Topic: Home Sweet Home

Inara · Date: 2005-11-06 22:32 EST

Inara had bought her house straight up, with cash to the copper, an easy feat for one such as herself. it was a large home, expansive to say the least. The debarked log cabin with a main house with two massive wings off each side. It looked like a two story home but was actually a one story with catherial cielings and massive windows along the front. Slightly behind and off to the side of the house was a large matching barn big enough to house at least a dozen horses with the same but thinner log constructed fencing making up the fields around the large cleared property.

The house itself on one side contained three bedrooms, the kitchen, huge in design with granet counters and the newest in appliances, from steel stoves to fridges and sinks. Each room had its own full bath, and a living quarter. On the other side of the house was the main master suit, huge with massive tub windows as well as a large guest room and a large private common area, for the two rooms. Window adorning the whole house both front and back so the front is struck by the easterly sun and catches it in the west for sunset. A large deck wraps the whole house.

The middle of the house had a large livingroom and den, a library and massive dinningroom for the whole house to share. But what had sold her the most was the quarters, each side easily closed off from the other for when she was entertaining, and giving her a completely seprate access so that she would not have to worry about her clients being seen.

The house would be prefect in everyway, already the beds were made up in silk sheets and furniture brought in, leather of course, with throws and soft pillows. curtains and blinds all hung and trinkets from her travels here and there. Her closet already full of gowns of silk and velvet insense and candles, and oils and powders adorning every nook and crany of her room. Her stable already had a half dozen horses in it, fine saddles and bridle, thick warm winter blankets and leather halters, and harness gear with a large carriage was stored away inside as well.

She would need to have hay delivered, fences painted before winter and the barn prepared for it as well. The yard needed some tending and the house would need a thorough cleaning, but for the most part, she was very happy with her new purchuse, now all she needed was someone to tend the yard and the horses and she would be all settled indeed.

Alatariel · Date: 2005-11-07 12:18 EST

Alat?riel rose early on Monday morning and packed up all her belongings in two large, fabric bags. Making sure that none of her personal items were left in her small room, she went down the stairs, checked out of her apartment, and went to the barn. She spent an hour grooming, feeding, and tacking up Jewellstar, the horse that had been given to her several months before by a certain Lord whom she not chose not to think about.

She tied her travel bags onto the saddle, mounted the horse, and began the journey to the address that Inara had given to her. The journey didn?t take very long, and soon she was at the home. It was a magnificent home for this area. ?What do you think, girl?? she said to her horse, ?It?s no Wakefield castle, but it sure does beat the crap out of where I?ve been living for most of my life.? She giggled, ?And I better be careful with my language. I?m going to be living in high society now.? She bent down over the neck of Jewellstar, gave her horse a kiss between the ears, then rode up the drive to the barn.

When she had dismounted and loosened her bags, she walked up to the impressive front door of the building and knocked. This was going to be the beginning of a new life for her. She was both excited and nervous at the same time. She couldn't wait to start cleaning and cooking meals.

Inara · Date: 2005-11-07 14:30 EST

Inara swept across the main foyer of her new home, stepping to the door and pulling open the thick oak and smiling brightly at Alat?riel, "Alat?riel, welcome, come in," she motions the young woman in and closes the door behind her, "welcome to my home, your home, so long as you chose to stay, let me show you around." She moves to show the young woman the house, including her wing, explaining that the right wing of the house she will not need to worry about Inara would tend that herself in order to retain the privacy she would need in her job. She guided the young woman back to her room, the big king-sized bed, over stuffed and very soft, made up with silk sheets. Oak dressers and bedside tables with hanging lanterns and a large oak foot locker was at the foot of the bed as well as a large wardrobe tucked in the corner and white lace curtains adorn the windows all over looking the back property and the stream and horse pastures sprawling behind.Large french doors lead out onto the deck behind the house and give her her own entrance and exit in the room.

"I hope it is all to your liking, feel free to change anything you like."

Alatariel · Date: 2005-11-09 06:19 EST

"To my liking?" Alatariel was simply overwhelmed. "This is just unbelievable! I can't believe this is my room!"

Ali dropped her bags to the floor and went over to the bed and just plopped down upon it and giggled. "It's so soft!"

She then went to the French doors and opened them and looked outside. "Inara, it's like paradise. Thank you so much!"

She came to Inara, "I'll get changed and start my work right away. I'll keep everything clean and not approach the right wing. Which two meals did you want me to prepare for you? I need to begin thinking about menus. Oh, and please let me know early if you'll be having any guests eating with you so that I can prepare the correct portions."

Inara · Date: 2005-11-09 08:14 EST

Inara smiles brightly at the young woman, reaching out to brush a hair from her face, "No need to start right away, take sometiome, get to know the place, the meals will be fore the most par breakfast and supper," she shakes her head, "no one will be eating with me, just the two of us," she adds and smiles softly, "if there is anything, anything at all that you need, just let me know. I have a tab at most of the buisnesses in town, so you can just pick up any foods or cleaning matrials, just about anything you could need, just leave it in my name and I'll pay for it later."

Alatariel · Date: 2005-11-09 13:47 EST

Alatarial was totally in awe of Inara.

How could this woman have so much money and power and influence? And she was so beautiful and refined - and so in control of her life. Alatarial wished right there and then that shewould be just like Inara some day.

Ali blushed slight as Inara touched her hair, even the lady's hand felt so good and soft.

"Thank you, Inara. I'll just look around and see what supplies I should pick up. Then I look to the barn and brush down the horses. And I'll have supper ready for us this evening." Ali looked down and did a slight curtsey.

Inara · Date: 2005-11-09 13:51 EST

Inara smiled softly and reached out to lift the girls chin, "Thank you, please, as long as you are in my home, you are my guest and my friend, you needen't ever lower your eyes or dip to me," she smiles, "Take your time and see me if you need anything," she steps back, collecting the edge of her skirt and slips away down the hall, happy to finily have someone to give her a hand, and what a sweet girl, she had no problem helping her in anyway, if she wanted to learn to be a lady, she would help her in anyway.

Alatariel · Date: 2005-11-10 04:22 EST

Ali combed out Inara's horse with extra care. She wanted Inara to be pleased with her work.

She then went shopping for the food and cleaning supplies that she would be needing. She couldn't stop thinking of Inara. She wanted to be just like her and have her own business. She didn't know what business Inara had, but that didn't matter. Important people would come to see her, so it must be important business. She couldn't wait for dinner to get to speak with Inara once more.

Garry Bradstreet · Date: 2005-11-11 16:47 EST

It was several days after he had last seen Inara in the Inn, and one day fewer than that from whence Alatariel had begun her employment at Inara's home and business establishment, that Garry Bradstreet came riding up the drive and brought Warrior to a halt between the house and the barn.

He had completed his previous plantation job the day before, and now he had arrived to make repairs to Inara's fence as he promised he would. After all, a promise is a promise; and a promise made by Garry Bradstreet is as good as gold.

He dropped some fencing off the back of the horse and brought the steed to the barn for watering and to keep him out of the sun. Garry put the fencing over his shoulder, and then bent down to pick up the bag that contained his tools - mallet, nails, planes, a small crowbar, and a saw - plus a few other odds and ends such as a tape measure, a pad, and something pointy to write with.

He walked straight to the back of the house, not even bothering to knock upon the door. For all he knew, Inara could be up to her neck (or some other body part) in the satisfaction of a client, a business proposition that he shuddered to even think about.

Inara was a beautiful and fine woman, but Garry had no intention to let his heart become lost to a woman who's daily "To Do" list was, for all practical purposes, a list of men and women who needed to be done.

He went out back to the fence, inspected the problem areas, and set to work. He was soon hammering and sawing and sweating up a storm with his shirt already discarded from his body and hanging from a broken branch stump about six feet up on the trunk of an oak. It was happy work, and his toned and muscular body glistened in the sun as he whistled a tune in cadence with the strokes of his saw.

Inara · Date: 2005-11-11 17:48 EST

Inara slipped from the house at the sound of work being done in her yard and smiled brightly, she had longed to see Gerry, few would speak to her the way he did, and she enjoyed that. She loved her job, but it was a lonely career, and she missed the company of normal folk from time to time. On top of which, he had endeared himself on her heart, a feeling like she had never had.

Sure she had been with many men, but none had she loved, she hardly knew what love was, on occasion she had thought on taking offers of remaining with certain clients, but she had always passed it up. She pushed a stray lock of hair behind her ear and watched him, so much she had longed to hear his voice and speak to him again, but their paths had not crossed in many days. She had thought for while that he had decided not to fallow through, but remain with the woman on the plantation, she couldn't believe her joy that he had not and she pushed back the sleeves of her red and gold robe, a pink silk dress below.

She slipped back inside to head for the kitchen, searching for Ali, wanting to prepare some lemon aid for him, wishing to make him more comfortable. She had over a week before her next appointment, her next commitment, and she wanted to spend as much of that time as she could with Gerry, there was something about him, something that had dissuaded her from bringing him to her bed. She didn't want to sully this relationship, she wanted it to be different, and not just based on the fact that she would bed the highest paying customer.

Alatariel · Date: 2005-11-11 19:54 EST

Alat?riel was sweeping the second floor hallway when the sound of hammering wove its way through the French doors of her bedroom, which she had left open; and though her bedroom door to the hallway, which she had also left open. It?s always good to have air flowing when one is sweeping woolen carpets with a straw broom.

?Now what in the world can that be?? she mumbled as she set the broom against the wall and went into her room to look. Her eyes followed the sound of the hammer all the way to the man who was standing at the fence, shirtless?perfect.

?Holy shit,? she mumbled in awe, not really thinking or caring about her language at the moment. ?Who are you?? She dared not go onto the balcony lest she been seen gawking at him, and instead just looked from her position of half-way hidden behind one of the French doors. That lasted for all of about a minute before she took the dare to the balcony and stood there watching with her hands glued to the railing. He was without a doubt an extremely impressive figure ? a very hot, impressive figure who was sure to need a drink.

Alat?riel ran back into her room, then to the hallway, then back into her room again to look at herself in the bathroom mirror. She pinched her cheeks red, straightened her hair in the ponytail, and smoothed out her cornflower blue dress that she was wearing. She had a good figure and she tightened the dress?s belt to make sure her figure was accented as much as it could be in that dress. Ali thought about putting on her green gown, but that would be ridiculous. What girl in a formal gown would be bringing a drink to a laborer? Still, it was tempting with first impressions and all.

