Chapter 2

A few weeks later, Tavin entered a huge office building on Wall Street. She could not believe she was doing this, but as she stepped off the elevator on Cameron Caldwell's floor, she took deep breaths. Nichelle had asked her to discuss the surprise honeymoon that Cameron insisted on giving them as his gift and the groomsmen tuxedo details. She was a little ticked off at Nichelle's request, but she decided what didn't kill her would only make her stronger. Besides, she had been through far worse in her life. Nichelle really owed her, big time. The wedding was a few days away and Tavin wanted her friend to have the most fabulous wedding ever. Tavin walked to the main receptionist's desk and gave her name. Tavin took a seat and straightened the collar of her short sleeved white silk blouse and placed her handbag over her arm. The receptionist told her to walk down the hall, and Melissa, Cameron's secretary, would buzz her in. Tavin smiled and said thank you and walked down the corridor to Cameron's secretary.

"You can go right in, Ms. Wilson," Melissa stated as Tavin walked to the door. She took two more deep breaths and began to whisper a prayer.

"Lord, please, let me go through this with no bloodshed. I don't want to go to jail, so please help me. Keep him under wraps. Besides, I just got my nails done yesterday. I don't want to ruin my manicure," Tavin whispered in front of the door. She opened the door and saw Cameron Caldwell standing at his window, talking into a headset. He turned around and gave her that beautiful smile that could make a blind woman see and ushered her to sit down.

Cameron Caldwell really did rub her the wrong way most of the time, but Lord have mercy, he was fine. He looked extremely sexy in a pale yellow shirt, a yellow, cream, orange and navy block print silk tie, paired with a navy blue suit. His hair was lot shorter than usual, cut into a sexy buzz cut. All the guys--Trey, Nicholas and Donovan--were all very easy on the eyes, but Cameron Caldwell just oozed sex appeal from every pore. She hated to admit it, but the boy was all that--he was also a huge pain in the ass.

Tavin walked to one of the brown leather chairs in front of his desk to sit down, and Cameron walked over, pulled her chair out and pushed it back in. Tavin looked at him strangely as he smiled, still discussing business over the phone...in Italian. The man spoke fluent Italian? Lord, have mercy, Tavin thought. There was nothing sexier than a man who could speak a foreign language. Girl, get a grip. This is the same man that makes your teeth ache. Tavin sat straight up in the chair, crossed her legs at the ankles, and crossed her hands in her lap, awaiting the end of Cameron's phone call.

Tavin was always wound tighter than dental floss, Cameron thought as he looked at her sitting in front of his desk. Cameron could not believe it when Melissa, his secretary, informed him that Tavin was waiting to see him. He was in the middle of an overseas call that he couldn't break just yet, and as he spoke, he looked at her from the corner of his eye. She cut her hair and it flattered her tremendously, better than the straight, shoulder length style that was her signature for the past 8 years. Her new haircut was very sexy, he thought.

She was also very attractive. Tavin Wilson was the type of woman that did not have the slightest idea of her appeal to the male species. She had a great body, but she rarely showed it. Like today, she had on a plain white silk blouse, a tan knee length, pleated skirt and tan high heels. She always wore drabby colors, nothing bright or cheery. Cameron thought about what Nicholas told him last week and decided to approach Tavin as an adult, but he had to admit, he loved to see her get all riled up and angry. It was pretty sexy when she was pissed at him and he had a ball making her mad. Cameron ended his call, took off the headset, and pressed his intercom.

"Melissa, hold all my calls. Thanks," Cameron replied as he walked to the edge of his desk, sat down, and smiled at Tavin.

"Well, hello, Ms. Wilson. How are you and what brings you to my neck of the woods?" Cameron asked in that sinfully sexy voice of his. What a waste, Tavin thought, taking in his broad shoulders, beautiful eyes and his sexy smile. His cologne wafted to her and she hated to admit it, but that was sexy too. Tavin replied.

"Hello, Cameron. I'm fine. Nice office."

"Thanks. Would you like something to drink?" Cameron asked.

"No, thank you. I wanted to discuss some of the last minute details, the honeymoon and the tuxedos with you, if you have a minute?" Tavin asked.

Cameron continued to give her that smile that made women drool. "Tell you what. Why don't we talk about this over a nice plate of shrimp and linguine at Pascale's, on me?"

Tavin tensed and shook her head no. "That's not necessary, Cameron this will only take about 15 minutes."

"Come on, Tavin. I'm starving and it's lunchtime. Have you eaten?" Cameron asked.

"No," she replied.

"Okay then. Let's go grab a bite to eat and we can discuss everything at lunch, aiight," Cameron stated in that New York accent.

Tavin was hungry and if moneybags wanted to feed her, she was not going to turn it down.

"Sure, why not?" Tavin said and stood up. Cameron smiled at her.

"Cool," he replied walking to the intercom on his desk and buzzing Melissa.

"Mel, I'm going to lunch. Don't forward anything, just take messages. Thanks," he replied, grabbing his suit jacket from the back of his desk. He walked over to her and looked down into her face and opened the door.

"After you," he said with a flourish of his right arm as she walked out of the door, allowing him a glance at her from the back. It was still pretty good, he thought, taking in her small waist, full hips and her lovely ass. The woman was fine, he thought. Tavin had one of the sexiest walks he had ever seen. A woman's walk was one of the first things he noticed. Tavin's walk was mean, but the only problem was it belonged to a woman who was queen bitch. Cameron shook his head as they walked into the elevator.
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Tavin sat at the table across from Cameron after they ordered their lunch. Tavin took out a piece of paper from her purse and began to speak. Cameron wanted to laugh, but he thought it was classic Tavin: organized and controlled. It was kind of cute. Wait, what the hell was he thinking?

"I know you're busy and I won't take up much of your time. I have to head back to work, as well. I just have a few things--the honeymoon? Is everything complete? Do you have the plane tickets and their accodomations, are they squared away?" Tavin asked.

"Yes," he replied and gave her the details. Tavin took quick notes and smiled.

"Good. And last, but not least, the tuxedos. Have all the groomsmen been to their final fitting?" Tavin asked, looking up at him and crossing her legs at the ankles tighter. Damn, she thought. He was an asshole, but he was a hot asshole. He gave her a slow, sexy grin and looked at her paper, touching her fingers. Tavin felt a shock from the touch and felt the goosebumps form on her arms. Cameron didn't want to let her see just how she affected him from just a simple touch, so he appeared cool and unaffected.

"Yes, they were all fitted yesterday. You are always so organized, Tavin," he replied, looking into her dark brown eyes.

"It's a habit. I like to be prepared," she said as their lunch arrived. Tavin had grilled salmon and fettucine and Cameron had the shrimp and linguine. They thanked the waiter and began to eat. They ate in comfortable silence for five minutes before Tavin asked him a question.

"So, where are you sending them?" Tavin asked. Cameron grinned at her.

"If I tell you, what are you going to give me?" he asked.

"Oh, to hell with that. If I got to give you something to find that out, hell, I'll just wait until the wedding and find out from Nichelle," Tavin replied as Cameron laughed. There was another silence as they ate and Cameron spoke.

"By the way, I like your hair. It's cute and, it suits you. You can see more of your face," said Cameron, as he looked at her, thinking of how cute she was. Where the hell did that come from, he asked himself?

"Thank you," Tavin replied, taking a bite of salmon, glancing at him strangely.

One thing he liked about Tavin, she wasn't afraid to eat. He hated women who always talked about calories and carbs. He liked a woman that was in shape, because he worked out, but he loved food. He liked a woman with some meat on her bones and Tavin definitely had that. She wasn't fat, and she had curves in all the right places. Wait a minute, he thought--this chic hated him. Cameron put all thoughts of her sexy curves out of his mind and began to speak again.

"You're welcome. Why did you cut your hair?" Cameron asked.

"Well, it was hot and I needed a change. Don't tell me, wait let me guess--you're one of those guys who loves long hair and feels that a woman is not a woman unless she has hair flowing down her back, right?" Tavin assumed defensively.

"Whoa, hold up. I wasn't saying that and I'm not like that, so stop making assumptions. I like all women with all types of hair. Hair is not a big issue to me, just as long as she has some. I don't want to date a chic with my haircut, so chill girl," he replied. Then he smiled at her, snapping his fingers.

"What?" Tavin asked.

"Wait, now I know. You must have a new man, and he talked you into cutting your hair. I mean, you're so..predictable. You cutting your hair on a whim is not the Tavin that I know. Damn, I didn't know you took directives from a man, but tell him good lookin' out, because it's sexy," Cameron replied, winking at her.

"It was my idea and that just shows me how much you know about me, which is zero. I don't take directives from any man and I don't do anything to please a man," Tavin said, trying to keep her cool, and ignoring the fact that he just winked at her, and she found it sexy. Chill girl, she said to herself.

Cameron couldn't help himself. He did what he usually did--bug the shit out of her.

"You not pleasing a man--well, that doesn't surprise me in the least, sweetheart," he replied. Tavin balled up her fists and rolled her eyes at Cameron.

"Oooh, I knew it wouldn't be long. I was waiting for Casshole to show up and, poof, here he is. Look, you don't know anything about me, and don't assume to know," Tavin said, staring daggers at him. Cameron smiled at her, staring into her eyes.

"Oh really? Well, I recall an incident, in the hospital, about 5 years ago, that let me find out a whole lot about you and your sexy little lips and that spot, right beneath your right ear-- when the tip of a tongue touches it, it makes you moan--you really like that," he whispered with a knowing smirk on his face. Tavin's eyes narrowed to slits. Her hand was on the table and he ran his thumb along it. Tavin didn't instantly pull her hand away, as she stared at his thumb, moving in circles along her hand. Damn, that felt good she thought--huh?

"You must be confusin' me with someone else, like one of your little ho's who have names like the Seven Dwarfs--Skanky, Sleazy, Slimy, Slutty, Tacky, Dummy, Trampy," she replied, staring in his eyes. Cameron laughed.

"You are a funny chic, Tavin. No, it was you, and stop tryin' to front like you don't remember that, because I know you do," Cameron replied giving her a devilish grin. Tavin finally jumped and pulled her hand away from Cameron's ministrations.

"Put your hands on me again and you are going to be drawing back a nub," Tavin stated.

"Oooh, I'm scared. But, be honest with yourself, Tavin. That's what you want me to do--put my hands on you. I wouldn't mind, not one bit," Cameron replied giving her a slow once over. Tavin, bit her bottom lip, ignoring the fact that she liked the way he looked at her.

"You've got as much of a chance as a black man does gettin' a cab in New York--not a chance in hell. As for what happened years ago, I was a little out of it. Besides, it wasn't all that," Tavin said, letting the lie easily leave her tongue. Cameron laughed as he continued to stare directly into her eyes. He loved to get her all riled up. She looked so cute and sexy. He couldn't help himself--he had to do it.

"Still in denial, huh? Well, I remember the way you moaned my name, Tavin. I remember the way you kissed me. You knew exactly what you were doing. If I wouldn't have stopped, you know what would have happened," Cameron replied, moving closer to her. Tavin moved closer to him. They were face to face and the one thing that he wanted was to pull that sexy little bottom lip into his mouth and suck it. I gotta get a grip, he thought to himself.

"Coulda, shoulda, woulda, but didn't and ain't never, eva' gonna. Besides, I don't remember you stoppin', I remember pulling away from your slick ass," stated Tavin in a heated voice. I can't stand his ass, but damn it , he was cute, she thought.

"It was the highlight of your life, sweetheart and you know it. You want me, you always have. Maybe if you play nice, I'll make you forget that you hate me, by makin' you scream my name...again and again, and again," Cameron replied in a low voice, with a devilish grin.

"You are so full of yourself. As for making me scream, your name, it'll never happen--neva'. The only time I might scream your name is out of disgust when I have to lay eyes on your sorry ass. Besides, you wouldn't be able to handle me," Tavin said, speaking bravely. Cameron licked his lips slowly.

"I'm sure I could handle every luscious brown inch of you, sweetheart. I'd take you on the ride of your life, if you would just stop frontin' about not wantin' yours truly," he replied.

"You are so infuriating--and don't call me sweetheart. You think that every woman wants you," Tavin replied, letting out an angry breath. Cameron continued to grin.

"Not every woman, just you. Admit it, Tavin, you've got it bad for me and I can't blame you, I mean, look at me," Cameron stated, waiting for her next reply.

"Oh, sure, I got it bad for you--like gingivitis, like menstrual cramps, like a bad perm. Oh, and I am looking at you, you conceited shithead. You ain't all that, Cameron Caldwell. I have nothin' but distaste for you. I've always seen through your ass and I've never wanted you in that way. You make me sick," Tavin replied. Cameron chuckled low in his throat as he looked her over slowly again. Tavin cocked her head back and crossed her arms. Yeah, she was really pissed, he thought and he loved it.

"Admit it, you don't have distaste for me--you want me to taste you, which I would if you let me. You look up denial in the dictionary and your face is right next to it. But, it's okay. I understand. I would be intimidated by all this fineness too. Look, why don't you just admit that you have the fever for the flava and play nice. I would make it worth your while. As for makin' you sick, I could show you how I could cure you if you come with me to my penthouse. It'll loosen you up. You definitely need it. So, let me do you this favor--let me tighten you up, so you can loosen up. I won't tell if you won't," Cameron replied in that sexy, low voice, with agrin on his face. Tavin stood up and grabbed her handbag.

"Oh my God. When I didn't think you could do it again, you found another way to repulse me. I think I want to take this butterknife and stab you in the chest, or better yet, stab myself and take me out of the misery that is Cameron Caldwell. But, I'm a lady, so I will refrain from any bloodshed this afternoon. I have just a few words for you--IN YOUR DREAMS, BUDDY!! You will never, eva', get any of this. You ain't got a whiff in eight years, you ain't gettin' a sniff now. Comprende?" Taving asked.

"You really don't know what you're missin' baby," Cameron replied in that sexy voice. The way he called her baby sent chills down her spine. What the hell, she thought?

"Probably this much, and I'm not your baby," she answered, holding up her right hand, spreading her thumb and pointer finger to three inches. Cameron gave another low chuckle.

"Oh, but you want to be, you just haven't realized it yet. You really are somethin' else. But you can't get to me by attacking my manhood, because I'm probably too much for you to handle and I haven't had nothin' but satisfied customers. Trust me, sweetheart, you are way off with the measurement," Cameron stated.

Tavin closed her eyes, and balled her hands into tight fists. "Look, I'm not...ooh, I knew this was a mistake. Look, let's play nice and get through this, for Donovan and Shelley's sake. You keep your comments and your hands to yourself and I won't stab you with the heel of my shoe. Good day, Cameron," she replied, walking away, leaving a laughing Cameron.

"I just love the chats that we have, Tavin. See you later sweetheart," he said as she walked away.

"Kiss my black ass, you dick," she yelled, storming out of the restaurant, as the rest of the diners stared.

"Anytime you're ready for me to kiss your little fine ass, I will," Cameron answered, getting in the last word. Cameron laughed as he watched Tavin run to the nearest cab.

"Damn, that was fun," and he placed a few bills on the table. He looked at the diners and shrugged his shoulders.

"Sorry about the disturbance--she was PMSing--just a little lovers quarrel. Enjoy the rest of your lunch," as he walked out of the restaurant. He didn't know what made him bring up that night, but he never forgot it.

Tavin climbed into the cab and gave the driver directions back to her office as she sat back and looked out of the window. Why did she let him get to her and why did he bring up that ancient kiss? She would never let him know it, but that was the best kiss she ever had--hell, it was one of the few she ever received. She didn't like him, but she would never forget what he did for her.

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End of Spring Semester, 5 years ago.

The crew was all in attendance at Nicholas' frat party. The guys had already graduated, but Nicholas was invited because it was an alumni party. Tavin was at the party, but she lost Nichelle and the girls, who were doing their own thing in various parts of the huge house. Tavin felt someone staring at her, but she didn't know who it was and she couldn't see them. She finally locked eyes with Cameron, as he smiled and held up his drink to her. She waved and as she turned, Foster McGinnis, a cool guy from her Econ 300 class approached her, asking her to dance. She knew Foster and agreed to dance. Cameron stared at the pair dancing, not feeling too good about the guy. He was really slick, as he watched Tavin dance with him--in his gut, he felt that something wasn't right about the guy. He walked to the restroom, and decided to keep his eye on him. When he returned, Tavin was gone. His gut told him something wasn't right and he excused himself from the cute, red headed girl that he flirted with and walked around the party, looking for Tavin.

Cameron couldn't find her outside or on the first floor, so he walked up the stairs. He walked slowly, opening each door, but they were locked. Still no Tavin.

"Finally, I got you all to myself. Pretty little Tavin Wilson, thinks her shit don't stink. You think your black ass is better than everyone else. I've been watching you for a long time and finally, I got the opportunity to get you. I've never had a black girl before, so this is gonna be fun. Let's see if black girls are as wild in bed as they say," Foster replied with a low chuckle. Cameron heard what he said and tried to open the door. Cameron's jaw clenched and his blood began to boil. The guy had on music and couldn't hear.

"Tavin, Tavin," Cameron yelled as he tried to open the door.

Tavin fought and kicked, but he was so much stronger. "Get your ass off me, now, you bastard, before I give you the inability to have children..ever."

"Ooh, feisty, I like that. This is going to be good. You want it, don't fight me baby. In a little while, you won't be able to fight it," the guy replied with a laugh, pinning her down.

"Get off me, shithead. Don't do this--wait, what did you do to me? You slipped me something? Oh, no stop, don't do this, please somebody help me," Tavin yelled, but was getting weaker by the minute. He ripped her shirt and began to take off her shorts.

"I'm coming, Tavin," Cameron said as he heard her, his heart breaking and he kicked the door once then twice.

"In a few minutes, I'll be getting off and you won't be able to stop me, Ms. High and Mighty," Foster replied. Cameron kicked in the door and Tavin and Foster's head turned.

"Please, help me!" she screamed weakly.

"Who the fuck are you, man? Get out!!" Foster yelled. Cameron came over to him and pulled him off of Tavin by his neck.

"Alright, loverboy, party's over," Cameron replied, throwing the guy against the wall. Tavin pulled her shorts up and covered her chest with her arms. The sight of her like that made Cameron mad enough to kill the bastard.

"Who the hell are you man? I'm trying to score, man. This doesn't have anything to do with you. This is between me and my lady. What, do you want a go? She is pretty hot. Look, I'll go first, because I don't like sloppy seconds," Foster replied with a laugh as Cameron clenched his jaw tighter and slammed the guy's head into the wall, squeezing his neck.

"This girl is not your lady, and she happens to be a friend of mine. A woman yelling stop and no doesn't sound like she wants you. One thing I hate, and that' a guy who tries to take advantage of a woman. You can't get a woman without drugging them, huh, you sad sack of shit? Well, this is what's gonna happen, you piece of shit. I'm going to beat the living shit out of you until you learn your lesson," Cameron replied, punching Foster in the face with a right hook. Foster tried to fight back, but Cameron ducked and punched him in the stomach. Foster doubled over in pain, and Cameron punched him again, hearing a cracking sound, probably the guys nose. Foster fell to the floor yelling, "Fuck, you broke my nose!"

Cameron leaned down and hit him again, "Aw, poor baby. That's probably not the only thing that's going to be broke, you perverted shithead," and Cameron hit him in the face again, pulled him by the collar and made him look at Tavin, who was lying down, trying to stay awake.

"Do you see that girl? Look at her!! Stay the fuck away from her! If I find out that you even blinked at her, I'll come back and finish the job, do we understand each other, you punk bitch?" Cameron yelled, kicking him in the stomach, listening to the guy wail in pain. Other people began to look from the hallway and he said, "Call an ambulance and the police. This bastard drugged her and tried to rape her." A girl pulled out her cell phone and dialed. Foster finally passed out.

Cameron walked over to the bed and pulled off his outer shirt. Tavin was crying and barely concious. He pulled her up and put his shirt on her. Cameron pulled her to him, and she whimpered,"Please, leave me alone." Cameron hugged her and kissed her on the top of the head.

"It's okay, Tavin. He's gone, you're safe, it's over," Cameron replied. Her eyes were low as she looked at him.

"Cameron, is that you?" she asked in a low whisper.

"Yeah, sweetheart, it's me. Tavin, the police are coming. We're going to have to get you to the hospital," he replied, rubbing her back.

"He was gonna...", Tavin replied, her head nodding, her eyes getting lower.

"Don't think about that, alright. He's not going to come near you again," he whispered.

"Don't leave me, please," Tavin pleaded and it tugged at his heart. He held her in his arms.

"I'm not going to leave you, baby. I'm right here. I'm not going anywhere," he replied as she passed out. He held her until the ambulance came and the police. He pulled out his cellphone and called everyone. By the time he realized it, they were on their way to the hospital and the police were arresting Foster.

Tavin was in the hospital for two days. Cameron walked as Tavin was laughing at something Nichelle said. She was awake and alright. Nichelle walked out, closing the door and Cameron sat next to her on the bed.

"Hey, Cameron," she said with a smile.

"Hey, Tavin. How are you feeling?" he asked, moving closer to her.

"Better, not as loopy as I was yesterday. I can't wait to go home. So, you are some kind of hero, huh," she said knowingly. Cameron smiled, his dimples showing.

"I'm not a hero, Tavin. I did what I had to do. I didn't want that guy to hurt you, that's all," he replied humbly. Tavin smiled. They just stared at each other in silence and then Tavin began to speak.

"How is your hand?" Tavin asked.

Cameron held up his right hand that had a couple of bandages on the knuckles.

"It's fine. Thanks for asking," he replied. Once more, silence filled the room.

"Well, thank you...for everything," she replied. Cameron stared into her eyes.

"Anytime. I don't want you to ever accept a drink from a strange guy again. Be careful, alright. Besides, if something happened to you, we wouldn't be able to fight and I really like those arguments. They're fun," Cameron replied with a smile as Tavin laughed.

"Yeah, I almost forgot how much we don't get along. Can't have that, now can we?" Tavin asked in a low voice. Cameron caressed her left cheek with the back of his right hand.

"Naw, we can't," Cameron whispered as they stared into each other's eyes. Tavin stared into those beautiful, light green eyes that looked warmly into hers. Cameron's hand slowly descended to her chin, caressing it, never breaking eye contact as he lifted it with a finger and placed a soft kiss on her lips. He felt tingles, go down his spine, and so did Tavin. Tavin closed her eyes. After the soft, slow kiss, Cameron pulled away and stared at Tavin's face until she opened her eyes. He hadn't expected to be affected by a single kiss, but he was. He couldn't help himself--he had to kiss her again. He leaned over again, looking for her to stop him, but she didn't. He leaned over again slowly, capturing her lips with his. Cameron's hands slid to her face, holding it as he slowly tasted her lips. Tavin put her arms around his neck and he moved closer. His right hand went to the back of her head and he held her by the waist with his left arm. Cameron ran his tongue over the seam of her lips and Tavin opened her mouth. He slid his tongue into her mouth to dance with her tongue and Cameron let out a deep moan. The kiss became more passionate. Tavin moaned as well, her hands in his hair. Cameron whispered to her as he kissed her.

"I've been wanting to kiss you for a long time. You have the sweetest lips, Tavin," and he continued to kiss her passionately. He laid on top of her in the bed and Tavin pulled him closer. Tavin's head was spinning at his admission. She was kissing Cameron Caldwell--this was a dream that she didn't want to be awakened from. Cameron was thinking the same thing.

"Tavin, pretty little Tavin," he whispered as his lips, traveled from her lips, to her jawline, to her neck. Tavin threw her head back to give him better access to her neck. Cameron placed soft kisses on her neck, going to a spot behind her right ear. He licked it and she moaned. Cameron smiled against her neck and licked the spot again, eliciting another moan from Tavin.

"Who knew hospital beds were great make out spots," he whispered, placing tiny kisses along her silky neck. Tavin smiled.

"Cameron, umm," she moaned in a whisper. Cameron smiled at her and kissed her on the lips again. Cameron's hands began to caress her sides and as he slid the hospital gown up, she froze. She stopped kissing him and touching him. Cameron looked into her eyes and they were closed shut. Nichelle and Donovan burst in and Cameron jumped up. Nichelle and Donovan looked at them knowingly.

"I'm gonna go, Tavin. I'll see you around," he replied as she shook her head at him, her lips in a tight line. He walked past his friends and left.

Present Day

Tavin was pretty pissed off because after that kiss, she didn't see him for about 6 months and they began the feud again. He never tried to kiss her again. Why? These were the thoughts that raced through Tavin's mind. Then again, she froze, so nothing would have continued anyway. Still, she thought that maybe that kiss was the beginning of something, but it wasn't. Cameron turned back into his old, aggravating self. He must have realized it was a mistake or she wasn't his type, she thought to herself. Oh, well, to hell with him, Tavin said to herself, looking out of the window of the cab.

Cameron was in his office with thoughts of his own concerning that kiss. Why did she freeze like that? She was probably still in shock over the attack. He didn't mean to kiss her, but she looked so sweet and utterly adorable, he just had to kiss her. He was on fire after that kiss. He never felt that way from any other kiss. He smiled to himself. That was one of the most enjoyable lunches that he had in a while. He had all weekend to push her buttons...and maybe, kiss her again.

Chapter 3

"Hola, chicas. When are we going to get this show on the road? I want to party and grope some sexy, naked men," Felicia Morales, or "Fee" to her friends stated, as she walked up to her friends at the wedding rehearsal at the church. Felicia hugged and kissed her friends, as they stood in the back of the church.

"Anytime now. Oh, and thank you for saying groping on naked men in church, Fee," Nichelle replied.

"Well, we came into this world, naked, by God's hand and besides, I'm not going to lie in church. I really want to hurry this rehearsal so I can get my grub on and then stuff dollars down some naked, shiny man's g-string and I have a feeling that yall want this done quick, fast and in a hurry as well. Can I get a witness?" Felicia asked. They all laughed and agreed with her.

"Enough said. I see everyone's here except...," Felicia began, but Tavin interrupted her.

"Cameron, with his aggravatin' ass," Tavin answered.

"Okie dokie. Where is he?" Felicia asked.

"He's running late from a meeting. That's what he told Donovan," Nichelle replied. Tavin crossed her arms and leaned her head to the side, tapping her right foot.

"Yeah, he's running late from a meeting alright...with his latest skank," Tavin stated.

"You and Cameron still don't know how to play together, huh?" Felicia asked.

"Nope," Tavin replied.

"See, I think the real problem is that they want to play...with each other," Liza stated as Nichelle and her sister, Kalise nodded in agreement.

"Blasphemy. Don't even go there, Liza," said Tavin, as Liza pointed and waved as Cameron walked in.

"He's here," Felicia stated.

"See, he's not that late," Nichelle replied.

"Yeah, I see...the object of my disgust is not late. Whoop de doo," Tavin said, as Cameron walked over and hugged every female. When he attempted to hug Tavin, she gave him a look that could have sliced in him two.

"Don't even think about it, buddy," Tavin replied. He stepped away from her with a grin.

"Tavin," he replied with a grin.

"Cameron," she stated.

Cameron walked over to Donovan, and the guys, to talk to them. They spoke in their little groups for a few minutes, until Nichelle walked over to the reverend and he announced that they would begin the rehearsal. The wedding planner began to place everyone in line in the back of the church. Felicia, Kalise, and Tavin stood in line talking.

"You two still don't get along, Tav?" Kalise asked.

"Nope," Tavin replied.

"I don't usually do the cream in my coffee thing, but I wouldn't mind getting with him. He's too fine," Kalise whispered to Tavin and Felicia.

"Yes, he sure is. Tavin doesn't see all that fineness," Felicia whispered.

"I see it, but I ignore it. It just covers up the real butthead that's lurking," Tavin stated.

"He really gets to Tavin, for some strange reason or another," Fee whispered with a smile back at Tavin.

"It sounds like someone wants to get with Mr. Sexy Eyes to me," Kalise replied in a whisper to Felicia, who smiled knowingly. Felicia took Jeremy, her groomsman's arm and began to walk slowly down the aisle.

"What is going on with yall and all this blasphemy? Look, Kalise, if you want to keep your tongue, you would not speak such vile things ever again," Tavin stated, looking over at Cameron who gave her a grin. She poked her tongue out at Cameron.

"Very mature, Tavin," Cameron said.

"Bite me, Caldwell," Tavin answered as Kalise, Trey and Cameron laughed.

"Someone is in denial," Kalise responded with a smile to Tavin as she took Trey's arm, and began to walk down the aisle.

"That's what I've been saying for years, Kalise," Cameron replied. Tavin rolled her eyes at Cameron. Tavin and Cameron were standing next to each other waiting in the vestibule.

"You've been sayin' it, but it don't mean jack. I hope we can hurry and get this over with. I can't believe I have to walk with this retarded butthole. Lord, do us all a favor and strike him down, please," Tavin said with a sigh.

"Well, if it isn't Tavin Wilson, queen of the sexually repressed. How are you? I see you still have a bug up your ass," Cameron whispered.

"I was great, until I saw you. Oh, God, this means I have to touch you. Ewww, I don't know where you've been. Damn, I just took a shower too," Tavin stated to Cameron as she watched Kalise and Trey walk down the long aisle. Cameron and Tavin took their place, waiting to walk down the aisle.

"Oh, by the way, I know it may be difficult for you, but don't stand too close. The garlic that I have around my neck may burn you," Cameron replied with a smile.

"That was a good one. I wish that you could just stand and look like the pretty boy idiot that you are and not talk at all. Oh, what I wouldn't give to yank your tongue out of your mouth and strangle you with it," Tavin replied, cutting her eyes at him.

"My tongue, huh? That' s not all you want, is it, Tavin?" Cameron asked. Tavin looked up into his eyes and smiled at him.

"No, it's not. I really do want...your head on a stick, and the rest of your body parts spread strategically throughout New York, but that's just wishful thinking," Tavin replied. Cameron laughed.

"There you go, speaking about my body again. Sorry, you had your chance, but then again I may hook you up...," Cameron began but Tavin interrupted.

"Not even in your best wet dream, Caldwell," Tavin stated.

Cameron leaned down and whispered into her ear. "I don't want to burst your bubble, princess...naw, I take that back...I really do want to burst your bubble. Tavin, you look like you need something or someone to touch you. Now, I know that you are a little stressed because you ain't gettin' any, but I heard about the bachellorette party. You might get lucky. Who knows, while you are stuffing dollars down some guys g-string tonight, he might take pity on you and hook you up. One can only hope." Tavin shoved her arm through his as they began to walk down the aisle.

"Hardy har har. You are so funny...not. Look, you need to say as least as possible to me. You don't know what I'm getting. You just rest assure that it will neva', eva', be you givin' it to me," Tavin replied.

"And still, you keep bringing it up, which means, you want me," Cameron stated.

"I want you like I want a yeast infection," Tavin replied.

"Hey, whatever floats your boat. At least you'll be gettin' some kind of action goin' on down there," Cameron replied with a smile. Tavin blew out a deep breath.

"You nasty bastard. To hell with you," Tavin replied.

"Only if you come with me," Cameron responded.

"Oooh, let's just hurry up and get down this damn aisle, before I end up hurting you. You get on my last nerve," Tavin said through clenched teeth.

"This ain't no picnic for me either, sweetheart. Just be a good girl and enjoy the special time you get with the Cameron, because I know you love it. It doesn't happen everyday, so relish in it and enjoy being this close to the Cameron," Cameron replied with a smile. Tavin rolled her eyes upward.

"No, he is not referring to himself in the first person. Lord, end my suffering now. Don't nobody want nothing from the Cameron, you conceited ass bastard and don't call me sweetheart," Tavin responded.

"Oh, excuse me what was I thinking? You ain't sweet and you don't have a heart, you mean little witch. Oops, I forgot to replace that "w" with a "b". Mistakes--happens to all of us. My bad," whispered Cameron.

"If I'm a witch, you're a dick," Tavin seethed.

"Why, Ms. Wilson, you shouldn't be saying the d word in church. See, I knew it. There you go talking about my you-know-what. You really are feenin'. Oh, and I didn't call you a witch, I called you a b...," Cameron stated as they neared the end of the aisle.

"I can't stand your triflin' ass. Let go of my damn arm, dickhead," Tavin replied as she yanked her arm from him. Cameron smiled as they walked to either side of the altar.

"See, they're gettin' along just fine," Liza whispered to Felicia.

Cameron looked over at Tavin as she gave him the evil eye. He blew a kiss her way. Tavin caught the kiss, threw it on the ground, stepped on it and mouthed, "kiss my ass," without the reverend noticing. Cameron licked his lips slowly at her and mouthed, "Anytime." Tavin gave him the finger. Cameron and everyone else laughed. When the reverend looked at them, they stopped.

Liza, Felicia, Kalise and Nora, Nichelle's cousin were all trying to contain their laughter.

Liza looked back at Tavin and said, "Tavin, shame on you."

"Yeah, you can't be cursing and giving people the finger in church, mami," Felicia replied. She looked at Cameron again, who puckered his lips at her in that sexy way that usually made women melt. It only repulsed Tavin and she gave him the finger with her right and left hand. The guys laughed.

"I ain't cursing a human being, Fee. I'm rebuking the devil with the finger. You don't see that demon standing behind Trey, dressed in a gray Hugo Boss suit. Satan be gone," Tavin whispered as Cameron grinned at her. Tavin mouthed, "Eat shit and die," and Cameron laughed again.

Tavin looked upward and said, "Sorry, Lord. The devil is busy. Just get me through the rest of this night and I won't curse anymore this evening." She looked back up and Cameron puckered his lips again at her. She narrowed her eyes to slits, rolled them at him and looked upward once more.

"I know I said this evening, Lord, but I'm gonna have to change that. I won't curse anymore...until we leave this church," Tavin replied with a sigh and a roll of her eyes in Cameron's direction once more.

