sister years ago." Carolyn turned her head toward Jem. "They loved it, of course, but I mostly remember how hard it was to keep up with them. It'll be great not having to chase children around."

"I especially love Epcot," Jem said. "It's my favorite part of Disney World."

"I've never been to Disney World," Charlotta confessed. "I'm a terrible wimp when it comes to roller coasters. I hope you won't think I'm a complete bore."

"No, don't worry," Carolyn replied. "I'm not so daring myself. I prefer the slower rides."

The conversation flowed easily as they drove toward Orlando. Annelie enjoyed the facetious comments and laughter, occasionally glancing over at Carolyn, who sat half-turned toward the backseat, taking part in the friendly banter. Annelie smiled, her heart aglow, as she watched Carolyn enjoy herself and take an active interest in what her other friends had to say. The weekend promised to be wonderful.

***

The one-bedroom executive suite held everything they could possibly need. Carolyn walked over to the window and pulled the curtain aside to admire the view of the lake and the Dolphin Hotel on the other side.

"Cute." She grinned, turning to Annelie. "I have to say, the swans on the roof of our hotel are slightly more elegant than the chubby-looking dolphins on that one."

Annelie walked over and put her arm around her lover's shoulders. "I agree. It's quite a view. Look. There are the Friendship boats that'll take us to the different parks."

Annelie pulled her closer. "I enjoyed the drive up here. You seemed to connect with Jem and Charlotta."

Carolyn grinned. "I hope so. They seem to like me."

"Don't sound so surprised. Of course they like you. You're wonderful." She brushed her lips against Carolyn's.

"I don't take it for granted. I know I'm respected in the business. Actually, I think I frighten a lot of people. It comes with the territory, and I can be abrasive and a little too candid at times."

"Well, you have a kindred spirit in Jem. She calls a spade a shovel, if you understand what I mean. You don't have to pretend with her, and I don't think you did. You all seemed to have a good time chatting."

"We did." Carolyn nodded, hugging Annelie. "Now, come here and kiss me properly."

Annelie readily dipped her head, capturing Carolyn's lips in a kiss initially more loving than erotic. When it deepened, Carolyn felt her knees buckle as she slid her hands up underneath Annelie's T-shirt and moved them over the smooth skin. Instinctively she pushed the thin fabric up to reveal the white lace bra.

"Oh, Carolyn…please…" The husky whisper from Annelie made her hands tremble.

"I know, I know, we have to get out of here and go play." Carolyn nibbled at Annelie's full lower lip. "You're just too tempting, my love. You're so…" Her voice broke off when Annelie pulled back, her eyes wide. "What? What's wrong?"

"Nothing." Annelie swallowed. "You…you called me my love."

Realizing how effortlessly the words had passed her lips, Carolyn blushed. "I did. I know I have a habit of using terms of endearment pretty freely, but I never call anyone love."

Annelie's eyes sparkled. "I liked it."

"Me too."

Hearing a knock at the door, Annelie gave Carolyn another quick kiss before she answered it. The sight of the other women, both dressed in shorts and T-shirts, Charlotta boasting a bright yellow baseball cap, made Carolyn smile.

"You ready?" Jem asked, sounding impatient. "I'm starving. Kitty and Sam are checking in later this afternoon and meeting us tonight for dinner."

"Sounds great. We're ready." Annelie and Carolyn grabbed their daypacks. "Let's go play."

Jem looked closely at Annelie as she made sure the door was closed and locked. "You look a bit flushed. You okay?"

"Of course," Annelie assured her. "I've never felt better."

***

Kimonos, the Japanese restaurant at the Swan Hotel, had subdued lighting and a cozy atmosphere. Annelie sat close to Carolyn on the couch, resting her arm behind her shoulders. Across the table, Kitty and Sam had joined them and were now focusing on Jem, who sat at the short end of the table busily filling out the form that replaced a regular menu. She had commandeered the form and endured a lot of outrageous comments as she scribbled on it.

When the waitress arrived with their drinks, Jem handed her the form with an apologetic smile. "Sorry about this. I hope you can read all the changes we made. These people can't make up their minds."

The other women raised their voices in protest, claiming it was Jem who had made a mess of the menu. Smiling indulgently, the waitress assured them everything was fine.

When Charlotta started lancing innocent California rolls with fervor rather than using her chopsticks correctly, Carolyn said, "Charlotta, they're already dead. Hold the chopsticks like this, and move them like so."

"I've tried," Charlotta muttered. "They work better this way." She stabbed another roll. "See?"

Laughter erupted around the table at her violent efforts.

"Excuse me, aren't you Carolyn Black?" a female voice interrupted.

Annelie glanced up at two women standing next to her, their eyes fastened on Carolyn.

"Yes, I am." Her voice was low and noncommittal.

"We just love you, Ms. Black. Please may we have your autograph?"

Carolyn squared her shoulders, her eyes a dull gray as she lowered her chopsticks. "Normally, I'd love to, but I don't sign autographs while dining out with friends and family. Please respect my rule. Catch me later in the foyer and I'll be glad to."

"We don't mean to interrupt," the other woman persisted, to Annelie's dismay. "But now that we already have, couldn't you make an exception? Just sign To Dolly here, on my receipt." She pushed a small piece of paper forward, holding out a pen.

Carolyn's voice was polite, but cold enough to make Annelie shiver. "Please, not now. Thank you."

The two women hesitated for a moment, but relented and left with sullen looks on their faces. Muttering between them, they stomped toward the door. Carolyn took a deep breath and then smiled toward Charlotta. "Now, where were we? Here, let me help you."

In awe, the others watched as Carolyn gently placed Charlotta's fingers in the correct position around the chopsticks, and the smile on the redhead's face broadened when she managed to grip a piece of salmon on her plate and bring it over to the soy sauce, dip it, and then pop it into her mouth. "I did it!"

Jem leaned closer to Annelie, lowering her voice. "Damn, did you see that? She just blows me away."

Annelie had yet to recover from Carolyn's reaction to the rude fans. Glancing around the table, she saw Kitty and Sam look at Carolyn with a new respect.

"Do you get that a lot?" Sam asked.

Carolyn shrugged. "Yes, unfortunately. It's a definite downside to fame. I try to always remember the fans and sign autographs whenever asked to. But I do have a rule. I want to eat in peace. Later, I'll sign any paper or photo they bring, but not now."

"I thought you handled it very well. You were more restrained than I could ever be," Jem said. "I'm impressed with how you slipped into the Carolyn-Black-the-diva role. You slipped out of it even faster."

Carolyn rolled her eyes. "The diva, huh? I guess it's second nature to me by now."

"I've never quite realized how fame can be," Charlotta remarked. "To be a household name and never enjoy complete anonymity like the rest of us."

Annelie felt a hand touch hers. Looking down, she interlaced her fingers with Carolyn's. Her first instinct when the two women approached her lover had been to protect her, but she had quickly realized Carolyn was much better equipped, and used to handling such situations. Squeezing the hand in hers, Annelie wanted to convey her empathy. The thumb rubbing the back of her hand suggested Carolyn understood.

***

"Let me undress you."

Annelie's eyes widened at the soft growl behind Carolyn's words. Her arms remained at her side as her lover began to unbutton her white cotton shirt. Slowly, but without hesitation, Carolyn unveiled bare skin covered only with a bra.

"You're exquisite." Carolyn looked at the trail of wine red lipstick marks she'd left on Annelie's pale collarbones. "Beautiful."

She nudged the shirt off Annelie's passive arms and watched it fall to the floor. Kneeling to pick it up, she changed her mind and unbuttoned the beige chinos instead. As she slid them down over voluptuous hips, she tugged at the panties underneath and removed them as well. Utterly exposed, Annelie closed her eyes, visibly trembling as she moved her feet and stepped out of her clothes.

Carolyn rose with the clothes in her hands, folding them with teasing slowness and placing them on the chair by the desk. She turned her attention back to Annelie, reached around her for the clasp, and removed her bra. Tossing it on the chair, she slowly rubbed Annelie's back, down over her bottom.

"Oh, so good…" she murmured. "And so mine…"

"Yes." Annelie's voice sounded weak.

"Come here, love." Carolyn guided her toward the bed. "Lie down and relax. I'll be back in a second."

Annelie obeyed, glad to be off her feet since her knees felt weak. She watched her lover walk into the bathroom, only to return a few minutes later, just as naked, carrying something in her hand.

"I have something for you," Carolyn murmured. "I think you're going to like it. You're so sensitive, so responsive. Yes. I definitely think you're going to like this, Annie."

Annelie looked at the item in Carolyn's hand—a white bottle of unknown origin. "What's that?"

"I used to burn badly in the sun, and this saved me. It still keeps my shoulders from burning to a crisp. Being out all afternoon in that tank top…you've burned your shoulders a bit."

"What's in it?"

"Herbs. Aloe vera mostly, but also another herb, very invigorating and…stimulating, you could say. It stings for a minute, but then it feels great. Trust me."

Carolyn opened the bottle and squeezed some of its contents into the palm of one hand, then rubbed it against the other. Moving onto the bed on her knees, she cupped Annelie's red shoulders and began to massage the cream into them.

At first it did sting, painfully so. Annelie was about to object when the pain turned into a tingling, soothing sensation. She moaned in pleasure as Carolyn spread the cream down her arms.

"There, I told you. Doesn't that feel good?"

Annelie could only nod. It felt better than good.

Carolyn took more cream into her hands, now massaging down Annelie's front, between her breasts toward her stomach.

"I'm not burned there," Annelie murmured, not really objecting.

"I know, but this'll feel good anyway."

She felt limp as Carolyn's soft hands rubbed the tingling cream into her stomach, down her hips, and along her legs. Unable to resist, she parted her legs to help Carolyn reach around them.

"Roll over. Let me do your back."

Annelie complied, moaning aloud when Carolyn's strong hands massaged more cream on her back. The sensation was everywhere, tingling, sparkling against her skin, enhancing the touch of the loving caresses.

"Roll over again." Carolyn's voice was throatier than usual, vibrating with desire.

Annelie turned onto her back, watching in anticipation how Carolyn took more cream and lowered her hands. She arched her back, striving to prolong the touch as Carolyn's hands cupped her breasts. The cream heated and chilled her nipples at the same time, making them impossibly hard. Loud whimpers broke from her throat as the intensity of the pleasure rose.

"Now, like this…" Carolyn put the bottle aside and moved on top of Annelie, placing kisses over her forehead and cheeks before hovering over her lips. "You drive me crazy, you know. Absolutely insane…" Finally a kiss, the one Annelie had been waiting for, hot and intense. She parted her legs, allowing Carolyn to settle between them. "You…only you…"

Annelie couldn't take it anymore. Needing release more than she ever had, she rolled them over on the king-size bed, lowering her head to Carolyn's breasts. She captured a nipple between her teeth, tugging at it only to soothe it with her tongue a moment later. Reaching down, she found the damp folds between Carolyn's legs and unceremoniously entered her when she felt the copious moisture there.

