Roll Away Your Stone 18/18
Series: Secret
Story: Roll Away Your Stone
Chapter: Of This Newly Impassioned Soul
Rating: R
Pairing: Nikki/Nora
Disclaimer/Details of Participation/Terms & Conditions: Not mine, no monies are being made and if I were to bill the owners my hourly rate...well...you get the idea. Oh, yeah, since like ch. 6 this has been unbeta'd...epp! All missing words and misspellings...are my dog's fault. =0)
A/N: LJ’s kinda back up now…*yay* for those of you that are interested I have a mirror site up over at Dreamwidth - Whedonist. Usually I just sync the two up using the DW interface, but given the challenges if there’s any a time where I’m mid story, I’ll just auto post to that site.
Now, on to the story portion of my rant. This is the last chapter for this particular story. I’ve had a lot of fun writing and I hope those of you that read had an equally enjoyable time reading it. To those that reviewed, thanks for the kind words; it’s appreciated.
Take care everyone and enjoy the final chapter for this particular story.
1Shinyboat a.k.a Whedonist
Of This Newly Impassioned Soul
Shifting in the padded, leather seat, I look out over the small crowd assembled today. Nora is sandwiched between Ann and Patrick. Jill sits on Ann’s other side with Darius and my father. Next to Patrick are Chris and Nancy. It’s been so crazy the past few months and as I look around, the small press circle and building behind me attests to that.
From my left, Tia nudges my arm and nods towards the podium.
Right, guess it it’s time for this…
I smile at her and stand, smoothing out my skirt and blouse. Making sure I have my notes, I step up to podium and wait for the small applause being given at my introduction. I find Nora and lock eyes with her. Her face splits into a grin helping me find my center.
“Hello, as you know, I’m Nikki Beaumont, C.E.O. of the Tilton Auxiliary League and Endowment Program. It’s absolutely wonderful to be here today,” I begin. “For those of you that aren’t aware, this project was started by our late president, Logan Walker. This project was his brain child. He came to me with a proposal that I couldn’t say no to, if only for his sheer enthusiasm for it. During its construction, nearly three months ago, Logan, a colleague and old family friend, passed away. All of us who knew him were devastated at the loss, but none felt the pain like his wife, Tia.”
I pause and look back at her. She smiles at me encouragingly. “With her help, the help of my staff and the support and love from my friends and family,” I say this as I stare down the front row containing those I’m speaking about, “We were able to get the project back on its feet.
“A brilliant woman once told me that to truly effect change, I had to start with only a few things in mind: the knowledge that it will require great sacrifice, the commitment to be a personal force for change and to start with those who need the most help. I didn’t understand what that truly meant until I took over the organization from my father. Logan understood that without ever having heard those words spoken.
“For that, for his commitment, his sacrifice and his vision, it’s an honor and a privilege to stand here today and celebrate with you the opening of The Walker Renaissance House. This place was designed with specific intent, to help women and children in need, for those women who have suffered at the hands of others and their children; we are honored to assist them in their quest to help themselves. The House will provide housing assistance, offer job placement programs, child care programs and temporary shelter until those that pass through these doors are able to stand on their own.”
I shift on my feet and finally look down at the note cards in my hand, realizing that I haven’t looked at them at all, but that I’m at the end of my speech regardless. “So with that in mind, please join me in welcoming Tia Walker to help me in cutting the ribbon on her husband’s final endeavor.”
The crowd claps as I spin around joining Tia by the ceremonial ribbon. Jennifer isn’t far behind us, the scissors we are going to use outstretched in her hand. Tia thanks her and takes them. I smile at her and motion for her to do the honors. “Go on,” I encourage and she steps up and snips the ribbon.
The crowd claps again, the shutters of camera’s sound along with a few flashes going off. I take the scissors and hand them back to Jen. Tia and I end up posing for a few photo opportunities. I try and remember that this is part of the deal.
I think it’s why I was never much interested in it. Too much attention. While I don’t mind having the spotlight for a few moments, I’m not one to preen or ham it up for the cameras. The society pages are read only as a matter of survival for me, being a part of the gossip has never appealed.
After what feels like hours of posing for pictures or answering questions from reporters, I’m finally released from my duties. Immediately, I seek out my family and friends. My dad is the first to find me.
“Nicollette,” he says gathering me in his arms and kissing my cheek, “I’m so proud of you.” He looks me over, looking at the hair on the side of my head that I’ve managed to grow back enough to blend with my other hair. “More importantly, your mother would be proud of you.”
“Thank you, daddy,” I say and return his kiss.