"I wish they would just bone and get it over with," Kalise replied. All the other bridesmaids nodded their head in agreement.

*********************************************************

Tavin smiled as she watched her best friend dance happily with her husband. All the stress and aggravation was worth it. Just watching her girl walk down that aisle to her man in that bad ass, ivory satin and chiffon, off the shoulder wedding gown was enough for her. The wedding was absolutely beautiful. Yes, she had to walk down the aisle and take pictures with Cameron, but it was now just a bad memory as she watched her friends dance as husband and wife.

Cameron looked across the room, standing with Nicholas, and Trey, smiling at Nichelle and Donovan. Donovan and Nichelle's families were still getting used to the fact that they were married. They never approved of their relationship, due to something as stupid as race. Donovan and Nichelle didn't care. They paid for their own wedding and everything turned out perfectly. Donovan and Nichelle were smiling into each other's eyes, and they looked like no one else in the world existed. He was extremely happy for Donovan. Nichelle was a good catch--beautiful, intelligent, fun, and sweet. They made a great couple.

"He looks happy, huh?" Trey asked.

"Yeah he does," Cameron stated.

"Better him than me. Well, one down, three to go. Which one of us is it going to be next, fellas?" Nicholas asked. They all looked at each other and then burst out laughing. Cameron shook his head as he saw Nicholas and Trey spot two pretty woman at the bar. Cameron sipped his drink and glanced across the room. His eyes zeroed in on Tavin. He always thought she was cute, but tonight she slid easily into beautiful. Tavin looked incredible in a one shouldered silver gown. He really pushed her buttons this weekend and enjoyed every insult she threw his way. Her dark brown skin looked amazing against the silver gown that hugged her in all the right places. Her lovely curves were showcased in that gown and her ass--that ass was a thing of beauty, he thought as his eyes continued to stare at her body. Tavin didn't even notice the men that were passing by, staring as they walked away. He wished that he was that gown, hugging her hips, her breasts and his favorite, her ass. Why was he thinking about Tavin in that way all of a sudden? Why did he want to grab her and kiss the life out of her?

Tavin felt someone staring at her and when she looked up, she found Cameron staring at her intensely, with his beautiful green orbs. Tavin couldn't move as Cameron's perusal of her became more intense. He gave her one of his devastating smiles and winked at her. Damn him, she thought. She couldn't stand his ass, but damn, he looked good in that Armani tux. He was one fine white boy, model gorgeous, she thought, but she would never let him know that.

Cameron heard the DJ announce that the bridal party was needed on the dance floor for a dance--with their partners. He laughed as he watched Tavin look to the sky and wince. Tavin wanted the floor to open up and swallow her. She looked up at the ceiling.

"Lord, what did I do to deserve this? I thought I was done with him," Tavin stated as she felt someone gently take her right hand and pull her away to the dance floor.

"Sorry to be the bearer of bad news, but you're stuck with me--again," the person who was pulling her stated in a sexy, deep voice. Tavin looked up and saw Cameron, who was looking Lord, have mercy, good. Cameron pulled her on the dance floor near Nichelle and Donovan who smiled at her. Cameron put his arms around her waist and she placed her arms lightly around his neck.

"It's just a dance, not a death sentence, Tavy," Nichelle said to Tavin.

"Just mind your business and continue to dance in bliss with your man, Nichelle Dion Waters-Tarrrington and let me rot in my own personal hell...with this demon," Tavin replied with a smirk and a head nod to Cameron. Everyone around them laughed, as well as Cameron. Cameron pulled her away from the newlyweds.

"You always have something to say to me, Tavin. Just go with the flow and let's call a truce. I can be civil if you can. Come on, truce?" Cameron asked, looking down into her brown eyes. Tavin wondered why did he smell so good as she pondered his request.

"I guess I'll do it, for the lovebirds sake. Alright, truce," Tavin replied with a sigh. Cameron pulled her closer and inhaled her perfume and her own scent. She smelled delicious and she felt even better. This was the first time he was this close to her since the kiss of five years ago and he didn't want to let her go. Something was happening to him where Tavin Wilson was concerned and he didn't know what it was.

"See, that wasn't so bad, was it?" Cameron asked.

"I guess not," Tavin replied, looking into those beautiful green eyes. That damn cologne of his was wreaking havoc on her senses.

"No need to be scared, Tavin. I won't bite, unless you want me to," Cameron stated with a devastating grin. Tavin smiled, something he rarely saw. It made her look even better.

"Never in your wildest dreams, Cameron," Tavin replied, thinking to herself that his hands on her waist felt incredible. She leaned in closer and her head was on his chest. Damn, the man had a hard chest. Tavin relaxed and inhaled his cologne, which was making her crazy.

"Classic Tavin. Do you ever relax?" Cameron asked, loving the way she felt in his arms. She was actually laying on his chest, he thought. This was a first.

It must be that damn cologne, Tavin thought as she danced with Cameron. "Sometimes," she replied. Cameron looked at her beautiful, bare skin, from her face to her shoulder.

"Oh, I heard about the honeymoon to Spain. That was very generous of you," Tavin replied.

"Well, it was the least that I could do. Besides, Nichelle told me that she really wanted to go there, and she told me that you wanted to go to Spain as well," he said. Tavin lifted her head and looked into Cameron's eyes.

"Yeah, I do, but in due time," she replied. Cameron stared into those sexy brown eyes and couldn't tear away if you paid him to.

"You've got to go, Tavin. It's really beautiful there...like your eyes," Cameron whispered as Tavin shook her head with a grin and leaned back into him, swaying to the beat.

"Thanks, Caldwell," she whispered.

"It's the truth. I know I haven't told you, but you look incredible in that dress, Tavin," he replied.

"Thank you," she whispered. Cameron wanted to tell her she looked beautiful, but decided against it. As he continued to stare at her bare shoulder, he couldn't help himself. He had to say something.

"You know, you look like a Hershey's kiss in this silver gown. I wonder if you taste like one. Would you mind if I had a taste?" Cameron asked, in that seductively deep voice of his. Tavin pulled her head off his chest and smiled at him. Cameron pulled his bottom lip into his mouth with his teeth.

"You want a taste...of me?" Tavin asked, looking at him sweetly.

"Just a little taste now...maybe more later," Cameron replied with a huge smile. Tavin continued to smile as she stepped onto his right foot. Cameron yelped.

"Ow, shit. Got damn it, Tavin. That hurt. Shit, my foot," he replied gritting his teeth and rubbing his foot. Their friends laughed at the scene.

"Why did you do that?" Cameron asked looking at her.

"Why did you say that?" Tavin asked and they began to argue.

"Crazy chic," Cameron said to Tavin.

"Perv," Tavin replied to Cameron.

"I knew it wasn't going to be long. You owe me $20 bucks, baby," Donovan told Nichelle.

"As long as I owe you, you'll never be broke," Nichelle replied.

"Ha ha," Donovan replied as he gave his smiling wife a quick peck.

Tavin looke over at them and pointed. "You two, give me a freakin' break. Go find a room or something. And as for you, Caldwell, it was supposed to hurt. I am not one of your little whores for hire, Cameron. Remember that. I've done my duty, Nichelle. I'm going to my room. Have a great time in Spain. Call me when you get back," Tavin replied, holding her dress in her right hand so she wouldn't trip on it, as she quickly exited the ballroom of the grand hotel.

"Tavy, don't go. Come on. Cameron, what did you do?" Nichelle asked looking angry. Cameron looked at Donovan who mouthed, "You are dead if you don't fix this," to him.

Cameron began to speak, but Nichelle put up her right hand to him.

"I don't want to hear it. Go apologize and get her back here...now," Nichelle replied. He looked up at Donovan who put a finger across his neck and sliced.

"Alright, alright," Cameron replied as he ran out of the ballroom after Tavin. Cameron figured she would say something, but step on his foot? He didn't see that coming. He had to fix this or Nichelle and Donovan were going to kick his ass. Cameron watched Tavin walk into the elevator. Tavin saw Cameron come up as the doors were closing. Cameron stuck his hands in the elevator and forced the doors open. Tavin sighed as the elevator closed. She walked to the other side of the elevator.

"Tavin, are you really going to just leave your best friend's reception?" Cameron asked.

"Yep. I upheld my end of the bargain. Great, now I'm stuck in here with you," Tavin replied grudgingly.

"Yeah, you are, so get used to it. Admit it, Tavin, you've been wantin' to be alone with me all night," Cameron replied from the other side of the elevator.

"You really need to stop smoking that shit. Look, just stay where you are and we'll be okay. Why in the hell did my room have to be on the 15th floor?" Tavin asked, placing her hands on her hips.

"Come on Tavin, come back downstairs and have some fun. I was just kidding around," he replied, not wanting to let her get away from him yet.

"No," she stated in a defiant tone. Cameron was tired of this. Why couldn't she just be civil for a little while? He just flirted with her, he didn't ask her to marry him. He stopped the elevator. Tavin turned and looked at him.

"Oh, no you didn't. Cameron, start the elevator, now," she yelled.

Cameron shook his head no as he walked into her space. He cornered her in the elevator, placing one arm above her head and the other on the bar directly by her waist. Cameron effectively boxed her in. If looks could kill, he would be dead.

"Oh, yes I did. Tavin, I won't start this elevator until you agree to come back downstairs," he replied in a calm voice. Cameron stared at her luscious, full lips and his gaze slowly lifted back to her eyes.

"Well, I guess we're going to be here all night, so get nice and comfy," Tavin replied staring him dead in the eye.

"You are being ridiculous. Nichelle's your best friend, and you want to leave her reception? She wouldn't do this to you. Tavin, stop being a self-absorbed, stubborn little brat and go back downstairs to your best friend's reception," Cameron replied, his left hand moving to her waist. Tavin didn't move. She continued to stare into that gorgeous face and counted to 10 to try and calm her nerves. Why was Cameron Caldwell having this affect on her?

"You have got some nerve callin' me a self-absorbed, stubborn brat," Tavin replied.

"I just call 'em like I see 'em. Why did you get so flustered over a little flirting? You should be used to it by now," Cameron replied, staring into Tavin's beautiful, slanted brown eyes. How could someone so damn cute be so damn mean, he thought to himself.

"Listen, I don't like it when you speak to me like I'm your skank of the month," Tavin stated. Cameron moved closer to her. It began to feel like a sauna in that elevator and Tavin knew it was due to the tall, gorgeous, sexy, piece of aggravation standing in front of her closely.

"I didn't mean any harm by it, sweetheart, and I apologize if you took it the wrong way. I guess if I told you I thought you looked absolutely beautiful tonight, you'd get pissed off and punch me right?" Cameron asked in a low, deep voice. He removed his right arm from above her head and ran his right hand along her left cheek. Her skin was beautiful and silky soft.

Tavin gulped as she stared at him. Cameron Caldwell apologized to her and he was touching her. Did she get a contact high or was she in an alternate universe? The answers to those questions disappeared from her mind as she relished in his nearness and his touch. This was weird. Cameron never apologized to her. His hand on her cheek was making her stomach flip. Why did his eyes have to be so beautiful, she asked herself.

"No, I would say thank you, if you meant it, but knowing you, you would probably have a wise ass remark waiting for me," Tavin stated. Cameron lifted his head and laughed. He looked back down into her eyes.

"Like the boy scouts, always prepared. But seriously, Tavin, you should know me by now. I don't say anything I don't mean. I mean it, you look beautiful," Cameron replied, running a finger lightly down the middle of her cute little nose to trace her full lips. Tavin tried to control her breathing.

"Thank you," she answered. Cameron gave her one of his movie star smiles.

"You're welcome," he whispered as his finger moved reluctantly from her lips, slowly down her neck, to her bare righ shoulder. Tavin felt the goosebumps and she shuddered.

Cameron leaned down into her right ear, slowly running his finger back and forth across her exposed collar bone and whispered, "Now, how about that taste, Tavin?"

Tavin looked at him fiercely. He stared at her with lust filled, green eyes, slowly licking his lips. "I knew it. That's all you want is a taste, huh? Well, it ain't gonna happen and if you think it's gonna happen you got another...," but she was interrupted by a quick kiss that not only silenced her, but sent her senses reeling. His lips felt like they belonged on hers. Wait, did she just think that?

Cameron looked at her after the short kiss and watched her panting as hard as he was. He stared down into her eyes, and she stared into his, not moving an inch.

"I really don't like you," she sneered.

"The feeling's mutual, sweetheart," he sneered licking his lips. Tavin stared into his eyes, chest heaving and he did the same. Cameron pulled her to him with urgency, his arms around her waist, kissing her softly, exploring her lips first. He outlined her lips lightly with the tip of his tongue and whispered, "Mmmm, you taste so sweet. I need more, Tavin. Let me in that pretty little mouth, baby," he whispered and she did what he asked. Tavin opened her mouth and his tongue danced with hers, eliciting a deep moan from Tavin, and a groan from Cameron.

"Cameron, what are we doing?" she asked. He loved the way she said his name.

"We're kissing," he asked as they kissed.

"We can't stand each other," she whispered and let out a small moan.

"Tell our lips that," he whispered as he continued to kiss her. His arms were around her waist, but she wasn't close enough. Her arms were still by her side. Cameron pulled them around his neck, pulling her closer to him in the process. Cameron tore his lips away from hers and lifted her chin up so that she could look in his eyes. She remembered that look from five years ago.

"I'm not going to hurt you baby. I just want to kiss these sexy little lips of yours. Hold me close, just like this, baby. Let me enjoy this," he whispered as he attacked her lips again. Tavin pulled him closer to her. She felt his erection along her abdomen as Cameron continued his oral assault on her lips. She tasted so good, better than any woman he ever kissed, he thought, as he ran his hands along her back, to her behind. It felt better than it looked, he thought with a moan, as he gripped her behind with both hands.

"Tavin," he groaned her name in a low voice and continued to kiss her lips. Tavin had never felt anything like this, except...you know when. Cameron did what he wanted to do all weekend. He pulled her plump bottom lip into his mouth and sucked it gently between his lips as Tavin moaned again. That was one sexy sound, he thought. He was rock hard from a kiss. That never happened to him before, but then again, he never kissed any girl or woman the way he kissed Tavin Wilson.

It felt as if he was devouring her lips, she thought, loving the sensation. When he felt he had an adequate sample of her bottom lip, he ran the tip of his tongue lightly over it, then outlined her upper lip with the tip of his tongue and glided his tongue tenderly along her neck.

"Your skin is so soft and beautiful, Tavin. You smell good enough to eat, baby," he whispered, as his tongue traveled to her ear. Tavin's eyes rolled in the back of her head. Cameron pulled her right ear lobe between his lips and nibbled on her earlobe. Tavin thought she was going to pass out. She moaned again. She was at a loss for words and her thong was dripping wet. The boy could kiss! The tip of his tongue circled the shell of her ear and dipped inside, eliciting another moan from Tavin.

Cameron smiled as his tongue descended back to her lovely brown neck. He planted soft, open mouthed kisses along her neck, her collar bone and her bare shoulder. Tavin ran her fingers into the ultra short hair at his nape, not wanting this feeling to end. Tavin wanted more and she couldn't believe it when he stopped, and broke away from her, starting the elevator. Tavin was in a daze as she looked at him, without a smart reply for the first time since they met. The elevator began to descend and he ran his thumb along her lips with a smile on his face, holding her by the waist.

"So, that's how I get you to shut up. See, all I wanted was a little taste, and you're delicious. That wasn't so bad, now was it? I know you don't want everyone to know what we've been doing in here, so I suggest you fix yourself up before coming back out, okay," he whispered, kissing his finger and placing it on her lips. Tavin was still in a thoroughly kissed daze and only nodded her head in agreement. She was too adorable, he thought.

Cameron had never witnessed a quiet Tavin before. This was historic. He also couldn't deny his response to her, which wanted to break free. Cameron had to get out of there before he ripped off that silver piece of satin and made love to her in the elevator. No woman had the right to taste that good, he thought. He was calm, but he knew after this kiss, his relationship with Tavin was going to be different.

Cameron smiled at her and gave her a small peck on the lips as he walked backwards out of the elevator as it opened on the first floor.

"You still owe me a dance. I'll see you in a few, sweetheart," he replied, giving her a devilish grin as he walked back to the reception, her lipstick all over his face. Nicholas was walking from the bathroom as he watched a dazed Tavin walk out of the elevator and a smiling Cameron run his thumb over his lips, with lipstick on his face.

"What the hell? Now, what have they been doing?" Nicholas asked himself aloud. Nicholas shook his head knowingly and walked back into the reception.

Chapter 4

One week later, Tavin knocked on the office door of her therapist, Dr. Charlotte Marine. Dr. Marine was on the phone as she glanced at the digital clock on her desk, then at the opening door. Dr. Marine greeted Tavin with a warm smile and gestured with her hands to come in. Tavin had been seeing Dr. Marine for 2 years. When Tavin first began her sessions, she saw Dr. Marine twice a week, but because of her progress, Tavin only saw Dr. Marine once a week or once every other week. Dr. Marine was a good therapist and a nice woman. She was so easy to talk to. It took a few sessions for Tavin to open up to her, but when she did, a tidal wave of pain, hurt and shame washed to the surface. At first, Tavin was against the idea of pouring out her most intimate secrets, but she realized how helpful her sessions were and she did not want to stop them. Tavin usually sat in the chair directly across from Dr. Marine, but she had a lot to discuss with Dr. Marine, so she placed her purse at the end of the couch in Dr. Marine's office and laid down.

Tavin enjoyed her sessions with Dr. Marine because she never pressured her into talking. Dr. Marine let Tavin facilitate the sessions and that was comforting to Tavin.

Dr. Marine walked over in her mint green silk blouse and gray slacks. She sat in the chair closest to the couch. Dr. Marine began to speak.

"Hello, Tavin. How have you been? Any nightmares?" Dr. Marine asked, training her blue eyes on Tavin. Tavin looked at Dr. Marine and smiled.

"Fine and none, actually. Thanks for squeezing in a mini session for me. I really appreciate it," Tavin replied.

"No problem. So, what's going on?" Dr. Marine asked.

"So much, Dr. M. I don't know where to begin," Tavin said, looking at the ceiling.

"Well, just start at the beginning," Dr. Marine replied with a smile.

"Okay. Oh, I guess I'll start with Shelly's wedding. The wedding was absolutely incredible. Shelly looked so beautiful and the decorations, the cake, and the food was wonderful. That bachelorette party was pretty hot, too. All those young, sexy guys...whew. Anyway, Shelly and Donovan are in Spain, on their honeymoon. I'm so happy for my girl. She and Donovan have been through so much to get to the point that they have and I am so thankful that she married a good guy," Tavin replied with a smile.

"Well, that's nice. It's good to know that you and Nichelle are still so close after all these years," Dr. Marine stated.

"I know. I don't know what I would do without Shelly. I bet she's shopping all over Spain right now. Poor Donovan," Tavin said with a laugh.

"Spain is absolutely breathtaking this time of year. She's probably having a wonderful time," Dr. Marine replied.

"Yeah, I know she is. I've been told that Spain is beautiful. I told her to take tons of pictures and use her digital camcorder to capture the sights for me. I want to go to Spain one day," Tavin replied, with a sigh. Dr. Marine noticed that Tavin seemed to be in great thought and she wanted to see if she could get more out of her.

"Yes, it's lovely. Take a vacation there. You would love it. So, how's work?" Dr. Marine asked.

"Busy, really busy. I just got two more major accounts. Hopefully, I'll make partner in a year or two," Tavin replied. Tavin was an accountant at one of the largest financial firms in New York. Dr. Marine nodded her head, her dark brown hair moving as she did. Dr. Marine was waiting because she knew it would only be a matter of time before Tavin began to let everything out that was on her mind. Tavin began to speak.

"I've already told you in great detail about Cameron Caldwell, so I don't need to go there anymore. Well, he paid for Nichelle and Donovan's honeymoon. He paid for them to spend 2 weeks in Spain! Oh, did you know moneybags' parents own a house in Spain? That's were Nichelle and Donovan are lodging, but he paid for spa dates and all kinds of crap for them. I thought that was a pretty swanky gift, and it was pretty generous of him, I guess. Besides, it probably is just a drop in the bucket for him. He has money coming out of the wazoo, after all.

Do you know that he really aggravated the hell out of me last Friday evening at the rehearsal? Of course you knew, I've been telling you about it for two years. The man made me curse in church! It's hot in New York during the summer, Dr. Marine, so I can imagine what it feels like in hell. I really don't want to go to hell, but that man can make the most saintly person change their religion. He bugged the crap out of me and just rubbed that nerve until I ended up giving him the finger...both fingers...in church. I still don't understand why he finds it necessary to push my buttons.

Then at the wedding, he began to be less of a butthead. I mean, he actually complimented me and he was flirting with me like he meant it. Of course, he couldn't have meant it. Cameron flirts with anything in a skirt. I've seen the women that Cameron dates, and trust me, I ain't it. I mean, he dates all races, all types of women, but most of them fall in the tall, supermodel category, you know. I am definitely not his type. Do you know he had the nerve to call me a self-absorbed, stubborn brat? Okay, I may be stubborn, but I am not self-absorbed or a brat. I didn't have the luxury of being a brat. Anyway, I don't need to get into that today. I'm tripping, Dr. M, because guess what moneybags did? He kissed me...in the elevator...at the reception! Cameron Caldwell kissed me...well. And do you know what, Dr. M? I kissed him back. I wanted him to continue kissing and caressing me. I wanted to do other things, which is strange in itself, because I have never felt like that after kissing a man. Oh, and Dr. M, the man has got some seriously nice lips, too. His lips put most women's lips to shame. They are luscious, beautiful and pink... really suckable lips. I can't believe I'm sitting here talking about Cameron Caldwell and his hot lips. You must think I'm crazy, right?" Tavin asked turning her head to look at Dr. Marine. Dr. Marine nodded no.

"What am I saying? You're my therapist, of course you think I'm crazy," Tavin replied.

"You're not crazy, Tavin. You're just like everyone else. Everyone has problems and things that they are dealing with. Okay," Dr. Marine stated in that soothing voice of hers.

"Okay. Wait, let me finish. Cameron is as aggravating as a gnat, but he's such a good kisser, lord have mercy. Oh, let me tell you more about this kiss. Well, as Fabulips was putting the smackdown, literally, on me, he stops and gives me that stupid ass grin of his like he knew I was enjoying the kiss, which I was. After the kiss, I was in a daze. Hell, I was damn near catatonic. Cameron and I don't get along, but our lips are damn fond of each other. I don't know why I'm telling you about this, because he probably did it just to get to me. But, the thing is Dr. Marine, he did get to me. He has me thinking about wanting more of those kisses and getting to know him. Do you know he actually grabbed my ass? No man has ever grabbed my ass...actually, they've never had the courage to grab my ass, but he did...and it wasn't too bad. I have been daydreaming about the man, Dr. M, and I don't daydream. What in the hell is wrong with me? I never reacted to him like that before, and he is fine, Dr. M--those eyes ain't nothin' nice and that body...whew...the boy is superfragicagilisticexpealidocious fine. My bad, I did kiss him a few years ago, you know, after the attack. That that was a really good kiss, but this kiss was, damn, off the charts. It was different from the other kiss. It was...I can't even describe it. I can't think about Cameron Caldwell like this, Dr. M. We can't stand each other. But he felt really good and he smelled incredible. You know what's really bugging me now? I don't want to not like him anymore. That kiss blew me away. Whew," Tavin stated, letting out a deep breath.

Dr. Marine waited a moment, then she spoke. "Well, that was an interesting development at the wedding. I think that it's progress."

"How so? It was just a kiss?" Tavin replied.

"Tavin, what you just described to me was more than a kiss. You enjoyed this kiss immensely," Dr. Marine said.

"You can say that again," Tavin replied. Dr. Marine smiled.

"The last time you kissed someone, you froze and broke down. That was 2 years ago, Tavin. This kiss is very important because you've told me about the dates that you have went on recently. You told me the men were successful and attractive, but you could not kiss them. You couldn't reach the 1st intimate level with them. By kissing Cameron, you gave in and on a subconscious level, trusted him. This is huge, Tavin," Dr. Marine replied. Tavin thought about what Dr. Marine just said and remained silent.

"Why don't you think you're his type?" Dr. Marine asked.

"Because, he's wealthy, extremely wealthy...and white. I had a date with one white guy in college and that turned out horrible. We are just from different worlds, Dr. M. Besides, Cameron is the love 'em and leave 'em type. I'm not into men like that, Dr. M. We are just too different," Tavin replied, staring at the ceiling.

"Have you and Cameron ever spoke to one another without arguing?" Dr. Marine asked. Tavin pondered the question and replied.

"No, not really," said Tavin.

"So, how would you know what his type was? Tavin, many wealthy men date women to portray the ideal that is set for them. I'm not saying that Cameron was not attracted to the uber models, but has he ever been in a relationship with any of the women that you know of?" Dr. Marine asked.

"No," Tavin replied.

"Okay. So, how would you know what his type of woman was if you didn't come out and ask him?" Dr. Marine asked.

"You know what. That's true. It does make sense," Tavin stated.

"Furthermore, has it ever occured to you that the reason that Cameron starts these arguments with you is because deep down he has feelings for you. Maybe he feels that instigating an argument is the only he'll get to talk to you and receive attention from you. The man may be conceited, most are, but he can't be that bad, considering how he aided you years ago and saved you from your attacker", Dr. Marine stated.

"Cameron Caldwell...gorgeous, wealthy, white male...feelings for little old brown Tavin Wilson? Not possible," Tavin replied.

"It may be very possible Tavin. Maybe you are being too hard on him," Dr. Marine stated.

"Now you sound like my friends," Tavin said with a sigh.

"Tavin, think about your relationship thus far with Cameron. Deep down, do you really think that he's an evil man?" Dr. Marine asked. Tavin paused in thought for a few minutes, then, she answered Dr. Marine.

"Aggravating...yes. An asshole...yes. Conceited...yes. Evil...no, he's not evil. He just thinks that the world revolves around him," Tavin said as Dr. Marine laughed.

"Most men do, Tavin. I want you to try something. I think it will help," Dr. Marine asked as Tavin sat up and looked directly into Dr. Marine's eyes.

"Okay. What?" Tavin asked.

"Give him a chance. I'm not asking you to marry the guy, just try to be a little more friendly towards him the next time you meet. You stated to me that you and he were all friends with the same people. Try to be his friend," Dr. Marine said, but Tavin laughed.

"Dr. M, you're reaching," said Tavin.

"No, hear me out. Try to get to know the man, Tavin. What would it hurt? If he ends up being the jerk that you've so eloquently spoken of for the past two years, then leave it alone. Why don't you try it, Tavin?" Dr. Marine asked.

Tavin listened to Dr. Marine and remained silent for several minutes. What would it hurt? Tavin thought. If it turned out okay, their friends wouldn't be caught up in their web of ongoing drama and insults anymore. What the hell, Tavin thought.

"Okay, I'll try, but I'm not going to promise anything," Tavin replied, looking at Dr. Marine.

"That's all I ask," Dr. Marine replied. Tavin looked at her watch and grabbed her purse.

"Thank you again, Dr. Marine, for taking me at such short notice for a quick session. I really appreciate it," Tavin said with a small smile, walking to the office door.

"Anytime. And Tavin?" Dr. Marine asked as Tavin put her hand on the doorknob. Tavin turned and looked at her.

"Yes, Dr. Marine?" asked Tavin.

"Be open. Give it a chance. You never know what good may come out of this. Don't forget to make your next appointment with Pamela, and I will see you next time," Dr. Marine stated with a warm smile. Tavin returned Dr. Marine's smile.

"I will. Thanks, again. I'll see you later, Dr. M. Enjoy the rest of your week," Tavin replied as she walked out of the door. Tavin had been through so much, Dr. Marine pondered. Dr. Marine glanced at her notes and circled Cameron Caldwell. He may be just what she needs to break down some of those barriers, Dr. Marine thought with a smile.
*********************************************************

Cameron finished a long distance call and dialed Nicholas, to see if he wanted to have lunch. Nicholas agreed to meet him for lunch at Barney's, a deli in downtown Manhattan. He needed to get some insight on Ms. Tavin Wilson. Something changed as the thought about that incredible kiss for the thousandth time. She felt so right in his arms and her lips were absolutely scrumptious. Her skin was silky soft and beautiful. Cameron did not want to stop kissing her, but he knew that he had to. She didn't hate him, that much he knew because of the response he received from her during their kiss. He knew that he had to do something to get her to trust him. He had to find a way to make her see that he was not the conceited, self-absorbed, bimbo chasing bastard that she perceived him to be.

Cameron sat at a table in Barney's, awaiting Nicholas' arrival. As he waited, he returned a few calls to his clients. He looked up and saw Nicholas' tall frame ease through the deli's front door. Nicholas sat down across from Cameron and opened his gray suit jacket, placing it on the back of his chair. As Vice-President of Whitmore International Industries, Nicholas rarely had time to have lunch with his friends. Nicholas was glad that he had time to get away when Cameron called him. Something in his gut told him that this lunch was not just a hang out affair, but Cameron had something or someone on his mind that he needed to discuss...Tavin.

"Hey, you were actually on time today, Nick. What's up with that?" Cameron asked with a wide grin. Nick returned his grin.

"Luck, I guess. I wasn't tied up today. You sounded serious when you called and you look serious. What's going on with you?" Nicholas asked. The waitress smiled at the gorgeous men and took their order. She slowly walked away and glanced back at them. Nicholas winked at her and she blushed, and walked into the kitchen.

Cameron laughed. Nicholas was a big player, worst than Cameron. Cameron shook his head at Nicholas, because the last time the guys had lunch together, Nicholas was late, because he was literally tied up with a hot, young temp at his company. Nicholas had this amazing ability to make women feel comfortable and at ease, thus forming friendships with them. All women loved Nicholas, because of his good looks, quick wit and charm. By the time most women knew what had hit them, Nicholas would have them in bed. The funny thing about it was, after Nicholas slept with them, they remained friends with him. Cameron didn't know how Nicholas did it, but he knew his personality, his blue eyes, dark blond hair and 6'3 stature drew women to him like moths to a flame. He had an easygoing nature and had the uncanny ability to put people at ease. He was the mediator, the negotiator and the peacemaker within their circle of friends. He was also close to Tavin.

"It is serious. Man, I really need to talk to you about Tavin. I'm whiggin' out, Nick," Cameron replied. Nicholas' blue eyes lit up.

"Tavin's got you whiggin', huh? I knew it," Nicholas stated with a grin.

"Knew what?" Cameron asked.

"That something went on with you and Tavin at the reception. Dude, I saw you walking out of the elevator, wiping your lips and I saw Tav, in a daze. What did you do to her, Cam?" Nicholas asked.

Cameron gave Nicholas a dimpled grin. "I kissed the shit out of her."

"And?" Nicholas implored.

"I grabbed that fine ass of hers. I couldn't help myself. It teased me all night, under that silver gown. I couldn't help myself," Cameron repeated with a mischievious grin. Nicholas smiled back.

"You lucky son-of-a-bitch. Do you know how many people have wanted to touch that ass? The girl has one of the best asses I've ever seen," Nicholas replied with a smile that Cameron didn't like.

"Yeah she does, but enough about that," Cameron replied.

"What else happened?" Nicholas asked.

"That's it. I mean, I wanted to do more, but I thought that Tavin not punching me after I grabbed her ass was a good thing. I didn't want to push it. Besides, Tavin is really hard to read, which is weird, because I am the master at reading women, but not Tavin. I'm confused as shit when it comes to that girl," Cameron replied with a grin and a sigh. Nicholas laughed.

"Yeah, she is pretty hard to read, but you are about the only guy that I know of that has gotten that close to her. You're probably the only guy that could handle her. Are you trying to get with Tavin, because if you are, it ain't gonna happen, not right now," Nicholas stated.

Cameron's grin left his face and he looked at Nicholas with cool green eyes.

"Why? Because you want her? I mean, we've been tight for a long time, but if you have designs on Tavin, let me know," Cameron replied, with a hard edge to his voice.

"Don't get your panties in a bunch, man," Nicholas said.

"Then answer my question. Do you want Tavin?" Cameron asked.

Nicholas shook his head. Cameron was jealous. Nicholas watched the hard set of Cameron's jaw and simply smiled. "No, Cam, we're just friends. Besides, I tried to get at her a couple of years ago."

"I knew it. What happened?" Cameron asked as their orders were placed in front of them. They began to eat. After two bites of his sub, Nicholas spoke.

"I kissed her and it felt like I was kissing my sister. Their was no spark, at all. Neither one of us felt anything and that was that," Nicholas replied. Cameron felt relieved. He didn't want to have to compete against Nicholas for Tavin.

"So, if you don't have your eye on her, why can't I make a move?" Cameron asked.

"Hello? Because, it's you Cam. Dude, for the past 8 years, you have made it your duty to piss that woman off. You can't just go to her and tell her, 'Oh, sorry about starting shit with you all these years, but I really want to get with you'. Come on, man, that ain't gonna fly. Look, is this just about you hitting the skins, or are you really feeling Tav?" Nicholas asked, taking a bite of his sandwich, his eyes glued to Cameron's. Cameron finished chewing and drank some of his soda.

"Well, I am incredibly attracted to her and yeah, I want to get with her, but that's not what this is about. I must be fuckin' nuts. She curses me out. She's mean as hell to me. I can't blame her, though, because I do drive her. I push the hell out of her buttons on the regular. I really do think that she's a stuck up bitch who needs to relax. But, with all that, I dig her man. I'm really feeling her, Nick. I mean, women don't usually insult me. I usually get my way, but not with Tavin. She tells me exactly what she thinks of me, and where to get off, and honestly, when she gets all pissed off at me, it turns me on...big time. I know, I'm sick, but I love it when she does that...", Cameron replied with an interruption from Nicholas.