She ran down to the kitchen and had the lemonade already made and on a tray when Inara found her in the kitchen.

Inara · Date: 2005-11-11 19:59 EST

Inara entered the room in a sweeping step, seeming to glide over the floor and smiled when she saw the tray and the state of the girl, "I see you saw Gerry," she smiled, "he's the one I told you about who would be around to do our handy work," she pointed out with a gentle smile and offered to take the tray.

Alatariel · Date: 2005-11-11 20:10 EST

Oh, yes. She remembered that Inara had said that a man might come and do some repairs. Alat?riel was disappointed that she wasn?t going to be able to bring the drink to him. ?He looked hot, ma?am. You know, like he was sweating?it?s so hot and humid.?

She stopped talking and just handed Inara the tray. ?I guess I should get back to work now,? she took a step backwards toward the main part of the house, ?of course, unless you think I should meet him. Only because he's working here and he might need to ask me for something some time. Then he would know who to ask. That's all I mean.?

Then a thought came to her. ?Will he be staying for dinner?? she asked, trying not to sound so anxious or hopeful.

Inara · Date: 2005-11-11 20:15 EST

Inara laughed, "Would you like to meet him?" She nods, "Come on, I'll introduce you," she moves to lead the way back through the house, "and please call me Inara, not ma'am, I feel like my mother when you do that," she added in good humor glancing at the girl, "he is pretty hot isn't he," she adds as she gently nudges the young woman, and smiles at her, "You should see him in uniform. As for him staying for supper, he might be, if I can convince him he will be staying for good for sometime, so you'll have lots of time to get to know him."

Alatariel · Date: 2005-11-12 02:02 EST

"YES!" she said, then realize that perhaps she was a bit too enthusiastic. "I mean, yes, that would be nice. It's always good to know who it is who is working nearby and who will probably want to eat dinner with us, and who may even want to stay the night."

Ali giggled and blushed when Inara mentioned that this stranger was 'hot,' and the mention of the uniform set her imagination reeling. "He seems to be rather pleasing to the eye, but I'm not a good judge of such things. I've never even kissed a man, so what would I know."

Ali followed slightly behind Inara as they went out to the man. She was sure he wouldn't even notice her when Inara was around. She felt so inadequate. She found herself once again wishing that she could be just like Inara.

Inara · Date: 2005-11-12 09:08 EST

Inara smiled softly and approched Gerry, the tray held delicatly between her hands. "Good afternoon Gerry, thank you for deciding to come out and help out around the house. Ali and I thought you might like a coll drink. Ali, this is Gerry, Gerry I'd like you to meet Ali, shes helping me out around the house."

Garry Bradstreet · Date: 2005-11-12 11:22 EST

Garry Bradstreet didn?t see the women approach until they were nearly upon him. He stopped whistling his song, straightened up, dropped the mallet and wiped his sweaty hands on his pants. He had not forgotten how beautiful Inara was, but seeing her again made all his memories seem like cheap forgeries. In short, she took his breath away.

?I didn?t realize how hot it would be today. The drink is most welcome.? He reached for the glass, but his eyes never left Inara?s face. He smiled, ?Thank you,? and gave her a wink.

He took a sip, and only then did he really notice the young lady in the cornflower blue dress whom Inara had introduced. She seemed to be standing shyly behind Inara. ?Pleased to meet you, Ali.?

Alatariel · Date: 2005-11-12 22:53 EST

He addressed Alat?riel just as she happened watching the way beads of perspiration rolled down his perfectly smooth and muscular chest. She immediately raised her eyes to his. ?Pleased to meet you also, Gerry Barechest?BRADSTREET!? Her palm went to her forehead after she tried to correct herself. ?Oh God, did I just say that?? she thought to herself.

?Umm?nice job you?re doing on that fence. I noticed how hot you are from my bedroom balcony up there,? she pointed to the balcony and realized what she just said the blush continued to spread across her face. ?And?I think I better be getting back to work.? She added to herself, ?Before I say anything else that is absolutely, ridiculously stupid.?

Inara · Date: 2005-11-12 23:31 EST

Inara smiles softly at the young woman and then at Gerry, the smile softening slightly, she couldn't blame her, Gerry was very good looking, but it was his smooth completely uninhibited way of speaking to her, as if she was just someone else, rather then someone well to do, that she enjoyed the most, "Would you take the tray back in with you please Ali?" She offers her the tray and smiles at Gerry, "It is very warm, will you be staying?" She asked a glimmer of hope in her eye, "I have a spare room made up for you, and I can have a cool bath drawn for you as well for when you are done out here," she stated, "One wouldn't want to get caught sweating in the company of women," she grins playfully.

Garry Bradstreet · Date: 2005-11-13 02:44 EST

Garry couldn?t help but smile at Ali?s expressions. There was something about her in that soft blue dress and the way she wore her hair that was wholesomely refreshing and sexy at the same time. He finished his lemonade; his thirst practically demanding all that the glass had to offer. He wiped his mouth with the back of his hand. ?It?s Garry, Garry Bradstreet.?

He turned back to Inara when she invited him to stay. He looked up at the house, then back to her. ?As long as I wouldn?t be an imposition,? he finally said with a smile, ?or interfere with your business, I?d love to. I figure one more day and I?ll have the fence finished. Then I?ll get out of your hair.?

He called out to Ali, ?Ali! Please. Would you take this glass in with you also?? When she reached for the glass he looked into her eyes and gave her a wink. ?See you up at the house.?

Garry walked over to Inara and stood very close to her ? close enough that she could feel the heat of his body. ?I think I might have a lot more sweating do to before this day is over.? He stared at her for several moments before he turned, bent down and picked up his mallet, and went back to work on the fence.

Inara · Date: 2005-11-13 10:03 EST

Inara smiled softly at his closeness, wanting to reach up and kiss him the way they had in the inn, but as he turned from her she sighed softly, looking towards the house. "I'm sure there are a few other things around that could use your hand, and I was hoping I could talk you into remaining on with me, to help with the horses and the barn, but that would of course be up to you," she looks back at him, her dark eyes intranced in the movment of his body for a minute. "You are never an imposition," she adds softly.

Alatariel · Date: 2005-11-13 10:58 EST

Alat?riel took the glass from Garry, touching his hand as she did. ?Yes, I?ll see you at the house,? she said with a smile, then turned and walked away so that Garry and Inara could be alone.

She walked quickly, anxious to get back inside and away from him. What chance did she have to attract such a man? None at all. ?Inara is so poised and elegant and perfectly irresistible, doing and saying all the right things. What do I do? I call him Garry Barechest and tell him he?s hot! Sheesh, Ali, why don?t you just strip off your clothes and walk around on all fours!?

She opened the kitchen door and went inside. ?I shall just have to be completely aloof and act like he?s not even there, lest I make even more of a fool of myself ? as if that?s even possible.?

She finished sweeping the hallway then went to the kitchen to begin dinner preparations.

Garry Bradstreet · Date: 2005-11-13 14:44 EST

"I'll have to think about it," he replied regarding her offer. "I'm not sure in what direction my life is to take. If I do stay, it would of course be on a temporary basis, but I do appreciate the offer." He had more lofty aspirations than being a laborer in a rich woman's home, although the thought of being near Inara was quite attractive. Still, he would want to be a man she would be proud of. How could she ever want to be with man who mucked out stalls for a living?

Garry went back to work and didn't stop until the sun was about to set in the western sky. All the time he worked he thought of Inara. Why is it that the one woman he meets that he could truly fall in love with has to have the profession of courtesan?

He put his tools away and decided to take care of Warrior after dinner. He then went into the house and was shown his room. An hour later he was washed and had dressed in the new clothes he had recently purchased with the money he had made from the plantation job. Garry followed the aroma of dinner to the dining hall.

Inara · Date: 2005-11-13 19:13 EST

Inara stepped into the room, smiling softly, dressed in a velet deep blue dress and soft slippers as she moved to head for the table. Long and ornate the ash table was beautiful and thick, the chairs well stuffed and she moved to take a seat at the head of it to await the others.

Garry Bradstreet · Date: 2005-11-14 03:12 EST

Garry walked into the dining room. He saw Inara and smiled as he walked over to her. He stood behind the chair she was seated in, placed his hands upon her shoulders, bent down and placed a kiss upon her cheek. "Thank you for your hospitality, Inara."

He saw the setting that was obviously for him, and he sat down at the right side of Inara. "Dinner smells wonderful."

Inara · Date: 2005-11-14 07:28 EST

"Yes it does," she nodded and smiled brightly at him, "thank you for coming, I had worry you would not," her dark eyes met his as she reached out to cover his hand with her delicate one. "I fear I would have been very upset at the prospect of never seeing you again," she added as she watched him, "no one could be as stimulating to be around as you," she added softly, her eyes lingering on his lips for a minute before she sat back slightly.

Alatariel · Date: 2005-11-14 14:07 EST

Alat?riel worked at a feverish pitch to get both dinner and herself ready. The first course would be slices of tomato soaked in a vinegar dressing with parsley on top and brochette cheese on the side. The main course would be slices of beef marinated in a wine sauce, topped with sliced baby mushrooms and gravy. Asparagus and sweet potato were the vegetables. Side dishes of a raspberry-cranberry sauce and small sweet rolls were already prepared.

Everything was either already prepared and set aside or in some stage of cooking when she ran to her room. She quickly washed her face and hands, combed her hair and put it up, slipped on her green velvet gown with white lace (the only true gown she packed when she left Wakefield), and put on a little makeup.

She went back down through the back stairs in into the kitchen. As she put on her apron she peaked though the door and saw that Garry was already sitting at the table, talking to Inara and looking too good for words. She closed the door and went to work.

The sweet potato was already cooking, but it was time to put on the asparagus and take the beef strips out of the marinade and into the hot pan. She picked up the bottle of Cabernet wine which she had opened earlier to allow it to breathe for an hour. She stopped and took a deep breath, ?Okay, Ali,? she said to herself, ?you know what they say, ?Good timing has a lot to do with the outcome of a rain dance.??

Then she walked into the dining room.