"Ah!" Carolyn clung to her, apparently quite willing to have them switch roles. "Yes…oh, yes…"

Rubbing her own swollen sex against Carolyn's thigh, Annelie pressed her fingers deeper, a thumb on the aching clitoris above, while lavishing open-mouth kisses from one breast to another.

"Oh, Carolyn…I need you so much…I love you." Her voice broke. "You make me want you so much."

"I'm yours. Yours to have. Yours to do anything you want to. Yours." Carolyn arched, wrapping one of her legs around Annelie. "Take me…"

The last words sent Annelie over the edge. Pressing herself hard against her lover, she flicked her thumb over Carolyn's drenched ridge of nerves. She was desperate for Carolyn to follow her into the depths of endless pleasure. Convulsing from her orgasm, she kept caressing the woman in her arms, determined to give her what she herself was feeling.

"That's it…" Carolyn murmured. "Yes, yes…"

Just as Annelie's tremors began to slow, Carolyn went rigid beneath her, caught in her own landslide, calling out Annelie's name. Carolyn's strong muscles clenched Annelie's fingers, fluttering for precious moments until Carolyn began to settle down.

Annelie tried to catch her breath as she raised her head to look down at Carolyn. Flushed and tousled, she had never looked more beautiful. Slowly, Annelie removed her fingers, cupping Carolyn's overindulged sex. Then she lay down beside her lover.

"Carolyn…" Annelie pushed errant strands of hair out of her lover's eyes. "Wow."

Those unforgettable eyes looked dimly up at her, and a slow, bright smile spread across Carolyn's lips. "Wow, indeed. Very good choice of words."

Pulling at the covers, they created a nest in the middle of the bed

since the air-conditioning would soon chill them. Turning her back against Annelie, Carolyn snuggled close, as was her habit.

"I love you, Annie." Her voice was a soft whisper.

Annelie, not yet accustomed to Carolyn's open-hearted declarations, felt her heart beat erratically. "I love you too. So much." Hearing her own voice about to break, she blushed and hid her face in Carolyn's hair.

"I know. I feel it." The husky voice held a multitude of emotions. "Sleep tight."

Annelie placed her hand on Carolyn's hip and closed her eyes. Tired beyond words, she enjoyed the soft throbbing inside her body, knowing sleep was only minutes away.

***

Carolyn and Annelie had pulled up six chairs around one of the small, round tables in the breakfast area and sat waiting for Charlotta and Jem to join them. Sipping her coffee, Carolyn thought about the preceding night. To her own surprise, she had woken Annelie twice during the night, initiating more of the irresistible lovemaking. She ought to feel just a little embarrassed about not being able to resist her, she thought, but she couldn't. Annelie was so responsive and the sexual energy between them incredibly overpowering; it enthralled them both. Carolyn stretched her right leg discreetly, feeling an unfamiliar, but pleasant, soreness in her muscles.

Charlotta looked rested and ready to face the day when she approached the table, a café latte in her hand. Jem, however, looked bleary-eyed.

"You all right, Jem?" Annelie asked as the two women sat down.

"I'm fine," Jem muttered. "I just didn't get much sleep last night."

"Sorry to hear that."

"Our neighbors were so noisy. I couldn't tell if the sound came from below or above."

"I slept like a baby," Charlotta said. "Didn't hear a thing."

"You must be deaf," Jem huffed. "Somebody was going at it like there's no tomorrow. Honestly, this is a family resort, for heaven's sake!"

Carolyn had to bite her lip not to laugh aloud. Glancing at Annelie, she watched her blush a deep crimson.

"Annelie, I told you you were too vocal," she whispered, leaning closer.

"What?" Charlotta exclaimed, sitting on the other side of Annelie. "Come to think of it, I heard some commotion too. That was you?"

"You're a dead woman, Carolyn," Annelie muttered between clenched teeth.

Carolyn looked at Jem and Charlotta, who suddenly dove to the floor, apparently retying already neat shoestrings while their shoulders shook unmistakably. When she sat back up, Charlotta covered her mouth with one hand, her eyes twinkling.

"Oh, God," Annelie sighed, shaking her head as she joined in the laughter. She nailed Carolyn with her eyes. "I'm going to get you for this," she vowed, unable to erase a broad grin from her face. "Sooner or later."

"Promises, promises," Carolyn replied with a carefree wave of her hand.

Annelie grinned. "You're damn right."

***

"Oh, we have to go on this ride," Jem enthused. "It's brand-new! Everybody's talking about it."

After a full day of fun in the warm weather, the six women had enjoyed most of the Epcot rides and now approached the newest attraction.

Annelie looked at the brochure in her hands. "Mission: Space. It sounds fun. You go in four at a time, take on roles as navigator, pilot, commander, and engineer, and land a space shuttle on Mars. It's quite a wild ride."

"I'm not sure…" Charlotta looked hesitant, as did Sam. "Wild?"

"Don't worry. You're on the ground, in a seat, spinning in a centrifugal chamber, creating g-forces. Says here you should avoid it if you're prone to motion sickness, though."

"I'm usually not so bold, but I want to try it," Carolyn said and rose. "Who else?"

Eventually they all decided to go. After waiting in line and watching an instructional video with actor Gary Sinise, they were ushered into rows of four, which meant Sam and Charlotta had to wait.

Entering their pod, Kitty climbed in first, followed by Carolyn, Jem, and Annelie.

"Oh, cool," Kitty said. "I'm the engineer. That's a first."

"I'm the commander." Carolyn grinned.

Jem was happy to be in the pilot's seat, and Annelie rolled her eyes at being the navigator. A bar locked them safely into their seats, and the wall opposite them suddenly moved closer to provide each of them buttons and a joystick.

After Gary Sinise instructed them how to operate the controls, they awaited takeoff. Annelie kept her eyes on the small screen that showed the view from the space shuttle's window. The engines ignited with a thundering vibration, and a surprisingly strong g-force pressed her into her seat.

"Whooohooo!" Jem yelled next to her. "You feel that?"

"Focus on the mission and steer this thing," Carolyn replied. "You have maneuvers coming up, pilot!"

"Yes, ma'am," Jem replied merrily.

Each had different assignments during the mission to Mars, but, despite trying their best, they still came close to crashing on the landing strip at the Mars colony. Carolyn kept barking out orders, making the other three want to double over with laughter.

They skidded along the runway, breaking through the barriers. Annelie listened to Gary Sinise's somber voice as their space shuttle teetered on the edge of the abyss, swaying back and forth. "Don't move a muscle."

"I'm not!" Kitty squealed from the engineer's station. "Oh, God!"

"Welcome to Mars!"

The lights went on, and the safety bars released their vise grip. The four women stepped outside on wobbly legs, all smiles.

"Wasn't that fun?" Jem grinned. "I think I did an awesome job of piloting, if I do say so myself."

"An awesome job?" Kitty raised her eyebrows. "We practically crashed!"

"It's indicative of how she drives a car," Annelie teased, as Jem shot her a mock glare.

"I can't believe how much fun that was," Carolyn added. "It all felt so natural to me, being starship captain. Who knew?"

Annelie exchanged glances with Jem and Kitty before bursting out in a fit of laughter.

Carolyn looked at her companions with mild surprise. "What? What did I say?"

Deciding it was time for ice cream, they sat down on a bench in the shade, and Annelie suddenly felt a hand on her knee. She wondered if Carolyn was aware of the public display of affection as she placed her own on top of Carolyn's and rubbed her thumb over her knuckles. Hearing a soft intake of breath, she noticed Carolyn's slightly startled eyes.

"Good ice cream?" Annelie asked innocently.

"Wonderful," Carolyn said huskily. "I love chocolate."

"Oh, goodness, look at Charlotta and Sam," Jem snorted, breaking the mood.

The two women were stumbling toward them, both looking queasy and pale.

Carolyn rose. "Charlotta, come take my seat. Here, let me help you." She held the ill-looking woman around the shoulders. "Take a couple of deep breaths. Annelie, open my backpack. I have an unopened bottle of water left."

"Charlotta, you okay?" Annelie said, as she handed the water to her friend.

"Uh, yeah, I think so. They did warn people about motion sickness. Ew."

Sam had recovered more quickly and kept fanning herself with a brochure. "I think it's time for dinner," she suggested. "Charlotta will feel better with some food in her."

"Good idea," Jem agreed. "Any suggestions?"

"What about the Scandinavian part of Epcot?" Annelie said. "My Swedish heritage needs meatballs."

"Sounds good to me," Carolyn agreed.

The sun had set by the time they found the right restaurant and ordered their food. Charlotta started looking better after eating an appetizer.

"Your color's improved, at least," Carolyn noted as the waiter served their main course, meatballs.

"I'm fine now, thanks. Can you believe how wild that ride was?"

"I thought I was going to go deaf from Carolyn barking orders." Jem rolled her eyes. "Is she always this bossy, Annelie?"

Annelie looked at her lover, noticing Carolyn's wink. "She's normally very bossy, except when it comes to doing one thing." She saw Carolyn's eyes widen as the other women whistled and laughed. Annelie leaned closer to Carolyn. "Told you I'd get even."

"I can't believe you said that."

"What do you mean? I was talking about our professional relationship, as actress and executive producer."

"Aha. Right." Carolyn gave a slow smile.

Annelie focused on the way her friends teased Carolyn about her ability to slip into character at the drop of a hat, as Charlotta put it. Seeing everyone so at ease around her warmed Annelie's heart.

Sam's voice broke her reverie.

"Annelie, can you call the odd little guy over here? I want some Norwegian dessert."

***

Having pulled out the box he had forgotten about until he watched the television show, the thin man tugged at the rubber band circling a small stack of letters. The box had been sitting in the cabinet for ages, and now it could come in very handy. Opening the first letter, he laughed with a hissing sound.

"‘Annie asks for you all the time,'" he read aloud. "Great."

Chapter Thirteen

No, not like that. I look like I've been in a hurricane," Carolyn said, trying hard to remain patient. She hated having her hair and makeup done but was determined not to convey her aversion to the makeup artist working on her.

"It's a contemporary style," the hair stylist explained. "Diana Maddox—"

"Is a hardworking criminal investigator with little or no time in the morning to create this!" Carolyn gestured toward the mirror. "You're wasting your time. I know Regina Carmichael. She's not going to run with this look." Truth be told, she simply could not imagine going through the rather painful process of creating the wild hairdo every morning before filming.

"Let's take a picture of it anyway." The stylist gestured toward the photographer. "Just in case."