"I know you do," Nicholas interrupted knowingly.

"But there's something about her that makes me want to know more. I mean, that kiss took the wind out of my sails. It knocked me off my feet, man, and not many kisses in my lifetime have done that. All I've been doing is thinking about her and having some very dirty dreams about that woman, with her fine ass. How can I get her to see the real me, Nick?" Cameron asked. Nicholas smiled, because he knew it all along.

"All I have to say is....it's about damn time. Okay, so what's the game plan, Cam?" Nicholas asked.

"Tell her that I want to get to know her, sweep her off her feet, tell her I want her, I don't know," a flustered Cameron stated. This was not the cool, calm Cameron that Nicholas knew, who was always in control. Tavin really got to him. He had never heard Cameron talk about a woman this way.

"Hold on, Mr. Lover Man...," Nicholas said.

"Shabba," Cameron interrupted and they both laughed.

"You're a dick, man. What I was going to say before you got all reggae on me is, you can't go, guns blazing at Tavin. You can't do that with her," Nicholas replied.

"Why the hell not?" Cameron asked.

"If you haven't noticed, Tavin is not like most women. She is the queen of barriers, man. She has so many walls around her and she's very guarded. She doesn't really trust men, either. I don't know why, but she doesn't. Anyway, you can't just come out and tell her you want her. You have to tread lightly, Cam. You have to do something that you've never done, before you pounce on her and try to seduce her," Nicholas replied.

"What's that?" Cameron asked.

"You have to slowly gain Tavin's trust. You have to get to know her. You really have to become her friend--really become her friend. Listen, Cam, my gut tells me that Tavin has feelings for you, but she's too stubborn to let anyone know. You have to slowly let her make her feelings known. If Tav can trust you as a friend, and get closer to you, she'll let her guard down, and then, you tell her how you feel. You are going to have to resist doing anything to her...kissing, touching, grabbing...and really get to know this woman, man," Nicholas stated.

Cameron took in everthing Nick said and nodded in agreement. It made sense. He had to find out who she really was if he wanted to get closer to her. He would tamper his urges, which wouldn't be easy to do, and start something platonic with her. Cameron smiled slowly.

"You're right, Nick. That does make sense. So, what do I do first?" Cameron asked.

Nicholas smiled. "The first thing you need is another ally. You have to talk to Shelly. See if she'll spill anything that will help you get closer to Tavin."

"I'll do that when she gets back from Spain. Thanks again, Nick," Cameron replied.

"No problem. I've been waiting on this for a long time. I can't wait to see how this turns out. Good luck, man, because you are going to need it," Nicholas replied as they finished their lunch.

Chapter 5

Another beautiful Saturday morning had approached and Tavin rose, gave thanks to God for waking her, and said her morning prayer. After she finished her prayer, she began her household chores. She completed her laundry, did the floors, and dusted. After her chores were done, Tavin sat done to complete some work that she brought home the previous day. Tavin did not have to do work on Saturday's, but she didn't have anything else to do, and the 3 to 4 hours she put in at home on Saturday's made her week a little easier. Besides, she liked her work. She was good at her job and it made her feel good when she successfully closed an account. Tavin had been working for 2 hours when the phone rang.

"Hello, " Tavin answered.

"Hey, girl," responded Felicia.

"Oh, hey, Fee. What's goin' on?" Tavin asked.

"Nothing. Did I interrupt you? I know your ass is in that damn apartment on this gorgeous day working," Felicia replied.

"Yeah, I'm working, but I always have time for you...and stop messin' with me about working on Saturday," Tavin stated.

"Alright, but, I just want you to go out...have some fun...get a man...have some one night stand sex. Do something out of your character, for once, Tav. I'm only saying this because I care, mami," Felicia said, in a warm, concerned tone. Tavin sighed into the phone. She knew she meant well, but she didn't want to get into that right now with Felicia.

"Yeah, I know you do, but I don't do the one night stand stuff, Fee. It's not me, but enough about that. What's bothering you, chica?" Tavin asked, changing the subject.

"I want to ask you something," Fee replied.

Tavin moved away from her computer and sat on her sofa, with her legs tucked underneath her, smiling.

"Okay, go for what you know," Tavin stated.

"Alright. Tav, do you know if Nicholas is dating someone seriously? The reason I'm asking is because...if you already don't know, me and Nick have been doin' the "friends with benefits" thing for about a year, and I wanted to know, what's going on? I haven't seen him in about a month and for us, that's a long time," Felicia said as Tavin's mouth turned into a huge O. Friends with benefits? Felicia had a crush on Nicholas for as long as Tavin could remember and she couldn't believe that Felicia wanted to settle for just a sexual relationship with Nicholas.

"Ooow!! You been doin' it with Nicholas!!!" Tavin exclaimed.

"Yeah, heifer, we been knockin' boots and before you ask, yeah, it's damn good. You need to try it sometime," Felicia replied.

"To hell with you, heifer and no, he hasn't told me anything. He knew I wouldn't like the F.W.B. situation, so he definitely kept me in the dark on this, but thanks for telling me. Can I ask you a question?" Tavin asked.

"Of course," Felicia stated.

"You have feelings for Nick, Fee. Why would you settle for the F.W.B. when you want the complete package?" Tavin asked.

Felicia sighed and began to speak. "I settled for it because I wasn't ready for anything with Nicholas. Look, you know we've been flirting and dancing around each other for years. One night, we met to have dinner, the next morning, we're continuing the horizontal tango in the sheets from the previous night. At the time, I was working 12 hour shifts and honestly, I didn't want anything permanent with Nick. It was perfect. Then, my feelings grew. I've masked them, of course, but I think he knows and he's avoiding me. We've been cool for too long for that, Tav. I do want the...oh man, this is difficult for me to say...relationship thing with him, but I'm not going to force him. So, say something before I continue to ramble," Felicia replied in a breathy tone. Felicia worked as a surgical RN at one of the city's hospitals. Felicia also had a commitment phobia, never allowing herself to get tied down to a man, something she and Tavin had in common. Felicia had to be the biggest female player that Tavin knew. Tavin scratched her head and began to speak.

"The only thing I can tell you Fee is to talk to Nick," Tavin stated.

Felicia sighed. "Yeah, I figured you were going to say that. I don't know how I'm going to tell him that I want to stop the random booty calls and make them permanent booty calls."

"You know him better than I do, girl. Just tell him. If he doesn't want the same thing, his loss...move on. I'll be here for you," Tavin said.

"I know. I'm just going to throw myself out there and if he doesn't want to be with me, you are right...his loss. I am too fine to be worrying about one man. Thanks, Tav," Felicia replied.

"No problem, just handle your business. If you need me, just call me, okay. I'll be on standby with some double chocolate ice cream and a strawberry cheesecake," Tavin stated in a kind, warm tone of voice.

"I will let you know what happens, and make sure you have extra strawberries and whip cream, just in case," Felicia said.

"Will do," Tavin stated with smile.

"I'll see you tomorrow at brunch. Love you, girl," Felicia replied.

Tavin smiled. "Love you, too."

"Later," Felicia replied.

"Bye," Tavin stated as she hung up the phone. She hoped that Nicholas and Felicia would give each other a chance. They were perfect for each other.

Tavin went back to her computer and began to look over her paperwork again. The phone rang twenty minutes later and Tavin assumed it was Felicia.

"I'm going to get the extra strawberries and whip cream Fee," Tavin answered.

"Extra strawberries and whip cream, huh? What kind of kinky shit are you guys into...can I watch?" a sexy, deep voice asked. Tavin sighed. It was Cameron. She began to remember that kiss and cleared her head.

"No, you can't, perv, and it's not that kind of party," Tavin replied, about to hang up the phone. Tavin really did not have the time or the energy to verbally go toe to toe with Cameron today. Cameron sensed that she was going to hang up and responded.

"Don't hang up the phone, please. I was just messing with you. Besides, you can't blame a guy for trying. How are you, Tavin?" Cameron asked in a sincere voice. Sincere?

"I'm fine," Tavin replied cautiously.

"That's good," said Cameron.

"How did you get my phone number?" Tavin asked.

"Tavin, we have the same friends. I got your number from one of them," Cameron replied.

"Well, what do you want? I'm working," Tavin stated, with a sigh.

"On a Saturday? It's a beautiful day and you're inside, working?" Cameron asked. Tavin sat back on the couch in the position she was sitting previously.

"Yes. Some people don't have it like you, Cameron. Some of us have to work. Just because it's a beautiful day doesn't mean my bills don't need to be paid. I have deadlines and by working on Saturday's, the rest of my week is lighter. Why am I explaining myself to you. What do you want?" Tavin asked.

"I want you to take a lunch break with me. I wanted to talk with you...over a slice...at Fugaro's. It's important," Cameron replied. Fugaro's had some of the best pizza in the city. Nichelle told Cameron that Tavin absolutely loved Fugaro's pizza. Tavin was curious, to say the least. She loved Fugaro's pizza. Besides, if he pissed her off, she could always smash a slice of pizza in his face. Yeah, that would be fun, Tavin smiled to herself.

"What's so important that you can't tell me over the phone?" Tavin inquired.

"You'll find out when I see you. Meet you in an hour?" Cameron asked.

"Yeah, okay...an hour," Tavin replied as she hung the phone. What the hell did he want, Tavin asked herself.

Cameron smiled to himself and hung up the phone. He wanted...no, he needed her to trust him. Cameron ran to his bathroom to take a quick shower, then he was off to see Ms. Tavin Wilson.
*********************************************************

Cameron sat in a booth near the back of Fugaro's awaiting Tavin's arrival. He finally saw Tavin walk through the glass front doors of the restaurant. Tavin weaved her way through the sea of hungry take-out patrons until she reached the booth were Cameron sat. Cameron thought she looked pretty cute in a plain, v-neck t-shirt, and some short faded jean shorts, with white and pink sneakers. The way she looked in those shorts...whoa. She had some of the sexiest legs he had ever seen. The shorts cupped her bottom just right...whew. He had to clear his mind and focus.

Tavin slid into the red vinyl booth across from Cameron. He wore a light blue Yankees baseball cap, light blue t-shirt layered over a white tee shirt, and jeans. The light blue made his green eyes look more amazing, Tavin thought. Boy, what a fine white boy, Tavin thought. She had to stay focused. Tavin sat straight up and looked Cameron square in the eye.

"Okay, so what do you want?" Tavin asked. Cameron grinned.

"Well...hello to you too, Tavin," Cameron replied.

"Hello, Cameron," Tavin responded.

"How are you?" Cameron asked.

"I'm fine. I told you that I was fine an hour ago," Tavin said.

"Hey, just wanted to make sure. Anything could have happened within an hour," Cameron stated.

"Alright, enough with the pleasantries. What's really up with you, Cameron?" Tavin asked.

"What do you mean?" Cameron asked.

"I've been here two minutes and you haven't given me one smart ass remark. What gives?" Tavin implored.

"I need to talk to you, as I stated earlier on the phone. I didn't call you to have lunch to piss you off, Tavin," Cameron replied. What the hell was going on? Did she ingest too many cleaning liquid fumes, Tavin asked herself.

"I don't know. Weirder things have happened. Besides, you are never nice to me, so excuse me for being a little cautious and pessimistic," Tavin said. There was a short, tense silence and then Cameron spoke.

"I deserved that. Okay, if you must know, I asked you to lunch so that I could properly apologize for the way I've been coming at you all these years. I'm tired of the fighting and all the awkwardness, and everyone else is, too. I know I am the cause of most of the fights, and I wanted to say, I'm sorry. I asked you here to put an end to all the bickering between you and me. I would like to have a permanent truce. What do you say?" Cameron asked. Tavin smiled at him.

"Have you been eating magic mushrooms or something?" Tavin asked.
Cameron laughed and gave her a dimpled grin.

"No, I haven't," Cameron said.

"You been smokin' Chronic?" Tavin asked. Cameron laughed again.

"No, to weed, PCP, X. I say no to drugs," Cameron replied.

"Yeah, you don't need them, with your crazy ass," Tavin replied. Cameron laughed.

"If I would have known that I could get a smile like that out of you, I would have apologized years ago," Cameron replied.

"I must be dreaming. Are we on some reality show that wants you to stick it to me, and then, you get up and yell, sike, or something. Is this a joke?" Tavin asked.

"No, it's not a joke. I'm serious, Tavin. Truce?" Cameron asked. Tavin would not give in so easily. Cameron wanted something, but she didn't know what. Her eyes narrowed into slits as she crossed her arms and stared at him. Cameron's long, right arm was spread along the booth and his left arm was on the table. He wasn't joking. He was serious.

"Okay, what do you want, Cameron? Is this because of that kiss, because if it is...," Tavin said, but Cameron removed his arm from the back of the booth and sat up. He put his hands on the table and put his right hand on top of her right hand. She didn't move or throw the red pepper flake shaker at him, which was a good sign.

"No it doesn't have to do with that incredible kiss. Trust me, it was a very good kiss," Cameron replied, his green eyes staring into her dark brown ones. It wasn't a lie, but it wasn't completely true, he thought.

Tavin blushed and replied, "Yeah, it was a damn good one." Cameron laughed and continued to speak.

"It has to do with everyone telling me that I was being a complete shit to you all these years, because I don't know you. I have to admit, you hurt my ego when you didn't give in to all the flirting I've done throughout the years, but, I just want to bury the hatchet. I'm tired of the war, Tavin...that's all. Please, forgive me. Let's start over," Cameron simply stated.

Tavin put her right thumb in her mouth and chewed the nail, something Cameron had seen her do before, but really didn't take any notice. She does that when she's thinking, he thought. It was something very simple, but absolutely adorable. Stay focused, Cameron, he replied to himself. You can't be thinking about how cute she looks when you're on a mission to be her friend.

Tavin looked into Cameron's eyes. She could usually tell by the look in someone's eyes if they were being truthful or not. Cameron's eyes were as sincere as his words, with no hint of sarcasm. It would be good to just go out with the gang without worrying about how she was going to keep her cool with Cameron. She meditated on what Dr. Marine said and she figured, what the hell. She would bite. She just hoped her good faith judgement would not backfire in her face.

"Okay," she simply replied. Cameron's face broke into one of those Hollywood killer smiles, dimples and all.

"Really?" Cameron asked.

"Yes, really. Just don't make me regret this, Caldwell," Taivn replied. Cameron continued to smile at her. Tavin couldn't help but smile back. His smile was infectious.

"But, I gotta admit, I love fighting you with you. Those arguments would give me a good laugh throughout the day," Cameron replied.

"I know, right. I mean, you really get some good ones in...for a white boy," Tavin replied. Then she looked at him strangely.

"Ha, you got me. It's okay, though. I'm a fine white boy, though," Cameron said.

"There's the conceited bastard that I know and love," Tavin replied.

"Couldn't just agree with me. The smart mouthed witch is still in the house," Cameron replied.

"She ain't never leaving. Do we have to stop fighting completely?" Tavin asked.

Cameron laughed. "Between me and you, sweetheart, I don't think we will ever stop fighting. It's fun," Cameron replied.

"It is fun. And don't call me sweetheart," Tavin replied.

Cameron pulled his hand away from hers and positioned his body into an erect pose and placed his hand out to her hand to shake.

"I'll call you whatever I want," Cameron replied, his hand still out. Tavin stared at it.

"Oh, yeah? Well, just get used to being cursed out and maybe slapped on the regular from now on," Tavin replied.

"Oooh, kinky. Looking forward to it. Hi, I'm Cameron Caldwell, the dude with the huge smile on his face and you are?" Cameron implored.

Tavin laughed and took his hand. "Tavin Wilson, the chic that's looking at you like you're nuts because you keep smiling at me like you just hit the lotto," she replied.

"No, it's better than that," he said in a softer tone of voice. There was a comfortable silence, then Tavin begin to speak.

"Well, if you have hit the lotto, I would love a million dollars, if it's not too much to ask," Tavin stated. Cameron continued to smile.

"Just a mil? That's a drop in the bucket," Cameron replied.

"I know. I don't want to be too greedy," she replied.

"No, we can't have that. Besides, it's only a lousy mil. I can handle that. So, what kind of slice do you want, and please, don't say vegetarian," Cameron stated.

"Pepperoni," Tavin said with a laugh.

"Alright. I'll be right back," Cameron replied grinning at her as he slid out of the booth to order their pizza. Tavin sat back in the booth, with a small smile on her face. She was glad that she was hungry or she never would have received that apology. Friends instead of sworn enemies with Cameron Caldwell? Cameron looked over his shoulder and smiled at her from the cashier's line. That smile...lord, she was in trouble. Her life just kept getting stranger and stranger.
*********************************************************

The "Pizza Truce Day," as Tavin and Cameron fondly called it, turned out to be a wonderful one. Tavin and Cameron ate pizza until they burst. They walked in the park and talked about themselves, and the gossip among their circle of friends. It wasn't romantic, but it was special. Cameron was actually a cool guy when he wasn't firing smart aleck remarks her way. Cameron found out that the tough as nails Tavin Wilson was vulnerable and shy. They learned so much about each other that made them open their eyes. They were both completely wrong about each other.

The next day, Tavin woke up to find a smiley face balloon, and a card outside her door. Tavin walked back into the apartment, locking the door. She put the balloon on the bar along with the card. The card was intended to be from a group of employees to an individual. On the outside, it read, "We enjoyed the information that you presented". The inside said, "Thank you for taking time out of your busy schedule to spend the day with us." Tavin burst out laughing. It only had a smiley face drawn in the inside with a cursive C. Only Cameron would send something that silly.

Tavin picked up her phone and called Cameron's house. Cameron heard his phone ringing as he came through the door from his run. He ran 3 miles a day. While he was out on his run this morning, he saw a balloon and card that was perfect. He really wanted to knock on her door and give her the balloon in person, but he remembered Nicholas's advice and decided against it. He didn't want to push it, so he placed the items on her doorstep, left, and continued his run.

Cameron grabbed his phone on the 3rd ring.

"This is Cameron," he said breathlessly into the phone. He walked over to the refrigerator and grabbed a liter of bottled water.

"Oh, hey, um, Cameron, this is Tavin. If this is a bad time...," Tavin replied. Cameron interrupted her.

"No, just finished my run. Hold on okay?" he asked. He gulped some water from the bottle and took a few deep breaths. He put the phone back to his ear, and sat on one of his bar stools. He picked up a towel and wiped the sweat from his face.

"I'm back. Hey, you're an early riser," Cameron observed.

"Don't go getting too excited, because I am aided by a very loud alarm clock and strong coffee. I hate waking up early, but I have to," Tavin replied.

"Oh, not me. I wake up at 5:00am every morning to run. It clears my head and gets me ready for the day," Cameron replied.

"A triple mocha latte and three Krispy Kreme glazed donuts get me ready for my day," Tavin stated as she heard Cameron laugh.

"There's nothing wrong with that. But, running helps your endurance. You told me that you walk on your treadmill for an hour everday. If you can walk, you can run. Maybe you could join me sometime," Cameron said in a light tone of voice as he drank some more water. He had to watch himself. He didn't want to come on too strong.

"I don't know about that, but we'll see. Besides, I'm a black woman. I don't run. I don't do anything that will sweat out my relaxer," Tavin replied.

"Trust me, I know you don't do anything, and I mean anything, to sweat out your hair. It must be hard living with all that pent up sexual tension. Poor you," Cameron replied. Tavin rolled her eyes.

"You know, you really get on my last nerve and for the last time, stop worrying about my sexual tension. Oh, thanks for the card and the balloon. The card was too funny. You are such a trip, boy," Tavin replied, taking a sip of coffee from her coffee mug.

"I figured you would like that since you have so much joy in your life now, thanks to me, and you're welcome. So, what are you doing today, Ms. Wilson?" Cameron asked.

"I'm going to church in an hour, you stuck up ass. After, I'm going to grab some lunch, come home, watch a chic flick and be lazy for the rest of the day. What about you?" Tavin asked.

"I wish I could laze the day away, but I've been summoned to my parent's house today. They only summon me when there's some family problem, so I''m going to be up to my elbows in Caldwell family drama today. I've got to take a shower and get going, Tavin. Pray that I get through the day with my family, please?" Cameron asked.
He really wanted to stay on the phone with her and he really wanted to see her, but he had to tread lightly with Tavin.

Tavin was a little disappointed that he had to go, but she realized that she was thinking the wrong way and forced a smile.

"I will, Cameron. I hope everythings okay with your family," Tavin said. Cameron smiled.

"I'm sure it is. I'll talk to you soon. Have a good day, Tav," he replied.

"Yeah, you too Cameron, and thanks again for the balloon and the card," Tavin stated.

"Anytime. Act lazy for me today," Cameron replied as Tavin laughed.

"Will do. Bye Cameron," Tavin said as she hung up the phone with a grin. Getting off the phone with Cameron with a grin was much better than a shouting, cursing match.

Tavin began to get ready for church when she heard her phone ring again. Tavin answered cheerily.

"Hello, this is Tavin."

"Hey, baby," a familiar female voice said. Tavin sat on the last stool near her bar and gripped the edge of the bar tightly with her fingers.

"You lost the right to call me that a long time ago, you know, when you abandoned me. Why are you calling me?" Tavin asked the woman in a cold tone of voice.

"I just wanted to talk to you about your sister, that's all. I know you wanted her to come and visit you for Thanksgiving," the female voice replied.

"It's July, not November. Again, what do you want and make it quick?" Tavin asked, snapping her voice at the woman.

"I just wanted to say hello. I miss you. I also want you to know that if you ever need me I'm here," the female replied.

"Oh, spare me the care bullcrap. Don't play the loving mother now, Delia. That ship has sailed. I'm all grown up. I have a good job. I've taken care of myself for years, and I haven't stopped. When I really needed, you, you weren't there. I definitely don't need you now," Tavin stated in a frosty, clipped voice as she heard a male voice calling the female in the background. Tavin shook her head and spoke again.

"Call me in October about Janae. I will send her a ticket when the time rolls around. I am going to only tell you this one more time, Delia. Don't contact me again. I'll contact you," Tavin replied coldly as she hung up the phone with the woman who gave birth to her. Tavin looked at her balloon and card and slammed the phone down again. Why did she have to get a call from her today? She was feeling good, and that woman's voice ruined her day. Great way to start the week, Tavin thought.
*********************************************************

One month later, Tavin was at home on another Sunday afternoon, watching the news and surfing the internet. Her telephone rang and she picked it up on the first ring.

"Hello," Tavin answered.

"Hey, Tav," Cameron replied.

"Oh, hi. What's up? When did you get back in town?" Tavin asked.

"Late last night. Trust me, I couldn't wait to get home," Cameron said with relief in his voice. Tavin shook her head.

"You were in Miami and you're happy to be back here?" Tavin asked.

"Hell yeah," Cameron responded.

"The wedding was that bad, huh?" Tavin asked. Cameron had attended his cousin Monica's wedding in the Miami.

"No, the wedding wasn't bad, but getting felt up by every single woman there was not fun, at all...and I mean every single woman...old, young, middle-aged. If I walked by, my ass got pinched. If I stood in one place, my ass got popped. My ass is sore from all the women who pinched it and slapped it," Cameron replied. Tavin laughed as she sat on the couch.

"That's your family," Tavin responded with a laugh.

"I'm glad to see you think that my ass molestation is funny. Besides, that's the bad part. My family is not supposed to be feeling me up and propositioning me. That's just nasty," Cameron replied as Tavin continued to laugh.

"Aw, you felt used, huh?" Tavin asked.

"Yeah, I did," Cameron replied.

"Welcome to a woman's world," Tavin replied.

"Well, on behalf of my sex, I apologize. Those women were vultures. They kept eyeing me, winking at me, and licking their lips. I felt like a piece of meat," Cameron replied.

"Well, boo fuckin' hoo. We get felt up on and harassed on a regular basis. I can be in the store buying tampons and one of you fools will try to push up on me. So, get over it," Tavin replied.

"They probably sense that the tampons are the only things that get that close to you, and figure, why not?" Cameron replied.

"Fuck you Cameron," Tavin replied as Cameron laughed.

"I told you, anytime," he replied. Tavin snorted.

"I don't think so. I know I don't feel sorry for your ass now, you trifling bastard. Do you need someone to rub your ass down?" Tavin asked jokingly.

"If you are offering, then, hell yeah," Cameron replied. Tavin laughed.

"Fool, are you on crack? I'm not rubbing your ass. I don't know where it's been. You better put some ice on it and...chill," Tavin replied laughing at her own joke. She wouldn't have minded rubbing his behind, but she didn't want to think about that.

"Tav, that was kind of corny," Cameron stated with a laugh.

"I know, but you laughed, didn't you?" Tavin asked.

"Yeah...but it still was a bad joke," he replied.

"I know it was. So, how was Fog, Hail, Wind, Sleet...?" Tavin asked as Cameron interrupted her with a laugh.

"Misty, her name's Misty," Cameron said.

"Oh, my bad, Misty. It's not my fault that you are dating a chic with a weather condition as a name," Tavin stated.

"I'm not dating Misty and it was this planned thing by mother and her mother. I escorted her to the wedding. Nothing more, nothing less," Cameron said in a matter of fact tone.

"Oh," Tavin simply stated.

"Besides, I don't like bimbos and that girl is pretty stupid. No common sense, ya know. I tried to talk to her and it turned into the Misty Bennett one woman show. She's so dense. I hate dense women," Cameron replied.

"Stop the lies. Some of the women I've seen you with have been dumber than dirt. Doorknobs have higher IQ's than some of the women you've dated," Tavin replied.

"You just wish it was you, admit it," Cameron replied.

"Yeah...I wish I was Typhoon the ditz on your arm. Yeah right," Tavin replied.

"Her name is Misty, and I must admit, you got me on the dumb girls tip. I have dated a lot of dumb girls, but this girl was beyond stupid. She was a nincompoop," Cameron replied.

"Takes one to know one, huh?" Tavin asked with a smile.

"Blow me," Cameron replied as Tavin laughed.

"Never gonna happen, pal. I know you are really loving your mother right now, for choosing such a winner for you. She sure knows how to pick 'em," Tavin said.

"Yeah, well, I made it perfectly clear to my mom that she is not to do that anymore. Enough about the weather girl. How are you? Did you miss me?" Cameron asked with humor in his voice.

"I'm fine and you were only gone two days. I didn't have time to miss you," Tavin replied, lying through her teeth.

"Uh huh. So, what are you doing today?" Cameron asked.

"Nothin' much. Why?" Tavin asked.

"You want to go see a movie or something? I gotta get out of here and you're my last hope. Donovan is gone out of town on business, Trey is wrapped up with some woman and Nick is not home. So, you have to save me from boredom. What do you say?" Cameron asked.

"I guess so. Why not? It'll be my good deed for the day. What time?" Tavin asked.

"Umm, 2:30pm okay with you?" Cameron asked.

"That's cool. I'll see you then," Tavin replied as she hung up the phone.

Cameron laid back against his California king size bed and smiled. He really wanted to bring Tavin with him to the wedding, but he didn't want to push her just yet. Misty really bugged the crap out of him and he only escorted her to shut his mother up. He was really getting to know Tavin, and she was not as he originally thought. She was funny as hell and smart and compassionate. He knew he had to continue to get to know her as a friend, but he wanted more. He was a patient man and he wouldn't force it. Not yet, anyway.

Chapter 6 

Several days later, Nicholas stormed into the guys scheduled poker game, which was at Trey's brownstone this month. Nicholas was late, as usual, and he also looked half-crazy. Nicholas sat at the table and picked up his cards. Donovan, Cameron and Trey glanced at one another, then focused their eyes on Nicholas.

"Look at what the cat dragged in," Cameron stated.

"Yeah, dude, you told us you were going to be 20 minutes late, not an hour," Donovan replied.

"Man, stop timing me. I'm not your wife. I'm here now, Mr. Mom, so relax. I just got tied up at the office," Nicholas snapped glancing at them for a second, then training his blue eyes on his cards.

"Shit, what's wrong with you, man? Is it that time of the month?" Donovan asked.

"Did we interrupt you during one of your kinky role playing games, Nick?" Trey asked.

"Which one were you playing tonight, Nick...the cop or the robber?" Cameron asked as they all laughed.

"I got a better question...who were you playing with tonight? Fee, Cassandra...," Trey replied with a grin as Donovan interrupted him.

"Another temp, your new maid, Bunny, Selene...," Donovan said as Cameron interrupted him.

"The cashier at 7-11, the flower lady down the street, Trey's hot ass moms," Cameron replied as they all laughed. Nicholas didn't, which was weird because Nicholas usually laughed at everything. Nicholas waved his hand at them and just stared straight ahead at his cards.

"Cam, I've been telling you for years to stop talkin' about my moms like that, man," Trey replied.

"Man, your mom is fine. If she ever gave me a chance, I would knock the lining out of it," Cameron said.

"Dude, you making me sick and you ain't knocking the lining out of nothing," Trey replied tensely.

"He's not lying, Trey. Your mom is really fine," Donovan stated. Nicholas hadn't laughed or answered. Something wasn't right. Trey waved his hand in front of Nicholas' face. Nicholas looked at his friends and sighed.

"Quit talkin' about how fine my moms is, before I put my foot up both of yall's asses. What you two dumb bastards need to do is find out what the hell is wrong with this catatonic muthafucka'," Trey replied, waving his hand in front of Nicholas again. Donovan threw his cards down and spoke.

"What the fuck is going on with you, man?" Donovan asked. Everyone looked at Nicholas until he spoke.

"Fee...Felicia...she doesn't want to be my 'fuck buddy' as she put it, anymore. She wants me to c...c.....," Nicholas tried to get out, but his friends interrupted.

"To cornrow, to cook?" Trey asked.

"To commit to her, just her, you fuckin' moron!" Nicholas stated.

"Damn, I see why you came in here looking like that. She brought up the "c" word...to you? This is serious," Donovan replied. Cameron just laughed and shook his head.

"I told you so," Cameron replied.

"What?" Nicholas asked.

"Last year, when you told us about this arrangement, I told you that Fee wasn't going to deal with that friends with benefits shit for long," Cameron replied.

"Yeah, Nick, Fee is like...Whoa. She's fine as hell, man. I thought you liked her? I thought you were considering the "c" word with Fee," Trey said.

"Like her? I'm crazy about her, but I'm not ready for the "c" word with her, or anyone else," Nicholas said, finally looking at them.

"Wait, a minute. When did this go down?" Donovan asked.

"A few nights ago. Fee came over, dressed in a black trenchcoat and the sexiest, barely there, red teddy I've ever seen. I started to kiss her and get her in the mood. The next thing I hear are those words that we dread to hear...the most dreaded words in the English language...," Nicholas said, as they all interrupted him.

"We need to talk," Cameron, Trey, and Donovan all stated in a deadpan voice. Nicholas shook his head in agreement.

"Yeah. Anyway, she's dressed...well, partially dressed...in this sexy, skimpy...I really, really love the skimpy lingerie," Nicholas said.

"I have quite a fondness for it as well," Cameron replied.

"Yeah, me too, especially since they really don't get to keep it on long," Donovan said.

"Yeah," Trey replied.

"I don't know. I think it's kind of a turn on to do a woman while she's wearing really sexy lingerie...then rip it off," Cameron replied as they all smiled.

"True dat. Which one do you think has the skimpiest lingerie...Fredericks or Vicky?" Trey asked.

"Definitely Frederick's," Cameron replied.

"Yeah, Frederick's look's straight high priced ho, doesn't it?" Trey asked.

"Yeah. Vicky's is sometimes a little too...classy. I like the classy lingerie, but sometimes I like to see a woman look like a straight up ho. I like my lingerie a little kinky, basically borderline slutty. Yeah, the sluttier, the better," Cameron replied. Trey smiled at him and the dapped hands.

"You too? That's my dog," Trey replied. Nicholas looked back and forth at them.

"Would you two shut the fuck up and let me finish?" Nicholas asked, in a loud voice.

"Do your thing, man," Trey replied.

"Yeah, my bad...continue," Cameron replied.

"Anyway, all I wanted was to rip that scrap of lace and silk off of her beautiful, caramel body, with my teeth and I was in the process of doing that, when she said those damn words," Nicholas replied, suddenly quiet and staring blankly into space.

"Yo, blankman, we stopped a good as convo about slutty lingerie to hear this shit. What happened? What did she say? What did you say?" Trey asked.

"You sound like a chic right now, dude, like you're waiting to hear the gossip or somethin'," Donovan replied.

"Yeah, borderline bitch," Cameron stated in agreement.

"Is there something you want to tell us, T?" Donovan asked with a smile.

"Yeah...my dick is bigger than yours and both of your moms love it. Nick, tell us what went down," Trey replied. Nicholas stared straight ahead and began to speak.

"She said that she wanted a c...c...commitment. She said something about she wants permanent booty calls and if I wouldn't agree, she would find someone who would. I told her I wasn't ready to take that step, but I didn't want to lose what we had. She said we didn't have much--all we had was mind blowing sex. I said, yeah, isn't that enough? She screamed, threw her purse at me, called me a sorry son-of-a-bitch, and then she went on to say that I was a cheeky bastard and I could not continue to buy the cow for free or some shit like that. Then, she went on to say that she was too fine to settle for what we have and that she is finished with one-sided love. She then ripped off the negligee and told me to take a long, hard look, because I was never going to see it again. She said she hoped I remembered what she felt like because I was never getting her chocha again. Then, she said she was taking her tight shit and she was closing shop until someone deserved to have her good shit and you guys know what? It is good, I mean, it's the best I've ever had. She does this thing where she does a handstand and she moves her...whew. Anyway, where was I--oh, yeah. Then, she cursed me out in English, then in Spanish. She covered that sexy, little naked body of hers and stormed out of my house. I haven't talked to her since," Nicholas replied in a daze. They all looked at each other and nothing was said for a few minutes. Then, Cameron asked a question.