?Good evening, Inara?Garry. I hope you both have good appetites. I thought we?d start off with the wine, then I?ll bring in the first reserve.? She poured Inara?s glass and then walked over to Garry and poured his. ?I keep trying to fatten Inara up by about fifty pounds, but so far it?s not working.? She grinned and gave Inara a wink over of the top of Garry. She then went to the opposite side of the table, to Inara?s left, poured her own drink and sat down and waited.

Inara · Date: 2005-11-14 14:17 EST

Inara grinned at Ali, "Yes, I do try my dear, but even with your good cooking I can't seem to put on a pound," she touches her flat tommy and grins, "I'll just have to eat more," she jokes, "but then what man would have me?" She chuckled and picked up her drink, sipping it.

Garry Bradstreet · Date: 2005-11-14 15:42 EST

Garry just laughed, "Inara, there isn't a man in his right mind in all the land who wouldn't want to have you." He meant that too. He wanted her so badly he hurt in the pit of his stomach, yet he would not pursue it. To be in love with a courtesan is a sure formula to drive a man either to madness or to murder, and he didn't need to make his life more of a mess than it was already.

He lifted his glass of wine, "I propose a toast! To the two most beautiful women in all of Rhydin. May your lives be filled with good things, wonderful friends, and dreams that come true. Cheers."

He sipped his wine and looked from Inara to Ali. "Excellent choice of wine. I can't wait to taste what this wine will compliment." He smiled at Ali, noticing how she had changed into a velvet gown. Damn but she was beautiful - in a different way than Inara, but just as beautiful; and a figure that made it difficult to keep from staring.

Inara · Date: 2005-11-14 15:50 EST

Inara smiled at the compliment rising her glass in his toast sipping the drink. She smiled softly looking down at the place setting in front of her, then up at Gerry again, noticing the look he was giving to Ali, and glanced at the other woman, for the first time in her life feeling a streak of jealousy that she kept deep inside. She would gladly give up everything in that moment to have that look back on herself, but she had a feeling her job had again got between her and someone she was actually attracted to, but this time she was actually willing to give up the job to be with him. She quickly pushed the thought away and nodded her agreement to Gerry's words. "Yes, I agree, I can't wait to taste something else, your cooking is exceptional."

Alatariel · Date: 2005-11-14 17:16 EST

Alat?riel felt a warm blush flow through her body from head to toe, and she was sure it was more from Garry?s look than from the sip of wine she had taken at his toast. She knew the dark green of the velvet gown brought out the green of her eyes, and those green eyes couldn?t stop looking at Garry.

Inara?s words brought her out of her trance. ?Thank you for the compliment, Inara. If I didn?t cook, I think my father and I would have starved years ago; and since we lived in isolation on a mountain, it was always a challenged to make game and the vegetables from our little garden taste good. Then when I was in residence at Wakefield I spent a good many hours learning the finer art of proper cooking for high society. I better stop my blabbering and get the first reserve for us.?

She set down her wine and excused herself to the kitchen. Nearly immediately she came out with two plates of the red tomato slices soaked in a special vinegar dressing with a parsley garnish on top and with thin slices of brochette cheese on the side. ?This is just to take the edge off your appetites so that you can savor the main course. That?s a mistake many people make. The main course should be savored and enjoyed slowly, and therefore never eaten when one is too hungry to take one?s time.?

The plates were set in front of Inara and Garry, and then she stood back. "I?ll be eating mine in the kitchen so that I can finish the meal preparations. You two enjoy yourselves.?

She really didn?t want to be away from Garry, but even more she didn?t want to ruin the main course by getting caught up in the conversations and losing track of the time.

Garry Bradstreet · Date: 2005-11-14 18:54 EST

"This looks wonderful, Ali. I haven't eaten like this in...well, in just about forever." He gave her a wink.

When she left the room, he looked over to Inara and reached across the table for her hand. "I do recall one special dinner that might come close to this," he said softly, and gave her hand a gentle squeeze. "Of course nothing compares to a home cooked meal, but the ambiance was rather nice..." he leaned closer and whispered, "...and the woman I was with was simply exquisite."

He smiled and stared a long time into her dark eyes before releasing her hand to begin to enjoy his dinner.

Inara · Date: 2005-11-14 19:00 EST

Inara smiled softly, "I don't much remember the meal, as I was too busy paying attention to the man who was with me," she answered softly and gently moved her hand to entwine her fingers in his. "Forgive me, no offence to the chef that night, but it was you who took my breath away," she breathed and smiled at him, her fingers moving to brush over his brow. "I wish you would stay," she states softly, "I truly do, you would make me very happy."

Garry Bradstreet · Date: 2005-11-15 01:04 EST

"I wish I could stay too, Inara," he said, then looked down at his plate. "But if I do, I'm not going to be the kind of man who will hold your interest for very long. I need adventure. I need to make something out of my life - something I can be proud of, and something you could look up to."

He made a twisted smile of resignation, knowing that it will be very difficult for him to leave her.

Inara · Date: 2005-11-15 07:32 EST

"I do look up to you," she breathed and leaned on her hand as she ate slowly, "without you making something out of your life. I'm sick of living with dignitaries and princes, I long for the company of just a man for once," she answered and took another delicate bite.

Garry Bradstreet · Date: 2005-11-15 11:17 EST

"'Just a man'", he said with a curt laugh. "You've got that right. I can see that on my tombstone - 'Garry Bradstreet - he was just a man'."

He finished up the last slice of cheese on his plate. "For once, I want to be something more than that; and so help me, one way or another I'm going to do it."

Inara · Date: 2005-11-15 11:31 EST

Inara blinks in shock, that's not what she had meant at all, and she lowered her gaze to her plate, poking at the remnants of the meal before finally slipping them between her lips, chewing in silents. She slowly lowered her fork to the plate and and picked up her glass, sipping the wine, deciding it might be best at this point to just shut up, he seemed to be quiet determined to ignore her advances now. Far be it for her to push herself on him, besides, it wasn't her place, she had never been the pursuer before.

She licked her lips and watched her glass as she swirled the liquid inside around the glass, watching it cling slightly to the sides and smiled softly, her dark eyes calm and serene.

Alatariel · Date: 2005-11-15 12:35 EST

The door to the kitchen swung open and in came Alat?riel in with a tray containing three plates of food and miscellaneous side dishes. ?Oh dear, it looks like my first reserve gave you all indigestion. Maybe I should go back in the kitchen and make the beef well done; give you two a little more time.?

She set the first plate in front of Inara, then stepped over to Garry and set his plate in front of him. ?What I want to know is who was the first person to say, 'See that chicken there? I'm gonna eat the next thing that comes outta its butt.'"

She grinned, hoping to make the atmosphere a little lighter, then moved over to her own seat and set her plate down on the table. She set out the side dishes, ?These are hot sweet rolls, and this dish is a jelled raspberry/cranberry sauce that goes great with the saut?ed beef, complimenting the taste and texture.

Desiring to change the subject from whatever the droll subject might have been, she looked across the table to Garry and asked, ?So, Garry. How?s the fence coming? I?ve always said that fences need to be horse high, pig tight and bull strong. What do you think??

Inara · Date: 2005-11-15 13:03 EST

Inara smiles softly at Ali's words, "Everything looks great hun," she answered softly and picked up her fork to start into the meal, chuckling softly at the words, Ali may want to be a lady, but she could talk like a farmer. Inara kept to herself for now, better to keep her mouth shut then risk another off handed remake from Gerry about her life style. It was very obvious the man wanted nothing to do with it other then to get the job done, and she wondered silently what had changed, thinking to herself, she should have kept her job to herself.

Garry Bradstreet · Date: 2005-11-16 02:29 EST

I could see the difference in Inara?s demeanor, but what could I do? If I stayed here with her, I?d soon fall in love with her ? hell I was nearly there already. If I fell in love with her, I?d want to marry her. If I married her, I?d want her to quit her courtesan profession. If she quit her profession, we couldn?t afford the home ? or much else. She would be forced to go back to work. I couldn?t live with that, and our marriage would be a disaster. The only way it could work would be for me to make my fortune, and at twenty-four years of age, this was the time to start.

Now Ali was something else all together.

I almost choked on my wine when she mentioned the next thing to come out of the butt of a chicken. She?s so sweet and innocent that she can get away with comments like that. So I just had to respond, ?Well then, who was the first person to look at a cow and say, "I think I'll squeeze these dangly things here, and drink whatever comes out?" We all had a good laugh and I welcomed the change in mood.

The meal was delicious. Not only was it good food, but the preparation was perfect. When Ali mentioned about the proper building of a fence, I was truly impressed. Not only was she incredibly beautiful, but she seemed to know far more than she should at her age.

So I looked at Inara and said, ?I don?t think there?s anything she doesn?t know how to do??

Inara · Date: 2005-11-16 07:54 EST

"A perfect reason for me to keep her around," she answered with a smile and nodded . "Everything is great as always Ali, thank you," she added and brushed a straying hair back into place.

Alatariel · Date: 2005-11-16 11:15 EST

Alat?riel beamed as she replied, ?Thank you. You are both being far too kind. But no, Garry, I?m certainly not good at everything. For example, I really suck at what Inara does. No matter how hard I?d try, I?d just blow it every time.?

She looked at the shocked expressions she was getting. ?What?s the matter? Not everyone can be good at business. Handling so many clients, keeping business matters straight, finances, politics, legalities, handling all those important people; I just don?t know how you do it, Inara. I?m really impressed.? She cut a piece of asparagus in half and sucked the head of it in through her lips, completely oblivious to what she was saying and ignorant of Inara?s actual profession. ?What?s wrong? Not everyone can have a business head,? she looked to Inara, ?but I?d really love to have you teach me just a little bit of it. I?m always looking to learn new things.?

She tilted her head, buttered her bread, and looked back up. ?Oh! Just wait ?til you see what we have for dessert!?

Garry Bradstreet · Date: 2005-11-16 13:49 EST

Garry literally choked on his sweet potato when Ali said she?s not good at what Inara does. He was still coughing into his napkin when he realized that she really had no idea what Inara?s profession actually was.

He recovered and finished off the wine that was in his glass. ?Ali, you know, you can?t be good at everything. It?s probably just best to concentrate on what you?re already good at. Isn?t that right, Inara??

