Autumn opened her eyes slowly against the blinding light. This simple act sent bolts of pain shooting through her head. Grimacing, she squeezed them shut again, praying the pain would go away. In a few minutes, it faded to a bearable degree. Carefully, she once again, opened her eyes. What she saw, surprised and confused her, for she was in the hospital.
A wave of nausea washed over her as she remembered how she came to be here. Autumn worked as a volunteer at this very hospital. A mental patient had been brought in and something snapped in him when she approached. He pushed her away with such force, she rebounded off the wall, falling to the floor unconscience. Evidently she had been injured.
At that moment, a nurse entered the room. When she saw Autumn was awake, she smiled brightly.
"Good to see you're awake! You gave us quite a scare! How are you feeling? The doctor will be in shortly to see you!" The middle aged woman kept up a running dialog, answering her own questions.
She was a favorite of Autumn's. Most of the others acted all self-important, but not Miss Millie! That's how the volunteers referred to her! Millicent Brewer, Head Nurse! Always friendly, always with a kind word and a smile for every one!
They chatted while Miss Millie took her vitals. Moments after she left, the doctor entered, file in hand. After looking over her test results...x-rays and what have you, he looked up at her and smiled.
"Well, Autumn! I'm glad to say you only have a slight concussion. A few days rest and you should be good as new! You'll spend the night, or what's left of it, here for observation, but you should be able to go home tomorrow. Take the rest of this week off and you should be able to return on Monday! You gave us all a scare!" The kindly old man patted her hand affectionately.
She nodded her head, sending bolts of pain shooting behind her eyes. Her hand went up to cover her eyes. "How's the man they brought in?" She asked in a strained voice.
His alert eyes took in her movements...had seen the flicker of pain. "Is your head hurting?" When she said yes, he stepped out in the hall, returning a moment later. "I can't give you anything very strong, but this should help some!" He said as he handed her the Tylenol. Doctor Baker watched as she took the pills, then answered her question.
"The man is from one of the most violent wards at the state hospital. He put tow others in the hospital before being subdued. I don't understand why he wasn't restrained when they brought him in. The administrator there has been notified about what happened and I expect jobs will be lost because of this. The patient required surgery. His appendix ruptured."
The old doctor was still pissed over the incompetent way that patient had been transported, not to mention the damage and injuries he caused. He intended to file a complaint concerning the matter, himself. After all, his staff was put at risk, because of their negligence!
"Well, I better get out of here. The Mrs. will think I left town. I'll be by to see you in the morning. You have a good night, honey!" Once again, the kindly old doctor patted her hand, then got up and left.
Autumn McKenzie left the hospital amid the well wishes of her co-workers and supervisor. Her boss, a tall thin wiry woman, fifty-eight years old, instructed her to go home and rest.
"Sweetie, you take as long as you need. No body works as hard as you. Hell, you put in more hours than I do! You take as long as you need, to get well." Then the woman hugged her, just before rushing off to take another patient to x-ray.
Autumn unlocked the door and went inside her small apartment. The light on her answering machine was flashing. Sighing tiredly, she laid the small stack of bills on the table next to the phone. She had several messages from friends and one from her mother. She didn't feel like talking to anybody. Instead of returning the calls, Autumn chose to go to bed. Maybe it was due to the concussion or some unknown reason, but she was more tired than she could ever remember being. No bothering to undress, merely kicking off her shoes, Autumn lay across the bed and was instantly sound asleep.
The phone ringing jarred her awake. Her eyes flew open and for several minutes had absolutely no idea where she was! Reaching for the phone on the night stand, Autumn wasn't surprised to find her mother on the other end.
"Honey, I've been worried out of my mind! How do you feel? Are you ok?" Her mother was distressed about her daughter's condition. She had been unable to get a flight out last night. Autumn insisted she didn't need any help.
"Mom, I'm fine! When I got home this morning, I laid down and fell asleep! Really, I'm fine! Don't worry so much about me! I just have a very mild concussion! It's just routine procedure to be kept over night...that's all!" Autumn's head had begun to hurt! After her Dad died suddenly last year, her mother tended to get overly protective where she was concerned. Autumn had considered moving back to her hometown to relieve her mother's mind!
"When that nice doctor called me last night telling me you had been injured, I just went to pieces." Barbara McKenzie was still very upset by the whole thing!
"Mom, I'll be coming home tomorrow. I'm off till next week and thought you might like some company." Autumn would rather stay at her own apartment, but since her mother had never learned to drive, Autumn knew her mother wouldn't rest until she saw for herself that her daughter was alright.
"Are you ok to drive? 200 miles is quite a distance for someone injured!" Barbara asked anxiously.
"Mom, I'll be ok! I should be there in time for breakfast! No you don't worry about me! I'm fine!" Autumn reassured her mother, even though her head was killing her!
"I'll make you waffles! Or would you prefer French Toast?" Her mother asked anxiously.
"Anything will be fine! Mom, there's someone at the door! I've got to go! I'll see you in the morning!" Autumn really needed to get off the phone. She needed something for her head, yet she hated lying to her mother!
Finally they hung up. Autumn got up and took some pills the doctor gave her. She went into the living room, turned the radio on low, then returned her phone calls. Gradually her headache faded some. About 9:00 p.m., Autumn decided to shower and go to bed.
She set the clock for 3:30. She wanted to be on the road by 4:00 at the latest. Autumn would pack her jeans and t-shirts in the morning! After a quick shower, she pulled on her favorite pajamas, then climbed into bed. She was asleep almost instantly. Sometime later, she began to dream!