“Now, I have some people to see and hands to shake. Are we still on for dinner this Wednesday?” he asks as he waves at someone to our left.
“I’ll double check with my better half, but I’m pretty sure,” I answer and lock eyes with the woman I’m thinking about. She stands off to the side with her family and Darius.
“Excellent,” he says and turns to our group, “It was lovely seeing you all again. Wednesday?” he directs the question to Nora.
My lover nods and he beams before slipping into the small crowd gathered at the entrance to the house.
“Nikki!” Jill squeals and bounds over to me, wrapping me up in her long arms. I hug her back and kiss her cheek.
“Hi, Jill,” I say genuinely happy that they were able to make it down for this. I tell her as much, “I’m glad you two made it.”
She beams. “Well, we would have been here yesterday, but someone…” she coughs loudly and points to Ann, “was stuck in…Des Moines…Peoria…” she waves her hand and shrugs, “Some place in the center of the country.”
“St. Louis and what, I tried to get away as soon as possible,” Ann comes up and kisses me on my cheek. “I’m not the one that was gone for two weeks gallivanting around the South Pacific working.” She air quotes the word ‘working’ and rolls her eyes.
I sigh and ask Nora, “Have they been like this since their arrival?”
“Pretty much,” Chris answers for Nora. “They even threatened us. Something about being out of their room?”
I laugh and shrug. “Well, technically, I think when we moved in there, that was the arrangement that was agreed upon.”
Chris just rolls his eyes and Nora looks me over. “Hi,” she says and looks around. I can’t help but smile.
She’s still nervous about there being so many cameras around. Knowing what I need to do, I move our group to a more secluded section of the yard. We step behind a group of trees and I see Nora relax a little.
She does take my hand this time and peck the corner of my mouth. “You were good,” she offers.
“Thank you,” I say earnestly, meeting her sparkling green eyes. “Where’d Darius run off to?” I ask just noticing his absence.
“He took a call,” Nancy speaks up, “and asked me to give this to you.” She hands over a sealed envelope.
I look at it and decide that I’ll open it later. If he left, it was because of Rashad. The little boy he’s been taking care of for the past few months. I’ve been encouraging him to take over guardianship of the boy.
They get on well and he’s been good for Darius.
I hand the envelope to Nora and she tucks it away in the back pocket of her jeans.
“So, shall we go mingle? I need to go schmooze for a little while before I can leave,” I make the suggestion. I don’t want to stay for more than an hour. Since Nora’s come out, Nancy’s been fairly insistent on Sunday dinner’s at least once, sometimes twice, a month.
Nora promised her we’d come over today and I know the mother of my partner will want to leave soon.
My group all nods and I motion for them to go ahead of me, holding Nora’s hand to keep her back.
She turns to me as Patrick and Chris disappear around the pathway.
“Thank you for coming,” I say and slip my arm around her waist.
She gives me this sideways glance and shrugs. “I wouldn’t have missed it.”
Nora pulls into her mother’s driveway, behind Chris’ Navigator and cuts the engine. Looking over to me she asks, “Are you ready?”
I shrug. “I’ve gotten used to slips of the tongue, Nora.” I squeeze the hand I’m holding and smile.
“Besides, maybe she’ll pick on these two for change.” I motion behind us and hear both Ann and Jill chuckle.
“I’ll just turn up the charm,” Jill says leaning forward to get in on the conversation. “Has she been horrible? You want me to kick her ass?”
Nora and I both look back and see her arms are folded in the middle of the seat, her chin rests on top and she’s wiggling her eyebrows.
“Jill,” Ann warns, “no one will be doing any ass kicking…except me if I need to. I haven’t gotten to the gym in a week and a half.” She pulls Jill away and wraps her wife in her arms. “So behave.”
Nora chuckles and I shake my head.
“She’s been okay,” I admit, “For the most part.”
“Hey she hasn’t asked us if we’ve tried sleeping with men in over a month,” Nora laughs, “Because she just can’t seem to understand the mechanics of how we do things in the bedroom.” My girl groans and hangs her head. “Of all the conversations I’ve never wanted to have with my mom, that one right there, is on the top five list.”
I arch an eyebrow and ask, “That’s not number one?”
She shakes her head. “No, but it’s up there. I think I was more uncomfortable when she started talking positions and different ways to have sex with a guy to make me,” she pulls her hand away and air quotes her next words, “’like penis’ again.”
This earns a hoot of laughter from Jill and a rueful chuckle from Ann.
“Oh,” I wince, remembering that particular conversation. We were at our house with Darius, Patrick, Chris and Nancy. “I remember that.” In sympathy and slight commiseration, I run my hand along her upper thigh.