"Are you fuckin' kiddin' me?" Cameron asked.

"What's up with you?" Donovan asked.

"Do you know who we are talking about here? Felicia fuckin' Morales. She was one of the hottest girls on campus. She turned Trey down, she turned me down, but she wanted you! She still wants you and yu don't want a woman like that because you're scared of the "c" word? You're fuckin' crazy," Cameron replied. Nicholas just stared ahead and said nothing.

"Wait a minute. I heard her and Nichelle at the house a few weeks ago and she was talking about this gorgeous surgeon who was trying to push up on her, and she said the dude looked like that guy they are all in love with, from the Wire..the guy that got killed?" Donovan asked.

"That Idris Elba dude?" Trey asked.

"Yeah him," Donovan answered.

"You know the guy's whole name, T. I'm worried about you. You are so gay," Cameron replied.

"No, I'm not gay, because you're here...just ask your moms," Trey replied.

"Fuck you, man," Cameron replied laughing.

"Well, Fee said that this surgeon dude has been trying to get with her for months now...," Donovan replied, then Nicholas looked up at him.

"What?" Nicholas asked angrily.

"She said this dude has been asking her out for 6 months and she's been turning him down. She said something about waiting on someone to act right...hmm, I wonder who she was referring to?" Donovan asked.

"What's his name?" Nicholas asked angrily.

"I don't know. I wasn't supposed to be listenin', remember," Donovan replied.

"Now, that's gay...you, listening to your wife's conversations. But, Nick, why do you give a shit? You gave Fee the boot. You didn't want her, so why do you care who she gets with? You can really live up your pimp life now," Trey replied.

"I can find out who he is and keep him the hell away from Felicia. She needs someone that knows her, someone that is strong enough to be with her," Nicholas replied angrily. Cameron got pissed off. He wanted Tavin, but she wasn't ready for him yet. Nick had one of the best women he knew in the palm of his hands and he didn't want her. Cameron began to speak.

"To say you are such a smart guy, you have to be the biggest idiot I know," Cameron replied. Nicholas looked him in the eye.

"What are you talking about, Cam?" Nicholas asked.

"She wanted you. You didn't want her. A beautiful, sexy, intelligent woman wants you and no one else, and you don't want her. Do you know how many men have wanted and want...," Cameron stated, but was interrupted by Trey and Donovan.

"Felicia fuckin' Morales," Trey and Donovan said simultaneously. Cameron looked at them.

"Right. I mean, you want her, but you don't want her...and you don't want anyone else with her. You didn't even give it a try, Nick. If she has a chance to be happy with another guy...then, let her man. If you really want her, handle your business. If not, let her find happiness, Nick. You can't have it both ways, Nick," Cameron replied. Nicholas pondered what Cameron said and then Trey said something to cut the tension and they began another conversation.

"Yo, you and Fee were doing some positions I've never tried before. She did a handstand...while you boned her?" Trey asked with a grin. They all looked at Nicholas and he smiled.

"Yeah, she did. It was...whoa...fuckin' amazin'," Nicholas replied.

"Sounds like a talented girl," Cameron said.

"Yeah, she is," Nicholas said with a grin.

"How in the hell did you do that?" Donovan asked.

"Yeah, I want to know that one," Cameron responded. Nicholas explained the position and they all smiled.

"Shit, I gotta try that with Shelly when I get home," Donovan replied.

"It's definitely different," Cameron stated.

"Shit, to hell with this," Trey said. He jumped up and grabbed his phone. He dialed Kiana's phone number, smiled into the phone and hung up.

"Who was that?" Donovan asked.

"You really are a broad. That was Kiana. I just invited her over. I want to try out that position," Trey replied with a devilish grin.

"Are you forgettin' about us?" Cameron asked.

"No, I'm not. Since we're not playing poker, yall gotta bounce," Trey replied, as he put up the poker chips and the cards.

"You throwin' us out because of a piece of ass?" Nicholas asked.

"Not just any piece. 5'2, caramel skin, long, black hair, and stacked. This ain't no peep show. Get out," Trey replied.

"That's cold, man," Nicholas replied.

"I know. You ain't gotta go home, but you got to get the hell out of here," Trey replied.

"We are gonna remember this," Cameron replied, getting up. They all rose and walked to the door, then through the door.

"Remember it, take a picture, I don't give a shit. I got some no strings ass on the way, so yall gotta get outta here. I got to make this place into the Bootydome in 20 minutes. Pool, next week. See ya," Trey replied slamming the door in their faces. They all shook their heads and walked away from Trey's house.

"Yeah, wait until he needs a wingman for an ugly girl," Nicholas replied as they got into their cars and drove away.

*********************************************************
Two months had passed, and Tavin and Cameron's friendship was growing stronger. It was sort of like the relationship that Tavin shared with Nicholas, but she had a different connection with Cameron, and she didn't know how to label that connection. They actually had a lot in common and thought a lot alike, which was weird and scary to Tavin.

It was a beautiful Saturday morning as Tavin dressed to meet Liza downtown to shop. Trey's birthday party was tonight and they were all going to Club Six for his birthday bash. Tavin hadn't been to a club in years and she wanted to have a little fun. She and Liza would leave from her apartment to go to the party, since her apartment was closer to the club. They shopped all day, had lunch and took a shower before the party. Tavin looked at herself in the mirror after she finished dressing as Liza yellled at her.

"Would you come on, slowpoke? It's 10:30pm, Tavin. We were supposed to be there for 9:30pm. If Donovan or Fee sends me another text mesage about us being late, I'm going to scream. Come on Tav, move your ass," Liza replied.

"Don't worry. My ass is moving enough, trust me. Are you sure this outfit is okay? I don't usually show this much skin. I don't want to look like, hey how much?" Tavin yelled from the bedroom.

"I told you, you sickening woman, when you tried on the outfit that you looked hot. I know what the hell I'm doing. It's only my damn job, Tav. Now, come on, let's go," Liza yelled.

Tavin walked out dressed in a black, short, pleated, garbadine flirty skirt, a hot pink rhinestone appliqued one-shouldered tank top, and black high heeled sandals with an ankle strap. Those were her only pair of comfy, sexy shoes that she could dance in. Tavin grabbed her black leather coat, her black leather wristlet and Trey's gift bag.

Liza looked up and smiled at Tavin and let out a whistle. Tavin did a curtsy and took in Liza appearance. Liza had the perfect body for the skinny black denim jeans that she rocked, with black, knee high boots, with a white vintage, rhinestoned Marilyn Monroe tank top. Liza grabbed her leather jacket and the shopping bag that held Trey's gift.

"I told you girl, you look good, especially in hot pink. Now, we gotta go," Liza replied, taking Tavin's hand and walking her out of the apartment. They hailed a cab and made it to the club in 15 minutes. Liza took Tavin's hand and went to the front of the line. She walked up to the sexy, dark haired, tall and handsome bouncer with Tavin in tow. Liza batted her eyes and told thim they were here for the party upstairs and he checked the list, also giving the both of them a thorough once over.

Tavin gave him a look and asked, "Are you cross eyed?" Liza shook her head and smiled. This was going to be funny.

He smiled. "No, I'm not."

"Well, you could have fooled me the way you keep staring us down like that. Did you get a good look?" Tavin asked.

The guy stared at their breasts and said, "Yes, I most certainly did. You ladies have beautiful eyes." Liza snickered and Tavin put her hand on her right hip, shifting all her weight on the leg.

"Hey, "The Rock"? Those ain't our eyes. Have you checked your little list twice like a good little elf?" Tavin asked as Liza and the bouncer laughed.

"You're feisty, sexy and funny. I like that," he replied, looking Tavin over again.

"Well, I ain't interested. Let's go Liza," Tavin replied, taking her hand. The bouncer yelled, "Have fun sexy ladies," giving them one more look over as Tavin rolled her eyes. They walked into the club.

"Tav, your ass is a trip," Liza replied.

"I swear, he knows what we look like naked, the way he stared us down," Tavin said.

"Shit, Tav, get used to those looks, all night. We look damn good, if I do say so myself," Liza replied, walking ahead of Tavin. Tavin sucked her teeth.

"You make me sick, you skinny bitch. I have too much hips and ass action to wear shit like that. If I put on a pair of jeans like that, people would yell, "Hey, put your ass away," Tavin replied as they reached the staircase. Liza looked at her and laughed.

"You have a great body, Tav. Besides, anyone can wear skinny jeans. They make you look skinny, silly woman," Liza replied.

"You lie. Everyone can't wear those jeans," Tavin stated as they walked up the spiral staircase. Tavin walked slowly, pulling the back of her skirt down.

"Okay, that's true. But, you have got to stop downing your body. If I was into girls, I'd do you," Liza replied.

"Gee, thanks, Liza," Tavin said.

"No problem. Besides, I wish I had some of your ass," Liza stated as they slowly made it upstairs and approached their friends.

"Right now, I wish I could give you some of my ass, because it's making this toddler sized skirt that you coaxed me into rise damn near to my ass crack," Tavin said. Liza laughed and looked at her.

"Why are you being so melodramatic, Tav?" Liza asked as Felicia and Nichelle ran to them and hugged them, with champagne glasses in their hands.

"What's up with Tav, now?" Nichelle asked as she and Felicia looked over at Tavin and Liza. Nichelle was dressed in a red halter top, skintight denim capri's with denim high heeled sandals.

"She's bitchin' that the skirt is too short, but I told her, she has great legs and it looks good on her," Liza said.

"You got an ass. Nothing to be ashamed of. You look good, Tavy," Felicia replied, dressed in hip hugger acid washed vintage jeans, a larged glitter and rhinestone belt that hung sideways and loosely around her waist, with a ripped sleeve white t-shirt that had "Do Me" written in big cursive handwriting, in rhinestones.

"Yeah, you do have an ass, but most sisters do. You look good in that skirt, girl. You know Liza would tell you if you looked trampy," Nichelle said, sipping her champagne. They all looked at her.

"Speaking of trampy, can your stuff breathe in those capri's?" Liza asked Nichelle.

"My man likes it," Nichelle replied.

"Of course, he does. Your chocha is is on full display for him in those pants, chica," Felicia replied.

"Again, can your shit get some air, Shelly?" Tavin asked as they all laughed.

"I was going to ask the same thing," Trey replied, his hazel eyes smiling as he came over, sipping on a drink with a huge smile. They all hugged him, and said, "Happy birthday, T." They all got that look when they saw Trey. He was GQ fine like the rest of the guys, but he had an exotic look. His father was Japanese and White, and his mother was black--imagine--6'1, honey colored, slanted hazel eyes, short, curly inky black hair, sexy as all get out, and a chemical engineer. Trey always made them go, hmmm. He held them all in his arms, which were wrapped around their shoulders.

"Damn, I'm a lucky bastard. Four of the sexiest ass women in the place hugging me? What did I do to deserve this?" Trey asked.

"It's your birthday...don't get used to it, T," Liza said as they laughed.

"I guess you told me. Ladies, I'm 29, pushin' 30. What do you think?" Trey asked, posing as they laughed.

"You still fine, papi," Felicia replied.

"You look good, boy," Liza said.

"Hot boy," Nichelle stated.

"You aiiight," Tavin replied.

"Thank you, thank you. Well, have fun, drinks are on me...do your thang," Trey replied as he was pulled away by a milk chocolate, long haired sister. Donovan and Nicholas walked up and hugged them. Felicia moved out of Nicholas reach so he wouldn't hug her. Nicholas just looked at her and she rolled her eyes at him. Felicia pulled Liza with her and walked downstairs, bopping her head to Kanye's " Golddigger". Liza elbowed Nichelle. Donovan stood behind Nichelle, kissed her on the shoulder and danced behind her, holding her by the waist. Cameron walked up the stairs, behind Tavin, who didn't see him. Cameron gave her the once over and smiled. Tavin was mad sexy, he thought. Why did she cover all that up, he asked himself. He couldn't take his eyes off of her. He let his eyes roam from her pretty, sexy french pedicured toes in those sexy ass heels, to her gorgeous, legs, to her ass, letting his gaze follow to the skin exposed in the tank top, to the sexy, spiky flips that caressed her head. The woman was extremely sexy, he thought. Why hadn't he noticed it before?

"Damn, Tav, you look good," Nicholas replied. "Turn around, girl," Tavin said, as she laughed and did a Vanna White spin. Tavin then pulled her skirt down.

"Oh, damn, you didn't see my ass, did you?" she asked. Cameron walked behind her and put his hands over her eyes. Tavin jumped. Cameron put his finger on his lips so that Nicholas, Donovan and Nichelle wouldn't say anything.

"Yeah, I saw your ass, little lady and I like it," Cameron asked in a country hick voice.

"Got damn it, I knew this damn skirt was too short. Who is this? Trey?" she asked.

"A secret admirer, little lady," Cameron asked.

"I'm gonna show you how much of a lady I am if you don't take your hands off my eyes man," Tavin said.

"Aw, don't be like that sugar dumplin'. That skirt ain't short enough. You lookin' real sexy in that skirt, girly. If I asked you to wrap those fine, pretty brown legs around me, would ya?" Cameron asked as everyone tried to hold in their laugh.

"Hell no! Look, Gomer Pyle, if you don't take your damn hands off of my eyes, you are going to permanently have a low sperm count," Tavin replied with her right hand on her right hip.

"Aw, sweet thang, don't do me like that. I need my nuts, sugar pie," and Cameron started laughing along with Nicholas, Donovan and Nichelle. Tavin heard that laugh and turned around with a smile on her face. Tavin popped Cameron on the shoulder. She glanced at him, in all his sexiness. He had on a black blazer, a green vintage t-shirt, and jeans, with green and white Adidas.

"You shit, you are so stupid. I should have know it was your dumb ass. What's up?" Tavin asked.

"Nothing...except your skirt. I couldn't help it, Tavin. You were pulling your skirt down like your ass was on fire. It was pretty funny. But, you look very good, Tav. You should wear short skirts more often, babe," Cameron replied. Tavin tried to hide her blush, but it was too late. Cameron grinned at her and decided not to tease her about her blushing at his compliment.

"That's what I told her," Nicholas replied as he followed a pretty young woman downstairs to the dance floor.

"Well, thank you. I received a compliment from Cameron Caldwell. Hell, I must look good," Tavin replied.

"You do. Tav, I mean, no disrespect...," Cameron began.

"You are a lie. You do mean to disrespect, you jackass, so go on and say it," said Tavin.

"Yeah, I do. It's just that, you used to dress like a nun, Tav. The only visible skin on your body was your face and your hands," Cameron said. Tavin grinned.

"Oh, so sue me for dressing like a freakin' lady and not a skank in training," Tavin stated. Cameron looked at her from her feet, to the top of her head slowly, and smiled.

"I'm sorry to break it to you, sweetheart, but if that skirt gets any shorter, you won't be in training...you'll be a full fledged skank. I don't know what's got into...oh, I forgot. Nothing has got into you...," Cameron replied.

"I have Mace and I'm not afraid to use it, Caldwell," Tavin stated as he smiled.

"Ooh, so testy, Tavin. It's just that lately, you've been actually sporting colors and you haven't been dressing like that lady from the Norman Rockwell painting and tonight...you're showing enough skin to almost be arrested for indecent exposure. What the hell has happened to my anal, uptight, number cruncher? Is she actually taking the advice of her friends and learning that there are other colors out there besides beige, black and navy? Is she actually out on a Saturday night instead of practicing to be a spinster? Does she actually have a life now? Oh, my baby...I'm so proud of you," Cameron stated with a smile as he pinched her cheek. Tavin smiled at him and Nichelle and Donovan laughed.

"You can kiss all of my ass, you dickhead," Tavin stated.

"You sure as hell don't have to bend over for me to do it, either, with that Gap Kids skirt on," Cameron replied laughing as Tavin popped him upside the head.

"To hell with you! It's not that short...is it?" Tavin asked pulling it down. Cameron laughed.

"I'm playin', Tav. No joke--You really look incredible tonight," Cameron said, gently nudging her with his elbow.

"Thanks, again," Tavin replied as they smiled at each other. Tavin broke away first and looked over at Nichelle and Donovan, who were grinding on each other with drinks in their hands.

"Well, I know what they want to be doing. If they don't stop, she may be the first woman to get pregnant from dry humping," Tavin said as Cameron laughed.

"The least you could do is get a room. I don't want my first godchild conceived in a club, while you two freaks are grinding to "Big Pimpin," Cameron yelled.

"Yeah, the least you could do is wait for "Half on a Baby" to come on," Tavin said as she and Cameron laughed.

"You two should take your act on the road," Nichelle replied.

"Look, we're married. That means, I can legally hump on my wife anywhere, anytime I want, right baby?" Donovan asked.

"That's right, snookie," Nichelle said as they continued to dance lewdly with each other.

"Snookie?" Cameron and Tavin asked at the same time and burst out laughing.

"Aw, man, you know I'm tellin'. Your nickname sounds like the name of a dog treat, man," Cameron replied as Donovan gave him the finger and continued to dance with his wife.

Tavin began to take off her leather coat and Cameron came behind her and pulled it off. He slowly looked over her bare shouder and arms in the hot pink one shouldered top. All he wanted to do was kiss every inch of bare skin, but he had to keep those thoughts to himself. Cameron glanced down her back and saw a glimpse of a small, colorful tatoo, stationed on the small of her back. Tavin adjusted her blouse and the tatoo was gone. Tavin's got a tatoo? Cameron asked himself. Straight laced, conservative, Tavin Wilson--a tatoo? There was more to her than meets the eye, Cameron thought as he took off his blazer and placed her leather coat on the table with his, near the birthday gifts.

Tavin rubbed her bare arms and stared at Cameron. How could he make jeans and a t-shirt look sexy? She found herself licking her lips as she watched the muscles in his arms contract. Damn, the boy was fine, she thought, as she chewed on her thumbnail. Tavin stopped looking at Cameron and focused on Nichelle and Donovan. When they were near each other, they always behaved as if they were the only ones in the room. They were totally into each other. Tavin smiled at them and knew that was what it was like to be in love with someone. Tavin wondered if she would ever find someone that she cared about in that way. Her mind immediately went to Cameron, because he had returned to her with a smile on that gorgeous face, grabbing her hands. Tavin cleared her head of those thoughts because it would probably never happen.

Cameron didn't know what she was thinking about, but he had a pretty good idea. He pulled her by the hand and said, "Come with me, wild woman. Let's go dance," as they descended the spiral staircase and walked to the dance floor in the middle of the club. Felicia walked up to Cameron and began to dance with him. Tavin bopped her head and snapped her fingers to "The Club," as Trey danced behind Tavin and whispered, "You owe me dance, since I just look alright." Tavin turned around and laughed at Trey.

"Only because it's your birthday," Tavin replied as she and Trey began to dance. Trey looked over his head at Cameron as he looked at Tavin dancing. Tavin could really move...too good.

"Damn," Trey mouthed to Cameron and Cameron smiled in agreement. What the hell? Tavin Wilson could dance? Tavin and Trey danced for a few songs, then Nicholas and one with Cameron. He didn't want to cramp her style, even though it killed him to see her dancing with his friends. Cameron, Nicholas and Trey went back upstairs. You could see the entire dance floor from upstairs and as Cameron looked down on Tavin, he smiled because she was actually letting go and having fun. Nichelle and Liza rejoined Tavin and Felicia on the dance floor and Cameron continued to smile as he watched her dance. Donovan nodded to Cameron and Trey and Nicholas laughed. Trey popped Cameron in the back of the head.

"Man, what the...?" Cameron exlaimed.

"Those hips got you mesmerized, huh, Cam? You were in a daze, man. We've been trying to get your attention for a minute," Trey said.

"Yeah, you were almost slobbing. What's up with you and Tavin? Are you finally going to make a move?" Donovan asked.

"Maybe," Cameron replied.

"I'm not gonna front, Tavin looks sexy as hell. I haven't seen her dressed like that...ever," Trey stated.

"Yeah, she's finally relaxing and having fun. I was worried about her for a minute," Nicholas said.

"Yeah," Cameron replied, his eyes still on Tavin.

"Playa', playa'! You really want to get with her? I thought you just wanted to see how the booty works, but, damn. You serious?" Trey asked. Cameron tried to appear nonchalant as he shrugged his shoulders and turned away from the dance floor.

"I dig her, yeah. I mean, we've been getting along, you know. But, I do wonder about hitting it. I mean, a woman who has that much passion when she's verbally boxing, she's gotta be on fire when the lights go off," Cameron replied, taking a sip of his drink.

"You jonesin' for Tavin Wilson. Never thought I'd see the day that you would admit it," Trey said.

"It only took eight years," Donovan replied taking a sip of his drink. Nicholas pointed to Nichelle.

"Donovan, that guy looks like he wants to get to know your lady in the biblical sense," Nicholas replied as they all looked at Nichelle and a tall, light skinned guy dance closely with Nichelle.

"Who the hell is that? What the....I got to get my wife, man," Donovan replied, calmly walking down the stairs, to the dance floor and pulling Nichelle away from her dance partner. They all laughed. Cameron turned away from the dance floor again.

"Donovan pulled Nichelle away from that guy like he had SARS, man. What's the big deal? They were just dancing. Talk about possessive, huh," Cameron replied, drinking the rest of his drink.

"Yeah, Donovan looked as if he wanted to strangle the guy," Nicholas replied. Trey motioned for Nicholas to look to the dance floor. Nicholas saw what Trey saw and smiled, then he saw Felicia and his smile turned into a frown. Cameron was bopping his head to "Drop it Like it's Hot,", completely oblivious to the dance floor.

"Oh, you think that's funny, huh?" Trey asked.

"It is. He knows who she's going home to," Cameron replied.

"Oh, really?" Trey asked.

"Really," Cameron replied.

"Well, why don't you turn your attention to the dance floor and notice the chocolate and pink center between the vanilla and butter wafers," Trey replied. Cameron smiled as he turned his eyes to the dance floor and saw Tavin dancing between two guys, obviously enjoying herself. Cameron's jaw clenched as a wave of jealously washed over him. Cameron wanted to run downstairs and cut in, but he decided to play it cool. She was just dancing...she was having fun and that's what he wanted...right?

"It's cool. We're just friends. They're just dancing," Cameron stated calmly, gritting his teeth as the Spanish guy grabbed Tavin by the waist and pulled her closer.

"Yeah, right bro," Trey said.

"He'll be on the dance floor as soon as the next song comes on," Nicholas replied. Cameron continued to stare as he watched Tavin dance with those guys. The more he watched, the angrier he got.

Tavin smiled at the Spanish guy who was dancing in front of her and she felt someone staring at her. Tavin looked up and saw Cameron, watching her with the oddest expression on his face. Was he jealous? Tavin finger waved to him and continued to dance with her cute dance companions, as Cameron nodded his head.

What the hell? The little witch had the nerve to smile and wave at him, Cameron thought as he watched her dip lower and move her hips more seductively. Tavin smiled to herself as she danced. He wanted to stare and not dance with her, then she'd give him a show. He barely danced with her all night, and her feelings were a little hurt. They were just friends, right? Don't want to dance with me, well, take that, Tavin said to herself as she danced more seductively.

Oh, so that's how she wants to play it, Cameron thought as he walked slowly down the spiral staircase towards the dance floor. What the hell was she doing, Cameron thought, making his way throught the crowd on the dance floor.

Tavin had enough of her two dance partners and she flashed Fee a "help me" look. Felicia saw the look and noticed the guys that Tavin were dancing with were getting a little too frisky and Felicia pulled her away towards another section of the dance floor. "Check on It," began and Tavin and Felicia sang the chorus. Tavin had her eyes closed for a second as she danced and when she opened them, she felt strong, familiar hands on her waist. The sexy cologne was a dead giveaway. She turned her head and Cameron gave her a sexy smile, pulling her back closer to his front. He leaned his head down to her ear and listened to her sing, which was not good, but not bad.

"Oh, it's just you," Tavin replied, putting her arms up high and snapping her fingers as she danced.

"Who did you think it was...dumb or dumber?" Cameron asked, moving with her.

"You know, I didn't know, because my asshole radar began to beep. It told me that it was your average, run of the mill idiot and 'lo and behold...it was you," Tavin replied with a grin.
Cameron laughed.

"I just came over to save you from the Hillside Stranglers, that's all. A thank you would suffice," Cameron said.

Tavin did some kind of pop lock belly dancer move with her hips and Cameron licked his bottom lip as he continued to dance with her.

"Aw, shit...you're welcome," Cameron said as Tavin laughed. Cameron leaned his lips towards her ear and whispered, "I didn't know you could move like that."

"And I didn't know that you could actually keep a beat. You move well, white boy," Tavin replied as Cameron gave a low chuckle.

"I have a lot of moves that you haven't seen and I'm going to leave it at that," Cameron whispered, his lips right on her ear. Tavin bit her bottom lip.

"Okay dokie...I'm not going to even touch that one," Tavin replied.

"I'm sure you can feel it touching you," Cameron whispered as he nipped her ear with his lips. Tavin sighed and tried to move away, but he pulled her back.

"Ah, Ah, Ah, come back here. Oh, I see. It was okay for Bert and Ernie, complete strangers, to dance on you like this, but when I get a little closer, you move away. That's not fair. Don't worry...I'm a big boy. I know how to control myself," Cameron whispered, nipping her lips again. Tavin tried to change the subject.

"Cameron, you don't know everything about me. You have a lot to learn," Tavin replied. Cameron stopped nipping her ear and answered her.

"I'm beginning to see that. Oh, by the way, Tavin, I definitely like what I see...I love what I see." Tavin smiled to herself and Cameron grinned.

"I know you do, but you can't have it...Na Na Nee Boo Boo," Tavin replied as Cameron laughed.

"You sure about that?" Cameron asked, in that low, sexy, deep voice of his. Tavin avoided his question and they danced through another uptempo song as "Half-Crazy" came on. Tavin pulled away.

"I love this song, but...," Tavin said as Cameron pulled her in his arms. He placed her arms around his neck and pulled his arms around her waist, holding her closely. Cameron looked down into her eyes.

"Hey, you owe me for stepping on my foot at the reception. We didn't finish our dance. Besides, this song kind of describes what's going on with us, don't you think?" Cameron asked, as Tavin avoided his gaze and his question, looking at his shoulder. She laid her head on his chest and enjoyed the closeness of him.

"Cameron," she said.

"Yes, baby?" Cameron asked.

"Don't even think about grabbing my booty...and don't call me baby," Tavin replied with a smile. Cameron laughed.

"Yes, your majesty," he whispered, listening to the song, which he could really relate to. The woman in his arms had his mind half-crazy and he didn't know what to do. She wrapped her arms tighter around his neck, and Cameron held her tighter, not wanting to let go.

Good Lord, the man smelled good, and he felt even better, Tavin thought. They were just friends, but he felt so good and she felt safe and wanted, something she hadn't felt in a long time. It was comforting...the closeness, the embrace and the man. This was something she could get used to.

They danced some more until Tavin had to sit down. It was also past her bedtime, but she was having so much fun. Cameron held her hand and guided her back upstairs to the party. Cameron sat in the last seat available. Tavin looked around. Cameron smiled and patted his lap. Tavin shook her head no.

"Come on, cutie pie, don't be shy," he replied, batting his ridiculously beautiful and long eyelashes at her. Tavin laughed.

"I'm not shy. I'm afraid I may break your legs," Tavin replied.

"You are kind of thick in the waist, but I like that. It's a chance I'm willing to take. Besides, if my legs are gonna go, at least I could say I had a great ass on them before they left. Come on, sit down," Cameron said, pulling her into his lap. Cameron held her by the waist and Tavin closed her eyes, laying her head back on his chest. They all looked over at Cameron and gave him a thumbs up sign. Cameron laughed.

Nichelle lightly kicked Cameron under the table and smiled. She never saw Tavin that close to any man. Please Lord, Nichelle prayed, let her begin to find happiness. That's all I want, Nichelle thought as Cameron smiled back at her. Tavin let out a huge yawn.

"You ready to go? You want me to take you home?" Cameron asked, whispering in her ear.

"Yes, please,"as they stood up. Cameron and Tavin put on their jackets and Tavin kissed Trey on the cheek.

"I hope you like your gift, birthday boy," Tavin replied.

"If it's like all the other great gifts you give me, I'm sure I will. Thanks for comin', babe," Trey replied as they hugged. They said their goodbyes and walked into the cold night. Cameron waited for the valet to pull his car around.

"Time to go, Sleeping Beauty," Cameron replied as Tavin yawned again. He helped her into the passengers seat and tipped the valet, sat in the driver's seat and pulled away from the club. They drove for about 5 minutes, then Cameron asked a question.

"Why didn't you tell me you had a tattoo?"

"You didn't ask. It wasn't that important...hell, you ain't that important, so why would I tell you?" Tavin asked, completely lying. Cameron nodded his head, knowingly.

"Alright, smart ass. Did you have fun? Well, if you didn't, I know Beavis and Butthead from earlier did. They got to roll on a sexy, albeit crazy woman. They probably went home and handled themself, thinking about you," Cameron replied, as Tavin snorted.

"Funny. I did have fun, though. I need to do that more often," Tavin said.

"Yes, you need to go out and have fun...and you need to get laid ASAP. You wouldn't have been dry humping those guys if you were hitting some high notes, but I'm not one to gossip, so you didn't here that from me," Cameron replied with a smile.

"Ha ha," Tavin replied with a yawn. Cameron parked in front of her apartment and watched Tavin yawn again. They walked into the building and walked into the elevator. Tavin took his arm and laid her head against him. Cameron smiled and thought about their other elevator adventure, but he looked at her and she was too tired to even give him a comeback in the car, so he knew he couldn't start something in the elevator. Cameron and Tavin walked to her door and Cameron took her keys, and unlocked the door. Tavin told him to come in and he took a seat on the couch. 10 minutes later, Tavin called his name. Cameron walked to her bedroom door, looked around and walked in, taking in the deep purple, lavender and tan color scheme. Tavin was sitting up in the bed, dressed in a white tank top and black capri pj pants. Cameron looked around her room and smiled as he sat next to her on the bed. This was her way of showing him that she trusted him, he thought, by allowing him into her sanctuary. No man had ever been in her bedroom and Tavin was not about to let Cameron know that.

"Just because you are in here, don't go getting any ideas," Tavin replied, sitting cross legged in her bed.

"I wouldn't think of it. So, this is the inside of Tavin Wilson's bedroom...interesting. Not exactly as I imagined it, that's for sure. I don't see the black candles, the voodoo dolls or the pentagram. Where's the cauldron and your broom stick?" Cameron asked smiling at her. Tavin smiled.

"They're in the the bathroom along with the batwings, the toads, and the potion that makes smug ass men's members shrink to the size of a vienna sausage. Any other questions?" Tavin asked, not feeling tired anymore. Cameron smirked.

"No. So, when did you get your tatoo?" Cameron asked.

"After I graduated from Georgetown," Tavin replied.

"Can I see it?" Cameron asked.

"Okay, but don't try to get a free feel, Cameron," Tavin replied as he laughed.

"Damn, you know me too well," he replied. Tavin turned her back to him and lifted her tank top. Cameron looked at the small butterfly that merged into a phoenix. It was on the small of her back, one of the sexiest parts of a woman, Cameron thought. The tatoo had to hold a special meaning for Tavin, but he thought it was incredibly sexy. He traced the colorful tatoo gently with the tip of his finger, along her beautiful brown skin. Her skin was silky, and soft, just like he remembered it. He didn't want to stop touching her. Tavin loved the feel of his fingertip caressing her, but she had to stop him. Tavin pulled her top down and turned back to face him, looking into his eyes.

"I know that what you're thinking and it suits me. I did it on a whim, thinking about some of the things I've been through. It was totally unexpected. Sorry the backstory doesn't have a heavier meaning, but that's it," Tavin replied as Cameron moved closer to her.

"Oh. I thought that you were going to tell me it was something ritualistic that you had to do in order to protect your coven or something," Cameron replied with a smile. They stared at each other and Tavin play jabbed Cameron in the arm.

"Such a comedian," Tavin replied. Cameron slowly caressed her left cheek with the back of his right hand, staring into her eyes. Tavin couldn't win the stare down and she laughed, because the feeling of his hand on her and the way that he stared, unnerved her.

"What, Cameron? You know it's not polite to stare. Who am I kidding? You don't have any manners. You probably still piss in the street," Tavin replied with a small smile. Cameron continued his ministrations and continued to stare into her eyes. Tavin thought she was going to slide and turn into a puddle of goo in her bed.

"Only when I'm pissy drunk. Did I tell you how sexy you looked tonight?" Cameron asked moving closer. Tavin moved back and Cameron moved closer until she couldn't move back anymore. Cameron smiled.

"No," Tavin said.

"Well, you looked very sexy, Tavin," Cameron said. Tavin tried to hide her blush and continued to speak.

"Thanks, but the bouncer, some guy with an S-curl, two of the bartenders, the guy that looked like Beetlejuice...," Tavin replied but Cameron interrupted her.

"Okay, I get it. You got hit on all night. They said you looked hot. Whoopty-doo. I really don't want to hear about that, especially when I'm sitting this close to you in a bed that no man has probably ever sat in, and you haven't banished me. Let me have this moment, please," Cameron stated as he continued to look into her beautiful brown eyes. There was silence for a minute until Tavin began to speak.

"What? Do I have something between my teeth or on my face?" Tavin asked softly, feeling as if she was hypnotized.

"No. I'm just looking at you and your cute little face, that's all. I like looking at you. You're very pretty. I especially like looking at you when you're not calling me a stupid muthufucka. Do you mind?" Cameron asked, not caring one way or the other if she did. Tavin swallowed slowly and her eyelashes fluttered when his hand left her face and caressed the inside of her arm.