His gentle caress brought shivers of delight racing through her veins. His lips moved sensuously down her neck stopping at her collarbone. Slowly, sensuously, he licked and sucked just above the bone...there...at the pulse point! She trembled with anticipation of what was yet to come!
Her nails raked down his thickly muscled back, all the way down to his narrow waist. Hissing at the initial pain, a groan of desire quickly replaced it as she grabbed his butt, lightly scratching and kneading the muscles. He renewed his assault on her senses. She arched her back as he ran his hand ever so slowly down her side, all the way passed her hip.
She ran her hands up his ravaged back, grabbing him by the shoulders. A moan of unadulterated lust escaped her soft, parted lips. His smile was one of smug satisfaction at illiciting this wild abandon from her. She didn't know how much more of this she could stand! His hands and mouth seemed to be every where!
As his hand inched down her flat belly, she could no more prevent her thighs from parting on their own, than she could stop breathing! When she felt his heavy manhood touching her inner thigh, she very nearly lost all control. Opening her legs even wider, she begged him to take her. Her hands slid down to his taut buttocks, urging him on!
He intended to take his time, wanting to savor this moment, refusing to let her rush him. He, too, was near to losing control, and only with the greatest of efforts, was he able to hold off. That took all of his will power, and was getting extremely difficult to do!
Slowly, he pulled back, letting his lips travel down her more than willing body. He stopped at her navel, licking and gently sucking the sensitive skin around it. She whimpered wanting more! Almost casually, his lips moved even lower until they latched upon her velvety soft feminity. That was all it took as she screamed out her release, as wave after wave of pleasure washed over her. He stayed with her until her bucking subsided. Only then did he choose to cover her with his huge body.
As their bodies became one, he was unable to move at first, fearing his own release, wanting to bring her to completion again. Her moist softness was almost more than he could take! A groan escaped his tightly clenched teeth. Finally, once the initial urge passed, he was able to move against her!
Autumn moaned, caught up in the grip of this intense dream. She thrashed about on the bed, totally destroying the covers.
His massive, thickly muscled body rocked against her, in the age-old rhythm of love making. Her body responded to his as soon as he entered her. Her pleasure grew rapidly with each deep thrust of his body. She gripped his hips even as her legs locked themselves around his own. His mouth fastened on hers, kissing her hungrily. He moved his lips slightly, licking his way from her neck to her ear. She moaned loudly as her passions grew. This only seemed to enflame him further.
"Please! Now!" She whimpered, head tossing from side to side! Her hips rose to meet each of his thrusts with one of her own!
"As the lady wishes!" He growled huskily. Gripping the head board of her bed, he thrust harder...deeper...faster.
Her hips rose up to meet his, until she screamed and went limp. After a few more thrusts, he too found his release. Carefully, so as not to crush her with his greater weight, he rolled over on his side, taking her with him. They were still joined. As she began to doze, she felt him growing inside her, becoming hard again.
Autumn jerked upright in the bed! Never had she had a dream quite like this! Gradually, she became aware of a damp stickiness on her thighs and underneath her. She was sore between her legs as well! Running a hand through her hair, she shook her head in confusion. HAD it been a dream? Suddenly, she became afraid! What if it hadn't been a dream at all, but what if someone was in her apartment and had USED her?
Scrambling out of bed, she took the pistol from her night stand drawer, and slowly went to search her home. After going through the entire apartment, she checked the doors and windows and found them locked. Thoroughly confused and upset, she went back to her bedroom and turned on the light.
The musky smell of sex hung heave in the air. She found herself blushing as the dream returned in full clarity. Nervously, she put the pistol back in the drawer, and ripped the sheets off the bed. Since it was nearly time to get up anyway, she turned off the alarm. She put the soiled sheets in the hamper. She would wash them after her visit with her mom.
Autumn went into the bathroom to shower. As she dropped her pajamas on the floor, she caught sight of her self in the full length mirror. All the color drained out of her face! There, just above her collarbone and next to her navel, were small purple marks...she had hickeys! Autumn's knees went weak, forcing her to sit down on the toilet! It HAD happened! She HAD had sex! It hadn't been a dream after all!
Suddenly, all she wanted was to get out of this apartment, but she couldn't leave smelling like she did! Jumping into the shower, she squirted body wash on the sponge and quickly scrubbed her body. Just as quickly, she rinsed off the fragrant foam. Turning off the water, she got out of the shower and began pulling on her clothes, not bothering to dry off. In minutes, Autumn was backing the car out of the driveway heading toward the interstate.
Her mind kept returning to what happened. It scared hell out of her, and yet, she had never felt so completely satisfied. Only one thing could explain what happened to her tonight...she was losing her mind!
Chapter Two!
The big man sat on the side of the huge bed, head in hands. What the HELL kind of dream did he have last night? Not since he entered puberty, had he had a dream like this! He actually felt drained, as though he really HAD spent the night in the bed of a beautiful woman! He couldn't get her eyes out of his mind. Never had he seen eyes that color or filled with so much passion for life! HELL! He couldn't get HER off his mind!
Her eyes were an Aqua, lit by an inner fire. She had the smoothest, softest skin, he had ever touched, and blue-black hair! Her name had been Autumn! She was as beautiful as her name implied. She stood about 5'3" and weighed MAYBE 110 pounds. She had a natural athletes body! That was all he could remember about her appearance! Too bad she was only a dream!