“She didn’t?” the two in the back ask incredulously.
Nora only nods. “She even purchased a sex ed. book to show us the mechanics,” my lover bemoans and rubs her forehead.
“Oh. My. God.” Jill squeaks from the back.
“She’s still alive?” Ann asks with a little wonder in her voice.
“Nora just turned beat red and started fussin’ like she can,” I speak up as Nora whimpers. “I had to intervene and explain as delicately as possible that as much as we appreciate her ‘trying’ we’re not trying sex with men…again…ever.”
“Oh, man,” Ann breathes and leans forward. “If she brings it up again, we can start talking sex toys.”
Nora’s head whips around at the suggestion and Ann backs off, slumping against the seat.
“Bad idea, baby,” Jill says then looks at us. “Wait, why are you two getting all the flack? She give any shit to Pat or Chrissy?”
“No,” I answer and sigh, “Apparently, because they registered as domestic partners and Chris has buttered her up with the idea of children…”
“It’s so unfair,” Nora grumbles and tosses her head back. She cranes her neck and looks back at the two,
“Don’t…just don’t go there, please? I love the woman; I really do, but…”
Ann reaches out and runs her hand through Nora’s hair. “I’m sorry, sweetie.”
“Come on,” Nora shrugs it off, “Let’s go. She’s probably wondering why we’re still sitting in the car.”
“Speaking of…” Ann says.
“Lee hooked you two up,” Jill finishes. “You happy with her?”
Nora looks over at me and grins. “More than.”
I send her a wink before I step from the car and wait on Nora to get out so we can let the two out of the back. Once they’re free, I lock and shut my door. Nora’s by my side when I look up from straightening out my blouse and skirt. She slips her hand in mine and tugs me along.
Not bothering knocking, Nora steps through and ushers the three of us inside.
“Hug?” Patrick calls out from the living room. I watch as he stands and makes his way over, opening his arms and motioning us to lean in. Huddling together the four of us look at Pat in question. “Just want to give you all a heads up, since we got home, she’s been bustling about. Keep your guard up.”
Four sets of eyebrows rise, but before we have time to ask anything further, Nancy breezes in and interrupts, “What are ya’ll standing around the front door for. Get your tails in here. Nora and Nikki, I’m going to need your help in the kitchen.”
She flitters away after the demand and we break up.
“Why don’t you all go relax in the living room? Nikki and I will be with my mom,” my lover directs the group. “And I swear if she pulls some other stunt, I won’t be held responsible Patrick.” She pokes a finger at her brother. “She’s your mother too.”
“Hey,” the man holds his hands up, “I’ve been trying to get her to stop. She said she’d make more of an effort with you two.” He cocks his head to the side and asks, “You don’t have your gun on you do you?”
Nora smiles and pats the small of her back. “And my badge. They’re like my American Express card.”
“You don’t leave home without it,” Ann and I finish together.
“Don’t shoot her, please?” Patrick begs.
Nora sighs but nods. “Bobby comin’?”
“No,” I answer, “He sent me a message earlier. I think he’s talked to your mom though…”
Nodding, Nora takes up my hand again and leads me towards the kitchen.
What in the name of…is that smell?
“Oh,” Nora smacks her lips together, “she’s making her etouffee.”
“No,” I state and stop us before we enter the kitchen. “Please, Nora?” I plead. I don’t ask her that often, but on top of everything else, if she thinks I’m going to sit there and watch a whole house full of people slurp up mudbug stew, my blonde haired counterpart has another thing coming.
A wry smile passes over her and she shrugs. “We’ll let you eat the dirty rice.”
I hang my head and allow myself to be led to my doom.
As we enter, Nancy turns away from the stove and smiles at us. She looks me over and smiles. It’s a new type of smile for her.
It spells trouble.
“Oh good,” she says ushering us in and directing us to sit at the small kitchen table, “I wanted to speak to you privately before we sit down to supper.”
Nora and I sit shoulder to shoulder and she looks at me. Nancy takes up a seat across from us and pulls out a folder.
“Now,” she starts in and I feel my stomach drop, “I know I can sometimes be stubborn, but that’s no surprise. Nikki if you’re used to dealing with my daughter…” she trails off and laughs at her own joke. I can’t really argue, so I just smile and play along. “But, I got to thinking a few weeks ago and did a little bit of research. For instance, did you know that you can register at the county clerk’s office as domestic partners?”
Nora and I both nod but remain silent.