He took the bottle of wine and refreshed everyone?s glass.

Inara · Date: 2005-11-16 15:58 EST

Inara nodded, "Absolutely, but I have no problem helping in teach Ali how to be a lady, she has asked me to do so," Inara answered softly and smiled at Ali, "As for business affairs, that's a little different, but goals are good," she pointed out and sipped her wine.

Alatariel · Date: 2005-11-17 10:50 EST

Ali began to remove the dinner plates. When she got behind Inara she couldn't resist putting her arms around her at her shoulders and giving her a kiss upon the cheek. "You are so good to me. Thank you for this job, and for being willing to teach me to be a lady."

She released Inara and took all the plates into the kitchen. Then she brought out the hot apple pie. "It came out of the oven only an hour ago, so it's still warm on the inside. I picked the apples while you were working on the fence, Mr. Bradstreet. Just to make sure you didn't mess up the job." She gave him a wink, cut slices of pie and set plates in front of each of them.

"Okay...enjoy!"

Garry Bradstreet · Date: 2005-11-17 12:01 EST

Garry chuckled, "Well, I hope I passed the inspection. Or at least that the fencing did."

He closed his eyes and smelled the apple pie, "Mmmm, do you ladies eat like this all the time? If so, I might just have to take a little extra time with that fence."

Inara · Date: 2005-11-17 22:30 EST

Inara smiled, "Anything to keep you near Gerry, but actually, she is very good at keeping me well fed, so yes I we do eat like this always, but far be it for us to corral you in. What with being in a hot house of female emotions," she joked, trying the pie. "This is great Ali, I wish I could cook half as well as this, but where I excel at being a lady, you excel at cooking, you'll attract men more then I ever will with that skill. The way to a man's heart is through his stomach."

Alatariel · Date: 2005-11-18 12:09 EST

"I don't know about that, Inara, but I do hope you're right."

Ali smiled, stood up, and began to clear the table. "I'll be in the kitchen for a while, then I've got some work in the stable, so I'll say good night to the both of you and let you enjoy the evening."

She smiled at Garry and brought a load of dishes into the kitchen. After the table was cleared she went to her room to change into work clothes so that she might keep her one gown reasonably clean.

Garry Bradstreet · Date: 2005-11-18 18:32 EST

When Ali left the room Garry stood up and walked behind Inara's chair and pulled her chair for her. "Care to take a walk? Or perhaps you could show me around your home?"

Inara · Date: 2005-11-18 19:01 EST

Inara smiled softly at Gerry, "I would love to," she nodded standing and moving to lay her hand on his arm, "So where would you like to walk, or can I show you your room?" She asked softly.

Garry Bradstreet · Date: 2005-11-19 11:39 EST

He looked down upon her beautiful face and smiled, "Show me anything that you'd like. It's a lovely home and I haven't seen much more than my room and this diningroom."

He laid his other hand upon her's and allowed her to lead. "You've really done quite well for yourself, Inara. I'm very impressed."

Inara · Date: 2005-11-19 16:29 EST

"It helps to have scrimped and saved," she answered and smiled softly, "I was able to differ the cost of this place with the selling price of my last." She moves to lead him through the house to the study, "I think its a beautiful home, but it seemed very lacking until you arrived," she added. "Dinner tonight, you seemed to have something on your mind? It's me isn't it, my job," she stated softly once they were in the room alone and away from the rest of the house.

Garry Bradstreet · Date: 2005-11-19 16:49 EST

His dark brown eyes looked into the depths of hers, ?I would never judge you or ask you to stop doing what you obviously enjoy and which gives you a lucrative income at the same time. You must meet many fascinating men and women, and have experienced more variety in your life than I will in all my years to come.?

He walked over to read the titles of some books on a shelf. He spoke as if narrating a sad tale to no particular audience. ?I?ve only known one girl. Her name was Katie. She was a freckle-faced cutie with dimples, long auburn hair, and a mischievous nature which could find fun in almost any situation. We had plans to get married when I got out of the army. That was to happen five years ago. She died when I was nineteen and she was seventeen. ?The sickness? that went through the town had paid her home a visit, killing Katie and her little brother. That?s the sum total of my love life. So I stayed in the army another five years trying to get over my hurt.?

He returned a book to its place in the shelf and turned back to Inara. ?I could so easily fall in love with you, Inara; but we are as mismatched as day from night, and I want you to be happy.?

Inara · Date: 2005-11-19 17:00 EST

"And you assume my job is what makes me happy," she answered softly watching him. "That I would rather not settle down with someone. To tell you the truth Gerry I have reached a point in my life where I would give up all, to know love. I'm not sure what I feel around you Gerry, but I know its like nothing I have ever felt before. But I would not want to ever hurt you."

Garry Bradstreet · Date: 2005-11-19 22:43 EST

Garry came forward and took Inara into his arms. She felt so good and she smelled so good, and she looked more beautiful than any woman he has ever known; and he wanted her. If he were to give in to his emotions, he?d fall in love with her this very evening and never want to leave. It was a decision that would take more thought.

?Inara, I don?t ever want to hurt you either.? His hand moved through her hair and he placed a kiss upon her lips. He pulled back and touched her cheek, ?There is much that I need to think about.?

Inara · Date: 2005-11-20 10:07 EST

Inara smiled softly, "Take your time Gerry, in the mean time as I said, I would love you to stay, I have work that needs doing and there is no reason you should have to travel back and forth," she answered, moving to lead him from the study and into the back hall heading for his room.

Alatariel · Date: 2005-11-20 11:45 EST

Alat?riel da Firenze noticed Garry and Inara in the back hall as she was coming back into the kitchen with her work clothes on. She knew where they were going ? upstairs, to the bedrooms.

She hurt inside, and in the midst of doing the dishes and scrubbing the pots, her emotions came to the surface and she started to cry. She would scrub a pot and rub a tear away with her shoulder, and at times with the back of her hand. She would rinse a dish between sniffles. ?You?re just a damn fool, Ali,? she muttered to herself. ?Why in heaven?s name would Garry want me when he can be with someone as beautiful and refined as Inara? Just forget about it Ali, you know that life is simpler when you plow around the stump, and it?s time to quit trying.?

She picked up a towel and began to dry the dishes while still mumbling, ?It don't take a genius to spot a goat in a flock of sheep, and Ali girl, you?re the damn goat.? She put a dish away and picked up another. One after another the dishes were put away, and Alat?riel went from crying, to being angry at herself, to resignation to crying again. ?Why am I even doing this? I?m no housemaid. I belong back in the mountains. I should be hunting and fighting and sleeping between the roots of a tree. All this fancy, dancy stuff and what does it get you? Just doing dishes while the guy you want is up in the bedroom with another woman. It sucks.?

She finished the dishes, cleaned up the kitchen and dining room until they were both spotless, then she went out to the barn. At least she could seek comfort with Jewellstar.

Inara · Date: 2005-11-20 13:01 EST

Inara left Gerry to his room, slipping away before he could say a word to her and headed down through the house. She saw the young girl leave the house and was silent to fallow her out into the chill, pulling on a cloak as she went and into the barn. She slipped up behind Ali and gently reached out to brush the young woman's hair back from her shoulder, "Ali?" She could see the tears and smiled softly, moving to gently pull the woman's hair back and up. "I think he would like you most with your hair up, you think? And I have a great little dress that you would look absolutely stunning in. Do you know how to dance?"

Alatariel · Date: 2005-11-20 13:39 EST

Ali was startled from her thoughts as she was brushing Garry's horse, then saw that it was Inara standing behind her. She felt embarrassed and wiped at a tear. "Sometimes the hay and dust causes me to tear up," she said with a sniffle. "I don't know why it does that at times."

Inara's touch felt good and she could understand why Garry liked to be with her. If she were a man, she'd want Inara too.

Inara's kind words nearly got her crying again. She sniffled and shook her head, "No, I don't know how to dance." She shrugged, "I never even had anyone to dance with."

Inara · Date: 2005-11-20 14:31 EST

Inara smiled brightly at her and removed a silk cloth to dab at her cheeks and brushed her hair from her face, "I can teach you if you'd like, then you could take Gerry to the winter social, they must have one around here, a new year dance," she smiled softly and reached out to rub the horses nose gently. "I think you two would make such a cute couple."

Alatariel · Date: 2005-11-20 15:08 EST

Alat?riel?s frown turned into the brightest smile. She threw her arms around Inara and hugged her. ?I just love you, Inara. I?ve never met anyone like you.?

Ali kept holding her, ?I never knew my mother, but I would hope that when she was young and beautiful, that she would have been just like you. I would love to have you teach me to dance. Do you really think Garry would go to a dance with me??

Inara · Date: 2005-11-20 15:35 EST

"I think he would yes," she nods and grins, "I would love to teach you to dance," she took a slight step back. "We'll start tomorrow morning, for now I think I will head back inside for the night and get ready for bed. Supper was great as always, thank you hun," she again brushes a finger through Ali's hair. "I'll see you at breakfast."

Garry Bradstreet · Date: 2005-11-20 17:17 EST

Garry was conflicted when Inara left his room so quickly. He had expected her to stay at least a short while, but perhaps it was best that she didn't. He didn't know what to do.

He sat upon the porch off his bedroom and thought about thing for a good half hour. Here he was in a home with two beautiful, single women, and he was alone and lonely.

He looked up into the starry fall sky at Pegasus, and then remembered that he hadn't bedded down Warrior. He slipped his boots back on and headed down to the barn.

Inara · Date: 2005-11-20 18:00 EST

Inara slipped from the barn and outside once more, crossing the darkened yard, looking up when she saw Gerry approching, and partially curtsied, "Ali's inside tending your horse. She has quiet an eye for you, a lucky girl and very bright to be so intrested in someone as kind as you. Gerry, don't go against your heart, if I make you uncomfortable, then you should keep looking for that right person. Goodnight Gerry," she slipped passed him to head back to the house and her room.

Garry Bradstreet · Date: 2005-11-20 21:59 EST

(From rp)

After dinner Garry sat on the porch and rocked in a chair for about a half hour, then realized that he never put Warrior to bed. He got up and walked to the barn, passing Inara on the way. Her comments seemed strange to him. Perhaps she wasn?t very interested in him, or perhaps she didn?t really want to end her career as much as she had said in the study. He didn?t know, and he was beginning to think it was a mistake to come here, even if he did give his promise. If Ali was tending his horse he wanted to get to the barn. She shouldn?t have to do that after all she did for dinner.