Running his hand through his long reddish-brown hair, vigorously scratching his head, he knew he had to get moving! He had a flight to catch in about two hours! As he headed to the bathroom, he happened to catch sight of his reflection in the mirrors. What he saw, made him catch his breath! Turning slightly to get a better look, he saw his whole back, from shoulder to waist, was a mass of scratches! He stared at the reflection, unable to believe what he was seeing!
Autumn spent the next four days with her mother. Finally she had to go home! She loved her mother dearly, but since her dad's death, her mother tended to smother her with affection!
"Mom, I have to go to work day after tomorrow!" Autumn said wearily. They had been through all this three or four times already!
"But dear, your volunteer job can do without you a week or two longer! Think of your health!" Barbara urged! Fear and worry fought to control her features! She was all but wringing her hands in agitation!
"Mom, I love my job! The money dad left me, allows me to live modestly and do the kind of work I enjoy! At any rate, I've signed up to take some classes this fall, at the community college there! I'll be plenty busy, then! And, who knows, I may even meet someone there!" Autumn teased her mother, grinning wickedly at her shocked expression.
"AUTUMN RENEE McKENZIE! I DO hope you're talking about a RESPECTABLE young man with honorable intentions! Most young people today only get together and have S-E-X! You weren't brought up that way!" Barbara had actually spelled out sex! She had become a prude since her husband's death!
Autumn had to turn away so her mother wouldn't see the laughter threatening to escape! She could remember back in high school, coming home from a date, and hearing the noises coming from her parents room. Up until her father died, her mother had been a different person!
Autumn's first day back at work was a nightmare! First, her boss had refused to let her do anything more strenuous than pushing papers, at least for the first couple of hours. Then, no less than ten pregnant women came in, within two hours time, all in labor! Then, there was the five car pile-up out on the interstate. All this in addition to the usual heart attacks, stomaches, bumps, bruises, sprains and sick babies!
Finally...around 9:30 that night, things had slowed down. She was finally getting a break! Taking her cup of coffee, Autumn went to the lounge to sit down for a few minutes! Doctor Baker came in, joining her, just minutes later.
"Well...how's my favorite patient?" He asked, smiling somewhat tiredly! He sat down in a big leather chair, across from her, with an exhausted sigh! "Damn! That feels good!"
Autumn smiled, fully understanding how the old doctor felt. "Bout the same as you, right now! It's been rather hectic here today!" She said, sipping her coffee. A strand of black hair fell across her shoulder. It had come loose from her band.
Before they could say anything else, they were called to come back to emergency. Exchanging tired looks, they got up, headed back to work!
Two rather large men had been brought in by ambulance. There was a wrestling show in town which they were a part of. One of the men had a broken arm, while the other just needed stitching up!
Autumn paused outside the examination room long enough to put her hair back up. Then, with clip board and pen in hand, entered the first room. Because these men were well known, they were taken right back! It was Autumn's job to get all the insurance information, and that sort of thing!
She stood off to the side of the small cubicle, while the nurse took the man's vitals and examined the wounds on the man's head and on his huge arm! His ring attire had been removed and was laying on the chair next to the exam table. Autumn still hadn't looked at the patient!
"Ok, Autumn! He's all yours! The other one has gone to x-ray, but it looks like his arm's broken!" Nurse Millie said, winking at the young woman, rolling her eyes and arching her eyebrow, a wicked grin curving her lips!
Autumn couldn't prevent the blush that stained her cheeks. Stepping forward, her eyes were on the forms on her clipboard.
"I'm sorry to have to bother you now, but I really need to ask you these questions!" She glanced up at the big man, meeting his intense gaze! The look in his eyes made her forget what she was suppose to ask!
He waited for her to continue, watching her closely. "You had some questions?" His husky voice sent shivers through her. There was something familiar about him.
Several minutes later, the forms all filled out, all that was left was to get his signature, giving permission for treatment and such. Autumn handed him the pen. Their fingers happened to touch. At that brief contact, both people gasped as though burned. As he took the pen to sign the forms, Autumn looked away, and found herself staring at the biggest arms and chest she had EVER seen! Yet it touched her deep inside! She KNEW how those arms felt, how his chest felt against her cheek!
"Ahm...here you go!" He said, somewhat embarrassed by her close scrutiny.
Her blush deepened when she realized, she had been staring. Hardly able to meet his eyes, she reached out to take back the clipboard and pen. Once again, their fingers happened to touch. His eyes narrowed slightly. Deliberately, he reached out and took her hand. Gasping in surprise, her eyes flew to his. Time stood still! She knew this man! She knew how those incredible lips tasted. She knew the feel and texture of his hair! This was the man she dreamed about! This realization caused her eyes to widen even more!
He was feeling the same things! He was thinking the same things! He saw the fear, confusion and desire in those incredible eyes! Actually, he had forgotten about the dream, until they touched hands. It was the touch of her fingers that brought it all back. Just that simple touch, and he was thrown back to that night!
"What time do you get off?" He asked, his voice deeper, huskier! His hazel eyes burned with an inner fire as he held hers.
"A...in an hour! But I'm not in the habit of going out with the patients!" She tried her best to sound cool, but couldn't help the tremble in her voice.
"I only want to talk! That's all! Just talk!" His sincerity convinced her. Against her better judgment, she agreed.
By the time he was discharged, she was off work. The other guy that came in with him, was being admitted. He was scheduled for surgery the next morning. His arm had been broken in two places.