Please tell me she isn’t going to suggest what I think she’s going to suggest…
“Well, how wonderful, and I was thinking that maybe, this,” she waves a hand between the two of us, “would be easier for me if we could make it more official.” She slides the folder over to our side of the table. “You two go ahead and have a look see. I’ll finish up dinner.”
Nora and I lock eyes and we both shake our head at the same time. This is unbelievable. We reach out at the same time and open the folder up. On one side, the paperwork to register is on top.
Our attention is drawn to the other side more. Sitting on top of another small stack of forms is a pamphlet for a sperm donor clinic.
Nora’s head falls to the table top as it registers.
It’s going to be a long dinner.
Nora presses a towel in my hand and I wipe the water from my face, finally scrubbing away the day and the make-up. I’m exhausted. The opening of the house and then dinner…
Sitting through two hours of sly comments and suggestions from Nora’s mother was enough to make me want to take a bridge. I think Nora may have even suggested it at one point this evening.
At least we made it through.
I drop the towel on top of my sink and look over at Nora. She sits on the edge of the tub scratching behind Mister’s ears.
“You ready for bed, sugga?” I ask and hold out my hand.
Nodding, she stands and takes it. “More than. And, I’m sorry again Nikki, I know that…” she trails off as we pad in to the bedroom. We break apart and she goes to her side to help me pull down the covers. “I’ll have a talk with her tomorrow. I promise. I’m just…”
I wave off the millionth apology and let her in on a little secret, “Don’t baby, Daddy’s been after me to make an honest woman out of you for a little while now too.” Her mouth drops open a little as we crawl into bed. Immediately, we snuggle up. She gathers me in her arms tonight and I rest my head in the crook of her shoulder.
“So it’s not just her then. Good to know.” She begins playing with the medallion on my wrist. The beat of her heart picks up tempo slightly and I squeeze her hip. “I remember what you said a few months back, right after Logan was killed…”
“Hmm,” I hum and fidget with the drawstring on her pajama bottoms.
“You still don’t care? ‘Cause I’ve tried…” she swallows and finds her voice again, “Ya know with being more involved…I don’t want you thinking that I don’t care Nik. I do. I just…”
I stop with the drawstring and move my attention to her exposed tummy from where her night shirt’s ridden up. I begin tracing patterns along the strip of skin, trying to soothe her. I have noticed. After Lo, she did take a more active interest. Helped some with the House and even pitched in a few days at the foundation when I had to go in.
We had a talk about it after and she understands.
“So, I mean, I get it, ya know? We’re together and since I’m planning on being together until we’re old and grey together or six feet under, preferably the old and grey, being with you means other things. Other responsibilities. I just don’t know if you want…with work…it’s so hard, and I don’t want…I mean to say that I just don’t want the pat dream or…”
I lick my lips and raise a finger to still her next words. Shifting, I look up and press a kiss to the underside of that delectable chin of hers. I laugh a little and find her hand to lace with mine. “Why do you think that commitment is a place in the suburbs and children?” I wonder.
“I don’t know…it’s what everyone else seems to think…” she stammers.
I shake my head against her chest and set her straight, “Let me tell you that my happily ever after, if such things exist, have only two things in it: me and you. The rest, Nora Delaney, we can make up as we go along. What’s so wrong with that?” I wonder.
“Nothing,” she answers my question and I feel the tension ease from her body beneath me.
“I didn’t think so. Your mother and my father seem to think that it’s what’s required. We’ve been together for a while and we’re both insistent and have told them that that won’t change. I’m not in the space to think kids even though most women our age are. We’re not most women. I’m happy with our life. I love my job, our home, our family, as crazy as they can be, and more importantly I love where we’re at right now. Why change what’s working?”
“Really?” she wonders aloud. “You don’t want…”
“I think the pressure from our respective parents is sweet in that overbearing way, but like I told my daddy, the perceptions of others don’t mean much. I worry about what you think though.” I press a finger to her chest for emphasis. “If you’re happy with how things are, then I am too. Sperm donor clinics and domestic partnership paperwork be damned.”
This earns me a rueful chuckle and I giggle a little. I’m still a little amazed that Nancy was that ballsy.
“Okay,” Nora finally breathes. “I’m good, great even.”
“Hmmm,” I hum and snuggle further into her. “Me too.”
The quiet of the house settles over us. Ann and Jill are safe downstairs. Mister’s over on his bed and Reba’s curled at the end of the bed. All is right with our world.
For right now at least.
We’ll have to wait and see what tomorrow brings, but at least I’ll be with Nora. I’m content in that knowledge as I feel a kiss press to the top of my head and a whispered ‘I love you’ before I drift off to sleep.