Alatariel saw Garry's horse tied to the outside of a stall and decided to take care of him first. She got her horse combs and started to brush with the curry comb, bringing the dirt to the surface; then with a brush, she brushed off the dirt. "Good boy. You're a good boy," she said as she brushed his back.

"Thank you," Garry smiled as he entered. "I try."

She smiled back, "I didn't mean you. I meant your horse. I hope you don't mind that I'm taking care of him, but you left him in the middle of the barn."

He came up behind Ali and reaching around her he rubbed his hand over the horse. "Mind? No, I appreciate the help. So does Warrior."

She liked having Garry so close. To keep him there she gave him the brush and she picked the curry comb back up. "We can work together, but then you have to help me with Jewel and Jewellstar. Inara and I have horses with nearly the same name. Strange, huh?"

Garry Bradstreet: He took the brush, "Yeah...it is." He used the brush and went to work, running it down Warrior's coat. "So, you know about horses too?"

"Of course, grew up with them." She combed the area next to where Garry just brushed, keeping close enough to touch him. "My father was a famous Knight Marshall. He took care of me for nineteen years, teaching me everything about survival, animals and fighting. I can use a sword better than more men, and using a bow or throwing knives, I always hit my target." She looked up and winked. "And if you don't think so, I'll challenge you anytime."

He smiled and looked into her beautiful green eyes. "Well, I'm not so bad myself. I don't have a bow, but I do have a knife. Let's see what you can do after we finish with Warrior."

"Deal!" Ali grinned from ear to ear. "Hope you're not a poor loser. Here's the bet. Winner gets one request of the loser. We each get three throws, and the closest to the center wins." She doubted she'd need more than one throw.

"One request, huh? Let's see, maybe I'll have you carrying all those fence posts for me. Or maybe you can shine my boots for a week."

She elbowed him in the stomach. "Keep working and stop your dreaming. You're not going to win anyway."

He continued to brush the horse, reaching over Ali's shoulder at times. Sometimes her hair in that ponytail would touch his face. It was soft and smelled good.

Ali bumped him with her hip. ?Not that way!? She grabbed the brush out of his hands. ?This way. Use two hands and wrist movement. You brush like a girl, Mr. Bradstreet.? She handed the brush back to him.

?Well, excuse me, Ms. Firenza.? He reached one arm around each side of her body and brushed as she told him. ?Like this,? he spoke softly in her ear.

She closed her eyes and leaned back against his body. ?Yes, now you have it perfect.? His voice and breathing was so close it gave her shivers.

Garry Bradstreet · Date: 2005-11-20 22:00 EST

Garry leaned his cheek against her hair as he brushed, ?I?ve never enjoyed brushing Warrior this much before.? When they were finished, he brought Warrior into an empty stall and fed him. Then came out, closed the door to the stall and looked at Ali. "Okay, so where's this contest to be held?"

AlatarielFirenze: She went to where the new fence posts were being stored and stood up a new fence post against the corner of the barn, near where the hay was stored. There was a knot about six inches down from the top. She then backed up about twenty feet. "Okay, we throw from here."

Garry Bradstreet: "You're kiddin. This must be twenty feet. No one can throw a knife accurately that far."

"I can. You go first. Let's see what you can do."

He gave her a doubtful look, then took his knife from his boot and carefully aimed it. He tossed it and it hit the post a few inches off to the right side of the knot, ricocheting off the post and into the hay.

AlatarielFirenze: "Close, Mr. Bradstreet, but no cigar with THAT throw."

He gave a her look and retrieved the knife and came back to the throw line. "Must have been all that wine. Besides, I told you, this is too far." He aimed and the second through was right on line, but just over the top of the post.

She giggled, "Aw, I thought for sure you had a bulls eye with that one. That's too bad."

He frowned and got his knife and returned. "Okay...watch this." He took careful aim and let the knife fly though the air. It stuck into the center of the post, about two inches below the knot. "There you go! Beat that one!" He grinned, knowing that was a damn fine throw.

She smiled, "Not bad, but if you insist, I'll just have to do a little better." She took the knife from the sheath in the belt of the pants that she had changed into. She felt the balance, looked at the knot, and without hesitating she let the knife fly to the post. The blade thudded into the post and vibrated to a halt. It was embedded in the knot. "Opps, looks like I won't need a second shot."

He eyes were wide. "I...I can't believe it. How did you do that?"

She giggled, "I don't know. I just aim for the middle." She giggled some more as they went for their knives. "When you grow up on a mountain with no one around but your father, there are not a lot of distractions. Nearly every night we'd have contests either of knife throwing or archery, or whatever else we could think of. You tend to get pretty good after years of that." She pulled his knife out and handed it to him. Then pulled out her own.

Garry Bradstreet: Garry took his knife from her. "You tricked me! You hussled me!"

AlatarielFirenze: "Did not."

Garry Bradstreet: "Did too!"

AlatarielFirenze: "Ah...do we have a bad loser here?" She started to poke him with tickles.

"I'm not a bad loser! I was just...outmatched from the beginning. It was unfair." He began to tickle her back, and soon they fell into the hay that was stored in that corner.

Garry Bradstreet · Date: 2005-11-20 22:02 EST

"Ahhh!" she let out a playful scream and tickled him, but noticed that she was getting the worst of the tickle match.

He landed on top of her and took advantage of his tickle position.

"Wait! WAIT!" she yelled, giggling at his tickles. "I get my one wish!" She grabbed his arms and could feel the strength of his muscles beneath his shirt. She looked up into his eyes and melted at the smile upon his face and the way his hair came down over his eyes. She had seldom been this close to a man, but she liked it ? too much. She wanted him even closer.

He stopped tickling her and suddenly realized that he was on top of a girl he hardly knew. But she was beautiful and she was fun and full of life. "Okay...I always keep my word. You get your one request. What do you want me to do? Tomorrow's dishes? Make breakfast?"

Her hands moved to his shoulders. God, he was strong. "Kiss me."

He looked down on her, his eyes wide with surprise. "What?"

AlatarielFirenze: "Kiss me," she said, barely more than a whisper, for even she could not believe she was asking for such a request.

He looked at her full, youthful lips while moistening his own. "As you wish, milady," he whispered as he moved his mouth toward hers. The kiss was soft, gentle...sensuous.

She moaned softly and moved her hands up to his head and through his hair.

He slipped his arm beneath her head and continued the kiss. When she didn?t pull away or protest, he slowly deepened it.

Her lips pressed and moved against his, her hands moved through his hair, grasping it as she moaned and slowly parted her lips.

He felt her lips begin to part, and his tongue found it?s way into her mouth, and they kissed deeply for a very long time, with many sighs and moans and touches.

Inara · Date: 2005-11-21 08:21 EST

Inara slipped into the house, yes she had in someway fallen for the young man, but she knew he would have a hard time getting over her job and it would break Ali's heart if she did. No she had all the companionship she needed, let Ali have her chance, she would very much enjoy teaching the young girl to dance, she liked her very much and would love to see Gerry and Ali together, she would gladly give them both room and board, let Gerry work where he wished, it would be like having a family again, something she has not had sense she was a child.

Inara slipped into the house heading for her wing and locking the doors behind her as she went before heading into her room and stripping out of her dress, carefully releasing her hair to let it fully spill over her shoulders. She went through the process of getting ready for bed, removing makeup and changing into a silk dressing gown. Once she had done that she moved to slid under the covers stifling a yawn, in the morning she would have to look into getting a new client. Settling on her pillows she let sleep steal her from her thoughts.

Inara · Date: 2005-11-21 08:31 EST

Cross Post from Back to Here

How beautiful, the woman stretched out in her bed, thick warm sheets of silk and satin around her the comforter raised over her hips, her breaths light and gentle. She had not stirred, had not realized she was not alone, never felt his presents as he watched her, eyeing the gold and red dressing gown before he slowly reached out. His fingers touched the soft warm cloth before he slowly started to pull the sheet from her body, exposing her to his gaze until he could see the milky cream of her legs and she slowly stirred under his gaze, feeling the change in blankets.

Her eyes opened slowly, those deep brown pools of beauty and glittering light, reflecting that of the candles around her. Her eyes saw him, but at first did not comprehend what she saw, what it was that this stranger was doing in her room. The follies of selling her body for money, he smiled as her eyes suddenly went wide and she rushed to scramble back as his sword rested against the exposed flesh of the 'V' cut negligee.

"Who are you? What do you want?" Inara hissed, her eyes going to the silver shinning blade, knowing without touch that it would be terribly sharpe.

"You shouldn't sleep so soundly, one might come in and hurt someone as pretty as you. But then again, in your line of work, you'd probably like it now wouldn't you?" He questioned moving slowly, reaching towards the edge of her nightie and gently tugged it low over her arm as she shivered at his touch.

"There are two others here, if I scream they'll hear me," she hissed.

"No they wont, you have done quiet well with this house, if they did hear you, the doors are locked and no one can get to you. Besides, if you scream I'll cut you," he grinned.

"What do you want?" She asked again her brown eyes full of fear and anger.

"I'm looking for someone, and your going to tell me how to get to him," he answered moving his blade so it brushed the flat lightly over her flesh and smiled softly as he moved beside her, his fingers brushing down over her shoulder towards her covered chest, his fingers moving slowly, "You entertain nobles for a living, entertain me," he whispered in her ear.

"I'll tell you nothing," she hissed a second before he moved away from her and loomed over her.

"You will, the elf you had in your bed the other night, you will tell me how to get to him."

"I wont," she snapped, "I'll die first."

He backhanded her hard, sending her into her sheets, the beautiful woman curling slightly around herself as she raised her hand to her lip, her fingers coming back with blood on them. "The idea isn't for you to die, the idea is for you to answer my questions and I will leave quietly," he answered and watched her. "Now, the elf."

"I don't know what you speak of, I entertained a lord that night," she answered looking up at him.

His anger flared and he swung his blade at her, the sharp steel slicing her arm and she cried out, her hand rushing to cover the bleeding wound. He reached out, grabbing her hair and yanking her head back and laying the sword under her chest, "I will cut you apart piece by piece."