Muttering under her breath, Carolyn stepped up on the dais and allowed the studio photographer to do his job. "I liked the first version you created," she said. "The simple French twist was in character."

The other woman looked like she was about to object when Carolyn's cell phone interrupted them.

"Black."

"Oh, dear, you sound miffed," Beth greeted her at the other end. "What's up?"

"Nothing, sweetie. I'm at work, doing my fittings."

"Welcome back to New York."

Wanting to slap her forehead for forgetting to call her sister the previous evening, Carolyn took a deep breath and moved out of earshot. "I'm sorry I didn't call right away, kiddo. When we got in last night I fell into bed, unconscious."

"Did you have fun?"

"We had a great time, especially at Disney World, going on all the rides and eating well."

"Great. Listen, Lyn…" Beth's voice wavered. "I'm not sure, but I picked up on something on TV and had the feeling I should tell you."

"What is it?" A sudden, inexplicable pang made Carolyn square her shoulders.

"It's about your new boss. I saw something on E! News first and then a short segment on NBC."

Chills dashing down her spine, Carolyn pressed the cell phone closer to her ear. "Go on."

"Apparently Annelie Peterson's father has come forward, accusing her of letting him live in poverty, on welfare. He's claiming her charity work is nothing but a hypocritical act, since she doesn't even care about her own flesh and blood."

"What?!"

"I didn't like the sound of it. It came across like she was this heartless rich bitch with a poor, sick, old dad."

Carolyn's heart raced as cold fury exploded in the depths of her stomach. This was the type of story that signaled a media hunt. With so much press about the Maddox film and interest in the woman behind the project, the media would beat up any hint of scandal into a salacious exposé. Knowing time was all-important, she scrambled to figure out the best plan.

"Thank you for letting me know so quickly, honey. This will cause problems for Annelie, so I need to get right on it. Can I get in touch with you later tonight?"

"Sure. I'll be here."

Carolyn hung up and walked over to the makeup area where she kept her purse. Combing her hair, rolling her eyes as she destroyed the ridiculous hairdo, she held up her hand dismissively when the beautician approached her. "Sorry, we'll have to continue tomorrow. Something came up that can't wait."

"But…"

"Tomorrow." Rummaging around in her purse, Carolyn found Margo's business card. She looked up and saw the stylist still standing there. Sighing inwardly, she fought not to take her irritation out on her. "Can you call for my car? I'll see you in the morning at eight." Carolyn grabbed her coat and was already dialing Margo as she left the room.

"Margo, this is Carolyn Black."

"Carolyn, how are you? Annelie's not here. She's working from her apartment today." The Irish accent smoothed out the other woman's energetic way of speaking.

"I know. I'm on my way back there. It's you I need to talk to. Something's come up."

"Go on." Margo's voice was guarded.

"I had a call from my sister in D.C. who saw something disturbing on the news today about Annelie. It's not good." Carolyn relayed what Beth had said.

There was a pause, making Carolyn think she'd been cut off.

"Margo, are you still—"

"The bastard!" Margo exploded. "We'll take care of him. Why the hell did that lowlife have to crawl out from under his rock?"

"That's a no-brainer. Money."

"Yeah." Margo cleared her throat. "You realize this is going to hit her hard, don't you? When the media's witch hunt is on, all bets are off."

"I agree." Carolyn walked over to the car pulling up at the curb, got into the backseat, and gave Annelie's address. "I can't imagine how she'll take it. Privacy is so important to her."

"Tell her I'll be there as soon as I know more. And Carolyn, thanks for calling."

Forcing herself to relax against the headrest and rubbing her forehead, Carolyn hoped Annelie wouldn't be watching TV while she worked. Knowing Annelie preferred listening to soft jazz or classical music, she doubted it. Fifteen minutes later, the car pulled up to the condo.

Outside the door to the apartment, Carolyn had to stop and draw a cleansing breath. She was furious, angrier than she had been in a long time, and at a ghost of a man who was only out to get his hands on some of his daughter's money.

As Carolyn unlocked the door and stepped inside, she heard the bittersweet voice of Billie Holiday.

"Annelie?" Carolyn dropped her purse on the small dresser in the hallway and strode toward Annelie's study. Stopping in the doorway, she felt her heart melt when she spotted her lover completely focused on her computer. Her hair was in a ponytail, and she wore powder blue sweats. "Annie?"

Flinching, Annelie looked up, a soft smile spreading on her lips at the sight of her lover. "Carolyn, what are you doing home already? I thought fittings would take all day." A frown appeared on her forehead. "You look so serious. Is something wrong? Oh, God, is Beth all right?"

Carolyn walked over to the desk and sat down on the edge, leaning down for a quick kiss. "Beth's doing fine. She called me earlier and… she had some news that I wanted to share with you in person."

"What news? It can't be good. I can tell from your face. Come on. You're scaring me."

"Now, listen to me, love." Carolyn cupped Annelie's chin. "Seems your father has decided to float to the surface and make an appearance."

There was a stunned silence as Annelie went pale.

"Probably saw you on TV and put two and two together," she continued. "I've called Margo. She's dealing with it as we speak."

"My father?"

"Yes."

"Who…I mean, where…wh…" Annelie's voice gave out. When the words still didn't come, she reached for a remote sitting on her desk and pressed a button. Doors slid open in the bookshelf to reveal a plasma-screen television. Pressing another button, she clicked to the entertainment channel. After a commercial, a news segment featuring an elegant blond woman appeared.

"We're talking to Miranda Lewis, who has the latest on the Annelie Peterson story. As you know, Annelie Peterson is the publisher and executive producer responsible for bringing the famous character Diana Maddox to us in printed form as well as award-winning audiobooks. There has always been some mystique around the elusive beauty, who is one of the wealthiest women in the country. Share the scoop with us, Miranda."

Carolyn moved to stand behind Annelie, placing both hands on her shoulders.

"Well, Cathy, it turns out the stunning Ms. Peterson, also known for her generosity and philanthropic endeavors, has been hiding a secret that seems out of character. We know her, among other things, as the president of the Nebula Circle, a company devoted to building shelters for the homeless and raising money for needy children. Here's what's hard to understand. It turns out Annelie Peterson's father has lived in poverty most of his life, and he claims she hasn't raised one finger to help him."

"He's never…I didn't know," Annelie whispered. "I…"

Carolyn caressed the top of her right shoulder through her sweatshirt.

"He's disabled, unable to work for a living, and getting by on welfare. His name is Stuart Clint, and I met him a few hours ago in the Laguna Trailer and Camping Park." The scene shifted to a run-down trailer park, zooming in on a skinny, gray-haired man with piercing blue eyes. Dressed in a faded red T-shirt and torn jeans, he certainly looked the part.

"Tell us, Mr. Clint, why you've chosen to step forward right now?"

"I've missed having my daughter in my life for a mighty long time. I didn't want to mess things up for her, by showing up, you know, looking the way I do. I wouldn't fit in. She's a, well, I guess you could call her a jet-setter. I'm at the other end of the rope—real down on my luck, you could say. Lately, I've been sick, and there's no insurance and all. When I seen her on TV with her fancy friends, I figured maybe she might help her old dad out. So I been trying to get in touch, but she never answered my letters. Couldn't even pick up the phone."

"What? There have never been any letters, let alone calls!" Annelie rose from the chair. "He's lying, Carolyn."

"You don't have to convince me. I know he is." Carolyn reached for her.

"She was a real sweet child. Beautiful, with that golden hair and all. Can't believe the change in her since she come by money. Imagine, she's running these charities but leaves her own flesh and blood to suffer like this. Just isn't right. I've been quiet long enough. Hypocrisy, that's what we're talking about."

"He's lying!" Annelie grabbed the remote and switched off the T V. "I have to call Margo." Her hands trembled so much, the phone slipped through her fingers and landed on the floor, knocking the battery from its compartment. "Damn."

"Annelie, listen." Carolyn held her gently by the shoulders. "Margo's on her way here, as soon as she's informed Greg Horton."

At first, Carolyn thought Annelie was going to break free from her touch, but then she relented, turning into the embrace. Her slender form was shivering.

"I can't believe this is happening," she whispered. "I can't believe he'd do this after all this time. He left us! One day when I came home from school—I was in the first grade—he was gone."

"Come into the living room, love." Carolyn kissed Annelie's cheek and realized her lover was crying. "Let's go sit on the couch." She guided her through the apartment, one arm around her waist. Sitting down, she held Annelie, who clung to her. "There. I've got you."

They sat in silence for a moment, while Annelie regained her composure. When she finally pulled back, the expression in her eyes made Carolyn's heart ache.

"There's no way he can know anything personal about me," Annelie murmured, settling back against the pillows on the couch. "I certainly wasn't a beautiful child, as he says. Still, he has an eerie sense of what would hurt me the most." She clenched her teeth, blinking back new tears.

"I've worked so hard to get to where I am. I never wanted to be in the public eye. When I won the lottery, I was suddenly famous in the Chicago area and all over Illinois. People who normally wouldn't give me the time of day suddenly wanted to be my best friends. Women who gave me the cold shoulder all through high school now talked to me like we'd been pals since childhood.

"In fact, when I was a geeky preteen, they despised me. After I blossomed one summer and boys began acting nuts around me, they hated me. It also turned out my so-called geeky friends started seeing me as a kind of traitor. But when I became rich, all of them were suddenly my long-lost friends."

She shrugged, drying her tears on the sleeve of her sweatshirt. "So I left. I only stayed in touch with Margo, Charlotta, and Jem. I took my mother's maiden name…I paid someone to teach me how to walk, talk, eat…everything, so I could fit into circles of high society and big business. I just wanted to put the money to good use, to be left alone, and to, maybe…just maybe, find someone to love."

Carolyn reached out for Annelie's restless hands, pulling one of them up to her lips. Not taking her eyes off her lover, she kissed the palm and rubbed it against her cheek. "You did find someone to love, who loves you right back. I know your privacy is important, and I can imagine how this must hurt. The fact that it's your father doing this…is terrible.

"But listen to me, love. I know how this works. The press smells a scoop, and they aren't stupid. They see a story here. You're a beautiful, rich woman whom they know very little about. I mean, you've covered your tracks pretty well. A family drama unfolds in public, and they jump on it. The thing is, in a day or two, they'll lose interest. It's the nature of the media."

"But this reflects on more than just me, Carolyn," Annelie said, her eyes glistening. "He's questioning my credibility in my charity work. Never mind what he can do to me personally. This could seriously damage our projects."

Carolyn knew Annelie was right. "I understand that. But you need to see beyond your pain. Start thinking about damage control. Then you'll feel empowered, not victimized. Margo will help, and so will all of us."

Annelie's eyes narrowed. "You've been in a similar situation, haven't you?"

Carolyn shrugged. "Several times. I'm a celebrity, so the press treats me like public property. They invade my private life on a whim. It's the same for anyone like us, Annelie."