Autumn was talking to one of the nurses when she caught sight of the big man, out of the corner of her eye. All he had to wear, was what he had on when he came in...his ring attire. She remarked on what ever it was the other woman had said, yet she was acutely aware of him moving toward her. Finally she glanced in his direction. Her breath caught in her throat, as her eyes ran all over his big body. The nurse turned to see what she was looking at. A knowing smirk touched her lips as she turned away, busying herself with the charts.
The big man moved with a natural grace that belied his massive size. His good looks alone, would have caught a woman's eye, but add to that, his huge size and the fact spandex leaves NOTHING to the imagination, well...needless to say, every nurse in E.R. found some excuse to come to the nurses station, as he walked up to stand next to Autumn.
She was the object of many an envious glance from the others. He smiled at her, as he took her by the arm and escorted her out.
"I hate to ask, but do you have a car?" His deep husky voice, not to mention his warm hand on her arm, brought back the "dream" in full detail.
"Ahm...yeah, it's parked over here!" She was having trouble breathing, and felt light headed from his touch.
As they walked across the dark parking lot, each one was more than a little nervous. They stopped beside a '96 Ford Tempo. After unlocking the door for him, she walked around and got in under the wheel. She couldn't meet his eyes.
"Ahm...I'm sorry it's so small. Scoot the seat back, and maybe that will help some!" She glanced in his direction and had to bite her lip to keep from laughing. His knees were right up against the dash, and he was all bent over, from lack of head room.
Looking over at her, grinning broadly, he was feeling around for the lever to adjust the seat back. Unable to help herself, she laughed at the sight of his massive body filling up her small car! He would have been more comfortable if the seat had been removed and he rode in the back. At least then he would have had some leg room.
"You mind taking me back to my hotel, so I can change into something a little more presentable?" He asked, almost embarrassed.
"No problem! Where are you staying?" She asked curiously, waiting for him to tell her. After naming the hotel, she started the car and headed across town!
When they arrived at the hotel, he asked her to come up with him, rather than wait in her car or in the lobby. She hesitated, then agreed to accompany him. They rode the elevator in silence, neither speaking or touching. When they arrived at his floor, the big man let her exit the car first. His mother had taught him manners at least, and that southern upbringing showed in the way he treated her.
As they walked down the hall, he took her elbow and instantly had a "flash-back" of a couple in bed making love! One slender leg was hooked around his, her arms wrapped tightly around his shoulders, pulling him closer. They were that couple!
He didn't have a clue how that was possible! Yet he knew how her skin felt against his...the taste of her kiss...the way she gasped, then cried out with her release. He knew the sweet "woman" taste of her!
She was having the same vision! She knew how he growled, grunted and groaned! She knew the taste of him, the way her body seemed to fit his perfectly. She knew the gentleness of his kiss...the shape and softness of his mouth! Yet, they just met. So how could this be? She knew he was a wrestler, but she didn't watch wrestling.
They stopped in front of a door, his room. She looked down at the floor, suddenly shy and unsure. When she glanced up at him, his eyes were on her...and she couldn't look away!
"Here we are!" He held the door so she might enter! His voice sent shivers down her spine!
He watched as she walked around the room, finally stopping before the window, He laid the key card down on the night stand.
"Make yourself comfortable. I'll take a quick shower, then we'll go eat! You hungry?" He asked softly, watching her closely.
Smiling nervously, she couldn't meet his eyes directly. "Yes, I am actually!"
"Good! I'll not be long!" He said turning away. His clothes were hung in the dressing area, just outside of the bathroom. She noticed this as they entered the room.
A few seconds later, she heard the shower running! Looking out the window at the traffic below, she wondered how all this had happened. How the hell did she know so much about him> She was mystified by it all.
Turning away from the window, she pulled the band from her hair and shook it free, then combed her fingers through the long silky mass. Sitting down in one of the chairs, she heard the shower stop. Her eyes happened to fall on the mirror. Her breath caught at the sight reflected there. Kane was briskly drying off his magnificent body.
He happened to glance up and their eyes locked in the mirror. She was the first to look away, but not before she saw the desire flare up in those hazel eyes, and the sensuous curl of his lip. All the while, he was taking his time drying his big body!
Autumn quickly got up and went to stand before the windows. Her face was hot and so was her body! She stood there, arms crossed, not really seeing anything. All she "saw" was his magnificent naked body.
"OK! I'm ready if you are!" He said from somewhere behind her.
Glancing over her shoulder, she saw he was fully dressed, at least! Smiling nervously, she turned to face him!
"Ahm...I'm not really dressed to go anywhere special, unless it's some place casual. I hadn't planned on having a "date" tonight!" She said softly.
His eyes skimmed over her. He liked what he saw! She was wearing her uniform from the hospital...a polo-type shirt in a dark green and tan slacks of some sort of knit material. The dark green of her shirt suited her.
"You look fine! But there's a Waffle House next door if you'd prefer that!"
"That will be fine! Actually their food is pretty good!" She was nervous and it showed.
"Then the Waffle House it is!" Kane picked up his key card and held the door for her.
After they ordered, Kane studied the woman sitting across from him. She fidgeted nervously with the napkin, aware of his close scrutiny. They had picked the booth in the far corner, away from the other customers. They REALLY needed to talk! To try and figure this thing out! He decided to bring it up and get it out in the open, rather than trying to avoid the subject. He saw it in her eyes every time their eyes happened to meet...she didn't want to discuss it.
"This "dream"...I know you had it too! I see it in your face whenever our hands happen to touch. Yet until tonight, I don't recall having ever met you before, and if we HAD met, I would have remembered you!" Kane watched her eyes widen before she lowered them to study the table. Her cheeks were a deep dusky rose. He thought her beautiful. "I don't understand this...I know personal stuff about you, intimate stuff!"