"Earendur, his name was Earendur, but I know nothing about him," she gasped.

"I think you know more then you realize, who did he confess his love for, hmm? Someone special in his life, his wife perhaps? Where is she, what does she look like, hmm? Tell me," he snapped yanking a little harder against her cry of pain again.

"Eiellani, she's to be betrothed to another, she's an elfess, a blond woman, smallish, she carries a child," she gasped, her mind recalling over the hours she had spent with the elf. "She's with a lord now, you wont get to her," she cried, tears of pain streaking her face.

"Now see, was that so hard?" He grins and lets her go, throwing her to the bed once more, "Now, I'm going to ride out of here, if you raise any alarm, I will come back and finish what I started here, and I can do that," he snapped and laid the sword under her chin forcing her to sit up once more or risk being cut. "Tell me you understand whore, tell me you will do as your told. Swear it."

"I swear," she answered, teeth grit.

"Good girl," he stepped back and sheathed his sword turning and leaving the room. Inara sobbed, quickly covering the wound on her arm once more, staying where she was for the longest time, listening to the sound of his horse leaving.

Witgro kicked his horse along, there was one place all people eventually came, and he would be waiting as he turned his horse for the local inn and tavern.

Inara · Date: 2005-11-21 10:51 EST

Inara waited till the sound of the horse had disappeared, and even then she did not move for a few more minutes. She sat in the silent dim lit room her breaths ragged, her hand covering the wound as blood slicked her fingers. Finally after what felt like a life time she moved from the bed heading through the house to the kitchen, pausing to look at the wound in real light.

She sighed softly with relief, the wound was not deep and thankfully not very wide. She sat at the counter to clean the wound then worked on covering it and wrapping her arm carefully before touching her lip and wincing. Picking up the cloth she dabbed at that wound too and sighed softly as she stood, still shaking slightly, she had never been through anything like that. The thought occurred to her to get a dog before she slipped away and headed back to her room, securing every door as she went.

Once she was sure the house was locked up tight she put some water on for tea and settled on her personal couch. Still shook up she wouldn't get anymore sleep that night.

Alatariel · Date: 2005-11-21 12:51 EST

Never did Alat?riel have a day with so many ups and downs in her emotions. She and Garry had kissed and hugged, giggled and laughed, teased and spoke soft, caring words for about an hour, then they stood up and brushed the hay off themselves. She couldn?t believe that Garry actually stayed with her and helped her with the care and bedding of the other horses. He was absolutely amazing in her eyes. He never tried to take advantage of her and he never made her feel uncomfortable. Since she left her father?s home, she had not seen a man of such integrity.

When the barn chores were finished, they put out the barn lights and walked hand-in-hand up to the house. Garry had asked if she would like to sit on the porch swing for a while and she replied that it would be very nice. Alat?riel cuddled into the crook of his arm and they sat there for another hour, gently swinging and talking about their lives and aspirations. Then the night became a little too cold, and they went inside.

He kissed her goodnight at her bedroom door and she watched him disappear into his own room down the hall. Ali went into her room, closed and locked the door, and just leaned her back against it, lost in pure happiness.

When she had slipped under the covers she grabbed her pillow to her chest and pretended it was Garry. She was no expert, but his kisses were incredible. He was so?masculine! His mouth tasted like sweet wine and her lips still tingled from the intensity of their kissing; her face was a little red around her mouth from the rubbing of his face on hers.

She touched herself in ways that relieved the desires he had created in her, and fell asleep with ?Garry? in her arms.

Garry Bradstreet · Date: 2005-11-22 01:33 EST

Garry rose early, washed up and put on his work clothes. Over his shirt he pulled on a deep forest green wool sweater. It was fall and the mornings would often be cold. He went out to work, whistling and feeling great.

He couldn?t get Ali out of his mind. Everything about her appealed to him. She was sweet, beautiful, innocent and very much a woman. On the other hand, she was extremely fit, strong, and evidently, if what she had said on the porch was true, she could handle weapons as well or better than even the most accomplished fighters. She was an amazing young woman and she was quickly capturing his heart.

Perhaps forever.

He went to work on the fence, but his mind was on Ali. He couldn't wait to see her again.

Inara · Date: 2005-11-22 09:15 EST

Inara woke a little late and sighed softly, her arm ached but had stopped bleeding through the night. She slipped from her bed and went through her clothing tugging out a long sleeved silver dress that would leave her shoulders exposed. The skirts swept about her feet, the corset style top and good fit around her arms would keep most of her wounds from slight. She paused to carefully color her lips and somewhat cover the split on her lip, and the deep bruise. Once she was sure she had done all she could she moved to head for the dinning room, after breakfast she would have to try and contact the young prince and warn him of the impending danger.

Alatariel · Date: 2005-11-22 11:02 EST

Alat?riel awoke to the sound of distant hammering. She slowly got her bearings, and then she remembered, ?Garry!?

She hopped out of bed and went to the doors that led out to her balcony. Ali stepped onto the balcony and waved, calling out, ?Breakfast will be in one hour!? Her words condensed in the cold morning air, but the sky was clear and the day would soon be warming up. She saw Garry wave, so she knew he got the message. Then she realized that she was standing on the balcony with nothing on but a thin chemise.

Ali ran back inside, washed up, dressed in a white blouse that showed just enough cleavage, and a deep blue pleated skirt that came just over her knees. She put on her house slippers and left her room.

She was down in the kitchen within thirty minutes. Soon she had biscuits cooking, twelve strips of bacon thickly sliced, and a dozen eggs being whipped up in a bowl. It would not belong before the smell of breakfast would waft through the house and yard. She wondered if she should awaken Inara.

Inara · Date: 2005-11-22 11:08 EST

Inara slipped into the dinningroom dropping into the chair at the head of the table and stiffling a yawn, she sighed softly as she waited for Ali, hopeing the coffee would be strong today.

Inara · Date: 2005-11-22 11:08 EST

Inara slipped into the dinningroom dropping into the chair at the head of the table and stiffling a yawn, she sighed softly as she waited for Ali, hopeing the coffee would be strong today.

Garry Bradstreet · Date: 2005-11-23 01:40 EST

Garry finished up the section of fence he was working on and headed up to the house. He came in the back kitchen door and saw Alat?riel at the stove. He came up behind her and slipped his arms around her waist and gave her a kiss upon her right cheek. ?Ummm?what wonderful aromas are coming from this kitchen? I think you have all of Inara?s neighbors within a 50-mile radius salivating right now.?

He held her tightly and rested his cheek against her hair. His words were soft, ?I haven?t stopped thinking about you.?

Alatariel · Date: 2005-11-23 11:07 EST

Alat?riel leaned back into Garry when he placed the kiss upon her cheek. Her eyes closed and the spatula nearly slipped out of her hand.

She turned and hugged him, ?I haven?t stopped thinking of you either,? she said softly with her head leaning against his shoulder. She then gave him a teasing shove, ?But if you don?t let me finish the breakfast, the only thing the neighbors will be smelling will be burnt eggs! Get on upstairs and get ready for breakfast. You?ve got fifteen minutes to get your butt back down there. So hurry!?

Ali went back to work on the breakfast and got everything off the stove and into silver containers that would keep the eggs, bacons, and biscuits hot. She peeked into the dining room to see Inara sitting there. She immediately got the coffee pot and brought in a silver tray with a cup of coffee, sugar and cream. ?Good morning, Inara!? She set down the tray and put the coffee in front of Inara, fixed just the way she liked it.

Alatariel was about to go back into the kitchen when she noticed that Inara?s lip looked swollen. She bent down and looked closely. ?Inara, your lip! What happened??

Inara · Date: 2005-11-23 12:01 EST

Inara blinked a couple of times to draw her thoughts back to the present and smiled softly, "Its nothing, particularly rambucsious dream, took a spill from my bed, lest it wasn't my eye," she joked, and leaned on her hand, "How'd last night go with Gerry?" She asked as a way to draw the attention off of her lip.

Alatariel · Date: 2005-11-24 11:42 EST

?It went very well; but here, let me see that lip,? she said as she moved very close to inspect Inara?s lip, gently moving her finger over her lip. Ali has been around enough to tell the difference between the marks caused by a fall and those caused by a hand.

?I have something that will help the healing,? she said, reaching into her apron and pulling out a small tin of ointment. ?I?m always burning or cutting myself, so I keep this handy.? She put a little ointment on her thumb and began to move her thumb over Inara?s swollen lips. They are such sensuous lips. No wonder men love them, she thought as she watched her thumb move over those lips.

?If you?re going to fall out of your bed, maybe I should tuck you in at night.? Ali knew that this must have happened in the house sometime during the night. She should have been there to protect her mistress. She would keep more aware for now on.

Inara · Date: 2005-11-24 13:18 EST

Inara smiled her eyes on Ali's watching her and seeing the looks she chuckled softly, "Or prehaps rope to tie me in with," she joked, "not something that happens very often, I wouldn't worry about it," she added and let Ali finish before speeking again, "Thank you, is a foolish little thing to doute over, it will heal in a day or two, amasing thing the human body, it heals very quickly," she grinned. "So when do we start those dancing lessons, hum?"

Alatariel · Date: 2005-11-24 14:28 EST

Ali finished the application of the ointment and put the little tin back into her apron pocket. At the mention of her dance lessons she giggled and gave a cute little jump of excitement. "How about after breakfast. I've got the house clean, and Garry will be working on the fence, so that will be a perfect time!"

She swished her backside back and forth in pretend dance steps, her arms moving up and down as she headed back toward the kitchen to continue with breakfast.

Inara · Date: 2005-11-24 18:03 EST

Inara smiled softly and watched Ali go before picking up her coffee and sipping at the hot liquid as she thought over the lie and the look in Ali's eyes. Finily she smiled again and sat back in her chair and waited for the beautiful woman to return with their breakfast.

Inara · Date: 2005-11-25 08:31 EST

Inara stood after their breakfast smiling at Garry, "Have fun repairing, were going to go lady talk," she hooks Ali's arm and guides her from the room heading for her quarter and to her room.