Story: Roll Away Your Stone
Chapter: Of This Newly Impassioned Soul
Rating: R
Pairing: Nikki/Nora
Disclaimer/Details of Participation/Terms & Conditions: Not mine, no monies are being made and if I were to bill the owners my hourly rate...well...you get the idea. Oh, yeah, since like ch. 6 this has been unbeta'd...epp! All missing words and misspellings...are my dog's fault. =0)
A/N: LJ’s kinda back up now…*yay* for those of you that are interested I have a mirror site up over at Dreamwidth - Whedonist. Usually I just sync the two up using the DW interface, but given the challenges if there’s any a time where I’m mid story, I’ll just auto post to that site.
Now, on to the story portion of my rant. This is the last chapter for this particular story. I’ve had a lot of fun writing and I hope those of you that read had an equally enjoyable time reading it. To those that reviewed, thanks for the kind words; it’s appreciated.
Take care everyone and enjoy the final chapter for this particular story.
1Shinyboat a.k.a Whedonist
Of This Newly Impassioned Soul
Shifting in the padded, leather seat, I look out over the small crowd assembled today. Nora is sandwiched between Ann and Patrick. Jill sits on Ann’s other side with Darius and my father. Next to Patrick are Chris and Nancy. It’s been so crazy the past few months and as I look around, the small press circle and building behind me attests to that.
From my left, Tia nudges my arm and nods towards the podium.
Right, guess it it’s time for this…
I smile at her and stand, smoothing out my skirt and blouse. Making sure I have my notes, I step up to podium and wait for the small applause being given at my introduction. I find Nora and lock eyes with her. Her face splits into a grin helping me find my center.
“Hello, as you know, I’m Nikki Beaumont, C.E.O. of the Tilton Auxiliary League and Endowment Program. It’s absolutely wonderful to be here today,” I begin. “For those of you that aren’t aware, this project was started by our late president, Logan Walker. This project was his brain child. He came to me with a proposal that I couldn’t say no to, if only for his sheer enthusiasm for it. During its construction, nearly three months ago, Logan, a colleague and old family friend, passed away. All of us who knew him were devastated at the loss, but none felt the pain like his wife, Tia.”
I pause and look back at her. She smiles at me encouragingly. “With her help, the help of my staff and the support and love from my friends and family,” I say this as I stare down the front row containing those I’m speaking about, “We were able to get the project back on its feet.
“A brilliant woman once told me that to truly effect change, I had to start with only a few things in mind: the knowledge that it will require great sacrifice, the commitment to be a personal force for change and to start with those who need the most help. I didn’t understand what that truly meant until I took over the organization from my father. Logan understood that without ever having heard those words spoken.
“For that, for his commitment, his sacrifice and his vision, it’s an honor and a privilege to stand here today and celebrate with you the opening of The Walker Renaissance House. This place was designed with specific intent, to help women and children in need, for those women who have suffered at the hands of others and their children; we are honored to assist them in their quest to help themselves. The House will provide housing assistance, offer job placement programs, child care programs and temporary shelter until those that pass through these doors are able to stand on their own.”
I shift on my feet and finally look down at the note cards in my hand, realizing that I haven’t looked at them at all, but that I’m at the end of my speech regardless. “So with that in mind, please join me in welcoming Tia Walker to help me in cutting the ribbon on her husband’s final endeavor.”
The crowd claps as I spin around joining Tia by the ceremonial ribbon. Jennifer isn’t far behind us, the scissors we are going to use outstretched in her hand. Tia thanks her and takes them. I smile at her and motion for her to do the honors. “Go on,” I encourage and she steps up and snips the ribbon.
The crowd claps again, the shutters of camera’s sound along with a few flashes going off. I take the scissors and hand them back to Jen. Tia and I end up posing for a few photo opportunities. I try and remember that this is part of the deal.
I think it’s why I was never much interested in it. Too much attention. While I don’t mind having the spotlight for a few moments, I’m not one to preen or ham it up for the cameras. The society pages are read only as a matter of survival for me, being a part of the gossip has never appealed.
After what feels like hours of posing for pictures or answering questions from reporters, I’m finally released from my duties. Immediately, I seek out my family and friends. My dad is the first to find me.
“Nicollette,” he says gathering me in his arms and kissing my cheek, “I’m so proud of you.” He looks me over, looking at the hair on the side of my head that I’ve managed to grow back enough to blend with my other hair. “More importantly, your mother would be proud of you.”
“Thank you, daddy,” I say and return his kiss.