Still she didn't speak. Lifting the coffee cup with a hand that shook, Autumn sipped the hot brew, before she could meet his intense gaze. The cup rattled noisily, against the saucer, when she replaced it.
"I have no idea what this means either! When exactly did you have this dream?" She asked.
When he told her, her hand jerked spasticly, knocking over her cup! Quickly, she cleaned up the mess. Their waitress brought over their food just then, saw the mess, and went after a cloth to dry it up. She brought over more coffee.
Kane saw the stricken look on her face and wondered at the reason! Finally, the waitress left them alone.
"You want to tell me about it?" He asked quietly, ignore the food before him.
"The date you mentioned, was the day I was discharged from the hospital. I had suffered a mild concussion. That night, after I got home, my mom called to see how I was doing. I promised to come stay with her for a few days, just to relieve her mind. When I went to bed, later, that's when I began to "dream"!" Her blush became even deeper. Her eyes slid away from his, and asked what she had to! "Did you...was your back scratched up?" Her face flamed as she asked, completely unable to meet his eyes.
Kane was remembering that night in minute detail. Desire raced through his body, and he was thankful they were seated at the table or she would know his thoughts! His eyes darkened with that emotion.
"Yes, it was! I couldn't figure out how a "dream" could cause that!" His eyes searched hers.
"Autumn, I don't know what this means, or even understand it! But one thing I do believe, is that for what ever reason, we were meant to be together. Why else would we both have such a vivid "dream" on the same night? Why else would we have met tonight? Why now, if it wasn't meant to be?" He asked calmly, rationally. His eyes held hers.
She thought about what he had said, and had to admit it made sense. Yet it scared her to death...to have dreamed of a man she didn't know, in such intimate detail, then to have that man show up at the hospital where she worked. But what scared her the most, was how badly she wanted him right NOW!
The soft look in her eyes as they met his, decided it for him.
"Come on! Let's get out of here!" He said gruffly.
Standing up, he pulled some money out of his pocket and tossed it on the table. Taking her hand firmly in his, the couple left the restaurant in a hurry. They went back to the hotel!
Chapter Three!
They walked through the lobby with a purpose! Not a word had passed between them since leaving the restaurant, yet they both knew how this night was going to end.
They rode the elevator up to the sixth floor, in silence. They walked down the hall to his room, but once behind closed doors, Autumn began to have second thoughts! He read the uncertainty in her eyes...the fear too! He could well understand her feelings, and if it came to it, Kane would not force her. He wanted her warm and willing...not fighting and scratching!
"Would you care for a drink?" He asked, opening the small well stocked bar. The hotel had provided all that the wrestlers might want to drink...from soda to beer, to a wide variety of liquors. Each room also had a complimentary fruit basket, a small crock of cheese, gourmet crackers and a small carafe of wine!
"Yes, thank-you! Rum and coke if you have it!" She responded nervously, twisting her fingers together. Hesitantly, she approached the huge man, as he mixed her drink. He made himself a bourbon and coke, then handed hers to her!
"Please! Have a seat! Make yourself comfortable!" At her anxious look, he continued to try and put her at ease. "I'm not going to try and get you drunk so I can take advantage of you! I just thought you might like a drink!" His soothing, husky voice, did indeed have a calming effect on her.
She smiled slightly, then took a seat near the window. He sat down in the chair across from her. A small table separated the two. She found herself unable to meet his eyes. Not that she was trying to be coy, but was terrified she would see her true feelings mirrored there. She was acutely aware of his intense hazel eyes silently watching her.
"What do you want?" She asked bluntly, her sharp eyes never leaving his face!
"I'd like to get to know you! To learn your likes and dislikes. What kind of music you listen to! That sort of thing!" Kane looked down at his drink before continuing. "And I'd be lying if I said I didn't want you!" His eyes held hers in a burning gaze!
Her sharply indrawn breath, the tell-tale blush, told him she felt the same. Her eyes widened slightly, glittered with the passion she was trying hard to ignore. What ever had brought them together, was working its magic on them both!
Kane sat his glass aside, then stepped across the table. Lust flooded his body in a rush! All he could think of, was the way her naked body felt against his!
Taking her drink from her, he pulled her to her feet. At his touch, she knew they were going to make love...all night long! He gazed deep into her eye, correctly reading her emotions. Gently, he pulled her against him. Slowly, he leaned down until his lips covered hers. His eyes never left hers.
Autumn was stiff at first, but quickly relaxed against his hard body. She knew he desired her...could feel just how much he wanted her. She panicked suddenly and pulled away. Walking over to the window, she tried to calm herself.
Kane walked up behind her, just barely touching her! Her nerves were finely tuned to the merest scent of him. When his groin brushed slightly against her, a soft moan escaped her lips, even as she pressed her forehead against the cool glass before her. Kane's body followed hers, not wanting to break even the slightest contact with her. She moaned again, slightly louder this time!
Kane pulled her pliant body back against him, his arms wrapped around her, holding her close. His right hand moved up to cup her breast. A sensual smile curved his lips, as he bent down to nuzzle her neck. This posture brought his groin in direct contact with her rounded backside. She groaned, moving her head to allow him easier access to her neck. His hand went from massaging her swollen breast, to sliding ever so slowly down her flat belly, stopping at the center of her feminity.