Annelie gestured toward herself, her hand shaking. "I feel…naked. I hate not being in control, not calling the shots. Guess that makes me a control freak." She gave a joyless smile.

"For not wanting your private life on display on TV? Hardly. Listen, early on I made a deal with myself where to draw the line. I never let them close to my house or the kids, but I just ignored so-called personal scandals. I taught John and Beth to ignore anything the media said about me. You know…as long as the three of us know what's true."

"I'm not used to this kind of scrutiny. I should have known to expect it," Annelie said.

"Well, you don't have to handle it alone. When I first met you, you seemed very reserved, aloof, even intimidating. But I was determined to get to know you. In the beginning it was to get the Maddox role, of course."

Annelie's eyes widened. "And later?"

"It soon became about something else. In Orlando at the convention, it escalated to something I never could have imagined. You're a contradiction, Annie. So private and withdrawn, yet with a strong network of friends and colleagues. You attract very nice people who'd do anything for you, because they know you'd be there for them in a heartbeat."

Annelie blushed faintly. "They're quickly becoming your friends too."

"They let me in and try to get to know me only for your sake. I have to make them my friends, which hopefully I can, with time. Anyway, for such a reclusive individual, you have an extensive private life."

Annelie sat in silence for a moment, considering Carolyn's remarks. "You're saying I'm not as private or standoffish as I think?"

Cupping Annelie's chin, Carolyn leaned in for a quick kiss. "Not anymore. You were, for several valid reasons, but as you succeeded in business and made your way through law school, your confidence grew. And you learned who your real friends were. Don't you see? Just taking a chance on me, going against pretty much all of your principles, points to one thing. You've changed."

Scooting closer to Carolyn, Annelie wrapped her arms around her. "How is it you can see things so clearly? How?"

"I don't know. I love you. I love observing you when you don't know it, watching your expression change, hearing your voice when you talk to someone else. You're the most beautiful woman I've ever seen. Your body moves with such litheness and grace and—well, you're of course very hot." Carolyn felt, rather than heard, Annelie give a short laugh. "I can't take my eyes off of you. Let alone my hands."

"You know, that's what Jem told me after the luncheon. You were looking at me the entire time. Even then?"

"Even then."

Carolyn let her body slide back, ending up against the armrest of the couch, taking Annelie with her. "Why don't we just relax until Margo gets here? She's a smart lady, and she loves you."

"Okay." Annelie moved to the side and wrapped an arm and a leg around Carolyn, as if she needed as much contact as possible. "I'm so glad you're here. When do you need to go back to the studio?"

"Not till tomorrow."

Annelie sighed and relaxed more into her lover. "Good."

Carolyn closed her eyes. Annelie's soft lemony scent surrounded her, reminding her of Florida, and had the circumstances been different, nothing could have prevented her from making love to her.

***

Annelie inhaled Carolyn's musky scent, remembering how she first became aware of the soft perfume when Carolyn tried to kiss her at the luncheon weeks ago. It seemed longer than that; so many things had happened since then. Her heart was still hammering painfully, as if trying to break free from her rib cage. Every breath was hard, and she hated how the hurt of what her father had done seemed to permeate her body.

Carolyn had soothed her, helped her get the initial panic under control. Annelie was glad her lover had been the one to break the news to her. Falling apart was horrible, but doing it in front of Carolyn wasn't so bad. Realizing the implications of this thought, Annelie turned her head and kissed the soft cheek next to her on the cushion.

"What's that for?" Carolyn sounded drowsy.

"Because you're here."

Smiling with her eyes still closed, Carolyn turned her head and pressed her lips against Annelie's. "Yes, I am, and I'm not going anywhere."

The sound of Carolyn's throaty voice was reassuring. It wrapped around Annelie's heart like armor, and for a moment, she instinctively knew as long as Carolyn was there to love her, nothing could really pierce it.

The doorbell made her jump and sit up so quickly she almost shoved Carolyn onto the floor. "That must be Margo."

"How long was I asleep?" Carolyn asked, clutching at Annelie so she wouldn't fall off the couch. "Hey, easy there, she'll wait for you."

Annelie helped Carolyn regain her balance. "You slept an hour or so. I thought you were awake earlier. You talked to me."

"I did? What did I say?"

Turning her head over her shoulder as she walked toward the hallway, Annelie smiled softly. "Mushy stuff. Should've known you weren't quite lucid."

"Oh, funny," Carolyn muttered, winking at her. "Liar."

Margo strode in and wrapped Annelie up in a long, firm embrace.

"I've got you covered, girlie," she said, her Irish accent more noticeable than usual. "I have the best people setting the record straight. Don't you worry." She pulled back and gazed at Annelie. "Have I ever failed you?"

"Not for a second." Annelie swallowed. "It's just…"

"It hurts."

"Badly."

"Come on. Let's sit down and I'll fill you in."

They walked into the living room, Margo greeting Carolyn with a firm handshake. "Thank you for giving me the information so quickly. I'm in your debt."

"When it's about Annelie, I'll do just about anything to keep her safe and happy." Carolyn looked serious. "I was so angry I was ready to…I just knew you were the one to call—and that I needed to come home. I mean, back here." Seemingly not fazed in the least by her slip, Carolyn motioned toward the seat. "Why don't you go ahead and talk? I'll make some coffee."

"Thanks. Coffee's a given at this point." Margo grinned.

Margo's expression softened as Carolyn disappeared toward the kitchen. They sat down, Margo in the armchair and Annelie on the couch.

"She loves you."

It wasn't a question but Annelie replied, "Yes, she does. Fiercely."

"I'd have to be blind not to notice. I like her sense of loyalty. Anyway, let me give you some details. As you realize, Stuart Clint has surfaced in Los Angeles claiming you've neglected him all these years. He's trying to make you out to be a callous daughter who wants a halo for saving the masses instead of caring for an aging, loving father."

Annelie felt the blood drain from her face. "Oh, God."

"Don't worry, girlie. This bullshit isn't going to fly. Sorry for my language. I'm so furious, I'm losing my manners. Stuart hasn't given a damn about you for the last twenty-seven years—not one sign, word, or card from him—and now this. You know the private investigator we sometimes use at the firm? I called him, and this case is now his only priority until we have what we need. I should have all the papers we need from Chicago and California in a day or two."

Carolyn returned with a tray and placed it on the coffee table.

After handing the women on the couch a mug of steaming coffee each, she turned to walk out of the room.

"No, Carolyn, please stay. This concerns you too."

"Yes, stay," Annelie echoed, extending a hand.

"Sure, let me just grab my mug." Carolyn returned with her coffee and sat down next to Annelie. "I overheard the last part. So it's just a matter of keeping our cool for a couple of days, Margo?"

"Yes. I know it's hard on you, Annie, and I can only begin to fathom how you must hate this. He's making an even bigger idiot of himself, since there's no way he can prove anything he's saying."

"I have a theory about that," Carolyn said. "He's hoping Annelie will pay him off to keep him quiet. He's counting on her not having the balls to stand her ground and call his bluff."

Annelie's eyes widened at her lover's choice of words, as Carolyn's vehement tone revealed her fury.

"I couldn't have phrased it any better myself," Margo agreed. "This is a quick, ill-planned scheme for money, and nothing else."

Annelie put the mug down after a quick sip, shuddering as she leaned back against the couch. "I just hate how this affects my charities." Her voice broke and she swallowed twice to try and clear it. "Just the thought of people believing him…thinking such things about me…"

Carolyn moved closer and put an arm around her shoulders. "Now, don't let this get to you. People will find out the truth. The ones you count on would never believe him. In a few days we'll have it all sorted out, and he'll regret he ever tried this."

"He's my father," Annelie whispered. "How can he do this to his child, even if he left me…I just don't get it." Turning to Carolyn, she couldn't hold back the tears.

***

Annelie cried almost soundlessly against Carolyn's shoulder, making Carolyn and Margo exchange glances of sympathy and concern.

"You're going to be okay, honey," Margo promised. "Just let us do the job. You don't have to make a statement. I'll handle all that."

Annelie looked up, reaching for a box of Kleenex. "I can't ask you to…"

"Sure you can! I thought I'd make a statement to the press as soon as I have all the information I need, challenging this bastard to present any evidence of his accusations."

Carolyn was impressed with Margo's clear-thinking strategy. "For what it's worth, I think you're dead-on," she said. "Annelie should make a personal statement only when we have the proof."

"Exactly." Margo smirked.

"All right," Annelie said, blowing her nose. "Enough of these tears. I'm hungry."

"And I'm running late." Margo jumped up. "Have something to eat, ladies. I'll see myself out. Call you later, girlie." She waved and was out the front door.

"She's an Energizer bunny come alive." Carolyn smiled. "With her taking care of things, you'll be okay, love."

Annelie nodded. "I hope so."

"Why don't you make yourself comfortable? I'll see what's in the freezer."

"You're going to cook?"

Not offended, Carolyn laughed at Annelie's doubtful tone of voice. "I thought so. For heaven's sake, even I can defrost a pizza!"

"Okay, okay. Thank you."

Carolyn walked into the kitchen, opened the freezer, and found a family-size mozzarella pizza. After reading the package carefully, she turned the oven on and walked off to use the bathroom. When she returned, the oven was hot so she put the pizza in, feeling confident it would be ready soon. After she set the timer, Carolyn joined Annelie, who stood on the balcony by the railing.

"Twenty minutes from now we'll have a delicious pizza," she promised, hugging Annelie from behind. "In the meantime, can I interest my best girl in some smooching, perhaps?"

Annelie gave a muted laugh. "Some smooching, eh?" She pivoted in Carolyn's arms. "And where is this smooching going to take place, if I may ask?"

"Of course you may. See that corner over there? The only ones able to see us are seagulls and other high-flying birds."

Annelie glanced at the hard wooden bench. "Looks awfully uncomfortable."

"I'll make it worth your while." Carolyn raised her eyebrows suggestively.

"Oh, yeah?" Annelie allowed herself to be dragged toward the bench. "What did you have in mind?"

"Step into my parlor…" Carolyn sat down on the bench, pulling Annelie with her. "Here…just like this…" Looking into her lover's stormy eyes, she hoped the closeness would distract Annelie. She laced her fingers through long strands of hair and closed the distance between them, capturing Annelie's lips with her own. "Open your mouth," Carolyn breathed. "Yes…" Deepening the kiss, she heard Annelie whimper as their tongues met in a tantalizingly slow movement, tasting each other. Carolyn drank her kisses greedily, her passion for the woman in her arms igniting her senses.