"It's a little...intimidating. I mean, I can handle when you're being the perv that I know you are when you are undressing me with your eyes, but I don't know how to take the way you're looking at me right now," Tavin replied honestly.

"How am I looking at you?" Cameron asked running the tip of his tongue slowly over his bottom lip. Tavin had to remind herself to breathe. Cameron placed either arm on side of her, moving slowly towards her.

"Like you think I'm beautiful and you can't take your eyes off me," Tavin whispered. Cameron smiled.

"Tell her what she's won, Bob," Cameron replied in a game show voice as Tavin giggled. They stared at each other in silence for a minute, then Cameron spoke.

"Do you know what I want to do right now, Tavin?" Cameron asked in a low voice.

"I think so. Bring it on," Tavin whispered staring into the face of a man that was too fine for words. Cameron's head leaned in slowly towards her and he captured her lips with his. He slowly kissed her as he pulled her face into his hands, bringing her closer to him, if that was possible. Tavin let out a soft gaspy, moan and he smiled against her lips, kissing her more intensely. He had to stop kissing her before he really couldn't stop. Cameron pulled away, placing a kiss on the tip of her nose and stared at Tavin's face. Her eyes were closed and her swollen, kissed lips were puckered, awaiting more kisses. She looked utterly adorable, he thought. Cameron ran the tip of his finger slowly along her chin, then down her cute little nose, then over her lips and gave them another, sweet, kiss, then a loud smack.

"I really missed your lips, baby," he breathily whispered, staring at her.

"Yeah, they missed you, too. Hey, Caldwell, what are you trying to do to a sista'? That was getting pretty good," Tavin whispered as her eyes slowly opened. Cameron bit his bottom lip and put his forehead against hers, waiting for his breathing to normalize.

"I know. I'm a pretty good kisser, huh? You don't have to be proud, you can admit it," he whispered, his green eyed gaze fixed on her. Tavin smiled, then placed a small peck on his lips.

"I know that I am only adding to your over-inflated ego, but yeah, you are a damn good kisser. Wait, why are we talking? Why did you stop?" Tavin asked. Cameron wrapped his arms around her waist and Tavin played with the lapel of his blazer.

"I didn't want to, sweetheart, believe me. It's your fault...giving me a lap dance on the dance floor and throwing me for a loop with the wardrobe switch, which, by the way, really works for me," Cameron replied with a grin as Tavin laughed.

"It works for you, huh?" Tavin asked.

"Yeah...big time. Then, on top of that, I'm here...in your bed...really close to you, and you smell...and you look...and you feel...and those lips taste so...whew. Baby, I had to stop or I wouldn't have been able to stop, do you know what I mean?" Cameron asked, looking into her eyes. Tavin didn't want him to stop, but she knew she wasn't ready to sleep with him, especially when her feelings about him were still oddly confusing.

"Yeah, I do...and don't call me baby," Tavin stated with a grin.

Cameron smiled. "You like me calling you that. I can tell. You blush a little and you always give me a small smile. Stop fightin' it, baby," he whispered, giving her a small peck on her lips. She did like it, but she wouldn't give him the satisfaction of knowing he was right.

"Just because I like your lips does not mean that I won't put you out. Try me and I will," Tavin replied.

"No, you won't. You know why? Because you like having me here, close to you, like this and you want to know something? I like being here, baby. Hey, since we've established that you are not going to put me out, does that mean you want me to stay and...," Cameron asked, as Tavin shook her head no.

"You arrogant bastard. Don't make me hurt you, Cameron. I'm not with that...at least, not yet," Tavin replied. Cameron smiled brightly.

"Oh, so that means you're recruiting me...for tension relief...in the near future? If you are, I am more than qualified to assist you with that. Trust me, sweetheart, I would be extremely delighted to do whatever and however, to you and and for you. I just want to help out the cause. I'm a giver and you know what they say...it's always better to give than receive, but in this case we would both be giving and receiving, ya know what I'm saying?" Cameron asked, running his tongue slowly over his bottom lip and giving her the sexiest grin she had ever seen. Be strong, Tavin, she thought .

"Oh, yeah, I forgot how unselfish and selfless you are. As tempting as that sounds...let me think about it," Tavin replied putting her thumbnail in her mouth. Cameron leaned over and slowly kissed the hand of the thumb that she was chewing, giving her the sweetest smile. Tavin looked at her hand, then at him and let out a deep breathe.

"Not fair...at all. Okay, well, I've thought about it, and, you can continue to fantasize in technicolor, wide screen and HD an that is as close as you are going to get to it, sweetie," Tavin replied as Cameron laughed. He kissed her on the forehead and stood up on the side of the bed, pulling her up with him. He took her hand.

"Shit, I tried. You gotta give me that," Cameron replied, as he walked to her front door.

"I'll give you an A- for effort," Tavin replied, looking up into his beautiful green eyes with a smile. Cameron looked down into her eyes and cupped her chin in his hand.

"An A-? Damn, you're tough. I'd better go, but seriously, when you do think about it...," Cameron said, as Tavin interrupted him.

"You're the first one on the list," she said with a smile. Cameron gave her his heartstopping lopsided grin and kissed her on the forehead. Tavin opened the door and he leaned against the doorjamb.

"Call me so that I can know that the egomaniac got home in one piece," Tavin replied.

"Will do, pretty girl," Cameron whispered as he kissed her right cheek, then her lips softly. After he kissed her, he ran his hand along her cheek, smiled and walked out of her apartment. Tavin leaned against her closed door and smiled as she walked to her bedroom. Cameron could have continued to kiss her and she would have let him do whatever he wanted, but he surprised her. She wasn't ready for that and he knew it. How the hell did he know that, Tavin asked herself.

Cameron called Tavin, let her know that he was home, and began to think. Most women didn't give a damn if he got home or not and here was Tavin Wilson, ballbuster, asking him to let her know that he made it home safely. How sweet was that, Cameron thought. Cameron realized that his feelings for Tavin were more than he thought and she shared his feelings. He realized that he really wanted Tavin Wilson and it was time to become more aggressive. She wouldn't know what hit her, Cameron thought with a playful smile on his face.

Chapter 7

It was the beginning of November, and Tavin was surprised at the fact that she and Cameron were getting closer--without any bloodshed. Who would have thought?

This first week in November had been a long and tedious one for Tavin, but, surprisingly she made changes in her schedule. She now worked 9 hour days instead of the 14 that used to be her signature. On this particular Friday, she was leaving early, as she usually did on her Shoe Day. Every 1st Friday of every other month, Tavin left work after lunchtime and indulged herself with shoe shopping. Her limit was usually 3 pair of shoes. Shoes and handbags were a few of her guilty pleasures and although, it was quite costly, she never regretted it.

Tavin walked out of the glass doors of her office building into the brisk, cold day, one of many in New York. Tavin tied her black leather coat tighter around her waist as she tried to hail a cab. Tavin's pocket vibrated and she heard her cell phone ringing. She smiled as she saw Cameron's name appear on the Caller ID. She opened her phone and answered with black leather gloved hands.

"This is Tavin," she said.

"Hey there, good lookin'! What are ya doing? I wanted to know if you wanted to have a late lunch with me?" Cameron asked, driving down the street from Tavin's office. Although Cameron had lunch an hour ago, he would eat again if it meant spending time with her.

"Damn, you mean I could have had a free lunch? I wished you would have called earlier. As usual, you have crappy timing. I ate already. Besides, it's Shoe Day. I'm out of the office until Monday," Tavin replied happily.

"Shoe Day? What in the hell is Shoe Day?" Cameron asked. Tavin explained her ritual and Cameron laughed.

"You actually leave work...you...leave work....early? On a Friday? To shop for shoes? I couldn't get you to leave work early to go to dinner last week and you leave early to shop for shoes? Women are freakin' nuts! Why didn't you inform me of this time honored ritual of yours?" Cameron asked.

"Nun-ya," Tavin replied, still trying to hail a cab.

"Nun-ya?" Cameron asked.

"I didn't tell you because it was Nun-ya business. Besides, men are not interested in women and their pleasures...," Tavin said as Cameron interrupted.

"I object. I am all about my lady and her pleasure--food, clothes...sex...especially sex," he replied.

"Oh, lord, here we go," Tavin said, rolling her eyes.

"I don't stop until my woman is satisfied. I'm damn good at pleasuring, too. Believe that. You want to find out? I'd be happy to give you a full demonstration," Cameron said, grinning into the phone as his car pulled up where Tavin was and he watched her walk in the cold. She hadn't even noticed his car.

"I'm sure you would...freak. Besides, men don't need to know everything about a woman. We like to keep some things to ourselves," Tavin stated.

"Women...like to keep things to themselves? As much as you like to whine and complain and talk about yourself? Yeah, right. Moving on. It's cold outside today, huh, Tav?" Cameron asked.

"Yes, indeed. I can't get a cab and my nipples are frozen," Tavin said. As soon as she said it, she wished she wouldn't have.

"Frozen nipples...that means they're like frozen chocolate drops. Can I defrost...," Cameron replied.

"Don't go there, Cam. It's too damn cold and my hands are too stiff from the cold to execute a good right hook," Tavin said.

"Tavin?" Cameron asked.

"What?" Tavin asked.

"Why don't you look to your left?" Cameron asked. Tavin looked to her left and saw Cameron pull up to her smiling. He got out of the car and walked to the passenger's door.

"You need a ride, miss?" he asked.

"Hell, yeah," Tavin said. Cameron's hand was on the handle of the car door, but he wouldn't open it. He smiled down at her. Tavin put her hands on her hips. She knew that damn smile. It wasn't good.

"Come on, Cameron. It's cold," Tavin said.

"If I give you a ride...will you give me one?" Cameron asked pulling his bottom lip between his teeth.

"Yeah, you can have a ride...," Tavin said licking her lips, placing her gloved hand to Cameron's face.

"Ooh really. We can be at my penthouse in 10 minutes,"Cameron smiled widely and moved closer to her.

"You can have a ride...in an ambulance...to the ER...if you don't quit playing with me and let me in that damn car!" Tavin said loudly. Cameron opened the door quickly and let her get in, quickly getting in the driver's seat. Once he was seated, he pulled away and glanced over at Tavin who was smiling in the heated car.

"Just thought I would ask. You are one scary chic," Cameron replied. He looked over at her after she "thawed" and gave her a dimpled grin.

"Hey, sweetheart."

"Hey, Cameron...and don't call me sweetheart," Tavin replied with a smile.

"Whatever. Did you have a good day at school, dear?" Cameron asked in a hilariously false old maid voice. Tavin shook her head and smiled.

"Yes, I did. I only got put in time-out once," Tavin said.

"That's good. So, where to first? Where are we going?" Cameron asked.

"We? Who said anything about we? You asked me if I needed a ride. You didn't say anything about wanting to come with. This is a sacred day for me. Your testosterone may ruin it," Tavin stated.

"I am really curious to see what this "holiday" is all about. I saved your cute...round...sexy...little ass from the harsh cold. The least you could do is let me accompany you to the festivities," Cameron replied, glancing at her with a look that could melt the iciest of hearts. Tavin blew out a breath.

"Oh...alright. I guess you can come, but you'd better not rush me or tell me anything about time. The minute you do, poof...you are gone. Agreed?" Tavin asked, putting out her hand as they approached a red light. Cameron nodded in agreement and shook her hand, with a grin on his face. Tavin gave him the directions to the store, which was only twenty minutes away.

"You know, you could have died from frost bite. The least you could do is give me kiss right here," Cameron stated as he pointed to his right cheek. Tavin kissed his right cheek.

"And right here," Cameron said, pointing to his left cheek. Tavin giggled and kissed his left cheek.

"And here," Cameron said, pointing to his lips. Tavin gave him a small peck, but Cameron caught her lips in a kiss that took her by surprise. Tavin warmed completely up from that. After the kiss, Tavin heard horns honking and Cameron was staring at her lips, wanting another kiss. Why did he have to look at her like that...with those eyes, she thought.

"Green light, Cameron," Tavin whispered. Cameron pulled away from her slowly.

"Just trying to warm you up. Did it help?" He asked glancing at her.

"Yeah, thanks," Tavin replied as they drove in silence for a few minutes, then Cameron brought up something funny and they spoke until they reached the store. Cameron parked and they walked into the store with Cameron's hand on the small of her back. Tavin was unnerved and excited by the warmth and feel of his hand on her back. Cameron opened the door for her and Tavin slipped inside of the store first, with Cameron's hand still on her back. Jennifer, a regular saleswoman, saw Tavin and smiled brightly at her. Cameron stood next to Tavin.

"Hello, Ms. Wilson. How are you today?" Jennifer asked, immediately turning her attention to Cameron. Whoa, what a babe, Jennifer thought to herself as she smiled at Cameron.

"I'm fine. This is my friend, Cameron Caldwell," Tavin replied. Oh no this heifer is not looking at him like that, with me standing here, Tavin thought as she saw Jennifer eye Cameron like she wanted to eat him with a spoon. Tavin tried to reign in her jealously.

Cameron noticed how Jennifer checked him out and he felt and saw Tavin tense up--she was jealous, he thought. Jennifer was pretty cute and very ballsy, he thought, but he wasn't interested. Cameron wrapped his left arm around Tavin's waist and pulled her closer to him. Cameron kissed her on the cheek, then dropped a soft, sweet kiss on her neck.

"You always introduce me like that, sweetheart, when you know we're much more than that," Cameron replied, nuzzling her neck, then kissing her cheek again. Tavin blushed, loving the destroyed look on Jennifer's face. He held out his right hand to shake Jennifer's, whose eyes told him that she was pretty disappointed. Jennifer saw the way he looked at Ms. Wilson and knew she had a snowball's chance in hell with him.

"Nice to meet you, Jennifer," Cameron replied shaking her hand.

"Nice to meet you, too, Mr. Caldwell. So, Ms. Wilson, it's that time of the month again," Jennifer said with a smile. Tavin put her hand on Cameron's chest and looked up at him.

"Yes, it is. Cameron insisted on coming with me and I told him, this is a process that takes time. You've been well warned," Tavin replied. Cameron laughed.

"Well, any man that is willing to come with a woman while she shops for shoes is a keeper in my book," Jennifer stated. Tavin was going to say something, but Cameron pulled her chin up with his finger, staring down into her eyes.

"Tavin...just agree with the lady, baby, so I can see what the fuss is all about," he replied. Tavin looked up into his eyes and grinned. She thought she was going to melt on the spot. Jennifer eyed the way Cameron looked at Tavin. The man was a goner. Ms. Wilson was a very lucky woman, Jennifer thought.

"Yeah, I guess you're right. So, show me what's new," Tavin replied as she slowly removed herself from Cameron's grip. Cameron smiled, because he knew he was getting to her.

"Right this way," Jennifer replied as Tavin followed her to the back of the store. Cameron followed slowly behind them, taking a seat on one of the benches in the back of the store.

3 hours later, and Tavin was still shopping. Cameron handled a few business calls that were forwarded to his cell phone and just watched her shop. Cameron didn't moan or complain, but he did let her know if a color was ugly or not. She really liked shoes, he thought as he watched her face light up when she saw a shoe she really liked. Although he loved the way high heels made a woman's legs look, he didn't see what the big deal was...but then again, he wasn't a woman.
Although this wasn't his type of hype, this allowed him another glimpse of the multifaceted, pretty distraction that was Tavin Wilson. Cameron spotted a red pair of alligator ankle strap stillettos, which were beyond sexy. Cameron walked over to Tavin, who was sitting trying to decide on two pair of brown high heels.

"I don't know much about women's shoes, but these are very sexy. Why don't you try these on, Tav?" he asked. Tavin looked at the pretty red shoes and sighed.

"Because I don't have anywhere to wear them. I can't wear them to work or church. Besides, red shoes are definitely not me," Tavin said. Cameron walked over to Jennifer and asked her for a size 8 in the red shoes.

"Try them on. If they look good, get them. Then, I'll take you somewhere where you can wear them," Cameron replied.

"Where? On the corner?" Tavin asked.

"You always have jokes, don't you Tav?" Cameron asked.

"Hey...somebody's gotta keep the laughs goin'...might as well be me," Tavin replied. Jennifer handed Cameron the box with the shoes and he smiled a thank you. Cameron sat on the floor at her feet and opened the box. He smiled up at Tavin with the right shoe in his hand. Many of the store patrons stared at them.

"Cameron, get off the floor in your suit! You'll ruin it and I don't have the cash to replace it," Tavin stated.

"Don't worry...if something happens to it, I'll find another way for you to pay me back. Now, give me your feet," Cameron replied with a wink, taking her right foot into his hands before she could offer it. He ran his finger slowly from the tip of her big toe to the inside of ankle and looked up at her.

"You've got such pretty feet, Tav," he said as Tavin swallowed.

"Thank you. Now, get off the floor," Tavin said. Cameron slowly slipped the shoe on her foot, then gently buckled the ankle strap. After he completed that task, he stared at her with the most serious expression. Tavin couldn't look away if she wanted to. His hand held her foot and his fingers caressed her calf and her ankle. Tavin shifted in her seat. Cameron gave her a slow grin as he gently let the right foot go, and proceeded to place the left shoe on her foot in the same manner. After the shoe was on the left foot, he made little circles with his thumb along her ankle and foot. Tavin shifted again in her seat, trying to maintain her composure.

"See, I told you. You look good in red..very good. They're hot. They look absolutely gorgeous against your skin and your legs...they make them look sexier than they already are," he replied, running a finger from the middle of her left calf to the back of her ankle. He leaned down, kissed her left ankle, circling it lightly with the tip of his tongue, then her right ankle, which received the same treatment. Cameron sat up as he looked at her feet once last time and smiled.

Tavin was already wet and feeling tingly all over from the look in his eyes, his hands and his touch. Lord, please, give me strength, she thought to herself. Tavin hurriedly stood up and began to fan herself. Every woman in the shop stared, mouth agape at Cameron. He just smiled and winked at Tavin. Tavin walked around in the shoes, away from Cameron.

"Oooh, is it hot in here, or is it just me," she muttered as she walked to one of the full length mirrors in the shoes. They did look good on her. Damn, he's fine and he has good taste in shoes, she thought. What am I going to do, Tavin thought.

Cameron knew he had gotten under her skin, because she had gotten under his. He couldn't help himself. Her feet were pretty and...well, he loved women with pretty feet...and her skin felt so good. Cameron stood up and walked behind her, watching her turn her feet and looking at the shoes from different angles. He put his right hand on the small of her back, and his left hand on her waist, staring at himself and Tavin in the mirror. He liked what he saw. He leaned down and whispered into her ear, inhaling the delicious scent of her.

"Hey, look up, Tavin. We look good together, don't you think?" he whispered in that deep, sexy voice that brought chills down her spine. His lips were directly on her right ear.

He's touching me again, Tavin thought, as she licked her lips nervously. Have mercy, Tavin thought. She looked at them--they did look good. Tavin had to say something to lighten the mood.

"Yeah, we do...but I'm cuter than you," she said. He put both hands on either side of her waist and leaned down to her ear once more. Tavin had to remind herself to breathe. Cameron laughed.

"I'm not going to argue about that one, because for once in you're life, you're right. So what's the verdict, pretty girl?" he asked. Tavin's stomach did flips.

"No, can't get 'em. They're over my 3 pair limit," Tavin replied walking away from Cameron to sit and take off the shoes. She signaled to Jennifer and after her shoes were back on, she walked to the register.

Cameron scratched his head. He saw her try on at least 20 pair of shoes and she was only getting 3 pair? Why try them one if you're not going to get them, he asked himself. Women, he thought.

"You're going to put them back. I told you...," he said.

"No way," Tavin said as she pulled out her credit card to pay for her purchases. Cameron patted her hand and pulled out his credit card. Tavin shook her head no.

"Nope, Caldwell. I can't let you do that," she replied. Jennifer looked at them, not knowing which card to take.

"Tavin, come on," he said.

"Uh huh. Jennifer, ring me up," she replied shoving the card in Jennifer's hand. Cameron looked at her and she narrowed her eyes. Cameron put his card away. He had to respect her boundaries. Tavin was pretty independent and very stubborn, two things he loved about her.

"Well, I'll be damned. That is the first time that a woman has ever refused me when I offered to pay," Cameron said, but then again, Tavin wasn't like other women. Jennifer handed Tavin her receipt and Cameron grabbed her packages.

"There's always a first time for everything. Just call me a pioneer," Tavin replied with a smile. He smiled back. As they departed, out of the store, Tavin stood on tiptoe and kissed Cameron on the lips. Cameron's eyes began to race as he smiled. Those luscious lips of hers were going to kill him.

"Thank you for keeping me company," she said in a low voice. She opened the door for him.

"You're welcome," he replied as they departed the store. One patron said, "Hell, I need to bring my husband to the shoe store."

Upon leaving the store, they decided to have dinner together. Cameron didn't want to let her go yet. There was silence, then Cameron spoke.

"Tav, seriously, listen to me very carefully when I tell you this. I mean this with all sincerity. I am never, ever, coming with you on Shoe Day again. The time that it took you to buy 3 pairs of shoes, I could have ordered and received a mail order bride from Taiwan. Thanks for letting me tag along, but never again," Cameron replied as Tavin laughed.

"I warned you, you stupid ass. Well, I accomplished the goal of making YOU miserable? That's what my world was like for 8 damn years because of your ass. Payback is a bitch. This is so cool. All is right with the universe," Tavin replied sitting back in the leather seat of his car. Cameron shook his head at her and narrowed his eyes.

"Evil ass broad," he replied as they drove to dinner.
*********************************************************

Cameron and Tavin were back at her apartment, watching movies and listening to music. Cameron didn't expect his day to turn out so good. He could have done without the shoes, but he got to spend time with Tavin and that kiss...he never had feelings like this about any woman. He wanted to make her smile, see her happy, protect and care for her. She was constantly in his thoughts. Damn, he thought. I'm in love with Tavin Wilson. Now, how do I get her to see that she loves me too, he thought.

Tavin began to yawn and Cameron smiled.

"That's my cue. Walk me to the door?" he asked, holding out his hand. Tavin smiled, took his hand and walked him to the front door.

"What are you doing tomorrow?" he asked as the back of his right hand caressed her cheek. Tavin felt the tingles again.

"Not much. Why?" she asked.

"You want to do 'not much' together?" Cameron asked, still caressing her cheek.

"Yeah, it's better than doing 'not much' alone...even if it's with you," she said with a grin.

"You are really something," he replied.

"Yep and don't you forget it," she replied.

"So, tomorrow, I'll pick you up for 12:00pm?" Camreron asked, closing the distance between them.

Those damn green eyes, she thought. She was transfixed, in a daze.

"That's fine," she whispered as his head lowered, capturing her lips in a kiss that was not sweet or slow, but filled with desire. How in the hell did he know just how to kiss her, she thought.

"Hmm," Tavin moaned, her arms going around his neck as the kiss deepened. Cameron reluctantly pulled his lips away from hers and kissed her forehead.

"Goodnight, lovely. I'll see you tomorrow," he replied winking, as Tavin just nodded, touching her fingers to her lips, closing the door. Tavin leaned against the door and whispered, "Lord, be with me, because I want that man...bad."

*********************************************************

Tavin enjoyed the weekend she had with Cameron. They went bowling and dancing with their friends, which was great. Tavin couldn't remember having so much fun and it was all because of Cameron, she finally admitted to herself. The kissing was getting more intense and she found herself wanting more, wanting that man...bad.

The next week, Tavin was in her office looking over quarterly reports on a Thursday morning, when her quacky, but reliable assistant buzzed her.

"Tavin," Shannon Myers whispered, her hazel eyes widening at the sight sitting in the chair across from her desk.

"Yes, Shannon, and why are you whispering?" Tavin replied, not looking up from her report.

"Because I don't want the H.O.'double T' hottie to hear me," Shannon continued in a whisper.

"What are you talking about, Shannon?" Tavin asked.

"There is a man...what a man...a gorgeous man...named Cameron Caldwell, requesting to see you and he looks and smells expensive. God deserves a big thumbs up on this one. What would you like me to do? If you don't want him to come in, can I keep him?" Shannon asked, whispering. Tavin shook her head and laughed.

"No, you silly girl. Send him in, Shannon," Tavin replied, placing her report on her desk as she stood, and fixed her hair as well as her coral, cowl neck, sleeveless cashmere blouse and silk oatmeal colored slacks. Tavin stood near her desk as she heard the door open. Cameron walked into her office, with Shannon close on his heels.

Cameron took in Tavin's appearance and liked what he saw. She looked beautiful. She only wore dark pink lipgloss, which was all she needed, with that flawless, beautiful brown skin, Cameron thought. His smile spread wider as he stared at her from the open office door.

He looked like he stepped out of a photo spread in Esquire magazine. Cameron had on a navy blue suit, a light blue shirt and a red tie, looking scrumptious. She now saw why Shannon was going ga-ga. Mercy, mercy, Tavin thought. Shannon stood behind Cameron, licking her lips as she pointed to Cameron and mouthed, "bootylicious". Tavin bit her bottom lip to contain her giggle as Cameron turned around. Shannon gave Tavin a military salute and continued to stare at Cameron.

"Shannon?" Tavin asked.

"Yeah, boss?" Shannon asked. Cameron gave Tavin a lopsided grin and scratched his head.

"You...can...go...now," Tavin stated slowly.

"Oh, yeah, right boss," Shannon replied, still smiling at Cameron.

"Shannon?" Tavin asked.

"Yes, boss?" Shannon asked.

"That means you can go out of the door, close the door and leave," Tavin stated slowly. Cameron bit his lip to stop laughing and Shannon smiled at Tavin.

"Oh, yeah. Sorry, Tavin," Shannon replied as she walked out of the door, closing it behind her. Tavin smiled at Cameron as he looked around her office.

"Well, look at what the wind blew in. Do you always leave women, mouth agape, in your wake?" Tavin asked.

"It's a dirty job, but somebody's got to do it," Cameron replied.

"Right, you conceited bastard. Cameron, I see your gaze of mediocrity as you glance at my humble work area. I know it's not your cushy office, but it's enough for me," Tavin stated. Cameron walked over to her, unbuttoned his jacket and pulled a yellow rose from behind his back, and presented it to her. Tavin took the rose, sniffed it and smiled, unaware of Cameron's gaze.

"I wasn't going to say anything about your office...even though it is just a little bigger than a closet. I was going to remark on how lovely you look today. No black, blue, or khaki? You look very pretty, Tavin. I like," Cameron replied with a smile, staring down into her eyes. Tavin looked up at him.

"Oh, so that's why I was put on this earth...to please you," Tavin remarked with sarcasm.

"Duh? It took you long enough to figure it out," Cameron said as he smiled at her. Tavin sucked her teeth.

"So, what are you doing here?" Tavin asked as he moved slowly and closely to her, passing her by and sitting in her chair. He bounced in her chair and grinned.

"Comfy," he replied. Tavin crossed her arms and smiled at him.

"What are you doing, fool? It's not a ride at Disney World. It's an executive chair, you idiot," Tavin stated.

"I know that, but it's so fun. You should try it sometime. So, this is where you do the daily grind, huh?" Cameron asked, slowly saying grind and grinding in her chair, as he swirled in it.

"You are a freaky ass white boy...and stop playing in my chair before you break it, you big kid," Tavin replied laughing at him. Cameron grinned at her and curled his finger towards her, beckoning her to come to him. Tavin sniffed her rose, placed it on her desk and walked over to him. Cameron patted his lap and Tavin began to sit down, but Cameron grinned, shook his head no, and made her sit in his lap, straddling him. He wrapped his arms around her waist and looked into those beautiful, brown eyes that he loved. Tavin pushed against him, trying to break free. He felt her tense up and whispered, "Play nice, please."

"Cameron, uh huh, this is highly inappropriate. What if my boss comes in, what if my assistant walks in?" Tavin asked.

"Tavin, would you calm your uptight ass down before something bursts? Shannon isn't going to let anyone come in unless you say it's okay and besides...I locked the door," he said, giving her a devilish grin.

"You are so bad," Tavin whispered.

"And I'm damn good at it, too. Tavin, we're not doing anything wrong. I'm just holding you, baby. There's nothing wrong with that. Relax. Besides, you like this as much as I do," he whispered, looking into her eyes, holding her chin with his fingertips. Tavin didn't care who walked in, as long as he continued to look at her and hold her the way that he presently was.

"You still haven't answered my question? What are you doing here?" Tavin asked, getting to the point. Cameron's arms went back around her waist.

"Direct and to the point as usual," Cameron replied, looking up at her.

"As usual. No changing that," Tavin said.

"I don't want you to change. I wanted to see you, that's all and I personally wanted to invite you to dinner tonight, at my house. I'm leaving the states tomorrow afternoon. I'm going to be in London on business for a week, so I wanted to see you," he stated.

"A whole week?" Tavin asked, not realizing she had asked him in the tone that she did. Her hands were playing on the lapels of his suit jacket as she pouted. His hands went to her ears and he took out her carat diamond earrings. She looked at him strangely as he wiggled his eyebrows at her, eliciting a laugh from Tavin. Cameron pulled her to him, then he pulled her bottom lip into his mouth, very slowly, then he released it.

"Stop pouting, you big baby. I guess you're going to miss me, but don't worry, I'm going to miss you too. So, are you coming to dinner? I'll cook something special. Ooh, baby, you smell so good," Cameron replied, burying his nose in her neck. Tavin's hands went to the back of his head and she caressed his neck with her fingertips.

"You can cook?" Tavin asked. Cameron loved the feel of her fingers on him.

"Yes, I can cook. See there's something else you just learned about me," Cameron whispered into her neck, kissing it. Tavin giggled.

"I know I've been a pain to you for years, but trying to off me by poisoning me ain't the way to go, Cameron,"Tavin stated as Cameron looked up from her neck and laughed.

"I'm not trying to kill you, woman. I just want to spend some time with you before I leave. Is that wrong?" Cameron asked, running a finger slowly up and down her spine. Tavin wanted to fall out of the chair, because whatever he was doing felt incredible.

"No, I guess not," Tavin replied as they stared into each other's eyes. Tavin licked her lips and their faces moved slowly towards each other. Cameron wrapped his arms around her back and kissed her slowly, then his hands moved back to her waist and her arms around his neck and kissed him back. As the kiss continued, Cameron cupped her behind in his hands and moved his lips from hers, slowly to her jaw, then down her neck. He placed kisses along her neck, grabbing her behind and molding it in his hands, as he kissed her neck. Tavin moaned. Cameron stopped and looked at her with desire, love filled eyes.

"I love you, Tavin. I want you, Tavin. Do you have any idea how much I want you, baby? Do you feel how much I want you?" Cameron asked as his tongue licked a path from her neck to her collarbone. Another moan escaped her lips. Cameron held her bottom with one hand and his hand moved between her legs, grinding his erection on her. He could feel her heat through her slacks. She was driving him crazy.

"You feel so good, baby. Do you want me as much as I want you. Tell me, Tavin," he whispered. Tavin whispered yes and he smiled. Cameron continued stroke her between her legs and Tavin was speechless. His hands felt so good on her. She was drenching wet and he could feel her wetness between the thin, silk slacks. She was on passion overload as Cameron's tongue sucked her earlobe into her ear, licking the shell of her ear. Tavin purred.

"Umm, I guess that means, I'll see you tonight, right?" Cameron asked, as he flicked her tongue in the spot behind her ear once more, making her moan louder. Tavin nodded yes and moaned again.

Cameron had a shit eating grin on his face as he whispered, "Shh, baby, you don't want anyone to hear you." He slowly removed his fingers and kissed her on the lips. He sat up and got of the chair and placed her back in it. He put his hands on either side of the chair and stared at a passion dazed Tavin, who licked her lips and tried to control her breathing. She looked vulnerable, sexy and well kissed.

"What time?" Tavin asked breathlessly.

"Seven, and don't be late. What a way to start the day, huh? I have to go, Tavin. I have to meet a client in 30. Don't get up sweetheart. I'll let myself out. See you tonight," he replied, as he leaned over, and gave her another kiss on the lips. He kissed her forehead and walked towards the door.

"Oh, thank you for the rose," she whispered, trying to find her voice. Cameron gave her a devastating smile.

"You're welcome, baby," he said.

"Do you want me to bring something?" Tavin asked breathlessly.

"Just bring your pretty little self. That's all I need. I'll see you later, Tavin," he replied as he puckered his lips in a kiss towards, her and walked out the door. Tavin began to fan herself quickly with a file on her desk. He loves me, she asked herself. She pressed her intercom so many times that Shannon burst through the door.

"What's up boss?" Shannon asked, looking at Tavin with a knowing smile.

"Get me some water, please. And Shannon?" Tavin asked.

"Yeah, Tavin?" Shannon asked.

"Put some ice in it...plenty of ice," Tavin replied as Shannon smiled.

"Will do, Tavin. FIRE, Umm, Humm, Uhhm Humm, Humm, FIRE," Shannon sang as she closed the door to do as her boss asked.

"Lord help me please," Tavin whispered, rapidly fanning herself.
*********************************************************

Tavin put in an urgent call to Nichelle to have lunch with her that afternoon. She needed true advice about this Cameron situation and she knew that Nichelle would not hold anything back. Tavin walked into Lea's, one of Nichelle and Tavin's favorite lunch spots and gave the hostess her name. The young lady led tavin to the table where Nichelle was sitting, sipping strawberry lemonade.

"Hey, girl. Did you order buffalo wings?" Tavin asked as she unbuttoned her coat and place her handbag and coat in the empty chair next to Nichelle.

"Hey, Tav, and yes, I did. You sounded pretty weird on the phone, so I knew this was a wing day. I ordered your raspberry tea," Nichelle replied, smiling at her best friend. Tavin smiled back.