Ali giggled and waved goodbye to Garry. "See you later, Mr. Bradstreet." She followed Inara. "I've never seen this part of the house."Inara's room is lit brightly by the sun streaming in her window, the room is dressed in curtains of gold red and black silk and smells richly of rose and lavender. "It's so beautiful!" she says, her eyes wide as she looks around. "Mmm...I love the scent in here."

"I keep it secluded to do my work," she answers with a smile at the compliment, "Incense."

"I love that smell. I've never seen incense before." Inara moves to pick up an unburned stick and offers it to her.

Alat?riel takes the stick and smells it. "This is so nice."

"You burn it and it releases the smell into the air," she offers her three more, "take them."

"Thank you! I want my room to smell good too, just in case a certain man should wander in," she said with an embarrassed giggle.

Inara grins and chuckles, "I prefer the smell of fresh air most of the time, but its a nice change especially in winter," she answers and moves to cover the half made bed.

"You should let me make your bed for you," she said, seeing the bed half made.

Inara grinned, "I'm capable of doing it, there's no need of you cleaning every mess I make."

Alat?riel nodded, "Okay, but I wouldn't mind. You do so much for me."

Inara shook her head and chuckled then looked around, "Now then, music," she moves to the old phonograph and records leafing through them.

Alat?riel came up behind Inara and watches, not having seen a phonograph. "That will give us music?"

Inara grins and looks back at Ali, "Oh yes," she chooses a record and places it on the turn table and carefully moves the needle into place, immediately the room is full of music of a waltz.

Alat?riel looked over Inara's shoulder, her hand resting on Inara's back. "I feel so backward. I'm such a country girl...and worse. We never had anything we couldn't make for ourselves. Okay...what do I do?"

Inara grins, "Garry is just a country boy, I'm teaching you this for the party," she answered and straightened looking at her. "Lets start with where you stand, feet together, your hand in mine, other hand on my shoulder," she guilds her into place as she lays her hand on Ali's hip.

Alat?riel looked down at her feet and placed her right hand in Inara's and her left hand on Inara's shoulder. "Like this?"

Inara nodded, "Perfect, now listen to the music, its, 1 2 3, 1 2 3, 1 2 3," she counted the beat of the music as it played.

"This is not like the music played in the taverns." She listened carefully, mouthing the numbers nearly out loud.

Inara laughs at her words, "Your not partying at a tavern, your partying at a dance. Now going to start with your right foot, my left, and your going to step back, then feet together, then front and feet together. Ready?"

Alat?riel nodded, "Okay...I think so," she said, looking at her feet. She has nervous laughter as she gets reading to start. She notices how soft Inara's hand is compared to her own. Inara grinned and started to move, slower then the music, but the right pattern guiding her through the moves. Alat el's feet begin to move, all in the wrong directions, nearly tripping Inara up within the first few second. Ali puts her left hand to her mouth and laughs. "I'm sorry! I'm so terrible! Garry is going to think he's dancing with a blind mule!"

Inara laughs, "Its okay, lots of time, Garry will think no such thing. Try again, feet together." She offers her her hand once more.

Alat el's hand again moved to Inara's shoulder, her right hand squeezes Inara's left. "Okay, I think I'm ready."

Inara grins, "Take your time, ready, go," she moves her feet slower this time to give her time to move.

Alat?riel concentrating very hard, she begins to get the steps down. "This is not easy. But you know what they say - every path has a few puddles." She giggled, "I think I'm stepping in them all."

Inara chuckles, "Its very hard to teach a body moves, its not the same as memorizing written word, its teaching the body to remember moves."

"I don't know how you are so good to even do the man's part. I hope that I can be like you someday." She tries to dance without looking down, so she looks at Inara's face, still concentrating and mouthing 1 2 3.

Inara grins, "Don't rush it, we have weeks to go, lots of time, if it helps to look down for now go ahead, I've spent a lot of time in the company of men and at many dances."

Alat?riel is stubborn and tries to not look at her feet, and sure enough, she steps on Inara's toe. "Oh my gosh!" she laughs and hugs Inara. "I'm so sorry! I'm such a klutz!"

She winces and laughs as she bounces on one foot, "Its okay, that's why we never learn to dance in our bare feet," she laughed, "You should have seen my poor dance instructor my first time, I broke her ankle," she laughs and straightens.

"You broke her ankle!" Ali laughed so hard she nearly fell. "Okay...okay..." she caught her breath, "...I'll do it right this time." She again put her right hand in Inara's left, her other hand on Inara's shoulder, and began to dance.

The lady grinned and chuckled as she danced with Ali, "Yep, got my foot behind hers, tripped her and she landed wrong, swore she would never dance with me again."

Ali put her head close to Inara's, "Well, I think you are wonderful to dance with. It would be a very lucky man to get to dance with you. Garry is going to be a very unlucky man to have to dance with me!" she said with a little giggle.

"We'll see, time for a turn, right foot first, ready?"

Alat?riel nodded, "Okay...I think so. "Inara smirks and moves to guide her into the turn happily.

Alat?riel doesn't turn gracefully, but makes it around. "This is harder than I thought. Don't they do easier dances at these society parties?"

Inara grins, "There are guided dances and square type dances, and some more open dances where you just move with the music, but those can be even harder."

"Really? I think the one where you just move with the music would be easier. I should be able to do that with practice."

Inara grins again, "tell you what, we'll try the turn once more then call it a day and start again tomorrow, you can practice on your own between now and then."

Alat?riel watches Inara as they move, wondering how she can be so graceful and smooth. "Okay, that sound like a good idea. I don't want to take all your day up."

She smiles softly, "Okay, once more, turn, right first, ready?"

"All set!" Inara guides her into the turn again carefully. This time Alat?riel does it much better. In spite of her protests, she is quite coordinated and a
fast learner. "There!" I think I'm getting it."

"Yes you are," Inara laughs, "your doing great, okay, that's enough for today, now," she turns and picks up a book and hands it to Ali, "here."

"What's this?"

"Something for you to wear around the house," Inara answers

"I have to wear a book? It's a bit small," she laughs.

Inara grins, "Like this," she takes the book and places it carefully on her own head then cross the room and back without it moving before removing it and laying it on Ali's head, "It takes lots of practice."

Alat?riel blinked. "I have to walk with a book on my head?"

"It will teach grace and flowing movement," she laughed and nodded.

Ali smiled, "I'll try." Her face suddenly took on a more serious expression. "Can I ask you something? It's kind of personal."

Inara nodded, "Of course, anything," she motioned the girl to the velvet couch and moved to sit herself.

Alat?riel sat down on the velvet couch with Inara, and looked down into her hands. "Earlier you asked how things went with Garry." A smile came to her lips. "It was wonderful, but I'm scared."

"Scare?"

"I know nothing about being with a man. The only boy who tried to get to know me when I was growing up - I knocked him out with one punch." She giggled. "He pulled my hair."

Inara grins and sits back, "Now that is a broad subject and expanding many years, maybe I should switch books" she reached for a different book, this one black leather with a strange writing on the outside, though the inside is written in english. She offers it to Ali.

"What's this one?" she asked, her heart pounding, thinking that she knows.

"Its called karma sutra, and its about energies and ideas and positions, but it will only teach you that, your heart must guide you the rest of the way, and his kindness, if he pushes you, or is not gentle when the time comes, I will be forced to hurt him," she smiles wickedly at Ali.

She opens the book to a random page and looks. Her eyes go wide. "Ohmygosh!" She closed the book. "Inara, I don't know if I can do this! I mean, last night we kissed...and it was wonderful." She had a dreamy look. "He was so nice and we kissed until my jaw hurt! I'm just afraid of what comes next."

"He mustn't push you, it must be in your own time, when you are ready and not the other way around. Just take your time and move at your pace."

Alat?riel nodded. "It's not that I didn't want to be closer. I was so...well, you know. I just want to be able to please him."

She grinned softly, "That will come, given time. Besides, its much easier to please a man then it is a woman," Inara grins, "trust me. A woman need only be there for a man to get what he wants. It is a true test of his worth to see if he sees to your wants and needs first"

"If he had wanted me last night, I don't think I would have stopped him. Maybe that is what scared me."

"Tell him to slow down Ali, if that is how you feel," she answered gently.

Alat?riel took Inara's hand in hers and looked into her eyes, "Inara, I feel that I want him! Completely! That's what scares me. I want him and at the same time I worry that he won't like that he gets from me. " She gave a heavy sigh. "Well, thanks for listening to my silliness."

Inara grins and reaches out to cup her cheek in her hand, "You will be fine, and he will love you, now take your books, and practice my little dove, practice practice, practice."

Alat?riel smiled and gave her head a quick nod, then put her arms around Inara and gave her a big hug. "I love you, Inara. I'm so glad you chose me to work for you. It's the best thing to happen to me."

Inara grins brightly, "I love you to, I hope you stay, like having a little sister," she grinned, "Go, before he notices you missing for so long," she moves to turn off the music.

Alat?riel takes her books and moves to the door. "Thank you, Inara. I'll see you later."

"Have a good day sweetie," waves her off.

Alatariel · Date: 2005-11-29 11:08 EST

Ali went to her room with the two books that Inara had loaned her, and closed the door behind her. She put one book on her hand and opened the second. When she saw pictures of exotic animals, she knew she had the books mixed up.

She put the other book on her head and began to walk around the room while examining the Kama Sutra book. "Whoa...this is....AWFUL!!" she said slapping the book closed.

No sooner did he have it closed than she had cracked it open again and began to look at the drawings with great interest, all the while walking around the room witht he book on her head.

A half hour later she had already stubbed her toes twice, wakled into the wall three times, and fell over her boots which were sitting on the floor. Laying on the floor, she blew a strand of hair out of her face and sighed. "Learning sex can be dangerous! How do I learn to have safe sex?"

She stood up, put the animal book back on her hand, and continued to look at the drawings.

Garry Bradstreet · Date: 2005-11-30 12:43 EST

(Posted from roleplay with permission)

A cold front was coming through from the west, bringing dark, ominous clouds. Garry finished the section of fence he was working on and put away his tools. He got into the house just in time. The rain began to fall and rumblings could be heard in the distance. He bathed, shaved, applied a bit of a fragrance, and put on clean clothes. He didn?t see Alat?riel downstairs, so he knocked on her door.