Her hands moved down Annelie's back and slid under her sweatshirt, only to find she wasn't wearing a bra. "Oh, God, Annie… this is getting out of control," she murmured. "You feel so wonderful." Letting her lips burn a trail down Annelie's neck, she slid her hands forward, cupping Annelie's full breasts. Carolyn noted with pleasure how hard the nipples were as they prodded her palms. She pushed at the sweatshirt, eager to get it out of the way…

A deafening blare broke the mood. Annelie jerked, looking wide-eyed at Carolyn.

"It's the smoke alarm!"

***

Dark gray smoke billowed from the kitchen. The smoke alarm's high-pitched tone pierced the women's eardrums as they ran inside.

"What the hell…" Annelie squinted through the smoke, detecting the source. "There's something burning in the oven!"

"I put in a pizza, for heaven's sake! It's only been a few minutes. How can it already be burning?"

"I don't know. Open the door to the balcony and see if we can air out the smoke." Annelie put on a mitt and opened the oven door. More smoke poured out, and she coughed as she yanked out a half-done pizza. She tossed the tray on the stove, then used a spatula to confirm her suspicions.

Carolyn hurried back to her. "I don't get it. What's wrong with the pizza?"

Annelie reached out to a panel on the wall and punched in a series of numbers, silencing the smoke alarm. "Nothing's wrong with the pizza." She tried her best to sound serious. "You just didn't remove the cardboard plate underneath it."

Carolyn's jaw fell as she stared at the oven tray with its smoking contents. "What cardboard plate? It said, ‘Bake in oven at 400 F for twenty minutes'—nothing about any cardboard plates."

"It probably was stuck against the bottom of the pizza, and you just didn't notice it. No harm done. The ventilation system will clear the air in half an hour or so."

"Oh, God…I knew I was a bad cook, but this is really ridiculous!" Carolyn groaned, leaning against the cabinet. "What'll we eat now? Not one smoked pizza, I hope?"

"No, this would have a strange flavor. Why don't we send out for something or just have a sandwich?"

"A sandwich sounds great. Nothing to set ablaze."

Annelie laughed at Carolyn's obvious dismay. "True. Why don't we go back to the balcony until the rest of the smoke is gone?"

They walked outside, stood by the railing, and watched the sky become darker as evening approached. "Pretty with all the lights coming on, isn't it? The city noise can be quite a homey feeling," Carolyn said. "Used to, when I came home late after a show, I'd sit out on my much-smaller balcony with a glass of wine. Just relaxing, listening to the city that never sleeps, you know."

"Yes, I know. The difference from the velvety, perfumed nights of Florida is enormous—but I love them both."

"Speaking of sounds, I hope nothing bad's happened. A lot of sirens are screaming out there." Carolyn leaned over the balcony railing. "Oh, look, they're coming down your street."

"Yes, I see the lights. There are two more."

"Wonder what's going on…Oh."

The two women watched as two fire trucks stopped in front of the building and firemen jumped off, looking up.

"Oh, damn, I didn't call the desk downstairs to make sure they knew it was a false alarm," Annelie murmured. "This is embarrassing."

They walked back inside, and Annelie dialed the doorman's desk. "Hello, Fred, this is entirely my fault. I forgot to call. Yes, everything's all right." She paused. "They do? But it wasn't really a fire…just smoke from the oven…Oh, sure. Send them up. I understand." She hung up and turned toward Carolyn. "Since we're on the fifteenth floor, they want to come up and make sure we put it out properly."

Carolyn blushed faintly. "I'll tell them I'm to blame."

"Don't worry. I bet this happens all the time. We might as well open the doors and let our heroes in. Actually, I'm glad they're this conscientious."

A few minutes later, the elevator doors opened and two men in firefighter gear stepped out. "I see we're expected," the first one said with a smile. "Heard your smoke alarm went off, ma'am."

"Yes, but it was only because of a missed cardboard plate in the oven. It's fine now," Annelie explained.

"Let's just have a look, eh?"

"Sure. Come in."

The men gave Annelie appreciative looks before they turned to politely greet Carolyn. "Good evening, ma'am…" After a slight hesitation, the older one continued, "Forgive me, ma'am, but aren't you Carolyn Black?"

"Yes, I am. Good evening. Nice of you to stop by."

Annelie was hard-pressed not to laugh when she noticed Carolyn slipping into a regal tone of voice, as if greeting her subjects.

"I'm a great fan," the fireman said, "and so is my wife. Can't wait to see the Maddox movies."

"Thank you. Please tell your wife I said hello. By the way, this was entirely my fault. I was trying to cook, which I can't, so from now on I'll stick to takeout." Carolyn smiled broadly and raised her hands in a dismissive gesture.

Obviously taken by Carolyn's charm, the firemen quickly checked the oven and the ventilation fan above it. "Glad to see everything's okay, ma'am," the younger fireman offered.

"It was my fault for not calling the front desk. Thanks for double-checking."

"Our pleasure," the other man said, with an admiring glance at Carolyn. "Better safe than sorry."

Annelie had barely closed the door behind them before she started to laugh. "Good Lord, Carolyn, you have admirers everywhere. I thought he was going to kneel before you and ask you to autograph his helmet."

Carolyn walked up to her and wrapped her arms around Annelie's

waist. "I would have, if he'd asked me. Right now, I'd like to…write on you…"

"Write on me? How?"

Leaning forward, Carolyn let her tongue trace the indentation at the base of Annelie's neck. A soft purr emanated from Carolyn's throat as she let her mouth travel toward her lover's lips.

Annelie moaned and held Carolyn close. "Trying to continue what you started out on the balcony, are you? Oh, mmm, that feels good…" She felt soft hands under her sweatshirt, stroking along her back.

"You bet. I was onto something good. I could feel it," Carolyn whispered. "I simply can't stop touching you every chance I get."

"I like the sound of that. How about we move into the…Oh!" Carolyn's exploring hands had reached Annelie's breasts and found erect nipples waiting for her touch. "Why don't you go into the bedroom while I close the doors to the balcony?"

"All right. Give me a minute, though. I need to use the bathroom after all this excitement." Carolyn smiled.

"Sure. I'll be there in a jiffy."

Annelie placed a soft kiss on Carolyn's lips before returning to the living room. After closing the door, she heard a faint ringing sound, which she finally realized was coming from Carolyn's purse. She hesitated for a moment and then pulled out her cell phone. The name Beth flashed on the display. Knowing Carolyn's sister would reach the answering service within seconds, Annelie quickly pressed the Answer button.

"Carolyn Black's cell phone. Annelie Peterson speaking."

"Oh…hello, Annelie. I'm Carolyn's sister, Beth. Is Carolyn around?"

"Hello, Beth. Yes, she is, but she's in the bathroom right now." Suddenly nervous, Annelie found herself fumbling for a nonexistent phone cord to twist around her fingers.

"Oh, don't interrupt her. How are you doing, Annelie? It's nice to talk to you." Beth's voice was light and cheerful—very unlike Carolyn's.

"I'm doing okay. Thank you for alerting Carolyn today. She told me you called her at work."

"I was stunned at how anyone can be so devious. I don't pretend to know anything about your private life, Annelie, but I know you're a good friend to Carolyn. I had a feeling you'd need the support of your friends once the media started in on this."

"You were absolutely right. Carolyn's support means a lot to me." Annelie stopped there, not knowing what else to say.

"She can be very protective, you know. When she becomes attached to someone, you're her friend for life. If you hurt her, she recoils and has a hard time getting over it. She's more sensitive than most people realize."

Not sure about Beth's motives for sharing this information, if it was a warning or just a heads-up, Annelie replied from her heart. "I understand what you're saying. I don't think Carolyn lets anyone in on her sensitive side very often. She's been wonderful to me."

"She has nothing but good to say about you either," Beth said in a friendly tone of voice. "I can't wait to meet you. I asked Carolyn if I could come and sit in on the set when my pregnancy is more stable, so Joe and I can drive up for a week. Joe's my husband, by the way."

"I know. And your daughter is Pamela. How's she doing? I hear she's her aunt's favorite."

"Oh, she's doing great. Carolyn's her idol, all categories."

"Who are you talking to?" Carolyn came into the living room, dressed only in a towel. "Is that my cell phone?"

"It's your sister. Beth, Carolyn's here. It was nice talking to you."

"Likewise, Annelie. Now you take care and stay strong, okay?"

"Thanks, Beth. I will." Annelie handed the phone to Carolyn. Wanting to give the two siblings their privacy, she had begun to walk out of the room when a strong arm settled around her waist and pulled her down onto the armchair. Carolyn sat down on the armrest, her hand moving through Annelie's hair, caressing her softly. Relaxing, Annelie leaned against her, not listening to her words, merely the husky voice, the warmth of it, as she closed her eyes.

She didn't know how long she had sat there unwinding after the eventful day, and she didn't even look up when Carolyn put the phone down. Carolyn slid down across Annelie's lap, allowing Annelie to cradle her. Their lips met in a kiss that started out gently, only to turn passionate within seconds. Carolyn's towel unwrapped by itself, and Annelie's hands roamed the naked, slightly damp, woman before her.

"I want you," Carolyn whispered. "Oh, God, how I want you."

"I'm yours. You have me." Annelie slid her hand down her lover's stomach, nestling her fingers in the curls below before cupping her mound. "And it seems I have you."

Carolyn readily parted her legs and looked up at Annelie. "Yes, you do…" Her back arched as Annelie carefully parted the slick folds. "Oh…"

Completely enthralled by the sounds Carolyn made when Annelie found the protruding ridge of nerves, eager for her touch, she felt her heart race. Because she had initially not allowed Carolyn to touch her or even see her naked, she realized how vulnerable Carolyn must have felt, being naked while she was fully dressed. The significance of Carolyn's trust overwhelmed her.

"I love you." Annelie's voice almost broke. "Do you have any idea how much I love you?"

"Yes. I feel it, every day…" Carolyn pulled her legs up. "Take me…please…"

Not wanting Carolyn to beg, Annelie complied, pushing two fingers inside and at the same time capturing her waiting lips in a kiss. Ripples of pleasure clasped her fingers together, and rhythmic tremors massaged them as Carolyn tensed. Deepening the kiss, Annelie caught the muted whimpers when her lover came in her arms.

When Carolyn's breath had slowed to normal, Annelie carefully extracted her fingers and pulled a blanket over them. Nuzzling Carolyn's tousled hair, she realized she was still in shock over what her father had done, but her closeness to Carolyn had helped her start to find her bearings again.

"I love you, Annie…" came a husky whisper from inside the blanket. "Am I too heavy for you?"

"No. You're perfect."

***

Margo rose from her office chair as the fax machine buzzed to life. Several documents emerged, one after another, and she browsed through them with narrowing eyes. When the machine had spit out the last paper, Margo bit her lower lip, but the expression on her face was triumphant.

"Girlie, if I'm right about this…"

Margo reached for the stapler, feeling utterly satisfied at the

opportunity to thump something as she fastened the important documents together.