Her head fell back against his right shoulder. Her hand went up behind his head, pulling him even closer! His hand found what he want through the thin cotton of her slacks, and if he hadn't been holding her, she would have fallen when her knees buckled.
Kane picked her up and carried her over to the huge bed. He stood looking down at her. Desire burned hotly in his eyes and massive body. His voice had become rougher from the depths of his emotions.
"I will not force you! I want you more than I've ever wanted a woman before! But what happens now, is up to you!" Kane stared into her eyes, waiting for her reply!
She never said a word! She got to her knees in the middle of the bed, pulling off her shirt...then her bra! Reaching out her arms to the big man, Kane could not resist the silent invitation.
Groaning from deep with in, Kane joined her on the bed. She began ripping at his clothes, while he fumbled with the fastenings of her pants. Finally, with a muttered curse, he grabbed hold of the waist and ripped them from her body. They were at each other instantly! It was a long time before they finally drifted off to sleep!
Kane was no where to be seen when Autumn woke up. Embarrassed beyond belief at what transpired between them, she began pulling on her clothes, wanting only to get out of there before he returned. Picking up her slacks, she cried out in dismay, realizing there was no way she could wear them! They were ruined! How was she to get out of here? She couldn't leave wearing nothing but her underwear and shirt! Maybe he had something she could wear! Opening the drawers, she found everything for him, but nothing she could use. Going over to the closet, she found something that might work...a knit polo shirt!
Taking it off the hanger, Autumn pulled it over her head. As she thought, the shirt hung to her knees! Grinning wickedly, she ripped a long strip of material from her ruined slacks, tying it loosely around her narrow waist. Adjusting the big shirt slightly, Autumn was ready to leave. After leaving a note and forty dollars, she got the hell outta Dodge before he returned.
Kane was gone longer than he meant to be. He had gone out to replace the slacks he ripped off her slim body. On the way back to the hotel, he stopped and picked up some Belgian Waffles with lots of whipped cream for their breakfast.
Quietly, he entered the darkened room, hoping she would still be in bed! But all he found was a note and money for one of his shirts. As he read the note, his disappointment turned to quiet speculation! He would have to go back to the hospital and have a talk with Nurse Millie!
Autumn locked the door behind her! She was taking the day off! Going into her bedroom, she dropped her shirt, purse and shoes on the bed. She needed a shower and some breakfast! But first, she wanted to call the hospital!
"Hi George! This is Autumn. Is Millie around?" She asked after finally getting through! "May I speak to her please!" Then she waited while the little man paged the older nurse.
"Autumn! Honey, how are you?" Millie asked a few minutes later. The big man was listening from across the counter!
"I'm good! I was calling to let you know I won't be coming in today! It may be selfish on my part, but I feel the need of a day off! I'll be in tomorrow bright and early though!" Autumn had pulled his shirt off and was examining it. He had good taste in clothes! The one she had was a nice shirt!
"Don't worry about it sweetie! We have more than enough volunteers here! In fact if we don't get busy pretty soon, I'm either going to have to send some of them home or to other floors!" Millie smiled at the big man standing before her. She was a pretty good judge of people, and thought this just might be the one for Autumn!
"Good! Now I won't feel so guilty about not coming in! See you tomorrow!" Autumn said brightly, then hung up!
Millie was smiling as she, too, hung up the phone. She studied the man before her. Autumn had left with him last night, but had not given him her address of phone number! Why, she wondered!
"I mean her no harm! I would like to send her some flowers and invite her to dinner! Please, I understand your reluctance to give out personal information concerning your employees, but I'd really like to see her again. Besides, she left this note and took one of my shirts!" This last was said in a whisper, a wicked gleam in his eyes, a smart-assed grin on his lips.
Millie was surprised! Autumn didn't sleep around like some of the others did. Grinning in spite of herself, Millie tore a sheet off one of the pads on the desk and wrote down the information he asked for!
"Young man! I think a lot of that girl! So does most of the staff here! I'd hate to see her hurt! She's had enough of that in her short life! If she were hurt, might make things difficult for you the next time you come to town!"
Kane reassured her that he wouldn't hurt her! "I just want to get to know her!" He understood the older woman's concern!
She studied him closely for several minutes! Finally, having reached a decision, she handed the sheet of paper to the man.
"Thank you! I owe you one!" He said, smiling at the woman before him.
She had taken a long hot shower, vigorously scrubbing her shoulder length hair good! Afterwards, dressed in a terry cloth robe, head wrapped in a towel, Autumn made herself some breakfast. She was just finishing a piece of wheat toast covered with strawberry jam, while reading the morning paper.
About then, the doorbell rang. Not expecting anybody, she got up and went into the living room, looking out the bay window. A floral delivery van was parked out front! Thinking maybe her mother had sent her a fern or something, she smiled to herself as she made a mental note to call and thank her later!
Opening the door, surprise wouldn't begin to describe how she felt when she saw the biggest arrangement ever!
"Miss McKenzie?" The delivery guy asked, smiling at her expression!
"AHM, yes!" Autumn knew who sent the flowers! But how had he gotten her address?
"I have a couple more!" He said as he handed her a clip board with an attached invoice for her to sign. He had set the flowers down just inside the door!
Autumn blinked in amazement as she watched him run back and forth from the van to her front door, with more flowers than she had ever seen outside of a flower shop or funeral home. All in all, he made five trips to the van, the last was to get a vase containing three dozen long stemmed, blood red roses!
"Ma'am, I need you to sign here please!" The guy was grinning at the stunned look on her face! The big man that had ordered all these, had tipped him generously if he could deliver them within the hour!