“Now, I have some people to see and hands to shake. Are we still on for dinner this Wednesday?” he asks as he waves at someone to our left.
“I’ll double check with my better half, but I’m pretty sure,” I answer and lock eyes with the woman I’m thinking about. She stands off to the side with her family and Darius.
“Excellent,” he says and turns to our group, “It was lovely seeing you all again. Wednesday?” he directs the question to Nora.
My lover nods and he beams before slipping into the small crowd gathered at the entrance to the house.
“Nikki!” Jill squeals and bounds over to me, wrapping me up in her long arms. I hug her back and kiss her cheek.
“Hi, Jill,” I say genuinely happy that they were able to make it down for this. I tell her as much, “I’m glad you two made it.”
She beams. “Well, we would have been here yesterday, but someone…” she coughs loudly and points to Ann, “was stuck in…Des Moines…Peoria…” she waves her hand and shrugs, “Some place in the center of the country.”
“St. Louis and what, I tried to get away as soon as possible,” Ann comes up and kisses me on my cheek. “I’m not the one that was gone for two weeks gallivanting around the South Pacific working.” She air quotes the word ‘working’ and rolls her eyes.
I sigh and ask Nora, “Have they been like this since their arrival?”
“Pretty much,” Chris answers for Nora. “They even threatened us. Something about being out of their room?”
I laugh and shrug. “Well, technically, I think when we moved in there, that was the arrangement that was agreed upon.”
Chris just rolls his eyes and Nora looks me over. “Hi,” she says and looks around. I can’t help but smile.
She’s still nervous about there being so many cameras around. Knowing what I need to do, I move our group to a more secluded section of the yard. We step behind a group of trees and I see Nora relax a little.
She does take my hand this time and peck the corner of my mouth. “You were good,” she offers.
“Thank you,” I say earnestly, meeting her sparkling green eyes. “Where’d Darius run off to?” I ask just noticing his absence.
“He took a call,” Nancy speaks up, “and asked me to give this to you.” She hands over a sealed envelope.
I look at it and decide that I’ll open it later. If he left, it was because of Rashad. The little boy he’s been taking care of for the past few months. I’ve been encouraging him to take over guardianship of the boy.
They get on well and he’s been good for Darius.
I hand the envelope to Nora and she tucks it away in the back pocket of her jeans.
“So, shall we go mingle? I need to go schmooze for a little while before I can leave,” I make the suggestion. I don’t want to stay for more than an hour. Since Nora’s come out, Nancy’s been fairly insistent on Sunday dinner’s at least once, sometimes twice, a month.
Nora promised her we’d come over today and I know the mother of my partner will want to leave soon.
My group all nods and I motion for them to go ahead of me, holding Nora’s hand to keep her back.
She turns to me as Patrick and Chris disappear around the pathway.
“Thank you for coming,” I say and slip my arm around her waist.
She gives me this sideways glance and shrugs. “I wouldn’t have missed it.”
Nora pulls into her mother’s driveway, behind Chris’ Navigator and cuts the engine. Looking over to me she asks, “Are you ready?”
I shrug. “I’ve gotten used to slips of the tongue, Nora.” I squeeze the hand I’m holding and smile.
“Besides, maybe she’ll pick on these two for change.” I motion behind us and hear both Ann and Jill chuckle.
“I’ll just turn up the charm,” Jill says leaning forward to get in on the conversation. “Has she been horrible? You want me to kick her ass?”
Nora and I both look back and see her arms are folded in the middle of the seat, her chin rests on top and she’s wiggling her eyebrows.
“Jill,” Ann warns, “no one will be doing any ass kicking…except me if I need to. I haven’t gotten to the gym in a week and a half.” She pulls Jill away and wraps her wife in her arms. “So behave.”
Nora chuckles and I shake my head.
“She’s been okay,” I admit, “For the most part.”
“Hey she hasn’t asked us if we’ve tried sleeping with men in over a month,” Nora laughs, “Because she just can’t seem to understand the mechanics of how we do things in the bedroom.” My girl groans and hangs her head. “Of all the conversations I’ve never wanted to have with my mom, that one right there, is on the top five list.”
I arch an eyebrow and ask, “That’s not number one?”
She shakes her head. “No, but it’s up there. I think I was more uncomfortable when she started talking positions and different ways to have sex with a guy to make me,” she pulls her hand away and air quotes her next words, “’like penis’ again.”
This earns a hoot of laughter from Jill and a rueful chuckle from Ann.
“Oh,” I wince, remembering that particular conversation. We were at our house with Darius, Patrick, Chris and Nancy. “I remember that.” In sympathy and slight commiseration, I run my hand along her upper thigh.