Chapter Fourteen

Something was choking her. Tossing to the left, Annelie tried to free herself.

"No!"

"Annie, wake up. It's only a dream. I'm here."

Carolyn's voice eventually filtered through, and Annelie opened her eyes to see Carolyn tugging at the sheet cocooning her body.

"I don't know how you managed to get so twisted up," Carolyn said. "You've had a bad night."

"What do you mean?" Annelie was hoarse. All she could remember were fluttering shadows and a sense of frustration.

"You've been tossing and turning since we turned out the lights. I had to hold you to get you to settle down."

"I'm sorry. I didn't mean to keep you awake. You've got a long day ahead." Annelie shuddered and reached for a pillow.

"I don't care. It's nothing some coffee can't fix." Carolyn pried the pillow from Annelie's iron grip and pulled her close. "Why don't we take a hot shower together? Your fingers are like ice."

Annelie clung to her. "I'd like that. Could you just hold me a little longer?"

"As long as you want." Carolyn stroked her back with soft, circular motions. "Better?"

"Yes." Annelie's throat ached and her jaws felt sore, making her wonder if she'd clenched her teeth while she slept. Nuzzling her lover's soft neck, she inhaled the familiar scent of Carolyn's sandalwood soap and felt her frayed nerves settle. "Move in with me?" The words leapt out before Annelie realized what she'd said.

Carolyn shifted next to her, placing two fingers under Annelie's chin, tipping her head back and looking at her steadily. "What did you say?"

"I mean, move in with me during the filming." Annelie swallowed, realizing she was backtracking. "The studio's nearby, so it'll cut your travel time. And I can't imagine you not coming home to me. If you feel crowded…you can always go back to your place." Annelie hated how pleading she sounded. This is too soon. She's going to turn me down. Holding her breath, she waited for Carolyn to say something.

"You sure?" Carolyn's voice was noncommittal.

"Very sure." Am I? Yes, I am. I want this so much.

Carolyn kissed Annelie firmly, then smiled wryly. "All right. I'll stop by my place and pack some things. I'd love to stay here." Carolyn's eyes began to twinkle. "Of course, I'm only doing it for one reason."

Annelie exhaled, the tension starting to leave her. "Really?" She quirked an eyebrow.

"The pool," Carolyn deadpanned.

Stunned at how quickly Carolyn could distract her, Annelie chuckled. "Naturally. The pool." Then her laughter broke free as she hugged Carolyn. "I'll love having you here. I may not let you leave." Realizing she'd spoken again without thinking, she stopped laughing and put a hand to her mouth.

Carolyn seemed unaware of her lover's discomfort. "You may have to pry me out of here with a screwdriver."

Relaxing, Annelie reveled in Carolyn's embrace and their morning ritual of showering together. Maybe now I can make it through the day.

"I'll be back fairly early," Carolyn said. "If you need anything or just want to talk, call my cell."

"I don't want to bother you…"

Carolyn grasped Annelie's shoulders gently and looked at her firmly. "Listen to me, love. You can never bother me."

"I hate feeling this vulnerable. I feel like apologizing."

"Not to me, and not to anyone else." Carolyn leaned forward, brushing her lips over Annelie's. "You're going to work from home today too, aren't you?"

"Yes, I'll be here. Hiding."

"Annie, you don't owe anyone any explanations. You're just waiting to hear what Margo finds out. Then we'll decide what road to take. That's it."

But I feel like such a coward. I'm not used to hiding and letting other people fight my battles. Still, Carolyn's probably right. "All right. I've got a ton of work to do." Annelie smiled wistfully. "Hopefully time will fly. "

"I'll hurry home," Carolyn promised. "Gotta run."

Annelie switched on her computer and heard its muted hiss. Sipping some hot Earl Grey tea, she was happy to see Kitty's name in her inbox. Soon she was looking at her friend's smiling face with Sam at a South Beach restaurant.

Raising the mug again to her lips, Annelie blew on the steaming tea and read.

From: Kitty McNeil Subject: What's going on?

Hello babe!

What's happening in your neck of the woods? Sam and I watched E! News today, and your pretty face was plastered all over the damn thing. Are they insane? This is even more proof the press is only out to make a fast buck—not check their sources! What can a hardworking ex-journo like me say to redeem my former profession? Honestly, it's the fat cats at the top controlling this. If they'd bothered to check, they'd have known what a deadbeat your dad is! Damn, this makes me so mad!

If there's anything I can do, don't hesitate to ask—I'll try to call you tonight if I can figure out the time difference again. I'll set the alarm if I have to.

Oh, by the way, I visited the Diana Maddox official Web site and saw there's going to be another convention in L.A. this weekend. Are you going to be there

with the cast? In that case—pictures, please!

Love you, gorgeous. Don't let them get to you.

Kitty

Kitty didn't know about Carolyn and her. Suddenly she longed to talk to her and reached for the phone, but was startled when it rang.

"Hello?"

"It's me." The familiar husky voice surprised Annelie and made her throat ache with unshed tears.

"Carolyn. Did you forget something?"

"Not a thing. I just wanted to hear your voice before I got to the studio. I miss you."

Feeling as if her heart settled in the softest of cotton, Annelie released a wistful sigh. "I miss you too. Are we being silly?"

"Of course not. Will you be all right, love?"

"Yes. I'll be fine." Now that you've called.

"Good. Guess I needed to hear that. Oh, we're here. Talk to you later." A kiss sounded through the phone.

"Love you. Have fun, Carolyn."

"I will. Ciao."

Annelie leaned back into her chair. It's unbelievable how she reaches deep down inside me. All she has to do is speak. The words don't matter. It's how she sounds. Carolyn's voice resonated within her, warming her. Stretching and finding it easier to breathe, Annelie reached for her mouse and started to work.

***

Carolyn glanced around the bedroom of her apartment, checking to see if she needed anything else. After putting some clothes and toiletries into two large suitcases, she paused, reaching for her phone and dialing Annelie's number. The soft alto voice replied immediately.

"Peterson."

"Hi, love, it's me. I'm at the apartment and almost done packing."

"Good. I miss you."

"I'll be home soon." Home. Carolyn smiled to herself. "How was your day, Annie?" She pressed the last of her items down into one of the bags, closing it with one hand as she held the phone closer to her ear.

"Long, but okay. By the way, Margo's coming over later with more information."

Carolyn hesitated. "Look, if you need privacy while…"

"No, no. I need you. I want you here when she comes."

Carolyn's heart melted at Annelie's hurried tone. "We're in this together, love. I'll be home soon. Want me to pick you up anything?"

"No, just come home."

"I'll just grab my mail and leave. I'll have it forwarded to your address, if it's okay."

"Certainly. Good idea."

"See you soon." Carolyn placed two fingers to her lips and blew a loud kiss at the phone. Annelie's soft laugh was well worth it.

"Soon."

***

What will she think of me, meeting her by the door like this? Waiting in the open doorway for the elevator to reach the fifteenth floor, Annelie felt her face grow warm when she thought about how needy she must seem. After a muted ping, Carolyn exited, followed by an enthralled doorman pulling her suitcases behind him. God, she's beautiful, even when she's worn-out.

"Thank you so much for your help. I'm fine now." Carolyn tipped him generously, and then she and Annelie pulled the bags over the threshold. "Hello. I'm home."

Closing the door, Annelie wrapped her arms around her lover and hugged her close. "Yes, you are, and it feels so good to hold you." Softly kissing Carolyn's lips, she pulled back a little. "You look tired."

"Long day. We're all set for the promotion picture shoot tomorrow. Regina and I finally settled for a look. Simple but modern." Carolyn continued to tell Annelie how a crowd of fans had been waiting in front of her apartment when she dropped by to pack. "I had no idea they could find out where I live. My number's unlisted."

Annelie frowned. "They have their ways. I've always made sure nobody knows where I live. I'm really glad now."

Carolyn had pulled one of her bags into the bedroom. "Me too. Where do you want me to unpack my things?"

"In that closet and the drawers over there. I'll help you later. Margo should be here in"—she checked her watch—"twenty minutes. I ordered Italian for us, and it's staying warm in the oven."

"Without the cardboard plate, I hope?" Carolyn raised an eyebrow, making Annelie smile.

"No cardboard plates." She walked up to her lover, enfolding her in another embrace. "No fires today…well, at least not in the kitchen." Leaning down, she traced Carolyn's lips with her tongue, coaxing her to open her mouth. "Mmm…oh, yes." Annelie deepened the kiss while stroking Carolyn's back underneath her jacket.

"Oh, Annie…" Carolyn breathed against Annelie's mouth. "I…I better freshen up before dinner…oh…"

Annelie let the passion flare for another minute before she relented. "I know you're right, but it's hard to let go. You feel so good."

Carolyn raised a hand and cupped Annelie's cheek. "So do you, so hold on to that thought. I'll only be a second."

Opening a bottle of Beaujolais Royale, Annelie thought about how Carolyn fit in her arms. She just feels so right. The sound of the phone ringing roused her from her daydream.

"Peterson."

"Hi, kiddo, it's Jem. How're you doing?"

Annelie gave a wry smile. "Okay. How are things in Florida?"

"I wanted to call yesterday but didn't want to disturb you. I know all hell's broken loose, and I figured you had Carolyn and Margo there helping you deal with everything."

"That's true, but I appreciate your call. It's been awkward and downright painful, but I'm handling it. Thank goodness, I'm not alone."

"Look, Annelie, I'm calling for a reason. The security guard where you live called, concerned since a media posse's set up camp just outside the gates. I'm not sure how they found out where you live."

Annelie closed her eyes, stifling a groan. "I guess they have their sources. That's all I needed," she murmured. "Thanks for letting me know. Can you get rid of them?"

"They're smart enough not to trespass, so we can't touch them. I know you'll be in New York a long time, so they'll probably give up when they realize you're not here." Jem paused. "Damn that man. I could wring his fucking neck!"

"Calm down. I need you to keep your cool. Have they approached any of the companies at your end?"

"Are you kidding? We've been swamped with calls, but so far we've told them no comment until the press conference. You okay with that?"

"Excellent. We'll fax you the statement Margo's going to give the press, probably tomorrow. I want you to give a press conference and use her statement. We have to keep a united front. It's vital to all our projects."

"Got it, kiddo. I'll try to control myself, but you know me. I'm ready to…" Jem was obviously bristling.

Annelie understood. She heard the doorbell ring and looked up.

"I'll get it," Carolyn said, coming out of the bedroom.

"Margo's here. Thanks for calling. Talk to you later, my friend. Take care."

Annelie overheard Carolyn greet Margo. "Hi, come on in. Hope you've got some good news."

"It's looking up!" Margo's Irish accent was more obvious than usual. "Where is she?"

"With our dinner. I just got home."