"Thanks," Tavin said as the waitress arrived with her tea. They ordered lunch and Nichelle began to speak.

"You're eating kind of light today, Tav. What's up with that?" Nichelle replied.

"Cameron has invited me to dinner...at his house...tonight...he's cooking. And, oh, by the way...he told me he loved me," Tavin responded, taking a long sip of her tea. Nichelle's eyebrows arched and she grinned.

"Really?" Nichelle asked.

"Yes, really. Oh, thank you, thank you, thank you," Tavin replied as the waitress placed the meaty buffalo wings in the center of the table. Tavin grabbed a wing and began to eat. She closed her eyes, relishing the taste of the spicy wing.

"I'd better get one now before you demolish them all," Nichelle said as she picked up a spicy wing and began to eat as well.

"Umm, so good," Tavin said, finishing her first wing and picking up her second. Nichelle waited, because she knew it was only a matter of time before Tavin began to spill. Tavin finished her second wing and wiped her hand with a hot towel. Tavin took a sip of her tea and began to speak.

"What am I going to do, Nichelle?" Tavin asked.

"About?" Nichelle implored.

"Cameron. I can't stop thinking about him. He just popped up at my office early this morning, laid the smackdown on me, then left me hot as a firecracker, like it was the most natural thing in the world. Then he tells me he loves me. Cameron loves me. I never thought that I would feel this way about Cameron Caldwell, Shelly. We are so different, but he's fun...interesting...exciting and fine as hell. I have such a good time when I'm with him. I know I sound crazy...," Tavin stated with a grin.

"You don't sound crazy. You sound like you're gone," Nichelle replied with a smile.

"I do?" Tavin asked.

"Yeah. You want Cameron. I'm just glad that you've finally realized it, because he wants you...big time...trust me. He's telling you the truth," Nichelle winked and Tavin laughed. Their salads arrived and they began to eat.

"You really think so?" Tavin asked hesitantly.

"I know so. I knew it was only a matter of time before you two stopped pissing each other off and started getting it on. When you told me what happened after Trey's party, the shoe story and this morning, girl...that man is staking a claim. Now, he's finally told you he loves you...finally...and he's cooking for you, too...by the way, the boy can burn! Cameron is sexy and smart and totally into you, Tavin. He has been for a long time. How do you feel?" Nichelle asked staring at Tavin.

"I think...no, I know...I'm in love with him, too," Tavin said hesitantly. Nichelle screamed, jumped up and hugged Tavin as the other diners gave her looks.

"She forgot to take her meds, don't mind her,. Nichelle, shush," Tavin said to the diners as Nichelle continued to scream and hug her.

"I'm not crazy. I'm happy for you. So, what are you going to do about it?" Nichelle asked, pulling away from her, settling back into her chair. Tavin gave her a weird look.

"I don't know, heifer, that's why I asked you. I don't do this, Shelly. I don't know how to do this," Tavin said quietly.

"I know that this is unchartered territory for you, but relax. You'll be fine. You feel it...then, you do it. You'll be okay. Have you told him about you and Delia?" Nichelle asked. Tavin stiffened.

"No," Tavin said.

"Tavin, I know he's asked you about Delia," Nichelle stated.

"Yes, and I told him that we are not close and we don't have have a relationship. That's it," Tavin said. Nichelle sighed and reached across the table and held her hand.

"Tavy, look at me. If Cameron cares about you as much as I think he does, he's going to want to know everything about you, the good and the bad. You say you love him. He loves you. You say you trust him, right?" Nichelle asked.

"Yes, I do. He makes me feel safe...needed...wanted...things I haven't felt with anyone. He gets me and not a lot of men get me. I do trust him. I never thought I would be able to do that," Tavin admitted softly. Nichelle smiled at her. Nichelle was so happy to hear Tavin actually speak those words. It was a long time coming.

"Then tell him...everything," Nichelle said.

"But I'm scared, Shelly. What if he doesn't understand, what if this causes him to reconsider being with me?" Tavin asked.

"Scared is not in our vocabulary, missy. If you want to move on with your life and if you want Cameron to be a part of it...," Nichelle began.

"I do, Shelly. I'm happy for the first time in a long time and it's all due to a pain in the ass...who happens to have a fine ass," Tavin said as she and Nichelle laughed.

"I'm not going to front, he does. Have you been thinking about...," Nichelle asked.

"Yes!! All the time, and that is totally unlike me," Tavin said.

"That's why you have to tell him, Tavin. Do you want to?" Nichelle asked.

"Oh, hell yes!" Tavin said breathlessly as Nichelle laughed and the slapped hands.

"Then, tell him. I wouldn't steer you wrong, girl. Just remember, I'm here if you need me. Take the risk. Isn't he worth it? Isn't your happiness worth it?" Nichelle asked.

"Yeah, he is...it is. What would I do without you, Shelly?" Tavin asked.

"End up an old maid with a gang of fabulous shoes and nowhere to rock them," Nichelle replied as they laughed.

"I love you, Shelly," Tavin replied, gripping her hand.

"I love you, too, Tavy," Nichelle replied, returning her grip with a smile.

Chapter 8

Tavin arrived at 7:00pm at Cameron's penthouse. She looked at her dark pink crocheted, long sleeved blouse, paired with a spaghetti strapped tank top, jeans and her brown suede knee high boots and took in a deep breath. She could do this. She could do this. Tavin rang the doorbell and saw Cameron, dressed in jeans, a gray t-shirt and black sport slides with white socks. Cameron smiled at her and bowed with a flourish as she walked through the door.

"You may enter," Cameron replied as Tavin walked through the door. Cameron locked the door and her eyes tuned into the sexy music that played in the background. Tavin glanced at the beautifully set table with candles and bouquets of colorful tulips placed throughout the living area. Tavin always felt at home in Cameron's tastefully decorated penthouse. It was warm and welcoming. You could also eat off of the floor, because Cameron was a neat freak just as she was.

"Let me take that," Cameron replied as he stood behind her and assisted her with taking off her coat. His eyes lowered to her behind, and he sucked his bottom lip into his mouth. He gently took her purse and hung Tavin's coat and purse in the foyer closet. He cocked his head to the side, and looked at Tavin slowly, from head to toe. Those jeans couldn't possibly get any tighter, he thought as he took in her shapely form. How in the hell did she get into those, he thought. He continued to stare and said to himself, 'I don't really give a damn how she got into them...as long as I can get her out of them'. What a body, he thought as he stared.

"Cameron," Tavin called. She turned and caught him staring at her, licking his lips seductively. She had asked him a question and he hadn't heard her. Now, she knew why.

"Cameron," Tavin called again as he looked into her eyes and smiled.

"I'm sorry, what did you say?" Cameron asked. Tavin laughed.

"Just take one more look so that I can have your full attention. Whenever you are ready," Tavin replied as she stood in front of him, her hands on her hips, leaning to the side.

"You know this isn't going to be my final look," Cameron stated as he leisurely gazed at Tavin from head to toe for several minutes. Tavin loved the way he looked at her, like she was the only person that existed. It was sexy and territorial. She loved it!

"I know, you freak. Get it over with," she replied as he walked around her slowly looking at her from behind. After his eyes received a temporary fill of her luscious frame, he grinned brightly at her.

"Thanks...I needed that," he replied.

"Don't say I never did anything for you," Tavin replied, slowly walking over to the bar. Tavin felt Cameron's eyes on her behind and she responded.

"Cameron...stop looking at my ass," she replied. Cameron walked directly behind her, enjoying the view he received of her swaying hips and her round behind.

"But, it looks so good, baby," he replied as Tavin slipped onto the middle barstool and took a seat. Cameron pulled her stool up to the bar, kept his arms on the seat of the stool, right near her hips and put his lips directly on her left ear.

"Hey sexy," he whispered. Tavin's left arm lifted, curling it around his neck to bring him closer to her.

"Hello," she whispered back.

"You look extremely fine in those jeans, Tavin, but, then again, you know that already," Cameron whispered, closely to her ear.

"Yeah, I do. They were strategically worn to drive you crazy," she said with a small laugh. Cameron placed a kiss on her cheek.

"You are one, mean woman, and your mission was accomplished," Cameron stated as he walked away from her. Tavin put her elbows on the bar and placed her face in her hands. Cameron went back into the kitchen and continued to stir a cream sauce in a pan.

"So, what is it that smells so good? Doesn't smell like it could kill me," Tavin said. Cameron shook his head.

"Actually, if I wanted to poison you, it would be something that you couldn't smell. Think about that before you try to cut on my culinary skills before you've even sampled my food," Cameron replied.

"Oh, someone's sensitive. I'm sorry, Cam. It really does smell edible, actually it smells incredible. What is that?" Tavin asked.

"Paneed veal cutlets, shrimp and tasso scampi over angel hair, with grilled vegetables," Cameron replied as he turned and smiled at her.

"Must be the Italian coming out in you, huh?" Tavin asked, referring to his half-Italian heritage. What a loaded question, he thought. He couldn't resist.

"Yeah, but there is one big Italian thing that really wants to come out and play with you," Cameron stated with a devilish grin. Tavin narrowed her eyes at him sucked her teeth.

"You nasty bastard," Tavin stated as she leaned over the bar and looked at the food. It looked wonderful.

"Cam, I'm going to be honest. I'm hungry as hell. You told me 7pm and I'm here on time, assuming that the food would be done. I want to eat, now, " Tavin replied as Cameron laughed at her.

"You are one demanding ass female. Everything is done. I'm just finishing up," Cameron said.

"Well, we ain't at the Four Seasons. You don't have to make it pretty. I don't need an orange slice, or grass or leaves on it. Just dish it up and feed it to me," Tavin replied. Cameron went to her and lifted her out of the bar stool by her upper arms and directed her to the table, holding out her chair before she sat down. He kissed the top of her head.

"Since you put it that way...just wait. Five minutes, Tavin and you can eat. I went through a lot of trouble for you and damn it, I'm going to make my food look as good as it is. So...wait," Cameron replied as he walked back into the kitchen. Tavin smiled as she waited. She had to say something.

"Any day now, before I collect Social Security. I'm going to die of starvation," Tavin said as Cameron placed a beautifully garnished plate of food in front of her.

"I'm trying to make a good impression on your ass, but no. You want to rush me. Women are something else. Here. Satisfied?" Cameron asked, as he went to his seat with his food. Tavin smiled brightly at him.

"Very," as they began to eat. The conversation flowed with ease and Tavin surprisingly had a few glasses of white wine. It relaxed her and it complemented the meal very well. Cameron told her that he had dessert waiting and she had to wait on that. Tavin laughed.

"Do me a favor and don't bitch about it. Close your eyes and sit still," Cameron replied as he sat in front of her. Tavin closed her eyes and felt something warm being drizzled on her lips and her chin, which smelled like caramel. Cameron smiled as he looked at her with her eyes closed. He leaned over and slowly, took her chin into his mouth, sucking the caramel off. He then licked the caramel from her bottom lip slowly, then repeated the same with her top lip as his tongue proceeded to enter her mouth, kissing her. Tavin was on fire. After he kissed her, he told her to open her mouth and he placed a piece of caramel chocolate cheesecake in her mouth. The way she ate that dessert should have been outlawed, he thought. He fed her a few more bites and when she opened her eyes, she saw that his eyes were darker and held pure lust in them. Tavin gulped as she stared at him with wide eyes.

"Caramel and chocolate does taste good together," he whispered, running his finger over her lips again. Tavin couldn't say anything. Cameron pressed a button on his stereo's remote and pulled her into his arms to dance. The end of an old Earth, Wind and Fire song was still on. Tavin put her head on his chest.

"Tavin, thanks for coming over," he whispered as they danced. As usual, he felt good and smelled even better.

"You're welcome. I should be thanking you. That was a great meal...absolutely wonderful," Tavin said as she heard the beginning of Janet Jackson's "I Want You," waft through the penthouse. He knew she loved Janet Jackson...she had to be Janet's number one fan and that song...he was pulling out the big guns.

"I told you I could cook...I have a plethra of talents," Cameron whispered, looking down into her eyes. Tavin stared into up into his.

"Plethra, huh? You couldn't choose another word?" Tavin asked.

"Stop trying to break the mood, Tav," he whispered as they stared at each other. Tavin sang softly to Cameron.

"Even though you are sexy as hell...you can't sing for shit, baby," he whispered, his hands taking on a mind of their own as he danced with her.

"I know that, but I sound pretty good whispering them, so shut it," Tavin said to Cameron, loving the way he was caressing her. Tavin really began to get into the song during the second verse, staring into Cameron's eyes the whole time.

I'm going out with guys I don't wanna go
To places that I've been before
They're pitching the same game
Huh...boy, it's a damn shame
How I wish it was you
Calling me
I want it to be You
Holding me
Boy, it needs to be you
Kissing me
Cause it's like a seesaw when it comes to your love
Boy when you're up, this girl is down and I just can't figure it out

Chorus
Cause you know that I want you, yeah
And you know that I need you, yeah
Is that any way to be
Just have your way with me
My body is crying
These tears can you wipe 'em
Is that any way to be
Just have your way with me
Listen

Cameron picked her up, his arms under her behind as she looked down into his eyes and sang to him. Tavin wrapped her legs around his waist and her arms around his neck as she continued to sing. Damn, he didn't know how long he was going to last. It was so sexy and honest...he wanted her in the worst way.

Have your way with me
Anytime, anywhere
However I don't care
Have your way with me
Boy tonight, tonight

Chorus

Cause you know that I want you, baby
And you know that I need you
In my life...I need you...I want you
Body is crying for you baby
Oooh Ooh

Cameron didn't let her finish. He held her still, and captured her lips with his, and he made sure she felt everything that he was feeling in that kiss...love...desire...lust...want...need. Cameron held her behind and kissed her so passionately that she could hardly breathe. He walked with her to his bedroom, not breaking the kiss. He laid her on the bed, still kissing her. He looked down at her and gave her a heart stopping grin. Tavin hurriedly kicked off her boots and smiled at him. Tavin threw off her crocheted top and sat up on her knees in the middle of his bed. Cameron threw off his t-shirt and his jeans and grabbed the back of her head and kissed her. He unbuttoned her jeans and she laid back helping him take them off. After he pulled them off, Tavin laid back on her elbows, in those sexy black boyshorts, legs up and open....waiting...loving...wanting him. His hands went to her tank top and he threw it off. Tavin and Cameron were both breathing quickly and Cameron's head dipped to her breast, then he sat up and looked her in the eyes.

"What's wrong?" Tavin asked, because he looked serious.

"I love you, Tavin. I want you...I need you...just you," he whispered as he kissed her neck. Tavin pulled him away from her neck and made him look at her again.

"Say that again," she whispered.

"I want you...I need you...I love you Tavin. It's not just about sex...I'm lying, that has something to do with, but I've never wanted a woman more in my life than I want you. I want to make love to you, right here...in my bed...right now...all night. I love you, I love you," he whispered as he softly kissed her. Tavin smiled until Cameron's hands touched her breasts and her stomach and suddenly...the weirdness began. Not now, please, not now, Tavin said as a silent mantra to herself. Everything is going so beautifully....please, not now, she thought.

Cameron kissed Tavin's neck lightly, wanting to devour her skin. His hands stroked her breast and went to her waist and then, he felt it. The same thing he felt when he touched her in that hospital bed years ago. She was shaking like a leaf, yet she was bone stiff. That was like ice water being thrown on him as he tried to control his emotions. He pulled away from her and looked at her. Her eyes were shut tight and she shook even more. He pulled her face in his hands.

"Baby, what's wrong? I'm not going anywhere until you tell me, so what is it? Tavin, look at me please," he whispered as he saw tears escape from the corners of her tightly shut eyes. She was gripping the sheets tightly and she wouldn't look at him.

"I've never brought a woman to tears before the main event, but my Iron woman...why are you crying? Tav, tell me," he whispered as he kissed her on her cheek. Tavin pulled away, pulled her tank top back on and stood in front of the bed, pacing back and forth, chewing on her thumbnail. Cameron watched her for a few minutes until he couldn't take it anymore. He stood up and walked to her and put his hands on her shoulders.

"Please, stop that. Baby, you're making me dizzy and you're not talking, which is pretty weird in itself. Why don't you just talk to me? I think I may know what this is about anyway, but I want you to tell me," he whispered, finally regaining eye contact with Tavin. Tavin looked into his eyes. They were green and beautiful and sincere. They were filled with concern for her and she knew, without a doubt, that she loved this man. She had to be honest with him. Tavin pulled away and sat in a chair near his window. Cameron felt that she needed some space, so he sat on the edge of the bed, closest to the chair. She looked at him, with a distant, faraway look in her eyes.

"You do?" she asked.

"Yeah. 5 years ago...that perv...attacking you. You still haven't gotten over it," Cameron stated. Tavin licked her lips nervously and gave a short chuckle.

"That messed me up and it added to my misery, but again, wrong answer. Cameron, I've been seeing a therapist for 2 years. Did you know that?" Tavin asked.

Cameron looked at her. "No, you didn't tell me. But, that's great sweetheart. Is it helping?"

"I wouldn't be here right now if it wasn't. So, you see, every time you called me crazy, I really was," she replied with a low chuckle. Cameron didn't like the way she was downing herself. He didn't like the way this conversation was going.

"You're not crazy, crazy, you're just...crazy. It's...," Cameron replied, but Tavin put her hand up.

"Don't placate me, Caldwell. I'm weird and I know that, but I need to let you know why I'm such a weirdo. Do you remember a few months ago, when we were swapping stories about our families. You told me about your hippy, liberal parents and I told you about that demon who gave birth to me, Delia," Tavin said, twisting her fingers, not looking at him.

"Yeah. I told you that my parents almost named me Crescent Moon or Wind Song, or something, and I specifically recall you stating that if I brought up your mother, ever...in life...I would lose the ability of speech. That about right?" Cameron asked. All he wanted to do was take her in his arms, but he knew Tavin. She would leave and he wouldn't find out anything. He would play along, for now, he thought.

"Yeah. Let me get this over with. My daddy, who I loved with all my heart, died when I was 10 years old. You know, Nichelle and I are from Louisiana...we met in elementary school...you know that. Anyway, Daddy worked offshore on one of the oil rigs. He was coming back in from his normal 2 week stretch and was killed in a car accident. I miss my daddy so much. Daddy would have liked you, Cameron. I know he would have," Tavin said with a sigh as she walked out and came back with her purse. She took something out of it and threw her purse on the floor.

"Anyway, it was just me and my mother. Daddy made good money and that was important to my mother...money, looking well, and dressing to the hilt. My mother was the type of woman who was used to a certain lifestyle. She's also one of those women who cannot be alone. My mother is beautiful. Look," she replied as she gave Cameron the item that she had been holding in her hand. It was a picture of a beautiful, caramel skinned woman, with long black hair, a tall, handsome, dark brown man and a brown little girl with 2 curly pigtails, smiling. Cameron traced Tavin's face as a little girl and smiled. He noticed that she didn't return to the chair, but she sat on the bed next to him, looking forward, twiddling her fingers.

"You were a cutie pie, Tav. Your mom, wow, she's a beautiful woman," Cameron replied, handing the picture back to Tavin. She glanced it, then placed it beside her and resumed speaking.

"She needed a man--Delia--but she needed a man who could keep her in the lifestyle that she was accustomed. My dad left us pretty set, but Delia and her spending...they used to fight about that a lot. My daddy wasn't dead a good two years before she remarried...Lawrence Bromwell. He was a "nice man"--well known in the community, a deacon in church. He owned a few car dealerships, so we were suddenly immersed into a totally different lifestyle and tax bracket. But as Biggie said, more money...more problems. Janae was born when I was 13 and she was a beautiful baby--playful, sweet...not an ounce of trouble. Such a special child. I really love my little sister", Tavin said as she took a deep breath and forcefully let it out.

"Well, later that year, my problems began. Did you know I used to dance? Tap, ballet, modern, classical...I've been dancing since I was 4 years old. I was pretty good. I stopped my senior year of high school. It didn't give me the feeling it used to.

"Apparently, I must have been a good-looking 13 year old, because Lawrence began his...exploitation. I can actually say that now...his exploitation of my innocence. Huh. He would say things and look at me really weird and find ways to brush up against me or touch me, right in here," Tavin replied pointing to her waist area. Cameron didn't say anything. He just listened.

"I avoided him like the plague and I figured, my mom was happy and Janae was taken care of and healthy. I didn't want to rock the boat. I could deal, as long as I kept my distance, right? No dice," Tavin said, letting out another deep breath. Cameron began to clench his jaw and his hands balled into fists. He couldn't be hearing this. He knew where this was going and he became angry. He didn't want to hear it, but he wanted her to get it all out.

"I think I became a member of every club, extracurricular sport or team at our school. Nichelle didn't think anything of it because I was always active in stuff at school. I didn't tell Nichelle anything. I kept it to myself. I loved my mother, I loved my sister," Tavin replied as she continued to look forward.

"It continued and then, it got worse when I turned 15. He would blatantly touch me whenever no one was around. It all came to a head when I was 16. I guess he figured I was old enough, because he waited until I was home...alone...sick, with strep throat and vulnerable...to rape me, not once, but twice. My mother was out doing what she usually did...shop and Janae was at preschool. I was asleep, on medication and he raped me...took something away that I can never get back again...took something away that I wanted to be able to give someone that I loved who loved me. He threatened me...told me my mother would be on the street without a dime to her name if I told and Janae would be in his sole custody. He was pretty smart, Cam, I have to give him that. I had lost my voice and I couldn't scream, Cameron. I couldn't scream. Oh, it didn't happen just once. He caught me a couple of other times at night and I just zoned out. My mind was filled with thoughts of my mother and my sweet, baby sister. I let him do it. Just to leave me alone and to protect my mama and my sister," Tavin said, letting the tears fall.

"Nichelle...I love Nichelle...if she needed my heart, I would give it to her. Nichelle noticed that I was withdrawing more than usual. I had a great body...well, you know that...I covered it. I wore baggy, drab clothes, so I wouldn't attract him, you know. I stayed at Nichelle's house often. I installed extra locks on my door. I didn't tell anyone.

"Then one day, Nichelle told me that even though her parents loved me, I couldn't stay over every night because I lived in a huge house on the other side of town. That's when I broke down, crying as I told Nichelle. Nichelle then told her mother. I have never seen Nichelle cry as much as she cried that day. They--Nichelle and her mom--made me tell Delia. They went with me and you know what? She didn't believe me and she figured if he did do something, I did something to make him do it. I couldn't believe it. My mother, who I thought about as that bastard violated me, didn't believe me. I couldn't stay in that house and I didn't report it. Why? I was still protecting Delia and Janae, at least I thought I was," Tavin began to cry and she sniffled. Cameron couldn't say anything. He was speechless, and a few tears ran down his face. He wiped them, wanting to be strong for her, but he didn't know if he could do it, but he had to. He pulled Tavin to him and she laid her head in his lap. Cameron stroked her back and her hair. When she didn't flinch, he continued to comfort her and listen to her speak.

"Nichelle's family was there for me. I lived with them for a year and a half, until Shelly and I went to Georgetown. I stayed with them every holiday...they are my family. I love those people so much. I make sure I don't miss a birthday, holiday, Father's Day, Mother's day, just to repay them for what they did for me. I begged them not to tell Papa Carl--that's Nichelle's dad--because he would have killed him everyone would have found out. I didn't want anyone to know, so they respected my wishes, but they hated it and I hated it too. They told Papa Carl some crap about me having problems with my mother, but I know Papa Carl didn't believe that bullshit. He was an attorney, and a smart man. I wasn't a problem kid and he knew it, but he didn't say a word. Oh, Delia' still married to the bastard, just to let you know.

"Anyway, my mother sent them money, which they used to open an account for me for college. Between hush money from Delia, because that's all it was, and my trust fund from my daddy, I was financially okay. I didn't have to work while I went to school...I could pay my rent and put gas in my car. Then, 2 years ago, I went on a date with this guy, and no, you don't know him. I knew him. I liked him. On the third date, things began to get pretty heated and I froze. I had a breakdown. The only thing I remember is Nichelle and Mommy Tammy--that's Nichelle's mom--sitting with me in the hospital. I froze because I was afraid of a man who wanted me...I didn't like his touch. See, it's a certain touch, a certain way, that makes me freeze. Then, I remember what happened to me, but because Nichelle talked me into going to counseling 2 years ago and I've been seeing Dr. Marine for 2 years. You wanted to know, so I told you," Tavin replied as Cameron rubbed her back and her face. Nothing was said for a long time. Each were embroiled in their own thoughts. Cameron was angry. He wanted to murder this guy and her mother...how could a mother desert her child like that?

"Tavin, baby. I knew something was holding you back, but this...baby, why didn't you tell me?" he asked.

"I was scared. What was I going to say? Oh, I want to make love to you, and you'll kind of be my first...but not really...because my stepfather molested and raped me and took my virginity. Oh, and I don't know what real intimacy is and it scares me shitless. Besides, I didn't want to see that woe is me look on your face," Tavin replied as Cameron stroked her hair. There was silence until Cameron spoke.

"Never that. Tav, thank you," he whispered.

"For what? I'm surprised you haven't said that you were going to take me home so you could get away from my emotionally unbalanced ass," Tavin replied with a low laugh.

"I'm thanking you for trusting me enough to finally tell me. No one else knows about this, do they?" Cameron asked.

"Nope. Just Nichelle, Mama Tammy, Delia...and now you. It felt good to tell you. I feel a lot better," she whispered.

"That's good. Damn, Tavin, forgive me. All these years I've been accusing you of being sexually repressed...," he replied as Tavin shrugged her shoulders.

"Hey it's the truth. Don't go changing on me, Cameron. You being your conceited, cocky self is what I need. I don't want or need your pity," she whispered staring off into the room. Cameron looked down at her face as she laid on his lap. Her confession made everything so clear...the way she dressed, the way she acted with men...everything. She was a tough cookie to still be standing after everything she went through. Damn, he loved this woman, he thought. Cameron had a little confession of his own. He kissed the top of her head and pulled her up to look into her eyes. He pulled her chin into his hands and saw those pretty brown eyes of hers brimming with tears and he wanted to kill that bastard. That asshole took so much from her, but he wanted to give her so much more.

"Look at me, baby. I want you to look at me and listen really carefully. This is me, Cameron--Casshole. I don't pity you. I love you. Let me tell you something, something I've been wanting to tell you for awhile now. You scare me Tavin--no, you really frighten me. But that's one of the things that I love about you. You tell me we're cool and then you call me a stupid asshole and you threaten to dismember me. I...love...that. You're smart as hell. You're mean and tough and you don't take shit from me or anyone else," Cameron said, looking her in the eyes.

"And yeah, you may be a little nutty, but we all are. You are such a walking contradiction. You are the shyest woman I know. You have a big heart and you can be incredibly sweet. I think I fell in love with you in that hospital room, years agao, and denied it. I'm not denying it now. I'm hopelessly, totally, crazy in love with you. I probably need to talk to your therapist--and I wouldn't change a thing..nothing at all.

"I'm not going anywhere, Tavin...nowhere. I'm so proud of you, baby. You could have went down a low road and your life could have been horrible, but look at what you've accomplished. You graduated summa cum laude from Georgetown, you have a promising, successful career and an extremely hot guy who loves you from the top of your head to the soles of your feet. You are one bad woman, Tavin Giselle Wilson and I love you. You are perfect, just the way you are. That bastard may have took something important from you, but he didn't take you, baby. You're still bitching and complaining and giving us all hell along the way, but you're still here. And this, baby, is intimacy. You've mastered it, Tavin. So, here's what we are going to do. You're going to spend the night with me because I am not letting you out of my sight. No, I'm not going to try to jump your bones tonight...but some day, some night...very soon. I love you and I'll wait, hell I've been waiting...," Cameron replied as Tavin wrapped her arms around his neck and hugged him tight. He hugged her just as tightly.

"It's okay, sweetheart. Cry," he whispered as she cried for several moments. After she finished, she looked at him.

"Feel better?" he asked.

"Yeah, but I know I probably look like shit," she whispered.

"You look a little bad, but I'd still do you. Still pretty cute, though. Sei cos, speciale mio amore," he whispered to her.

"That sounded really hot. What does that mean?" Tavin asked.

"It means you are so special, my love," he whispered as she blushed. There was a minute of silence, then Tavin sniffled.

"Damn. Last year around this time, I cursed the ground you walked on," Tavin replied.

"Yeah, well the feeling was mutual," he whispered. Tavin took his hand and kissed it.

"I really want you, Cameron. I really need you. I really love you, but I'm no picnic. You're going to have to work with me," Tavin said with a small smile.

"Baby, I know that. You are not saying anything that's new. You've never been a picnic. I'm the life of the party in this relationship. Finally...you admit it. You do love me," Cameron stated with a smile.
Tavin rolled her eyes and smiled.

"Oh, God, what have I done?" Tavin asked.

"Just admitted the truth. Is is okay to get a real kiss?" he asked. Tavin smiled.

"Yes," she whispered.

"Kiss me," Cameron ordered softly. Tavin leaned over and kissed him softly.

"The head just got 10 times bigger huh?" Tavin asked. Cameron smiled as he went into his drawer and retrieved an oversized Yankees t-shirt.

"You know it. Now, I'm going to give you this and you're going to change, then you're going to sleep with me...well, not sleep with me...you know what I mean. You look pretty scary when you look at me that way. Don't hurt me," Cameron said.

"That's the point...to scare you. I don't like being told what to do and you know that. You're lucky I love you," she replied as she walked to the bathroom. Cameron tried to follow her and she slammed the door in his face and said, "Just because I love you doesn't mean you get a free look, Caldwell." Cameron laughed.

"Damn, you know me too well," he replied as he changed into a black tank top and grey basketball shorts. Tavin walked out of the bathroom. His shirt hit the middle of her thighs. She looked adorable and utterly sexy, he thought. He patted the spot next to him. He held open the sheets and Tavin climbed in next to him, and he hugged her as she snuggled into his chest.

"You know, you could have came in. I didn't lock the door," Tavin replied yawning. Cameron kissed her on the forehead and pulled her closer to him.

"Damn. Now you tell me," he replied as they fell asleep.
*********************************************************

Cameron woke up at 5 to turn off his alarm. He wasn't going on his run today. He cancelled his flight until tomorrow. He wanted to spend as much time with the woman that had her delicious ass right on his erection. He knew he wasn't supposed to be thinking like that, but he couldn't help it. She looked so cute, and peaceful as she slept. She felt incredible and she smelled wonderful. He could get used to waking up like this. Cameron couldn't help himself. If she stopped him, he would stop. He kissed her softly along her neck, and saw that beautiful smile of hers. Tavin felt the most delicious lips tasting her neck and she moaned. He licked her spot behind her right ear and she moaned louder, tightly pulling her legs together.

"Hmm, Cameron, what are you doing?" she asked.

"Kissing you," he whispered.

"Hmm, Cameron," she moaned.

"That's me, sweetheart," he whispered back. Tavin rolled over and looked at Cameron as he situated himself between her beautiful, brown legs. He continued to place soft open mouthed kisses along her neck.

"You have the softest lips," Tavin whispered as he raised the t-shirt she donned, moving his lips lower. He pulled the shirt totally off of her. He stared at her breasts. He loved her breasts, as he slowly, and heatedly stared at them. Perfect size. Not more than a handful, he thought...beautiful, he thought as he kissed her left breast and her right breast.

"Wait, I want to...wait," he whispered as she moaned in protest when he left her. He lit six candles all over the room and came back to lay between her legs. Cameron kissed both breasts again and he slowly took her left nipple into his mouth, slowly caressing her right breast. Tavin moaned as he hands rubbed his head. She wanted to feel him
as well. She lifted his tank top off and threw it.

"Bella, t'amo," he whispered in Italian. Tavin heard him say that and she almost died. It rolled off his tongue with a sexy ease. Even though she didn't know what he said, it was sexy as hell. He repeated the same action with her right nipple as Tavin arched her breast closer to his mouth. She wanted more.

Cameron took in the sight of her, half naked in his bed. He slowly licked his lips, but he had to know if they could continue.

"Why did you stop, Cameron? Please, don't stop," she whispered as Cameron smiled at her beautiful body and kissed his way slowly down her body.

"Mio fidanzantino, t'amo (My sweetheart, I love you)," he whispered as he kissed her stomach. He only spoke Italian when needed in business and with his grandmother. He didn't know why, but the words in Italian sounded right at the time.

Tavin shivered as he kissed her stomach, totally immersed in pleasure. He stared into her eyes as he pulled her boyshorts off. He looked at her slowly as he pulled her legs up and spread her thighs. Cameron stared at her, his hungry eyes taking in her beauty. He slowly licked his lips. He leaned his head down, staring at her the partially waxed mound the whole time and he smelled her...she smelled so good and she looked....he was going to enjoy this.

"So beautiful, Tavin. It's so pretty," he whispered as he leaned over and kissed her on the lips, then he looked back between her legs at her wet, glistening, dewy center. Tavin felt so exposed. She tried to close her legs, but he traced a finger where hip met thigh and she spread her legs, even wider this time. Tavin closed her eyes. She was on fire.

"Just like that, baby. Just lay back and for once, relax. I've got this. I just want to please you, Tavin. I want to make you scream baby. This is all for you, Tavin. Let me do...what...I...do....for...you," he replied kissing her on the lips and drifting back down between her legs. Cameron flicked her clit with his thumb, making Tavin's head fall back as she bit her bottom lip. He inserted one, finger, moved it in and out, then the inserted two fingers inside of her moist heat. She was so deliciously tight, hot and wet, he thought. It had been 4 freaking months. He may come just from fingering her. He let out a groan as he watched her buck against his fingers.

"Umm," Tavin whispered, pumping herself onto his fingers.