Autumn scribbled her name across the invoice then handed it back to the driver. Before she could close the door, another delivery van pulled in to the spot vacated by the florist van. This one was from one of the most exclusive boutiques in town. She watched as this driver ran up to her carrying a big box and a gift bag.
"Miss McKenzie? Sign here please!" He said as he handed her the packages!
Again Autumn scribbled her name across the invoice, then handed it back to the driver! He too, had been tipped generously if he could make the delivery within the hour! Looking down the street to see if any other vans were in sight, Autumn closed and locked the door!
Her jaw fell nearly to the floor as she opened the box, revealing the most beautiful outfit she had ever seen! There had to be a card! Searching through the gift bag, she finally found it at the bottom! As she thought, it was from Kane! It read simply, 'Pick you up at eight!'
Chapter 4!
Back To The Beginning...
She lay curled in the fetal position upon her solitary bed! Her drug induced slumber was not a restful one! For three months now, she found it more and more difficult to find a reason to get out of bed in the morning. She refused to allow herself to think or feel! It hurt to much to do so! It was much simpler to just crawl in to bed and go to sleep! With the aid of the sleeping pills, she was good to go for at least eighteen hours at a stretch!
Autumn had no idea when the depression set in, but slowly it took control over more and more of her life until she reached the point where she currently found herself. No one needed to tell her she needed help...that was a given! But Autumn didn't seem to want to get it! She wasn't happy with the situation, but to be honest, she just didn't care anymore!
This had been going on for years! Actually, it seemed like she had been depressed her whole life. In fact, the last time she had felt true happiness must have been the Christmas she was fifteen! Now, seven years later, it just didn't seem to matter any longer!
Autumn came awake slowly! She had slept nearly thirty hours! The sleeping pill, and nerve pills were beginning to wear off! Groggily, she rolled out of bed and made her way to the bathroom. She stumbled across the bedroom like a drunken sailor, fighting against a wave of nausea and dizziness! Lifting the hem of her gown, she just did make it in time! By the time she finished, she felt like she had lost five pounds, all of it water!
Flushing the toilet, Autumn staggered over to the basin to wash her hands! Glancing in the mirror, the scarecrow staring back at her was unrecognizable as Autumn McKenzie! Her hair was a wild tangled mess, her eyes looked huge, with dark circles under them. Her skin had the sickly pallor of a corpse! Leaning against the sink, she could only stare in shock at the creature looking back! She couldn't remember the last time she had eaten or bathed! Maybe...just maybe, a shower would help!
Stripping off the foul smelling cotton gown, the young woman turned on the shower and stepped under the stinging spray. After washing her long blue-black hair, she vigorously scrubbed her body then rinsed off! Autumn stepped out and slipped on a terry cloth robe! Reaching for a clean towel, she realized there wasn't one! She REALLY needed to do the laundry, she thought as she glanced at the over-flowing hamper!
Wrapping the cleanest dirty towel around her head, Autumn went to the kitchen to find something to eat! All that was in the fridge, was a nearly empty jar of mustard, a quart of spoiled milk and a bowl full of mold!
Snorting in disgust, she threw everything in the garbage! After putting on a pot of coffee, she went back into the bathroom to comb out her hair! By the time she was finished, the coffee was ready! Pouring herself a cup, she sat down at the small kitchen table! She looked out the window watching the few cars pass on the street! Most of those people were on their way home to supper! Reaching for a pack of stale cigarettes, Autumn lit one up with a hand that shook, as tears filled her eyes!
She had no one coming home to her...no one she cared about! Autumn had loads of friends, could call one up and do something! Yet she didn't want to! She didn't want to do ANYTHING anymore! She was tired...tired of pretending to her family and friends...tired of being alone...of FEELING alone! She just couldn't deal with it anymore!
Without realizing it, a decision had been made! Stubbing out her cigarette, draining her cup, Autumn got up, unplugged her coffee pot and poured it out. Going back into the bathroom, she ran a glass of water and took her pill bottles out of the cabinet above the sink. She looked at them thinking about what passed as her life! She felt empty inside, with nothing to fill the awful void! Her life had no meaning or purpose!
Without another thought, she took the cap off her bottle of sleeping pills. Pouring them out in her hand, Autumn took the twenty or so tiny white pills, washing them down with half the water. She did the same with her nerve pills!
Tears streamed down the face staring back at her from the mirror! "God, please forgive me!" She prayed silently, as she made her way back to her bed! The pills were already beginning to kick in by the time she got in the bed! In her weakened state, having nothing in her stomach but a cup of coffee, it didn't take long for them to affect her!
The phone next to her bed began ringing. She barely heard it as she began to drift away! She stared at the bright pinpoint of light up in the far corner of her ceiling. Smiling at the gentle voice that seemed to come from that light, Autumn felt herself drifting toward it, feeling peace at last!
"Alright now! Get out of the way! Get that pump ready! We've got a possible O.D. on our hands!" The paramedic shouted at the startled nurse, as they rushed through the doors of the emergency room!
"What about her vitals?" The doctor on duty asked as he reached for his penlight.
"Barely hanging one! If her neighbor hadn't gotten worried about her, she'd probably be dead now! The old lady said she hadn't seen her leave her apartment in several days!" The paramedic said as the worked on Autumn! "We found these in the bathroom!" He handed the empty bottles to the doctor!
"JEEZUS! She knew what she was doing, taking these two drugs together!" What on earth could have caused this young woman to want to die this badly?