Ali was still walking around her room with a book upon her head and the Kama Sutra book open in her hands. She had noticed the bad weather arriving and wondered where Garry was. The knock on the door startled her. The book dropped off her head, then she fumbled the Kama Sutra book and that fell to the floor too. ?Oh shit!? she said, dropping to her knees to pick them up.

Garry Bradstreet: He listened through the door. ?Ali, are you alright? Can I come in??

AlatarielFirenze: ?YES!? she shouted out. Garry opened the door and came in. ?NO!? she said, seeing him enter, gathering the books into her arms, still on the floor.

?I thought you said yes,? he said.

?I did! But no! I mean, yes, I?m alright; no don?t come in!? She walked on her knees trying to push the books under the bed.

?What have you got there?? he asked.

AlatarielFirenze: ?Nothing!?

?Nothing? Wait?they?re books. I didn?t know you could read. Let me see what you?re reading.?

?NO!? she said pushing them behind her back and sitting there on the floor, her back to the bed. "Of course I can read. What else do you think a girl does when she's stuck on a stupid mountain for 19 years with her father. We read, dammit."

?C?mon?let me see," he responded, laughing at her words. He got down on the floor with her, reaching quickly on one side and then on the other. Then he started to tickle her.

That?s when the wrestling match started.

They wrested and giggled and tickled ? until the first lightning strike about a mile away. The rain began to beat against her balcony doors and winds in sheets. Ali grabbed his hands. ?I love thunderstorms.?

Garry Bradstreet: ?Me too,? he said with a smile.

They stood up and walked to the door and watched the storm. Garry stood behind Ali and rubbed her back and shoulders with his hands. Ali?s eyes closed and she leaned back against him. She slowly turned and reached her arms up around his neck. She looked into his eyes and lifted her 5?10? frame up, bringing her mouth hard upon his, kissing him with such hunger.

Garry wanted Ali as much as she wanted him. Strong arms wrapped around her, then hands moved over her body, feeling her strong, trim body with his hands; feeling her ample breasts pushing against his chest. He backed her up towards her bed.

She back up with his leading, then realizing his intentions she practically pulled him with her. An hour of looking at drawings of lovers had not gone to waste on her emotions. She wanted him.

When they bumped against the bed he pulled his shirt over his head and tossed it to the floor. ?I want us to be close,? he whispered, ?with nothing between us.?

Her hands shook with nervousness and anticipation, but she managed to undo the buttons on her blouse and lay it on the bottom of the bed. ?I want that too,? she whispered, placing her lips against his.

He loosened his belt and let his pants fall, then helped her with her pants, all the while kissing her.

She removed her undergarments and laid them also on the bottom of the bed, then looked upon into his eyes as he removed his, afraid to even look.

Garry pulled Alat?riel close to him, now feeling their naked bodies pressed together. ?I love you, Ali,? he whispered against her lips.

Garry Bradstreet · Date: 2005-11-30 12:46 EST

?I love you, too. Since the moment I stood on the balcony and saw you out back by the fence, I?ve loved you.? Her hands moved over his smooth body, feeling his strength, moving her hands over his muscles. He smelled and felt so damn good, and she placed kisses upon his chest.

He moved his hands up and felt her breasts, and let out a soothing sigh at her kisses. ?Well, dear love, from the moment you called me ?Garry Barechest?, you had me captured.? He chuckled.

She giggled. ?I can?t believe I did that. I was so embarrassed.? She felt his hardness against her and found herself reaching down. Her heart was pounding in her chest as she placed her hand around him. ?Oh my,? was the involuntary gasp that came from her lips.

(The following has been edited)

They were soon beneath the covers of her bed, making love in the room darkened by the storm outside, flashes of lightning and the booms of thunder accenting the fiery emotions that were being released inside Ali?s bedroom. She found that she didn?t need the Kama Sutra book after all. Everything came so naturally. He was so gentle and loving.

?I love you so much,? she whispered to him as she laid on his chest after their lovemaking. Her fingers moved against his face and played with his hair.

?I love you the same, Ali,? Garry responded. His right around was around her, while his opposite hand stroked her hair. After a while he spoke again, ?Ali, I know I don?t have much of a job right now, but I?m going to. I have plans to start a trade business and get myself a ship; maybe several.?

?That would be wonderful,? she said softly.

?Ali, I want you to be with me. None of it means anything without you being there by my side.?

She lifted her head and looked into his eyes. ?What are you saying, Garry??

He took her face in his hands and looked into her gorgeous green eyes, ?Ali, will you marry me??

She couldn?t believe her ears. She stared at him in shock. All this was so sudden. They had just met, and yet she knew he was the one. If she said no simply because of standing on traditions, she might risk losing him, losing the love of her life forever. In truth, she already knew that she wanted to be Alat?riel Bradstreet. That sounded so good to her. She smiled. ?YES! Yes I?ll marry you, Garry Barechest!?

They kissed and held each other and slept together all afternoon, snuggled in her bed, listening to the rain, dreaming of the future.

Alatariel · Date: 2005-12-01 11:11 EST

The storm lessened in its severity and became just a heavy rain when Alat?riel awoke in Garry?s arms in the late afternoon. She nuzzled against his neck and felt his arms respond to her. ?Mmmmm?this is so nice,? she moaned with her eyes closed, her fingers running through his hair.

She heard her stomach growl. ?I?m getting hungry.? There was silence for a moment. ?OH NO! Oh shit, what time is it?? She lifted herself off his chest and looked at the clock. ?I?m late! Damn, dinner is going to be late and Inara is going to kill me!?

She sprang out of bed and got dressed quickly, combed her hair, put it back up in the ponytail and headed for the door. She kissed Garry and said, ?See you downstairs!?

Alatariel · Date: 2005-12-02 10:49 EST

Ali prepared dinner quickly, cutting and chopping, baking and mixing. She was glad when Garry came down to help her. She gave him the salad to do. Actually, it was kind of nice to have him there at her side.

Everything was fine until Ali stuck her nose out the door between the kitchen and dining room and noticed that Inara brought home a guest. She closed the door quickly and put her back to it.

GAVILEAN!

Inara · Date: 2005-12-03 14:02 EST

Inara stepped into the kitchen, her heels clicking on the flooring, and all but running into Ali, putting out a hand to quickly stop the young girl from falling, "Oh! Ali dear, what ever are you doing leaning against the kitchen door?" She asked as she made sure Ali was standing before removing her hand from her back.

Alatariel · Date: 2005-12-06 11:16 EST

?What am I doing? What is HE doing here??

Words started pouring out of her mouth as fast as they could come. ?My father sent me to old coot Wakefield to become a lady and the old coot wasn?t an old coot he was young and gorgeous and he was Gavilean and he didn?t know how I felt and he chose that Madison and I go so mad I left him and ?,? she finally took several breaths, ??he?s sitting in our dining room!!?

?Come, Garry. There is someone I want you to meet.?

She grabbed Garry?s hand and dragged him out into the dining room. She came up behind Gavilean and gave him a swat on his shoulder. ?Well, well, who do we have here? If it isn?t Lord Gavilean Wakefield.? She held onto Garry?s arm. ?Garry, this is Gavilean. Gavilean, I?d like you to meet my fianc?e,? she said with an air of ?so there you big jerk?.

She proudly stuck her chin up in the air as if she were a high society lady. ?For you?re information, Lord Gavilean, I?M soon going to be Mrs. Barechest.?

She saw the shocked look on Gavilean?s face, then realized what she had just said. Her face went a bright red. ?Dinner. Yes. It?ll soon be here.? Without saying another word she turned and pulled Garry back into the kitchen, completely embarrassed. That just did not go the way she had envisioned it.

Inara · Date: 2005-12-06 11:23 EST

Inara tried damned hard not to laugh, her fingers laying lightly on her lips at the whole thing before looking at Gav and shrugging. He had been right, Ali wasen't pleased to see him. Grinning she turned and headed back into the kitchen, fallowing the two in, "Fiencee huh? Thats wonderful, Gav is staying with us for a little while," she didn't mention the hope that for a while would be for good. "Please try to get along my dear. Think about the good that has come of you coming here," she smiles supportingly.

Alatariel · Date: 2005-12-07 11:16 EST

"YES! WE'RE GETTING MARRIED! Ali squeeled, jumping up and down. She then hugged Inara and gave her a kiss. She whispered her 'girl talk' in Inara's ear so Garry wouldn't hear, "I didn't even need the book!"

A half hour later the dinner was served. Ali only "accidently" kicked Gav twice and "accidently" elbowed the back of his head once while serving. Of course, she had a very sweet look upon her face the entire time.

Garry Bradstreet · Date: 2005-12-30 19:33 EST

A week after Gavilean and Inara had left the house for their wedding in England, Garry and Alatariel stood at the door of the house and held each other tightly. Alatariel was in tears.

"I'm sorry, Ali, but I have to do this. I just can't stay around this house any longer."

"I know," she responded between sobs.

"I must find my place. If we're ever to be married, I need a way to support us. I want you to be proud of me."

"I already am proud of you, Garry. Very proud."

He kissed her forhead. "But I have to be proud of me too, and I'm not. I have a rare opportunity to purchase a merchant ship and start a trade business. I've got to follow this through."

Ali walked with Garry as he went to his horse. They held each other once again and kissed deeply and for a long time. He then rode off and Ali watched until he was out of sight.

Alatariel · Date: 2006-01-06 13:05 EST

The days after Garry Bradstreet?s departure were pure misery for Alat?riel. She was alone in the house, but she felt that special loneliness that one only feels when the one person who makes your life complete has been removed from every part of your life. She felt empty in the pit of her stomach and it hurt. She would have left with Garry, but she had promised Inara and Gavilean that she?d watch over the house, and if there was one thing that her father had instilled within her, it was to be true to your word.

She spent most of those days with the horses ? hers, Inara?s and Gav?s. Without those chores she would have slowly gone crazy. Now the day was approaching when the newlyweds would return, and she could hardly wait.

Inara · Date: 2006-01-06 20:50 EST

Inara and Gav's arrival was harold in by the sound of horses in harness pulling a small sleigh, Inara insisted on driving the horses herself. Her new horse trotted along behind, hitched to the sleigh and their things tucked in the back seat as they arrived and Inara quickly swept from the sleigh leaving Gav to tend the horses to rush to Ali hugging her happily, glad to be home again.