"Tell me how it feels, baby," he whispered, looking at the look of desire and pleasure on her face as he fingered her, then fingered her clit. She moaned.

"Oh, so good, baby, so good," she whispered, as she continued to hump his fingers. Cameron wanted her to remember this, because in all actuality, this was her first time and he wanted it to be special, for the both of them...it was their first time making love.

Cameron removed his fingers from inside and licked them slowly as she watched him with hooded eyes. That was one of the sexiest things Tavin had ever seen she thought, and it made her more wet. Cameron leaned lower, pulled Tavin's legs over his shoulders, put her luscious ass in his hands and stared at her. She stared back. The look in his eyes was intense...he wanted her...he really wanted her.

"Ummm, you're delicious, baby. IO amore tu, carino ragazza (I love you, pretty girl)," he whispered as he licked her clitoris lightly, then the seam of her sex, not breaking his gaze from hers. Tavin had to close here eyes. All she felt was sheer extasy. His tongue felt so good on her. Tavin moaned, arched her back and grabbed a fistful of sheets. Between the Italian and his tongue, she was done for.

"Cameron...oh, Cameron," she moaned, as Cameron took his time, licking, sucking and biting her like she was the flavor of the month. He pulled her sex button into his mouth, sucked it between his lips as Tavin grabbed his head, pulling it closer to her dripping sex as she shrieked. Something this good had to be wrong, she thought.

"Baby, I love the way you taste. You taste so good," he whispered.

Damn near rendered speechless, Tavin whispered, "Uh huh, you...good...AHHH," she screamed as his tongue plunged inside of her. Cameron continued to lick and suck her soaking wet womanhood.

"That's it baby, let it go. Come for me, sweetheart. I want you to come...long and hard, baby. I want you to feel how good it is to come, Tavin. Come, baby, come," he whispered continuing his miracle tongue action between her legs as he felt her legs lock around him. She felt a tingling from her spine to the ends of her toes and they curled as her backed arched and she screamed his name, coming hard. Cameron smiled as he licked her until her orgasm subsided. He kissed her thighs, and licked her navel, letting his tongue lazily travel up to her left nipple, then her right nipple, circling them and staring back into her eyes as she rubbed his head.

"Did you like that?" he asked, with lust glazed eyes.

"That's a stupid ass question...Hell, yes. It couldn't have done anything for you," she replied but he put a finger over her lips.

"Oh yes, it did. Just watching you, hearing your response, tasting you...I love all of it, baby," he whispered, looking deeply into her eyes. Tavin gulped.

"You really are talented, huh?" Tavin asked as he laughed. He reached over, pulled a condom from his side drawer and winked at her.

"You ain't seen nothin' yet," he whispered, giving her the sexiest smile. Cameron pulled off his boxers and Tavin ran her hands over that hairless, beautiful, tan, muscled chest. Tavin's eyes went down and she had to look twice. Somebody was blessed, she thought. Long and unbelievably thick--whoa--a thing of beauty. Cameron saw the way she stared at him as he rolled on the condom.

"I told you, you were wrong about that measurement," he whispered, staring into her eyes caressing her face. He leaned over and kissed her on the lips, the tip of his penis stroking her clitoris. Tavin moaned.

"Don't be scared, baby. It's just me," he whispered as she laughed.

"That's what I'm afraid of. Cameron, you are so beautiful," she whispered, kissing as much of his chest as she could. Cameron closed his eyes, loving the feeling of her lips on him.

"Thank you, but you have me beat...trust me. Oh, and another thing? Guys don't like being called beautiful, but since I have this wonderful gift that is you laying under me, I won't complain. Shit, this is all I wanted for Christmas. Were you serious about what you sang to me last night?" he asked, the head of his penis right near her wet opening. Tavin grinded against him and smiled after after giving him a kiss.

"Yes. I want you. I need you. Have your way with me," she said as Cameron gave her one of his devastating grins.

"That had to be the sexiest thing anyone has ever said to me. Sei mio amore, mio cuore. IO adorare, tu bellissimo, uno," he whispered, his penis still poised at her entrance. Tavin was on fire.

"I said, before you ask, you are my heart, my love. I adore you, beautiful one. Now, can I make love to you before something happens or you change your mind...please," he whispered, kissing her neck as she arched her back allowing him more access to her neck. Tavin kissed him on his shoulders and his chest.

"No changing minds here. No freezing, or hesitation. I am so in love with you, Cameron. Make me yours, baby. Make it yours, Cameron," she whispered into his ear, pulling his earlobe into her mouth. Hot damn, why did she say and do that, he thought as he groaned. He looked at her and he saw trust, love and desire mirrored in her eyes.

"On second thought, that was the 2nd sexiest thing. IO bisgono tu. Ho bisogno di tu. IO amore tu," he whispered, then said, "I want you, I need you, I love you," as he entered her slowly. He wanted more than anything to plunge into her, but he was taking his time. Tavin, however, didn't want that. It felt good and she wanted it all know. She moved against him making him go farther. They both let out loud moans.

"Cameron, come on baby, all of you, please," she whispered. She wanted all of him. If that's what she wanted, he thought he slid fully into her, both moaning loudly again. Cameron couldn't move. She felt so good, like hot heaven...nothing he ever felt before. She was so tight and warm and wet and tight...so tight.

"Damn," he whispered. Tavin held onto his shoulders and arched her back as she instinctively wrapped her legs around his waist. He felt so good, thrusting back and forth inside of her at a wondrous pace. The only thing that could be heard was panting, moaning and whispering.

"Baby, look at me," he commanded as he stroked into her. Tavin's eyes slipped open.

"Every stroke...I love you. Every thrust...I love you. Every gasp...I love you. Every moan...I love you. Every kiss...I love you. Do you feel how much I love you, because I feel you and it's so good baby...so tight...damn, so good," he whispered as they maintained a heartwrenchingly pleasurable pace. Tavin wanted more and she told him as she bit her lip.

"Oh, baby, that feels so good, baby. Do it faster, do it faster, ummm," she whispered as she closed her eyes, tightly gripping his shoulders. Cameron picked up the pace.

"Faster, baby?" he asked.

"Yes, please faster," she whispered.

"So good baby, shit," he whispered, moving faster inside of her. Tavin began to get that feeling and her back arched and her toes curled.

"Cameron...I...stop..don't stop...I'm...Ahhh, Cameron!" she yelled as her walls clenched around him. He couldn't hold out any longer.

"Tavin, baby, ahhh," he groaned loudly as he met his own climax. He laid his head on Tavin's breasts as she kissed his face and caressed his head.

"Well, between the loving and the Italian...I'm speechless," she whispered.

"If you were speechless, you wouldn't be talking. I'm going to have to work on that," he whispered, lifting up, kissing her breast and laying back down.

"Is it like that all the time?" Tavin asked. Cameron gasped for air and loosely held up one finger. He disposed of the condom, came back to the bed, then he spoke.

"That was...shit...I can't describe that. It's never been like that for me, honestly. I felt like...I don't know," he whispered as Tavin held out her fist. Cameron gave her a pound.

"You did your thing, boy. Can I take a nap?" Tavin asked as Cameron's breathing finally calmed as he pulled her into his arms.

"I was just about to ask the same thing," he whispered as he kissed hr neck. Tavin remembered something and she picked up the phone near his bed. she punched in the number and spoke.

"Hey Shannon. It's Tavin. I'm not coming in today. Yes, I'm seriously not coming in. Seriously, Shannon. I'm not going to answer that. Yeah send e-mails to all the higher ups. Have a good weekend. I'll see you Monday," Tavin replied as Cameron smiled at her as he pulled the sheets over them.

"Ooh. You...not going to work...what have I done? I got you playing hooky from work. I put it on you, didn't I. It was that good, huh?" he asked with a devilish grin. Tavin kissed him on the cheek and snuggled into his front.

"You damn right it was," Tavin replied as Cameron laughed, kissing her shoulder as they both succumbed to sleep.

Chapter 11

It was a cold, blistering Saturday and Tavin wanted nothing more than to curl up with a good book and stay inside, but Nicholas surprised Tavin by calling and telling her that he was kidnapping her for the day, to partake in lunch and a movie. They had such a good time that they decided to have dinner and while they were at the restaurant, Tavin's gaze lingered on her good friend.

Nicholas was amazingly hot and gorgeous, but he also had a gorgeous heart to match. He was the sweetest one out of the four guys. It simply amazed Tavin how Cameron and the guys were all mega loaded and super hot, and yet, they did not flaunt what they had and they didn't treat people like they were above them.

She was surprised and happy to accept Nicholas invitation, because she was in a state of missing Cameron. When she told Cameron that she was going to hang out with Nicholas when he called earlier that morning, he seemed relieved that she was going out. That's when she knew she had been set up. She stared at Nicholas for a while. Nicholas didn't present himself as the happy-go-lucky Nicholas that she knew and loved. He looked a bit sad, which was totally out of character for Nicholas. They had been discussing a few things they'd seen on the news while in the midst of their dinner.

"You look so happy, Tav," Nicholas stated with a smile.

"I am. Your boy ain't so bad after all," Tavin stated with a grin.

"So I see," Nicholas replied as they chewed in comfortable silence. Tavin decided to break the silence and aske Nicholas a question.

"Did Cameron put you up to this, Nick?" Tavin asked. Nicholas grinned at her with smiling blue eyes.

"No. I missed my little sis, that's all. I realized I hadn't spent time with you for awhile. Has it been that long since we've hung out--oh, I forgot--someone has been occupying all of your free time," Nicholas pointed out with a grin.

Tavin gave Nicholas a small smile, accompanied by a laugh. "No, we usually have lunch a couple of times a month, but I haven't hung out with you on a Saturday in years, because you always seem to have some woman keeping you busy. Nick, you've never been a good liar. Why don't you admit that Cameron's ass put you up to this?"

Nicholas smiled. "He didn't put me up to it. I told you, I already had planned to hang out with you anway, but...aiight, Cam called me and asked me to take you out today."

"I knew it," Tavin exclaimed.

"But, I told him that I already planned to hang with you today because I hadn't chilled with my little sis for a minute. He's afraid that while he's away, you'll revert back to your old ways and work on Saturday's or something. He said something about he was scared that you would go back to your pre-spinster life," Nicholas stated with a chuckle as he continued to eat. Tavin shook her head.

"That sneaky bastard. I can't believe he did that. I'm not that bad and I'm not a charity case, Nick," Tavin replied.

"Will you calm down, sis? He knows that and so do I. Don't be too hard on him, Tav. He only did it because he cares about you. That dude is crazy about you and I can't blame him. Cameron finally got it right. I was worried for a minute. Tav, can I ask you something and will you honestly answer?" Nicholas asked.

Tavin sipped her drink and continued to eat. "Shoot."

"Is Cameron really making you happy? Is he treating you well? I know Cameron is not a complete shit, but I want to know how he's really treating you, Tav," Nicholas replied honestly.

Tavin smiled widely. "Yes, he's treating me well. He treats me like a princess. He makes me feel wanted and needed. I've never felt needed before and I sure as hell have never felt like anyone wanted me. If you would have asked me a few years ago if I believed that Cameron and I would be together I would have screamed, "Hell No!". I certainly never imagined this in a million years. But, everything happens for a reason. Cameron is the one that really gets me. He deals with my bitchiness and my crap and I don't scare him--well, may be I scare him a little, but that's not the point. He's not intimidated by me and I dig that. When you find someone that you can relate to, who understands when you're not in the mood to be Mary fucking sunshine and they can deal with your shining qualities, as well as your shitty ones, and still want to be with you, then you need to grab hold of them quick and not let go!"

Nicholas smiled at Tavin as he let her words sink in. "Well kid, I'm happy for you and Cam. He's very lucky and he knows it. Make him work for everything, if you know what I mean. Make him sweat a little. Make him earn it, alright?" Nicholas asked as Tavin put on her most innocent face and nodded. Nicholas fell for it hook, line and sinker. It's not like she was ashamed of what she did with Cameron, but she just didn't want Nicholas to know yet.

"Will do," Tavin stated as she dived into her pasta once more.

Nicholas continued to speak. "Just make sure that you never settle for anything less than spectacular, sweetie--passion, romance, honesty, love. You deserve the best, okay? Make sure he gives it to you at all times and if not, just let me know so I can kick his ass," Nicholas replied as they both laughed.

"Yes, sir," Tavin replied. Tavin was concerned about Nicholas and Felicia and after a short silence, she decided to ask another question.

"Nicholas, what's really going on between you and Fee? Have you really been stalking her, because the Nicholas I know wouldn't resort to creepy tactics like that," Tavin said as Nicholas looked at her over the rim of his beer glass. He sipped on his beer and sat the drink down. Tavin finished eating and placed her napkin on top of her now empty plate and stared at Nicholas, as he sighed.

"No...maybe a litte," Nicholas stated. Tavin narrowed her eyes at him.

"Nicky, what's your problem? Why would you do that?" Tavin asked. Nicholas sighed again and looked at Tavin with those beautiful, blue eyes. Tavin was one of the only people he allowed to call him Nicky, and when she did, she was usually happy or angry. One look in her eyes and he knew it was the latter. She looked as if she wanted to slap him silly.

"Because I...shit...I love her, okay. There, I said it to someone. You're the first person I've admitted that to. I love her and I tried to get her to talk to me, but she won't. She said that she has a new man who's good to her and good for her and wants only her. But, what troubled me is that she didn't say anything about being happy or being crazy about him or wanting him like she used to tell me. There's no passion between them, Tav, I know it. The reason that I've been stalking her is to make her see that she's with the wrong guy. I know she's just with this dude to prove a point...to prove that I fucked up and I did...I fucked up. But, so did she, a couple of years ago," Nicholas stated.

"What are you talking about?" Tavin asked, her curiousity picqued.

"A few years ago, before we started this friends with benefits shit, we had been seeing each other, exclusively for a few months. I wanted to try to c...c...commit to her and only her. When I brought it up, she looked at me as if I'd sprouted two heads in front of her and asked me if I was crazy. She told me that she didn't want to be tied down, that it wasn't time for us and that it would only cause more harm than good. I never tried again. So, I was surprised when she brought it up again. I wasn't ready, so I kind of blew her off and in turn, pissed her off," Nicholas stated as Tavin shook her head.

"Lord, have mercy. And I thought Cameron and I were bad. You two are going to make me gray early. Are you serious?" Tavin asked.

"Have I ever lied to you, little sis?" Nicholas asked.

"No," she stated.

"Okay then. Look, Tav, Felicia and I were always on the same page concerning our relationship, which was purely a flirtatious friendship, until a few years ago. After that, we've been boomeranging between being together and having an open relationship. We just can't get it right," Nicholas stated as he finished the rest of his meal, pushing his empty plate to the side.

"Nicky, I know that you've always been a ladies man, but I always knew that there was something special going on between you and Felicia. You two really need to talk," Tavin said as she watched Nicholas groan.

"I've tried talking to her, but she's stubborn, like you and hard-headed. She's sticking to her guns on this. She wants to be with that guy and I can't blame her, really. He's giving her the attention that I really wasn't able to. And no, before you say anything, don't let her know that we've talked about this and don't talk to her on my behalf, either, Tavin. Okay?" Nicholas asked, placing his large hand on top of hers.

Tavin sighed and gripped his hand in hers. "Fine, I won't say anything, but you giving up is not something I'm accustomed to."

Nicholas gave her a sly grin. "Give up? What makes you think I'm giving up?"

Tavin rolled her eyes and sighed once more. "You just said you didn't blame her for wanting someone else and you don't want me to try to get her to talk to you."

"No, I'm not giving up sweetie. I'm just going to let Fee realize that it's me that she wants and I'm going to let her come to that realization on her own. No more stalking, no more calls or gifts and no more dirty poetry. Just some slight suggestion, or a nudge if you will," Nicholas said with a grin as Tavin's eyebrows shot up.

"Slight suggestion?" Tavin inquired.

"Yeah. She'll come to her senses own her own, eventually. I've got it all under control," Nicholas confidently stated.

"If you say so. Well, I'm glad to hear you won't be stalking her anymore, because that was pretty creepy," Tavin stated.

"I didn't really stalk her, like a stalker. I just bugged the shit out of her," Nicholas said.

"Like a stalker," Tavin replied.

Nicholas looked at Tavin and placed his hand over his mouth. "Oh, shit, Tav. I was stalking her."

"Yeah, you were. But, I'm glad you've finally decided to accept your stalker status. Now you can get the help you need," Tavin replied with a smile.

"Chuckle, chuckle," Nicholas stated.

"So, you've been sending Fee dirty poetry, huh? What did...?" Tavin asked before Nicholas interrupted her.

"Don't even think about picking my brain, kid. I'm not telling you jack. Now, what do you want to get for dessert. The triple chocolate cake looks good," Nicholas stated as Tavin laughed as they pondered over the dessert menu.
*********************************************************
"Janae, what are you doing, girl? The movie starts in an hour," Tavin yelled to her 14 year old sister Janae. Janae had been with Tavin since Monday and today was Wednesday. Cameron was still out of town and from the looks of it, he wouldn't be back for Thanksgiving on tomorrow. Tavin watched her little sister, with her below the shoulder length dark brown hair and tall slender frame. The girl was all legs and absolutely beautiful. Tavin was so proud of her sweet, smart happy sister and was so excited to see her, even if it was only for a week.

"I'm done Tavy. I have to look my best. What if I run into someone famous? I can't look like the average girl," Janae implored.

"But you are an average girl, sweetie," Tavin stated to see what kind of reaction she would get from her little sister.

"Oh, no Tavy, I am better than the average. I am incredibly unique," Janae said as Tavin smiled.

"That's my girl. Now, come on, let's go," Tavin stated. Janae looked at her reflection in her compact and ran back to the bathroom.

"Wait, Tavy, I'm coming. I just need another minute," Janae stated as Tavin sighed as she heard the doorbell ring.

"Well, excuse me Ms. Thang and don't you even think about putting on make-up, do you hear me?" Tavin asked.

"Aw man, that's not fair. I'm not a baby. She's tripping," mumbled Janae.

"What did you say?" Tavin asked.

"Nothin'," Janae exclaimed.

"That's what I thought you said," Tavin replied as she walked to the ringing door. Tavin opened the door and saw Cameron smiling at her and looking gorgeous as always. He was dressed in a black leather jacket, a caramel and black striped knit cap, and a long sleeved caramel, v-neck cashmere sweater, baggy blue jeans and Timberland boots. Cameron held a bouquet of pink roses in his hands. Tavin didn't realize how much she missed him until she saw him. She pulled him through the door and wrapped her arms around his neck, hugging him. Tavin squealed with delight.

"Baby, you're back!" Tavin exclaimed excitedly. Cameron was so glad to see how excited she was to see him.

"Hey beautiful," he replied.

"Are those for me?" she whispered as he hugged her back, still holding the roses.

"Yes...wait, let me put these down so I can get a proper hug. Come here, girl," he replied as he placed the roses gently on her kitchen table. Cameron walked back to her and he gathered her closely, inhaling her scent. Tavin stood on tiptoe as she wrapped her arms back around Cameron, rubbing her hand over his closely cut head.

"Umm, baby. You smell so good. Baby, you feel so damn good," Cameron whispered in her ear as he placed a light kiss on her neck.

"So do you," she whispered as he pulled back to look at her. Tavin was dressed in a beautiful scoop neck pink and mauve striped sweater, with scalloped fringes, light blue hip huggers and pink Uggs boots, looking as sexy as she wanted to be. Cameron smiled at her.

"Damn you are a sight for sore eyes. Good Lord, you look good," he replied, staring at her from head to toe. Tavin grinned.

"Thank you. You look aiight," she replied as he laughed. He held her by the waist and his hand caressed her behind.

"I guess I say thank you," Cameron said, looking down into her eyes.

"You're welcome, and thank you for the roses. They're beautiful," she stated.

"I'm glad you like them, lovely," he replied.

"Hey, when did you get back and why didn't you call me?" Tavin asked.

"About 11:00 last night. I went home, took a hot shower, ate and zonked out. I didn't call because I wanted to surprise you. I couldn't wait to see you, sweetheart. Did you miss me, baby?" Cameron asked in that sexy voice of his, caressing her face with his thumb. Tavin blushed.

"Yes, I missed you. I didn't have anyone to debate the news with or point out the stupidities of the government to. Come to think of it, I didn't have anyone to really curse out or call asshole. So I guess I missed you," Tavin stated with a smile.

"Gee, thanks. I must be on crack. I actually missed the bitchiest woman in the Western Hempishere," Cameron replied.

"I told you stay off that shit," Tavin said with a smile.

"Is that really all you missed, because I can tell you with no shame that I missed this pretty little face and those beautiful brown eyes," he whispered as he leaned down and kissed her right cheek, "and these sexy lips," as he kissed her left cheek, "and this ass. Girl, I missed this ass," he whispered, as he caressed her behind and swooped down to capture her lips in a passionate kiss. Cameron let out a deep moan as he ran his tongue lightly over her bottom lip, sucking on it as Tavin pulled him closer, holding him tight. Cameron's tongue sought hers with urgency as he slowly sucked her tongue, savoring her taste. He couldn't get enough of the taste of her lips. They both moaned and his hands cupped her behind.

"Baby...I...really...missed...you," he whispered betwen kisses, peppering her neck with kisses and soft licks. Tavin moaned and let out that sigh that he loved to hear.

"I really missed you, too, but...," Tavin began and Cameron interupted her by looking into her eyes and smiling.

"Don't say anything wise ass. Just shut up and let me kiss you and feel you up, aiight?" Cameron asked, as his lips descended back to hers. Tavin grinned and leaned up to meet his lips. They shared another passionate, but slow kiss. Cameron's lips slowly moved to her jawline, then to her neck. Tavin sighed.

"I can't believe I'm actually agreeing with you," she whispered as Cameron kissed her neck. Tavin sighed again, relishing the feel of his soft lips on her neck. Cameron grinned.

"Just don't be a smart-ass and give me some sugar. You smell so good, lovely," he whispered, licking the spot behind her right ear. Tavin grabbed him tighter and she could feel the grin of his lips on her neck.

"So do you," Tavin moaned. A throat clearing took her out of her passion induced fog. It was Janae grinning from ear to ear.

"Ooh, Tavy! What's going on?" Janae asked. Tavin blushed as she lifted her head. Cameron slowly lifted his head from her neck. Slowly, they untwined their bodies from one another, but Cameron pulled her back to his front, locking his hand around her waist to rest on her flat stomach. Tavin tried to pull away, but Cameron kept her in front of him, his erection thick and strong, rubbing against her behind.

"Stay still, baby. I gotta calm down. You don't want your sister to see this, do you?" Cameron asked leaning down to whisper right near her right ear.

"So, who's this pretty young lady?" Cameron asked.

"Cameron, this is Janae, my sister. Remember, she's staying with me for the week. Janae, this is Cameron Caldwell," Tavin replied. Janae walked over to them and held out her hand. Cameron shook it and smiled. Janae looked Cameron over with her mouth open for a few minutes, then she looked at her sister, grinning.

"He's cute, Tavy," Janae whispered. Tavin rolled her eyes to the heavens as Cameron smiled. He sat on one of Tavin's bar stools and pulled her between her legs. He placed his chin on her shoulder.

"He's alright," Tavin stated.

"Hey, the girl's got taste. Thanks Janae, I concur," Cameron grinned.

"Conceited bas...," Tavin said.

"Shh...not in front of the child, Tavin," Cameron admonished as Janae laughed. Tavin couldn't believe it. Janae was falling under the Cameron Caldwell spell.

"If you're worrying about that handshake, don't worry, he's safe. He's had all his shots," Tavin replied as Cameron and Tavin laughed.

"I'm going to remember that, okay," he replied. Janae continued to grin at Cameron, who smiled back at her.

"You are really hot," Janae replied to Cameron. Tavin's mouth made a huge O and Cameron lowered his head, laughing.

"Janae!" Tavin exclaimed.

"What? He is hot," Janae asked.

"Thank you, Janae. Hey, I like you, kid. You're smart and you speak the truth," Cameron stated.

"Don't encourage her, Cameron," Tavin replied.

"Hey, I'm just agreeing with her," Cameron stated as Janae smiled, glancing between Tavin and Cameron. Janae ran her finger along her chin.

"You're welcome, Cameron. So, you're Tavin's boyfriend? This is huge, actually monumental. I've never seen Tavy with a boyfriend before. This is quite an interesting development. Tavy, you're boyfriend is smokin'," Janae stated. Cameron had to laugh. This kid was too much. Cameron bit his lip to stop from laughing anymore.

"Bite your tongue, Janae, before I put a knot in it. We are very good friends, Janae, right Cameron," Tavin asked, nudging him.

"I'm kind of liking the boyfriend label," Cameron said.

"I should have known your ass wouldn't help any. We are very good friends, Janae. Okay?" Tavin stated to her sister, who now was placing her hands on her hips and staring at Tavin.

"Well, I'm "very good friends"," Janae said making the quote signs with her hands as she continued, "with Brandon Stevenson and we've never kissed the way you two were kissing a few minutes ago. Talk about intense," Janae replied as Cameron continued to bite his lip. He really liked this kid. Tavin stepped away from his embrace and walked to stand in front of her little sister.

"First of all, you shouldn't be kissing anyone, especially if you want to live to see 16. Secondly, I'm the oldest and what I say is law. Do you understand?" Tavin asked in that no nonsense tone of voice that made grown men cringe.

"Yes, maam. So, Cameron, are you coming with us?" Janae asked.

"It depends. Where are you going and am I invited?" Cameron asked standing up looking down into Tavin's face with a grin.

"To the movies and you are so invited," Janae said.

"Okay, I'll come. My treat," Cameron replied.

"Cute and he pays? I like you already, Cameron. Good looking out, Tavy," Janae replied as Cameron gave a low chuckle. Tavin nudged him in the side.

"Ow, that hurt," he said, rubbing his side.

"It was supposed to, fool," Tavin said.

"Oh, just so you know, Cameron, I'm really going to grill you when I get the chance, so be prepared. I love my big sister very much. Tavin is beyond fabulous and I can't have her dealing with a knucklehead. Gotta check you out thoroughly. What's your credit score, what does your stock portfolio look like, do you have any illegitimate kids, do you practice safe sex, that kind of thing...and more," Janae emphasized as Tavin shook her head at Janae. Cameron bit his lip and nodded his head in agreement.

"That's understandable, Janae. She is your fabulous big sister, after all," Cameron stated smiling at Tavin who smiled back.

"Aw, man, she's too late, Cam. You're already a big knucklehead," Tavin replied.

"Hardy, har har. What movie are we seeing?" Cameron asked. Janae's eyes lit up.

"X-Men. I love X-Men," Janae stated.

"You are a cool kid. I love X-Men too. I think I've read all their comics," Cameron stated.

"I haven't read the comics, but I've seen the first two movies and Hugh Jackman is so cute," Janae replied.

"I know, right...wait, a minute. He's way too old for you to be discussing his cuteness factor, Doodles," Tavin said to Janae calling her by her nickname as they began to file out of the front door.

"Tavy, he's not that old and besides, age doesn't matter when it comes to cuteness. Brad Pitt and Johnny Depp are in their 40's and everyone thinks they're hot stuff, which they are. You're the oldest, Tavy. You should know that already," Janae replied as they walked out of the door and to the elevator. Janae's cell phone rang and she chatted excitedly into the phone.

"You think Hugh Jackman is cute?" Cameron asked.

"Yeah. You think Gabrielle Union, Halle Berry, Beyonce, Janet Jackson and Nia Long are hot. So what? Get over it, there are some guys that are hotter than you Cameron," Tavin replied as they boarded the elevator.

"But I digress. And I think your eyes are going bad. I'm way hotter than Hugh Jackman, Tav," Cameron replied as Tavin laughed.

"Only in your best fantasy, Cam," she replied. Janae smiled at her and mouthed "he's really hot," and winked, as she continued to talk on the phone. Tavin rolled her eyes and let out a loud sigh.

"Man, what am I going to do with her?" Tavin asked.

"I was going to ask you the same thing," Cameron stated.
*********************************************************
They had a good time at the movies, then at Lee's Chinese Restaurant where they had dinner. They decided to eat Chinese because Janae loved Chinese food and it was one of the only things open the evening before Thanksgiving. Janae did ask Cameron a lot of questions and he answered all of them, which he noticed Tavin either blushed or looked out of the window.

When they returned back to Tavin's apartment, Janae yawned and smiled again at Cameron.

"It was nice meeting you, Cameron. You're cool with me and you can hold your own with my tough big sis. I'm glad to see that my sister is not with a punk. He's a real man, Tavy," Janae stated. Tavin rolled her eyes.

"Thanks...I think. Nice meeting you too, Janae," Cameron held out his hand, but Janae hugged him. Cameron hugged her back and smiled.

"I'm going to bed. Love you, Tavy," Janae said, hugging her sister strongly. Tavin hugged her back and kissed her cheek.

"I love you, too, Doodles," Tavin stated as Janae came out of her embrace.

"Don't do anything I wouldn't do," Janae stated as she walked to the second bedroom.

"Don't worry. I'm not doing anything and you ain't never going to do it, you feel me?" Tavin yelled as Cameron laughed.

"She's something," Cameron replied, walking over to Tavin's huge, comfy couch. He took off his shoes and laid on her sofa, and turned on the TV. Tavin walked over to the sofa, and Cameron grabbed the back of her right knee, smiling at her as he caressed it.

"Yeah, she is. Well, I see you've made yourself comfy," she said, trying not to concentrate on his hand caressing her leg, but he gave her that gorgeous smile of his and she couldn't help it. His caress felt so good.

"Not completely," he replied as he pulled her on top of him on the sofa and kissed her. Cameron wrapped his arms around her waist and Tavin wrapped her arms around his neck, kissing him back. They kissed each other and after the kiss, Cameron pulled her back against him and pulled one of her couch pillows under his head.

"You have a comfortable couch," he replied as he wrapped his arms around her waist.

"I know. I conk out here a lot when I'm working. I forgot to ask you--how was your trip?" Tavin asked.

"I don't want to talk about that. I want to talk about you. No work, no accounts, none of that stuff. This is what people do when they have time--say it with me baby, it's called relaxing," Cameron said in a slow voice.

"Shit on you, Cam," she replied as he laughed.

"I really needed to hear you say that. Now, I know I'm home," Cameron replied.

"Whatever," Tavin said.

"Janae is a pretty cool kid, so unlike her sister," Cameron stated.

"Oh, I'm not cool?" Tavin asked.

"Baby, you redo your old tax returns for fun in your spare time," he said.

"I'm just being thorough," Tavin stated.

"No, baby, you're a nerd. But it's okay. Nerd's are sexy," he replied, nipping her neck with his lips. Tavin laughed.

"Yeah, Janae's something else. She's a good kid. She's pretty forward, kind of blunt too," Tavin pointed out.

"Hmm, I wonder where she gets that from," Cameron replied.

"I wouldn't have her any other way. I loved the interrogation, by the way," Tavin stated.

"I know you did. That kid could work for the CIA. But, it was cool. She's a sweetie pie. She's just looking out for her big sister. I dig that. She loves you," Cameron stated as he intertwined their hands and played with her fingers.

"I know. I love her, too," Tavin said. There was a comfortable silence as Cameron rubbed his nose against her neck. Her sweater exposed her neckline and her cleavage and Cameron had to fight the urge to attack her and talk her out of her clothes. Besides, if he tried something with Janae in the next room, Tavin would freak out and send him packing. He decided to test the waters anyway. Cameron slowly began to kiss her neck. Tavin sighed that sigh that he loved to hear.

"You have no idea how much I missed you," Cameron whispered, his lips grazing her neck.

"Really? I thought you just missed my fried chicken and garlic mashed potatoes," Tavin said with a grin.

"I did miss that, but, really, I would be in a meeting and instead of concentrating on the topic at hand, I would zone out and think about you...what you were doing, how you look, your scent, who your were telling off. Then, I'd get flashes of you naked and me doing some wild shit to you, making you scream," he whispered as he pulled her sweater off her shoulder, along with her red bra strap. He kissed her shoulder, up to her neck. Tavin shivered, bit her lip and let out a low moan. His lips felt so good.

"Cameron, I...we can't...," she whispered, but Cameron interrupted her as if he was reading her mind.

"Calm your pretty little self down. Nothing is going to happen, but God knows I want it to. I want you so bad baby. Just wait till I get you alone. It's been almost two weeks. Be ready to be on your back for awhile. I'm going to tear your ass up when I get you alone," he whispered and Tavin felt the grin on her lips.

"Looking forward to it," Tavin whispered.

"I just wanted to kiss you a little, touch you...that's all, baby. I love being this close to you," he whispered as he pulled her ear in his mouth slowly, sucking the lobe. Tavin bit her lip and sighed, low and long. Cameron grinned as his lips moved back to her neck.

"About this boyfriend thing," he whispered.

"What about it?" Tavin asked.

"I am your boyfriend, you know. Get used to it," Cameron replied as he pulled one of her hands to her mouth and kissed the tip of her fingers.

"Since when?" Tavin asked.

"Since I told you that I loved you and I basically branded you as mine. Baby, we surpassed friendship a long time ago. I'm crazy about you and you know you feel the same way about me. Tell me you feel the same way," Cameon whispered, dropping soft kisses along her soft, silky neck again. Those soft, talented lips kept kissing her neck and she just gave into the feeling. She couldn't deny it and she told him.

"Yes, Cameron I feel the same way," she replied as Cameron turned her around, looked into her eyes and gave her a slow, sweet kiss. After the kiss was over, she laid her head back on his chest.

"See, that wasn't so hard, now was it?" Cameron asked.

"Not fair. You use those lips...well...like a weapon," Tavin replied.

"Gotta use what I got...to get what I want. Besides, you can't resist all of this. You heard your sister. I'm hot," Cameron stated.