“She didn’t?” the two in the back ask incredulously.
Nora only nods. “She even purchased a sex ed. book to show us the mechanics,” my lover bemoans and rubs her forehead.
“Oh. My. God.” Jill squeaks from the back.
“She’s still alive?” Ann asks with a little wonder in her voice.
“Nora just turned beat red and started fussin’ like she can,” I speak up as Nora whimpers. “I had to intervene and explain as delicately as possible that as much as we appreciate her ‘trying’ we’re not trying sex with men…again…ever.”
“Oh, man,” Ann breathes and leans forward. “If she brings it up again, we can start talking sex toys.”
Nora’s head whips around at the suggestion and Ann backs off, slumping against the seat.
“Bad idea, baby,” Jill says then looks at us. “Wait, why are you two getting all the flack? She give any shit to Pat or Chrissy?”
“No,” I answer and sigh, “Apparently, because they registered as domestic partners and Chris has buttered her up with the idea of children…”
“It’s so unfair,” Nora grumbles and tosses her head back. She cranes her neck and looks back at the two,
“Don’t…just don’t go there, please? I love the woman; I really do, but…”
Ann reaches out and runs her hand through Nora’s hair. “I’m sorry, sweetie.”
“Come on,” Nora shrugs it off, “Let’s go. She’s probably wondering why we’re still sitting in the car.”
“Speaking of…” Ann says.
“Lee hooked you two up,” Jill finishes. “You happy with her?”
Nora looks over at me and grins. “More than.”
I send her a wink before I step from the car and wait on Nora to get out so we can let the two out of the back. Once they’re free, I lock and shut my door. Nora’s by my side when I look up from straightening out my blouse and skirt. She slips her hand in mine and tugs me along.
Not bothering knocking, Nora steps through and ushers the three of us inside.
“Hug?” Patrick calls out from the living room. I watch as he stands and makes his way over, opening his arms and motioning us to lean in. Huddling together the four of us look at Pat in question. “Just want to give you all a heads up, since we got home, she’s been bustling about. Keep your guard up.”
Four sets of eyebrows rise, but before we have time to ask anything further, Nancy breezes in and interrupts, “What are ya’ll standing around the front door for. Get your tails in here. Nora and Nikki, I’m going to need your help in the kitchen.”
She flitters away after the demand and we break up.
“Why don’t you all go relax in the living room? Nikki and I will be with my mom,” my lover directs the group. “And I swear if she pulls some other stunt, I won’t be held responsible Patrick.” She pokes a finger at her brother. “She’s your mother too.”
“Hey,” the man holds his hands up, “I’ve been trying to get her to stop. She said she’d make more of an effort with you two.” He cocks his head to the side and asks, “You don’t have your gun on you do you?”
Nora smiles and pats the small of her back. “And my badge. They’re like my American Express card.”
“You don’t leave home without it,” Ann and I finish together.
“Don’t shoot her, please?” Patrick begs.
Nora sighs but nods. “Bobby comin’?”
“No,” I answer, “He sent me a message earlier. I think he’s talked to your mom though…”
Nodding, Nora takes up my hand again and leads me towards the kitchen.
What in the name of…is that smell?
“Oh,” Nora smacks her lips together, “she’s making her etouffee.”
“No,” I state and stop us before we enter the kitchen. “Please, Nora?” I plead. I don’t ask her that often, but on top of everything else, if she thinks I’m going to sit there and watch a whole house full of people slurp up mudbug stew, my blonde haired counterpart has another thing coming.
A wry smile passes over her and she shrugs. “We’ll let you eat the dirty rice.”
I hang my head and allow myself to be led to my doom.
As we enter, Nancy turns away from the stove and smiles at us. She looks me over and smiles. It’s a new type of smile for her.
It spells trouble.
“Oh good,” she says ushering us in and directing us to sit at the small kitchen table, “I wanted to speak to you privately before we sit down to supper.”
Nora and I sit shoulder to shoulder and she looks at me. Nancy takes up a seat across from us and pulls out a folder.
“Now,” she starts in and I feel my stomach drop, “I know I can sometimes be stubborn, but that’s no surprise. Nikki if you’re used to dealing with my daughter…” she trails off and laughs at her own joke. I can’t really argue, so I just smile and play along. “But, I got to thinking a few weeks ago and did a little bit of research. For instance, did you know that you can register at the county clerk’s office as domestic partners?”
Nora and I both nod but remain silent.