As the two women entered the kitchen, Margo hugged Annelie firmly. "Hello, girlie. How're you holding up?"

"Fine. Carolyn's agreed to move in with me while she's filming, so that helps."

Margo didn't as much as flinch, though Annelie detected a curious gleam in her eyes. "Sounds like a great arrangement." She winked at Carolyn. "It'll be closer for you, won't it?"

"Yes, but that's not the real reason. I just don't want to be away from her."

Oh, my…Carolyn, do you know what you're saying? Annelie stared at her lover. Carolyn's unexpected candidness took her breath away. Glancing at Margo, Annelie noticed her pleased smile.

"I'm glad you're sticking together. Let's get dinner on the table so I can let you in on what I've found out."

While they ate, Margo pulled out a stack of documents and handed them to Annelie.

"Here's what I've confirmed so far. The media is going nuts, mostly because of the Maddox movies. If things hadn't happened so close together, the press wouldn't have cared."

"Give me the short version," Annelie said, glancing reluctantly at the large stack of documents.

"These affidavits prove your father owed eleven years of child support and didn't pay a single cent. And his rap sheet includes doing time twice for drug trafficking and several DUIs. These complete telephone listings for your house in Florida and the apartment here prove he's lying about trying to call you. And no records exist to show he ever tried to reach you at either the Florida office or the law firm."

"Good job, Margo," Annelie offered, feeling some of the weight fall from her shoulders. "Anything else?"

"Copies of documents when your mother filed for sole custody of you. You were ten, and that's when she quit hoping he'd ever return, if I remember right. She wouldn't say a bad word about him, not even after the court awarded her full custody, Annie. I'd sometimes go off on a rant, but then she'd look at me with those mild blue eyes and remind me that you're his daughter. Without him, she wouldn't have you. Honest to God, girlie, she was a saint."

What would I have done without her silent strength? Annelie suddenly remembered the way her mother's hand had felt against the back of her head, one of her rare caresses. After she died, I didn't think I could survive without her. More than fifteen years but, to this day, I miss her. Oh, Mother…

Anna Clint had worked two jobs to support them while Annelie finished high school but had died just before her graduation. "Yes, she was a saint, in a lot of ways," Annelie said. "I don't think she ever raised her voice to me."

"You never gave her a reason, child. Not that you didn't exasperate her, always with your nose in a book or watching your favorite soap on TV—not getting enough sunlight according to your mom." Margo wrinkled her nose at Annelie and winked at Carolyn. "I don't have to tell you which soap it was, do I?"

"No, I can guess." Carolyn smiled. "But I'm not complaining."

"Yes, if she hadn't been completely starstruck with you then— who knows where the two of you would be now?"

"Hey, stop talking about me like I'm not here," Annelie grumbled good-naturedly. "Margo, is this enough to discredit my…father?"

"More than discredit him, girlie. This isn't simple mudslinging. Stuart Clint's trying to damage your reputation. By the way, several organizations you're working with have sent supportive e-mails and telegrams, Annelie."

"I've had several e-mails too. I hope they feel the same way when all this is over."

Margo nodded. "I'm sure they will. The custody papers help prove that Stuart refused to provide for you after you were seven. Even before that, your mother was the one who put food on the table. I know, because I was there and watched her stay up sewing till after midnight every night after she'd worked all day at her real job clerking at the courthouse. And what's more, he's never tried to contact you. This'll blow him right out of the water, sweetie."

"Some facts remain," Annelie objected, her voice almost betraying her. "He lives in poverty. He's on disability. In spite of everything, he's still my father."

Margo frowned. "You don't owe him anything."

"No, maybe not, but it wouldn't cost me much to get him into a program and buy him a decent home."

Carolyn exchanged glances with Margo. "You've got plenty of time to think about that after the press conference. By the way, when is it?"

"Tomorrow at three in the conference room at the office. I'll just stick to these facts. Then the ball's in Stuart's court. I also have our investigator digging for more information. He promised he'd be through by Thursday, at the latest."

Shuffling the food aimlessly around her plate, Annelie looked uneasy. "Sounds like you've got everything covered," she murmured. "I appreciate it, Margo. It's just…"

"Yes, I know." Margo reached for Annelie's hand and patted it. "I know, girlie."

Margo and Carolyn chatted while they finished their meal. Annelie gave up trying to eat any more. Listening to the other women talk, she leaned back in her chair and heard the familiar sound of her mother's voice in the far distance. After all, he is your father, Annie.

***

The women on the couch listened to jazz vocalist Diana Krall and watched two logs burn in the fireplace.

Carolyn sat sideways, her back against the armrest and her legs cradling Annelie's body. Lost in thought, she combed through long, silky hair with slow fingers. To relax like this, holding Annelie in her arms, was almost unfathomable. Surreal. Carolyn inhaled the citrus scent of Annelie's shampoo. She's so quiet tonight. I hate to see her suffer. If I could get my hands on this son of a bitch, I'd…I'd do anything to protect her. Before she left, Margo asked me to look after her and, damn it, I will.

Annelie raised her head. "Carolyn?"

Pulled out of her dark thoughts regarding Stuart Clint, Carolyn glanced down at her lover, her expression transforming into a soft smile. "Yes, love?"

"Are you sure you're comfortable? Feels like I'm crushing you."

"I'm more than comfortable. Lay your head back down."

As Annelie rested her head on Carolyn's shoulder again, Carolyn kissed her lover's temple, transfixed by the clean smell of lemons. "This feels so good. Can you relax?"

"Uh-huh. I'm finally getting warm."

"Great. You're not shivering anymore. A good sign."

"I liked helping you unpack earlier, but what do you think I enjoyed the most?"

"What?"

"Watching you put the little photos of your sister and her family, and John, on the bedside table." There was a brief silence. "Can I ask you something?"

"Anything."

"Things are moving so fast. Do you have any second thoughts about our relationship? Maybe feel I'm more than you bargained for? I'd understand if you do."

Carolyn gently tipped Annelie's chin back so she could look into her eyes. "Listen to me, love. Of all the places I could be right now, I can't think of anywhere I'd rather be. Holding you, cuddling you by the fire like this is simply marvelous. You're the most amazing person I've ever met, and you're handling this situation so well. I'm honored you've let me in. I love you."

Tears welled up in Annelie's eyes but remained unshed as she clung to Carolyn, turning on her side and burying her face at the base of Carolyn's neck.

"I love you too. I guess I just needed to be reassured. Again." "As many times as it takes, love. I'm all yours." Carolyn could feel Annelie swallow hard. "Yes." Pulling the blanket tighter around them, Carolyn nuzzled her lover's hair. "Close your eyes and relax. I've got you."

A slight tremor reverberated through Annelie before she let go.

***

"All right, let's see…Helen, wrap your arms around Carolyn from behind. Yes, like that. Carolyn, some more of that gorgeous smile. Good. You love her. Show it."

The camera clicked several times as Hernandez, the young, dark-haired photographer, shot the cast in different groupings.

"We need them closer together. They're a couple, after all," the director, Regina Carmichael, told Hernandez.

"Okay then, let's do it this way," he said. "Carolyn, turn your head a little toward Helen. Yes, that's it. Keep looking at the camera. Helen, look at Carolyn. Good."

"Now we need a picture of them embracing," Regina decided.

"All right. How about the scene at the office?"

"Oh, God, the scene," Helen murmured behind Carolyn. "The one the Maddox fans are all dying to know how we'll pull off."

"We can't hide like we did in the audio version," Carolyn whispered back, trying to keep from snickering at Helen's dry tone of voice.

"How about a black background, a wooden desk and chair, perhaps a silhouette of a window behind them, with a pale moon outside?" Hernandez suggested. "I can easily put the window and the moon in digitally."

"Sounds excellent." Regina nodded. "Try it. We need these photos for the convention in L.A. Saturday."

"Got it." Hernandez had his assistants set the scene, then called the actresses back. "Okay, ladies, how about if we try this…" He guided Helen's right arm, arranging it to support her as he made her lean back slightly. "Like this," he continued, taking Helen's other hand and placing it just below Carolyn's right shoulder. "It can either look like you're holding Maddox back or wanting to pull her closer. Tip your head back, Helen. That's it. Carolyn, look at her lips, not her eyes. Great."

The camera clicked as Hernandez took a series of pictures. Carolyn looked at Helen's mouth and suddenly saw Annelie's full lips, knowing so well how they tasted as they parted beneath hers and how they felt against every inch of her body. Feeling her cheeks blush and her eyes narrow, Carolyn held her breath.

"Wow, brilliant, Carolyn. That look's just what I need. Now, Helen, look at Carolyn. Yes. That's it. Good." When he was satisfied, Hernandez unfastened his camera. "Great work. Thanks, ladies."

Regina joined them, waving Helen and Carolyn over. "We'll start tabletop rehearsals tomorrow and take all next week. That's it for today."

Carolyn couldn't wait to see Annelie, since the press conference was probably over. She worried about how it had affected her, knowing how she despised being in the spotlight. Pulling out her cell phone, she walked back to the makeup room with Harvey and Helen.

"How's Annelie doing?" Helen asked in a low voice.

"As well as can be expected. As for the whole sordid thing…I don't know. Margo Dillon was confident about the outcome, but you never can tell."

"Just tell Annelie I said hi, and that all of us know her father's lying."

Carolyn's expression softened. "Thanks, Helen. I'll tell her. Right now, as a matter of fact." She pressed the speed dial on her phone.

When Annelie finally answered, she sounded out of breath. "Hello?"

"Annie, are you okay? What's up?"

"I'm fine. I was swimming."

"I wanted to make sure you're okay. How did the press conference go?"

"Well, first of all, both E! News and CNN covered it. Margo did great, though—she questioned the media's ability and willingness to research the situation. When she gave them copies of her documentation, you could hear a pin drop."

"I bet she gave them hell. She's a champ. Want to stay in tonight?"

"I don't know. A part of me wants to go out and show the world I don't care. The truth is…I do care." Carolyn could hear Annelie take a deep breath. "He's my father."

"I'll be home soon. We can talk about it then. Helen and Harvey send their best. They're rooting for you, love."

"Tell them hi and I'll see them Friday. I'll send them more details about the flight to L.A. tomorrow."

"Okay."

As Carolyn hung up, she hoped Helen hadn't heard the term of endearment. She smiled carefully and relayed the information.

"Great. Gregory told me Annelie's chartered a private jet."

"I think so." Carolyn grinned. "She doesn't want to waste any time. Also, I may be on Jay Leno Friday evening. They've asked the PR people several times. Since we're in town…" She shrugged.

Helen looked at her sympathetically as they walked into makeup. "Rather you than me." She grimaced. "I find those short, gimmicky interviews pretty unnerving."