Autumn came awake slowly! Her mouth felt as dry as dirt! She couldn't remember being so thirsty EVER! Her eyelids felt so heavy, and felt like they had been glued shut! Reaching up weakly, she wiped the sleep from them, finally rubbing her eyes and her face in an effort to wake up!
"Well! Good to see you're finally coming around!" The heavy set nurse said cheerily!
Autumn looked around groggily to see who was talking. She was surprised to see it was a nurse. "Where am I?" She asked, her voice raspy, her throat sore!
"Honey, you're in Intensive Care! You were brought in three days ago! We were afraid you weren't going to make it that first night! The doctor will be in soon to talk with you!" Nurse Millie's heart went out to this little girl! She was such a tiny thing for all that she was twenty-one years old!
Autumn teared up, unable to meet the nurse's kind eyes! The psychiatrist that came in a few minutes later, was kind and compassionate. He sat and talked to her once he had checked her vitals. It took several visits from him, before she began to trust him!
Autumn saw him twice a week over the next two years! With his help, she learned to deal with her depression!
Autumn never told Dr. Williams about the light she saw or the voice coming out of the light! That voice was what gave her the courage to move on! That soft warm voice was her anchor! Whenever she felt herself sliding back into her old ways, she thought about the caressing quality it had! It was Kane! Even back then, it was Kane that saved her!
Chapter 5!
Autumn studied the man sitting across from her! She thought back a few years and realized that she KNEW this man! Or she should say, she knew his voice! He had been her savior during her darkest hour! That was a period of her life only her parents and Nurse Millie knew about! Yet Kane had reached out and touched her even then!
"Autumn?" Kane tilted his head, looking at her curiously, a faint smile curving his lips!
Blushing delicately, she dropped her head, an embarrassed smile tugging at the corners of HER lips!
"I'm sorry! My thoughts drifted! What did you say?" She asked softly!
The big man didn't have a clue what he had just said! He found himself getting lost in the depths of her warm aqua eyes!
"You ready to leave?" He asked huskily! The hot look he gave her, made her fear for her fillings! She was absolutely certain they were melting!
Unable to find her voice, she merely nodded her head! Reaching across the table, he took her hand leading her from the restaurant!
They didn't talk on the drive back to his hotel. After they arrived, the striking couple silently made their way to the elevators. Kane had taken a deluxe suite on the sixth floor! Once they finally got there, Kane watched as she made her way deeper into the room, laying her small purse aside.
Turning to face the big man, she kicked off her shoes, then inched off her trousers, never taking her eyes off his. Seconds later, the tunic followed, falling at her feet in a silken pool. She stood there, wearing nothing but a bit of lace and her thigh highs!
Kane's eyes swept over her firm body! Desire filled him as he watched each move she made! He could not get enough of this woman! Even though they hadn't known each other very long, he felt as though he had known her forever!
With a slow steady stride, he approached her, took her in his arms, then carried her to his bed. It was a long time before sleep claimed them.
Kane had to go back out on the road the next day. He promised to call every night!
"This is going to be a long two weeks! I wish you would change your mind and go with me!" Kane whispered softly, gazing deeply into her eyes. His arms pulled her close as he gave her a tender kiss on her soft, willing mouth!
Autumn yielded to the steady pressure of his mouth against hers. She moaned softly, leaning into the kiss. She hated seeing him leave. Part of her would be going with him. She would be counting the days until his return. And she knew he would be coming back to her!
"Yes it will be a long two weeks, but I have to stay here! I'd like for you to meet my mother when you return!" She said softly. Reaching out a small hand, she caressed his cheek lovingly. The tender look in her eyes warmed the big man's heart.
"I'd like that very much! Autumn, I want you to think about us! Give us a lot of thought!" He studied her closely, watching her reaction.
Just then his flight called for final boarding. He had to leave! Autumn watched as the jet taxied down the runway. She stood there till the plane could no longer be seen! Only then did she leave!
After Autumn returned home, she called her mom. They had been talking for a short while when Autumn announced she was coming for a visit in a couple of weeks.
"Oh honey! That's wonderful! It'll be good to see you!" Barbara gushed, excitement over the visit obvious!
"Mom....I'm not coming alone! I'm bringing a man!" Autumn said softly. "Mom...he's WONDERFUL!"
Barbara McKenzie heard the love in her daughter's voice and silently wished her well! "Autumn, you have to tell me all about him!" And she listened as her daughter went on and on about her Kane!
Chapter 6! Autumn picked Kane up at the airport then went out for dinner. Afterwards, they went back to her apartment. Kane was looking forward to meeting Autumn's mother. The next morning, after stopping for breakfast at a small restaurant just off the interstate, the happy couple arrived at the home where Autumn grew up.
Barbara McKenzie met them at the door, smiling happily at her only daughter. "Honey, it's so good to see you!Seems like months since you were last here! Come on in out of the cold!"
Autumn and Kane entered behind her mother. The roomy house was quite cozy, with a fire burning in the fireplace. Barbara asked if they had eaten, starting toward the kitchen as she spoke.
"Mom, we're fine! Please, sit down! We have something to tell you!" Autumn said, glancing nervously at Kane. His warm loving smile encouraged her to continue. Glancing down at her hands, Autumn finally met her mothers eyes. "Mom....Kane and I are going to be married! He asked me just before he left a few weeks ago, and I accepted when he got back yesterday." Barbara looked at them both and saw the love shining in both pairs of eyes. She wished them well! Smiling at her soon to be son in law, Barbara hugged him and welcomed him in to the family.