Please tell me she isn’t going to suggest what I think she’s going to suggest…
“Well, how wonderful, and I was thinking that maybe, this,” she waves a hand between the two of us, “would be easier for me if we could make it more official.” She slides the folder over to our side of the table. “You two go ahead and have a look see. I’ll finish up dinner.”
Nora and I lock eyes and we both shake our head at the same time. This is unbelievable. We reach out at the same time and open the folder up. On one side, the paperwork to register is on top.
Our attention is drawn to the other side more. Sitting on top of another small stack of forms is a pamphlet for a sperm donor clinic.
Nora’s head falls to the table top as it registers.
It’s going to be a long dinner.
Nora presses a towel in my hand and I wipe the water from my face, finally scrubbing away the day and the make-up. I’m exhausted. The opening of the house and then dinner…
Sitting through two hours of sly comments and suggestions from Nora’s mother was enough to make me want to take a bridge. I think Nora may have even suggested it at one point this evening.
At least we made it through.
I drop the towel on top of my sink and look over at Nora. She sits on the edge of the tub scratching behind Mister’s ears.
“You ready for bed, sugga?” I ask and hold out my hand.
Nodding, she stands and takes it. “More than. And, I’m sorry again Nikki, I know that…” she trails off as we pad in to the bedroom. We break apart and she goes to her side to help me pull down the covers. “I’ll have a talk with her tomorrow. I promise. I’m just…”
I wave off the millionth apology and let her in on a little secret, “Don’t baby, Daddy’s been after me to make an honest woman out of you for a little while now too.” Her mouth drops open a little as we crawl into bed. Immediately, we snuggle up. She gathers me in her arms tonight and I rest my head in the crook of her shoulder.
“So it’s not just her then. Good to know.” She begins playing with the medallion on my wrist. The beat of her heart picks up tempo slightly and I squeeze her hip. “I remember what you said a few months back, right after Logan was killed…”
“Hmm,” I hum and fidget with the drawstring on her pajama bottoms.
“You still don’t care? ‘Cause I’ve tried…” she swallows and finds her voice again, “Ya know with being more involved…I don’t want you thinking that I don’t care Nik. I do. I just…”
I stop with the drawstring and move my attention to her exposed tummy from where her night shirt’s ridden up. I begin tracing patterns along the strip of skin, trying to soothe her. I have noticed. After Lo, she did take a more active interest. Helped some with the House and even pitched in a few days at the foundation when I had to go in.
We had a talk about it after and she understands.
“So, I mean, I get it, ya know? We’re together and since I’m planning on being together until we’re old and grey together or six feet under, preferably the old and grey, being with you means other things. Other responsibilities. I just don’t know if you want…with work…it’s so hard, and I don’t want…I mean to say that I just don’t want the pat dream or…”
I lick my lips and raise a finger to still her next words. Shifting, I look up and press a kiss to the underside of that delectable chin of hers. I laugh a little and find her hand to lace with mine. “Why do you think that commitment is a place in the suburbs and children?” I wonder.
“I don’t know…it’s what everyone else seems to think…” she stammers.
I shake my head against her chest and set her straight, “Let me tell you that my happily ever after, if such things exist, have only two things in it: me and you. The rest, Nora Delaney, we can make up as we go along. What’s so wrong with that?” I wonder.
“Nothing,” she answers my question and I feel the tension ease from her body beneath me.
“I didn’t think so. Your mother and my father seem to think that it’s what’s required. We’ve been together for a while and we’re both insistent and have told them that that won’t change. I’m not in the space to think kids even though most women our age are. We’re not most women. I’m happy with our life. I love my job, our home, our family, as crazy as they can be, and more importantly I love where we’re at right now. Why change what’s working?”
“Really?” she wonders aloud. “You don’t want…”
“I think the pressure from our respective parents is sweet in that overbearing way, but like I told my daddy, the perceptions of others don’t mean much. I worry about what you think though.” I press a finger to her chest for emphasis. “If you’re happy with how things are, then I am too. Sperm donor clinics and domestic partnership paperwork be damned.”
This earns me a rueful chuckle and I giggle a little. I’m still a little amazed that Nancy was that ballsy.
“Okay,” Nora finally breathes. “I’m good, great even.”
“Hmmm,” I hum and snuggle further into her. “Me too.”
The quiet of the house settles over us. Ann and Jill are safe downstairs. Mister’s over on his bed and Reba’s curled at the end of the bed. All is right with our world.
For right now at least.
We’ll have to wait and see what tomorrow brings, but at least I’ll be with Nora. I’m content in that knowledge as I feel a kiss press to the top of my head and a whispered ‘I love you’ before I drift off to sleep.