"I don't mind," Carolyn said. "I rather enjoy sparring with those self-centered comedians."

Carolyn walked behind a screen and in no time was transformed from Maddox into her own slacks-and-denim-shirt self.

"You ready, Helen?"

Walking out toward the busy street to find their waiting chauffeurs, Carolyn turned to Helen. "I appreciate your loyalty to Annelie. She's going through a tough time."

"But she has you." Helen's voice was soft. "You're not your usual competitive self around her. I might even suspect you really like her if I didn't know you better."

Carolyn blushed faintly and was careful not to reveal too much. "Well, what if I do? It wouldn't hurt my image too much, would it? She's an amazing woman."

Helen laughed, put an arm around Carolyn's shoulders, and squeezed. "That she is, honey. That she is."

***

Annelie looked down at the lithe form gliding through the water like an eel. Carolyn had used the endless swimming pool almost every day. Annelie checked her watch and realized her lover had lost track of time again, since she didn't have to count laps in this pool.

She flipped the off switch, watching the water stop and the body in the black swimsuit reach the wall unexpectedly, then sink below the surface.

Spluttering, Carolyn emerged, glaring at Annelie. "Good Lord, are you trying to drown me? All of a sudden the current was gone and…" She coughed. "Stop laughing, woman."

Annelie tried her best to get rid of the grin on her face. "Sorry."

"No you're not. What's up?"

"Nothing, other than you've been swimming for more than forty-five minutes straight. Look, you're shivering."

Carolyn looked down at her waterproof watch and her trembling arms with genuine surprise. "Oh. All right. I better come out, then."

Annelie watched her move toward the ladder and then noticed that her arms were so weak she couldn't climb it.

"Here, let me help." She extended a hand and Carolyn grabbed it but slipped and fell back into the water. It only took Annelie a second to realize Carolyn's watch clasp was hooked on the end of her sleeve, pulling her down too. Water closed over Annelie's head as she fell in, fully dressed.

"Oh, for heaven's sake, are you okay?" Carolyn gasped in a throaty voice laced with mirth when she surfaced.

Annelie pushed the drenched hair out of her face. "I think so." She coughed. "Was this revenge?"

"Not really." Carolyn tucked Annelie's dripping hair behind her ears. "It was an accident. You look delicious in semitransparent clothes, though."

Annelie, obviously braless, glanced down at her shirt. "God." Looking back up at Carolyn, she immediately felt warmed inside by the mischievous gleam in her lover's eyes. "You like that, eh?"

"Mmm." Carolyn pulled Annelie closer, nuzzling her neck. "Delicious."

"I'd stay here and explore this unexpected use of the pool, but you're still shivering, Carolyn. We better get you into a hot shower."

"Or bath. Together."

"Could be arranged. Hey. Let's not undress in the pool."

"All right, Annie. If you say so."

"What do you mean, all right? Did you think I wouldn't see my shirt floating away from me?"

"Don't worry. You can get it later. It won't get far."

***

Darkness settled around them, only a small night-light casting a faint glow. Carolyn relaxed against Annelie who, as usual, curled up behind her, warming her back, one hand on Carolyn's hip.

"I just can't figure out what he's thinking about," Annelie whispered.

"Who…oh. Your father."

Annelie sighed. "Why didn't he call or come see me? And why tell such obvious lies?"

"Probably thought you wouldn't risk a scandal—you'd pay him off."

"Or does he resent me?" Annelie's voice was hardly audible as she inched closer, wrapping her arm around Carolyn's chest. "Maybe my mother did or said something…or…maybe I did."

Carolyn turned and looked at Annelie. "Don't even go there. Nothing can justify what that man's done. Nothing."

"For a long time after he left, I blamed myself. I was afraid to ask my mother because she just made excuses for him. I thought he'd come back. When he didn't, I knew it was my fault. You heard Margo yesterday. My mom was a saint."

Carolyn turned over and hugged Annelie. "Listen. I'm sure your mother was wonderful. Just look at you, her daughter. But she couldn't see your hurt or your guilt. And she hurt you by excusing the bastard. I'm sure she didn't mean to. But nobody's a saint. She was human, with her own faults and fears. What happened between your parents had nothing to do with you."

"She never said a bad word against him."

"Commendable, but I bet she said a few things in her mind. If she had an ounce of your fire, she did."

"I owe it to him to take care of him now. Without him…"

"You don't owe him anything, love. He threw it all away when he deserted you. Margo agrees with me. But it's your decision. I'll support you no matter what."

"I know, Carolyn. I just can't stop thinking about him. Maybe I somehow…" Annelie's voice trailed off.

"Triggered this? Oh, Annie, of course not. Both of us have reevaluated our lives lately. We've taken a chance on each other against all odds, which gives past demons a great opportunity to dig their claws into us. Your father saw you on TV and decided to take a chance."

"I wish I knew what to do."

"Give it a few days, love." Carolyn put her leg around Annelie's hips, trying to wrap herself around her. "We'll know more tomorrow. Here. Let me hold you."

"Okay." Annelie sighed. "Oh, Carolyn…" Burying her face in Carolyn's hair, she finally began to relax again.

As she cursed the man who was harassing her lover, Carolyn slid her hands under Annelie's T-shirt, feeling nothing but soft skin.

"There you go, just relax. That's my girl." Carolyn kept her voice a low purr, which seemed to work. Not caring how her arms ached, she talked her lover to sleep. After only a few minutes, Annelie slumped closer to her, her breath deepening. That's right, love. Go to sleep. I've got you. Nobody will be able to hurt you while I'm here, guarding you. I love you so much. Carolyn inhaled deeply. I have to harness my anger toward this idiot or I won't be much help to her. Holding Annelie close, she was determined to protect her.

***

Carolyn's head ached, a dull foreboding pain, making her reach for her bag.

"Excuse me. I'll be right back." She rushed out of the room where she'd been sitting with Helen, Harvey, and several other actors, reading the first scenes.

In the privacy of the ladies' room, she used her nasal spray, grimacing at how it stung but hoping it would stop the headache. Bile rose in her throat and she swallowed hard. While running cold water on her wrists, she noticed she was pale, but not gray and sweaty as happened during her worst attacks. Checking her watch, she was relieved to see it was almost noon.

When she returned, everyone was breaking for lunch. "Are you okay, Carolyn?" Helen looked concerned.

"I'm fine—just hungry, I guess. I…" Suddenly her phone rang, and Annelie's name flashed on the display.

"Annie, what's up?"

After a pause, her lover spoke. "Am I interrupting? I was hoping you were on your lunch break."

"We're just heading out."

"I'm on my way to the office to talk to Margo. Could I swing by and pick you up?"

Carolyn thought she could detect a slight tremor in Annelie's voice. "I've got an hour. Is that okay?"

"Should be. See you outside the studio in five minutes."

"See you soon, love."

Helen cleared her throat. "Carolyn, I couldn't help but overhear. If you need more time, just call. We can work around you."

Eying Helen suspiciously, Carolyn nodded. "Thanks. But I hate to be the diva on the first day."

"Don't worry about it, Carolyn." Helen winked. "Go take care of your girl."

***

Annelie sat in the middle of the couch, motioning for Carolyn to sit next to her. Margo sat down on her other side and clasped both of Annelie's hands.

"What are you going to tell me?" Annelie whispered, her voice barely audible. "Please, Margo." She felt Carolyn's arm circle her waist.

"This isn't easy," Margo said, her voice serious. "I've waited until I was certain. I need to hold another press conference, and then our troubles will be over."

"Then why are you looking at me like that? What did you find out?"

Margo's stormy eyes were unreadable.

"Sweetheart, I'm afraid my news is good for everyone…but you." Margo grasped Annelie's arm. "Your father is dead."

Chapter 15

What?" Annelie's voice was emotionless.

"The man in California causing all this commotion isn't your father. Stuart died almost five years ago."

Grateful for her lover's supporting arms, Annelie leaned back heavily against her.

"And who's this idiot trying to pose as her father?" Carolyn demanded.

"We don't know yet. We should have more details any minute." Margo still held on to Annelie but let go when she got up and started pacing.

"So this man's motive is money?" she said huskily. "And fame?"

"That's as good a guess as any. Whatever he's after, he's not too smart. Your father had a record, so it'll be easy enough to compare fingerprints."

"How long have you suspected?" Carolyn leaned back against the couch, her eyes narrowing.

"Ever since I saw copies of Stuart's mug shots. Remember, I knew Stuart for several years. Even if the TV footage fooled me, compared to your father's mug shots…" Margo shrugged.

"So my father died and no one notified me," Annelie said from where she stood over by the window. "He probably didn't have anything that suggested he had a child somewhere."

Carolyn rose to embrace Annelie. "We don't know the circumstances yet, do we, Margo."

"No. I hope the investigator lets me know something soon."

Annelie looked down at Carolyn, noting her scowl. Suddenly she realized Carolyn was also pale and trembling. "You're missing your lunch. Margo? Can you get Carolyn something to eat? She has to go back to work soon."

"Sure. I'll be right back."

"Are you okay?" Carolyn rubbed her left temple. "This was quite a shock, for you, for all of us."

"Yes. I don't know what to think…or to feel." Annelie raised her arms, hugging Carolyn closer.

"It's normal to mourn, love."

"Is it? He was gone all those years. Five of them because he was dead and I had no idea—and didn't bother to find out, I guess." Annelie swallowed hard. "And what was this imposter thinking?"

"Who knows? But the puzzling part is he knows enough about you to make his story somewhat credible." Carolyn rubbed Annelie's back with long, soothing strokes, then patted her. "It makes me furious," she growled. "If I ever get a chance to give him a piece of my mind, I would—"

"Have to get in line, Carolyn. You're not the only one. Once the news hits, Annelie's friends are going to have to take a number to get a crack at him," Margo said. "We're in luck. They'd overordered from the coffeehouse down on the corner. Sandwiches and café latte."

Carolyn had paled considerably after her outburst. Her hands shook as she reached for a mug of coffee, and small beads of sweat broke out on her upper lip. Annelie sat down on the couch and patted the spot next to her. "Join me?"

Carolyn nodded, taking another large gulp of coffee. "Oh, this is great. Thanks, Margo." She bit into a turkey sandwich like she was starving.

"You're welcome."

They ate in silence, Annelie noticing how Carolyn's color gradually returned. She seems to be feeling better now. Thank God. Annelie frowned slightly as she nibbled her sandwich. I don't know what to think…or feel. He's dead, but I still have so many unanswered questions. I used to think it didn't matter, that I didn't care. But I do. Why did he leave us? And now…who's this man? What does he want? Everything has gone so fast I can't keep up. She glanced up at Carolyn. Then again, I do know what I feel about her. That's the only thing I'm sure of right now, and even that could blow up in my face. The questions whirled in her mind, leaving her feeling queasy.