"You always know how to screw up a mood, huh?" Tavin asked.

"Yep," he whispered as he rubbed her back.

"Your heart is beating so fast, Cameron. It's beating just as fast as mine," Tavin whispered, loving the feel of his hands along her back.

"I wonder why," he whispered and Tavin snuggled more into his chest. She had never been this happy. Cameron kissed the top of her head, thinking the same thing.

The next morning, which was Thanksgiving day, Janae stretched and yawned as she walked to the bathroom to brush her teeth. On the way to the bathroom, Janae spotted Cameron and Tavin asleep on the couch.

"Well, at least I know they didn't do the freaky deaky, because they still have their clothes on," Janae replied as she walked into the bathroom.

Cameron woke up first and smiled. His finger traced a path down her nose and he whispered in her ear, "Happy Thanksgiving, baby." Tavin woke up and grinned from ear to ear. Cameron stretched as he pulled her gently off of him and began to put on his shoes.

"Happy Thanksgiving, Cam. Hey, where are you going?" Tavin asked, rubbing sleep out of her eyes and stretching like a cat. She looked so adorable, he thought. He kissed her forehead and smiled down at her.

"Home, and then back here," he replied as he sat down and pulled her into his lap.

"Don't you have to go to your parents house?" Tavin asked.

"No, I want to be with you, so I'm going to go home, take a shower, change and I'll be back with breakfast. Okay?" Cameron asked as Tavin nodded in agreement. He kissed her on the forehead and stood up, pulling her with him.

"I'll be back in an hour," he replied, tapping her on her behind and walking to her door. As he walked through, he puckered his lips at her and winked, closing and locking the door behind him. Tavin scratched her head and smiled as she hugged herself.

"I knew he was your boyfriend," Janae replied as she walked out of the bathroom.

Tavin smiled and walked to the bathroom. "Yeah, I guess he is."

Chapter 12

Tavin tightly hugged Janae early Sunday morning at the airport as they heard the announcement for Janae's flight to board. Janae hugged her back just as tightly. Cameron smiled at Janae and gave her a hug.

"Hey kid. Don't get into any trouble. And don't sleep on your friend Brandon. That kid is just biding his time...trust me, I know," Cameron stated with a grin.

"I won't get into any trouble and believe me, I've been trained well. I'll watch him. Tavy, I love you so much. Can I visit again soon?" Janae asked, as her brown eyes widened. Tavin wiped Janae's tear stained cheeks, but held her own tears in. She didn't want Janae to see her cry.

"Yes. Don't cry sweetie, okay. Remember what I said about that wonderful summer dance program downtown? You can come for the summer and attend. You'd love it. Just tell mama to call me about the details, okay. Besides, I'll see you before the summer...spring break, remember?" Tavin asked as Janae shook her head yes.

"I remember," Janae said, sniffling as she continued to hold on to her older sister.

Tavin smiled at her. "Be good and keep kicking butt in school. You call me as soon as you land and when you get home, understand?" Tavin asked.

"Yes, Tavy," Janae replied smiling. Tavin hugged her tightly.

"Oh, Doodles, I love you so much. I'm going to miss you. Go on, Doodles. It's time. Don't forget to call me and e-mail okay?" Tavin asked as Janae smiled.

"I won't forget. Bye, big sis. Nice meeting you Cameron. Keep my sister happy. She deserves it. I love you Tavy," Janae replied tears running down her face. Tavin couldn't hold it together any longer as she watched her sister begin to walk away.

"I love you too, baby sister. Be careful. Remember to call...as soon as you land and as soon as you get home," Tavin stated. Janae nodded and waved until she was out of sight. Tavin broke down and the tears began to freely fall. Cameron watched his girl cry and he wished he could do something about it. He pulled her into his arms and soothingly rubbed her back. Tavin pulled her arms against his chest as he comforted her. He felt so good...safe...exactly what she needed at the time.

"Lovely, don't cry. You know I hate to see you cry...aw, baby, it's okay...don't cry, baby, it's okay," he whispered soothingly, placing his chin on the top of her head.

"I know," Tavin sniffled, as she snuggled closer into his chest

"You're going to see her again...the time will pass by...you'll see," Cameron whispered.

"I know, it's just that...I hate this, Cameron. If things were different...," Tavin whispered, hugging him tighter. He kissed the top of her head, then lifted her chin to make her look into his eyes.

"I know, Tav...I know. You know what?" Cameron asked, as he wiped the tears from her face with the pads of his thumbs, his green eyes gazing down into her brown.

"What?" Tavin asked.

"I think my baby needs some big time cheering up. What do you think?" Cameron asked.

Tavin sniffled. "Yeah...big time...and some major babying too," Tavin replied as Cameron grinned. He kissed her on the forehead.

"I can do that. So basically, you get whatever you want, whenever you want from here on out?" Cameron asked. Tavin sighed.

"Yep...the usual," Tavin stated.

"Spoiled brat," he whispered.

"Your fault. You treat me too good. I wish she could visit more, Cameron," Tavin whispered.

Cameron gave her a quick peck on the lips. "I know you do, Tav. One day, she'll be able to. Come with me baby. I've got to put a smile back on that pretty face," Cameron whispered as he led her out of the airport and to his car.

That afternoon, Cameron kept Tavin occupied by taking her to see a movie and an Indian art exhibit that she had been wanting to attend for weeks. He topped the day off with dinner at one of her favorite Thai restaurants. As they were on their way back from dinner, Janae called her to inform her that she had landed and was safely on the way home. Tavin smiled sadly, but was happy that her sister was safe and sound.

Tavin looked over at Cameron as he drove back to his penthouse. He made her feel so much better after Janae left. She really loved this man, she thought as he rubbed her thigh with his right hand and drove with his left. He felt her staring at him and he grinned.

"I know why you're looking at me," Cameron replied knowingly.

"Why am I looking at you?" Tavin asked.

"Because you can't help it...I'm too cute for you to look away," he replied with a grin.

Tavin laughed. "Your head has got to weigh a ton. You are so conceited."

"You still love me though?" Cameron asked.

"I sure do. Cam, thank you for today. You kissed my booty and you let me have my way all day. What a man," Tavin replied as Cameron laughed.

"That's what I'm here for...use me as you will. Do you feel better?", Cameron asked.

Tavin grinned. "Yep."

"Then my job is done," he replied with a grin as Tavin took her seat belt off and leaned over to kiss him on the cheek. He smelled so good that she decided to kiss his neck. He groaned.

"You know, you're very sexy when you're giving a woman her way, you know," she whispered.

"Shit, then I should be sexy to you all the time," he replied as Tavin laughed and kissed his neck slowly.

"Ummm...you are, baby. You smell so good, Cameron," Tavin whispered.

Cameron smiled as he felt Tavin's lips all over his neck. "So do you. Woman, what are you doing?"

"What does it feel like I'm doing?" Tavin asked in a seductive tone of voice as the tip of her tongue went slowly up the column of Cameron's neck. He let out another low growl.

"It feels like you're making me hard, baby," Cameron whispered as Tavin giggled and repeated the same action along his neck. Tavin loved the response she got out of Cameron. It made her feel powerful.

"Is it getting really hard? Let me see," Tavin stated running her hand along his erection. Cameron sucked in a deep breath as his foot hit the accelerator harder.

"Ooh, it is hard...and thick...and big. Do you have any idea how good it feels when you slide into me?" Tavin asked, running her tongue along the shell of his ear. Cameron gripped the steering wheel tightly.

"Oh shit, baby...you're talking dirty and you don't do that too often, so you know what that does to me...it turns me on big time...and you're stroking my dick. Shit, Tav, you're gonna make me crash," he whispered as Tavin dropped small kisses on his neck, taking small bites out of it, then sucking it.

"Cameron, I don't want you to crash, but baby...I'm horny...I want you...I need you, Cameron...inside me...now," Tavin whispered as she ran her tongue over his bottom lip and pulled it slowly into her mouth.

"Aw, shit, baby," Cameron sped up. Tavin grinned.

"You in a hurry, Cameron?" Tavin asked.

Cameron pulled into his penthouse parking spot and whispered, "Hell yeah." He parked his car and pulled Tavin out of it. She wasn't walking fast enough, so he picked her up and put her over his shoulder.

"What the f....Captain Caveman, put me the hell down," Tavin stated with a laugh as Cameron walked quickly to the elevator with her on his shoulder. He slapped her on her behind.

"Nope. You moving too damn slow, girl. You know how bad I want you and you go licking and kissing me, then you go touching my shit and talking dirty...telling me you're horny...ooh, you're in trouble," Cameron replied as the elevator opened. He put her down and grabbed her by the back of the head and kissed her with a passionate frenzy. Tavin kissed him back just as passionately as he grinded against her. Tavin moaned as the elevator opened on Cameron's floor. He gave her a soft kiss, followed by a slow tongue lick down the center of her lips, then grabbed her hand as they walked to his door.

Cameron opened the door, pulling Tavin in. He kicked the door closed, and grabbed her by the waist, pulling her against him to kiss her again. Their coats and shoes went flying in all directions. Cameron pushed Tavin against the wall near the door, and pulled her sweater over her head, throwing it on the floor. Cameron's sweatshirt followed Tavin's sweater as his hands went to the zipper on Tavin's jeans. He unzipped them, pulled them off her legs quickly and tossed them. Cameron stepped out of his sweatpants and kicked them across the room. He was dressed in his boxers as he kept her glued to the wall. Tavin ran her hands over his chest.

"Cameron, umm, you are so...fine...umm," she whispered as her eyes ran over his tan, muscular, hairless chest.

"Thank you...so are you...but you're still dressed," he whispered as he stared at Tavin from the top of her head to the white socks on her feet. Cameron kissed her passionately and reached in back of her to take off her bra. After unhooking the lacy scrap of material, he threw it and kissed his way down her body. Tavin was still dressed in her white lace bikinis.

"Are you blind? I have on nothing but my bra...correction, my undies. I'm damn near naked," she whispered as her eyes followed Cameron as he kissed her stomach. Cameron stared into her eyes as he ran his tongue along her stomach, right along the lacy edge of her panties. Tavin moaned, and closed her eyes.

"But you're not naked," he whispered. She felt Cameron's hands on her hips, then felt a slight yank. When she opened her eyes, Cameron was ripping her panties. He threw them in the pile with the rest of their discareded clothes.

"Ooh, aren't we in a hurry. Not gonna make it to the bed, huh?" Tavin asked. Cameron gave her a sly grin.

"We'll get there...eventually. Right now, I'm too hard and horny to make it to the bed. Besides, this is a new place for us. Go with it," he whispered licking the space below her belly button. Cameron sat back away from her and spread her legs.

"And you ripped my drawers? That was kinda freaky. I liked that," Tavin whispered as she watched Cameron stare between her legs at her, slowly running his tongue along his bottom lip. She felt sexy and powerful under his stare and she loved the way he gazed at her.

"Glad you liked me ripping your panties, now shush baby," he whispered as his eyes moved slowly from the vee between her legs to her eyes.

"I thought you were hard and horny...come on Cam, stop teasing," Tavin whispered.

"Gotta get you back from earlier. Payback is a bitch, ain't it baby?" he asked as his hands traveled over her hips.

"Alright you tease...just do something, Cameron, please. I'm so hot," she whispered.

"Calm down, baby. I got you. Here," Cameron ran his hands between her thighs, slowly walking his fingers up her thighs as he placed one finger inside her, moving it in and out. Tavin's head rolled back as he inserted another finger.

"Finally...ummm," Tavin moaned as his fingers moved inside of her.

Cameron grinned as he watched her, curling his fingers up into her, stroking her in and out. Tavin moaned loudly as Cameron asked, "Feel good, baby?"

"Yes, really good...better than my own damn fingers," she whispered as Cameron chuckled lowly. Tavin didn't care as she reveled in the feel of his fingers moving in and out of her. Cameron looked up at her with hooded eyes, loving the way she felt around his fingers. He removed his fingers. Tavin looked down and Cameron was staring at her again, licking his lips.

"Why'd you stop, damn it?" Tavin asked in a husky low voice. Cameron loved when she sounded like that...sexy and full of desire.

"Because I wanted to do this," he replied as he kissed her thighs, placed her left leg on his shoulder and clamped his mouth on her.

"Nice and wet...just like I like it," Cameron whispered as Tavin gripped his head to keep his wonderful lips and his tongue on her. He held on to her hips as Tavin kept her hand on his head.

"Cameron...baby...please...don't stop...Oh, baby...umm, please," she whispered as Cameron licked, sucked and kissed her. Tavin gripped his head tighter and moaned when he moved his tongue in and out of her quickly.

"Umm, Cameron," she whispereed as he continued to suck her private place. He took her clit in his mouth and sucked it until Tavin began to scream.

"Oh...oh...oh," Tavin screamed as her climax hotly washed over her. Cameron kissed her until she finished, then kissed his way back up her body. She almost fell to the floor, but she felt Cameron's arm around her waist, holding her up. Cameron pulled off his boxers and she heard a rip and saw him roll a condom quickly over his length.

"I can't take it anymore. I need to be inside you, Tavin...now. Wrap your legs around my waist, like this," he whispered, as he pulled her legs around his waist. She did as he asked and wrapped her arms around his neck. He entered her in one, swift thrust. They both moaned at the sensation of being together like this again. Cameron kissed Tavin's neck.

"You're not going to drop me, are you Cam? Don't let me fall," Tavin whispered, as Cameron gritted his teeth. She felt so good.

"Never baby. I got you, Tavin. Trust me. Oh shit, baby...nobody feels like you, Tavin. It's so good, baby...damn," he whispered as he began moving inside of her. She felt so good, tight and wet. He didn't want to come yet, he thought to himself, but damn...she felt good...amazing.

Tavin loved the way he felt inside of her...thick and long, stretching and filling her, feeling too good to be real.

"Mmm, baby you feel so...umm," Tavin whispered as Cameron stroked slowly inside of her.

Cameron asked in a whisper," Did you really miss me? Because I really missed you...I missed the way you taste...I missed this...you feel so good, baby...did you miss me as much as I missed you?"

"Oh yes, baby, I missed you...so much, Cameron...umm," Tavin whispered, her head back, eyes closed, just feeling him, just being with him.

Cameron moved to the left and up, hitting her g-spot. "Did you miss me hitting that?" he asked, nipping her ear. Tavin licked her lips.

"Oh, yes," Tavin moaned loudly.

"Are you mine, Tavin, just mine?" Cameron asked as he thrust harder and quicker inside of her, watching her enjoy what he was doing to her. Her wetness was suctioning him in deeper, making it hard for him to hold on. He wanted to make this good for her, so he held on longer. He moved up, down and around to to her spot, watching her bite her bottom lip and listening to her moan.

"Yes, Cameron, I'm only yours," she whispered as her legs tightened around him to keep him where she wanted him.

"Is this mine, baby?" Cameron asked, thrusting faster inside of her. Cameron's voice was deeper and huskier when they made love and he was talking to her, which she loved...it only made her more wet and more excited.

"Yes, baby...it's all yours...just yours...umm, don't stop, Cameron," she whispered.

"Don't stop baby?" he asked, licking the spot behind her ear, still moving faster inside of her until he felt her tighten around him even more.

"Don't stop, don't stop. Please, stay right there...stay right there," she whispered as he did what she asked for a few minutes, then Tavin began to feel that familiar feeling wash over her. Her muscles tightened around him even more and Cameron groaned, biting his lip.

"So good, lovely, so good...ummm. Hmm, that's it, come for me Tavin. Feels like a good one, too. I love to feel you come baby. That's it, come all around me," he whispered. Those words did her in and he felt her tighten more as she screamed his name loudly, muscles pulsing as she climaxed. Cameron didn't want to come, but he couldn't take it anymore. She felt too good.

"I don't want to come yet baby, but I can't help it. You feel so good and tight...and hot...umm, I'm coming baby, shit," Cameron groaned as he thrust five times hard and quick into her as he orgasmed.

"Tavin," he groaned as he came. They both panted and Tavin sighed that sexy, happy sigh that he loved. Cameron smiled and buried his face in her neck, kissing her neck. He kissed his fingers, then placed them on her lips and told her he'd be right back. She heard the toilet flush and he ran back to her, positioning himself right where he was again.

"You alright, baby? You want something to drink or something?" he asked.

"No, I'm fine. Everything I need is right here. Maybe we'll make it to the bed the next time," Tavin whispered in an exasperated voice as Cameron looked up at her and gave her a peck on the lips.

"What are you talking about? The bed is too far," Cameron panted out with a grin as he walked a lifeless Tavin over to the soft, huge rug in the middle of the living room floor. He laid her down and lay gently on top of her, kissing her again. His lips moved from her lips to her left ear, gently sucking the lobe as Tavin sighed happily, kissing his forehead.

"Damn, I'm...that was...woo...baby....damn. Now that's what I call welcoming your man home," Cameron whispered, peppering open mouthed kisses on her neck. Tavin smiled and ran her hand over the back of his head.

"Don't say I didn't welcome you back with open arms...legs...," Tavin stated as Cameron chuckled, his hands rubbing her bottom slowly.

"More dirty talk, huh baby? I like that. Baby, I love you," he whispered, still looking into her eyes. Tavin leaned up and kissed his lips and stared at him for a minute.

"Aw, Cameron, I love you too. It's that good, huh?" Tavin asked.

"Yes...extremely good," he exclaimed as Tavin kissed him again, smiling. There was silence again.

"Cameron, I'm about to get mushy, alright."

"As long as I can lay here and rub your ass, you can do whatever you want," Cameron replied.

"You are so nasty. No, really Cam, that was...undescribable. Every time we make love it's like, there's no you and there's no me. Nothing else exists, nothing else matters. There's just us and this passion that we have for each other and how we feel. You know what I mean?" Tavin asked as he kissed the tip of her nose.

"Yeah. We get any hotter and we're going to spontaneously combust," Cameron replied laughing as Tavin smiled as she popped him upside the head.

"Ooh, you. The chemistry is just off the charts," Tavin stated.

"Yeah, and the sex is shit...great," Cameron stated as Tavin shook her head.

"It's not just sex, Cameron," Tavin said blushing.

"If what we just did was not sex, then I don't know what it was...fucking?" Cameron asked.

"No you didn't just say that what we did was fucking," Tavin said pulling away to look at him.

"Aw shit. Umm, hell, I can't...aw, hell. Baby, what I meant to say was...," he replied.

"Yeah, if you plan on getting any more of this tonight, you better fix this shit," Tavin replied giving him a look, her eyes narrowed.

"Okay. This is going to be good. You're going to like this," he replied with a grin, kissing her fingertips.

"Yeah, it better...or no more booty for you," Tavin replied.

"What I meant was, it's not all the same, but the action is...you can say anything...you don't like that either, huh, lovely? I can tell by the way you're stabbing me with your eyes," Cameron replied.

"If you weren't so damn cute, you'd be hurt right now. Fix it, because, I need to some more loving. Two weeks is a long damn time. Fix it now!" Tavin exclaimed. Cameron sat up on his elbows and looked at her.

"Okay, baby...damn. You are a little loco. Okay, I got it. I could be doing the nasty, doing the freaky deaky, umm, boning, sexing, fucking you, but I'm always loving you, baby...making love to you. I'm always there with you...my heart is always with you...with every moan, every stroke. I'm always thinking how much I love you and how much I wish we could stay together like that, close to like that. I'm always feeling what you feel, Tavin...that I wish the feeling would never end. I keep falling for you every time I'm with you, baby. Now, what's the verdict? Do I get to keep breathing?" Cameron asked as he kissed her softly on the lips, then pulled away looking into her eyes.

"As long as you mean it," Tavin stated, thinking of how much she loved this man. Cameron ran his finger along her nose and slowly across her lips.

"Of course I mean it, Tavin. I adore you, baby. I'm crazy about you. You're all I see," he whispered as Tavin leaned her head up and kissed him on the lips.

"Okie dokie. Your booty priviledges are retroactive again," Tavin replied as he kissed her with a laugh. He looked down at her and began to harden again. Tavin heard another condom wrapper open and he slipped another one on.

"But really, Tav. I know exactly what you mean, lovely. I feel you...damn, do I feel you," Cameron whispered as his erection moved right to her wet entrance, moving against her clitoris and staring into her eyes.

Tavin whispered with a slow, low moan, staring back into those sexy green eyes. "Hmm, I sure do feel you...umm."

"Freak," he whispered, tracing her bottom lip slowly with his tongue.

"You created me...your fault," Tavin whispered.

"And I have no problem taking the blame either. What you said was pretty deep. Speaking of deep...I want to go deep baby...so deep," he whispered as he moved inch by inch inside of her.

"A man's gotta do what a man's gotta do. Do your thing, Cam," Tavin whispered.

Cameron grinned, halfway inside of her. "I will baby, don't worry".

"Hey, what was all that talk aobut wearing me out," Tavin whispered as her breath caught when Cameron finally thrust fully into her, filling her to the hilt. Tavin moaned, loving the feel of his thick, long length inside of her. The man felt too good.

"You need to work on your listening skills, baby. I said I was going to tear your ass up and that's what I'm going to finish doing. Umm....Tavin...I love you so much baby...nobody feels like you...nobody like you, baby...nobody," he whispered as he moved back and forth inside her, at the pace that they both loved. Damn, he loved this woman, he thought.

Tavin bit her bottom lip and ran her hands up and down his back and wrapped her legs around his waist. Damn she loved this man, she thought as her eyes closed again.

"Umm, I love you too, Cameron...I love you baby...how I love you...just keep doing that...ummm...and that....ummm," Tavin whispered as she continued to make love with her man.
******************************************************************
It was the second week of December and things were going wonderfully between Tavin and Cameron. Yes, they fought like cats and dogs, but when they made up...well, making up was always the icing on the cake. Tavin sat across from Dr. Marine, with a smile on her face, thinking about how Cameron talked her into a lunchtime quickie in the backseat of his car. Tavin grinned at the memory. Still, something this good couldn't last, which was always in the back of Tavin's mind.

"Well, it sounds as if everything is going very well Tavin. What do you think?" Dr. Marine asked with a smile on her face.

"I don't know. I'm just waiting for the other shoe to drop, you know what I mean Dr. M?" Tavin asked.

"No, I don't know what you mean. Why don't you explain it to me?" Dr. Marine inquired as Tavin sighed and began to speak.

"I still have doubts about my relationship with Cameron. They're still not gone. Good things happen to me, then the bottom falls out, Dr. M. It's just what happens. I mean, I'm in love...truly in love and I'm happy. And the funny thing is, the man is in love with me. I bitch, I'm mean as hell sometimes, but he loves me. This gorgeous, sexy, fine as hell man could have anyone he wants, but he wants me. Tavin Wilson, boring accountant. The things he does for me and to me are incredible Dr. M. Flowers just because he was thinking about me, double chocolate ice cream because he figured I would want some...sweet, cute crap like that and you know what? I'm gone...I'm putty in his hands. It took me almost a year to tell you what my stepfather did to me, but it came out with ease when I told him. Yeah, we fight and we make up...lord, do we make up. But I'm so comfortable with him and that's scary. I've never really been comfortable with a man. He treats me so good, Dr. M, sometimes I just think what have I done to deserve this. He gets me, Dr. M.---he sees through all the crap. He looks at me, and I blush. He touches me and I get goosebumps...the good ones. He kisses me and ....forget about it...I can't remember my own name. I'm not freezing anymore, Dr. M. I feel normal, like a woman with a good man is supposed to feel. But, I'm still on edge. I keep thinking that I'm going to screw this up, or he's going to screw this up or someone or something else is going to screw this up. I know I'm crazy, but that's why I'm here, paying you $100 bucks an hour," Tavin stated with a sigh.

Dr. Marine placed her ink pen down and stared at Tavin with concerned eyes. Tavin straightened out her blazer and looked at her therapist.

"Well, let me see if I understand you. You still have doubts about your relationship because you think that you're not good enough or attractive enough for Cameron, and you are basically waiting for something dreadful to happen. Is that right?" Dr. Marine inquired.

"Yeah, that's it in a nutshell," Tavin stated. Dr. Marine smiled.

"Tavin, let's tackle this self-esteem issue first. Tavin, you are a beautiful, strong intelligent woman. You are one of a kind. Cameron knows that and from what I've heard, he's not just going to let you go. There is something special about you that drew you to him, not the other way around. Let's talk about this self-doubt that you have. Tavin, feelings of self-doubt only bring anxiety and misunderstanding. Don't look for failure, Tavin. It sounds as if you are looking for something to sabotage this relationship before it gets a chance. Don't do that. Tavin, you have made so much progress. Embrace everything that is making you happy. Stop waiting with anticipation for something awful to happen. Concentrate on the present and look to the future positively," Dr. Marine stated.

"I'll think about it, Dr. M," Tavin stated, letting Dr. Marine's words seep into her. Dr. Marine continued to speak.

"Now, this is Dr. Marine, the woman speaking. Everyone doesn't get the chance to fall in love, to experience real love. Love is something that gets used, abused and taken for granted. Don't shortchange yourself and don't assume that Cameron is just out to get you. It sounds to me that your young man adores you and only wants your happiness. That's a good thing, Tavin. I know you haven't experienced much happiness in your life, but this is it...the happiness quadrant of your life," Dr. Marine stated excitedly.

"My happiness quadrant...okay, Dr. M, whatever you say. You're the expert. That does sound kind of cool. My happiness quadrant," Tavin replied smiling.

"You deserve to be happy, Tavin. You deserve a good man and you deserve to feel the way you feel now. Just go with it. If obstacles appear in your path, and trust me they will, deal with them head on, but don't look for them when they are not there," Dr. Marine stated. Tavin sat silently and absorbed Dr. Marines words once more.

"Whoa, Dr. Marine. You're right. That was deep," Tavin stated.

"That's why I get paid the big bucks," she replied with a smile.

"And deservedly so. Dr. M, you're not gonna charge me extra for that woman to woman chat we just had are you?" Tavin asked.

"Not at all...that was on the house...but don't get used to it," Dr. Marine replied jokingly as Tavin laughed and stood up. She walked to the door

"Now I know it's time to go. Dr. M cracked a joke. Same time in a few weeks?" Tavin asked.

"Sounds good. Tavin?" Dr. Marine asked.

"Yeah?" Tavin inquired with her hand on the doorknob.

"Go with the happy. It's okay," Dr. Marine stated with a grin.

Tavin began to chant the mantra to herself. "Go with the happy. Go with the happy. My happy quadrant. Got it. Have a good day, Dr. M," Tavin replied with a smile as Dr. Marine took down a few notes and called in her next patient.

Chapter 13

Being with Tavin had Cameron feeling and thinking in ways he never had before. Cameron was always a laid back, go with the flow kind of guy, but Tavin made him think about tomorrow...the future. She was changing him. She was always on his mind...her voice, her face, her eyes....always appeared before him when she wasn't there. He finally got it. He finally understood why Donovan went through hell and fire to be with Nichelle. Real love was worth the sacrifice...real love was the shit, he thought with a smile as he dialed Tavin's number. It was a Friday night and the fellas were playing pool. Cameron and Nicholas had next as usual, so he decided to call his woman. He walked away from his friends as he spoke to her and they shook their head. They were in mid-conversation.

"So, tomorrow night...8pm...me looking hot as always and you in a killer dress, looking good enough to eat, right?" Cameron inquired as he looked over at Donovan taking his shot.

"Yeah, I guess so, El Concieto. I'll be ready, tomorrow at 8, but do I really have to wear a formal dress? You know I'm not a fan of the bourgeosie and now I have to mingle with them? It's bad enough you're dragging me to this crap , but I have to dress all frou frou and shit? Not fair," Tavin whined, pouting.

"Baby, stop pouting," Cameron stated.

Tavin asked, "How did you know I was pouting?"

"I can't tell you all my secrets...I just know...and you just confirmed it. If it were up to me, you could go naked...but you really wouldn't get too far," Cameron replied with a grin.

"I know I wouldn't. Cam, do I seriously have to dress up?" Tavin asked again.

"Yes, you do. I don't get to see you dressed up too often, so do it big. I want to show you off, so get something beautiful and very sexy," Cameron replied.

"Go with the happy, Go with the happy," Tavin mumbled.

Cameron shrugged his shoulders. "What was that, Tav?"

"Nothing. So, is there anything I can do or say to change your mind about this?" Tavin asked.

"Nope. It won't be so bad, and I want to be with you. We won't stay too long, I promise. Oh, get something really clingy, to show off the curves and preferably short, to show off those beautiful legs of yours...and really low cut, so I can look down your dress all night," Cameron replied with a grin, awaiting her response.

"So you basically want me to look like the "ho" of the week?" Tavin asked.

"Basically the "ho" of the month...maybe the year," Cameron joked.

"Well, that' s comforting," Tavin replied.

Cameron smiled into the phone. "I know it is. No, seriously, Tav. I want you to look beautiful, classy and elegant...with just a dash of tramp," Cameron stated.

Tavin laughed. "That's all?"

"Well...okay....you can throw in just enough slut to pass for sexy, but that's about as far as I can go. I don't want people saying that my baby is a skank," Cameron replied as Tavin chuckled.

"Your mind is truly warped, Cam," Tavin replied.

"Yeah, I know. So, slutty sexy is the goal we are trying to achieve, right?" Cameron asked with a grin.

"It ain't gonna happen, baby. Sorry, but I have something called taste and slutty doesn't fit in with that. Since I'm not really good at this formal crap, I've called in reinforcements. They won't steer me wrong," Tavin replied.

"Just get something that'll make me want to rip it off of you and we'll be cool," Cameron stated.

Tavin smiled into the phone. "Boy, you really have a way with words you know that?"

"It's a gift," Cameron asked as he heard female voices.

"Cam, I gotta go before the three ami"hos" beat me down...get it...ami"hos"," Tavin stated with a laugh as Felicia, Nichelle and Liza cursed her out and gave her the finger.

Cameron laughed. "That was a little funny....but not much."

"Not much, huh?" Tavin asked.

"Nope", he replied.

"Okay, I really have to go, baby. By the way, did you need me to bring anything when I come by later?" Tavin asked.

"Just bring your cute, sexy little ass and I'll take it from there," Cameron replied in a low tone of voice. He knew she was blushing right now.

"Cameron," Tavin replied in that shy, sexy voice that he loved.

"Tavin," he mimicked as he heard her sigh sweetly.

"Okay, go. Just have yourself at my penthouse tonight," Cameron replied.

"I will. I love you," Tavin stated. Cameron's heart beat became faster and he smiled.

"I love you too, lovely. Bye. Have fun," he replied.

"I will. See you later," she replied and hung up the phone. Cameron smiled as he closed his cell phone and walked back over to his friends who had been staring at the whole exchange for the last five minutes. Trey took his shot, shaking his head as Nicholas and Donovan smiled at him.

"What?" Cameron asked.

"Yeah, you're next," Donovan replied, pointing to his wedding band.

"Naw, dude. I'm not even thinking about that yet. It's good just the way it is," Cameron replied with a grin.

"If you say so, but I had that same stupid ass grin when I became serious about Nichelle," Donovan replied.

"Man, what are you saying? You still have that stupid ass grin," Trey replied as he missed his shot. Donovan set up his shot and Trey walked over and elbowed Cameron.

"Yep and I'm damn proud of it too," Donovan replied.

"Come to think of it, you're very relaxed and you keep grinning, so that means, you got laid. Tavin finally gave you some. What a lucky, lucky shit you are," Nicholas stated as Cameron continued to grin.

"So you finally hit that, huh? How was it?" Trey asked.

"Yeah, we've been curious about Tav for years. I mean...that body...," Donovan stated.

"And she's cute as hell and that ass...come on man, how was it?" Trey asked again.

Nicholas walked off and shook his head. "I can't listen to this. Tav's like my sister. I'm going get another drink. I'll be back, man."

Trey and Donovan pinned Cameron with their eyes, awaiting an answer. Cameron gave them a dimpled grin as he drank his beer and shrugged his shoulders.

"That good, huh?" Donovan asked.

"Yeah...incredible," Cameron replied taking another swig of his beer. Trey stared at him.

"That's all we get? Come on Cam, details, details," Trey replied as Nicholas finally returned.

"Man, if you don't want to tell us, then we understand. It's cool. Honestly, I don't want to hear a blow by blow on how you and Tav got down," Nicholas stated.

Trey stared at Cameron and shook his head. "Hell no, it ain't cool. You are going to tell us. You always tell us. That's what we do."

"Not gonna happen, T. What goes on between the sheets with me and Tav is my business, not yours," Cameron replied, shocking his friends.

"What the fuck? Since when?" Trey asked.

"Since I realized that Tavin would probably beat the living shit out of me if I told you guys. It's pretty simple. Tav's a private person and I have to respect that and it's our business. I also like my body just the way it is. If word got back to Tavin, and I know it would...Donovan," Cameron replied as Nicholas and Trey looked over at Donovan.

"What?" Donovan asked.

"You know you can't keep a secret, Don," Nicholas stated.

"Stop fronting, D. You tell Nichelle everything. You're worse than a chic," Trey replied.

"That's not true," Donovan replied.

"That's bullshit, Donovan. How did Nichelle find out about me and Felicia? You were the only one that I told," Nicholas replied.

"Anyway, if Tavin found out that I spilled about our sex life, I wouldn't get any more booty, then she would kick my ass and I like getting some, so, you guys are ass out. I'm not sayin' shit," Cameron stated.

"What kind of ridiculous shit is that? We always spill about the pussy man. You that scared of Tavin?" Trey asked as they all quietly glanced at Cameron.

"Hell yeah," Cameron replied with no shame as they all laughed.

"I knew it was coming. Cam, not spilling about sex? She's got you wide open, Cam. I've never seen this shit," Donovan said in amazement.

'Aw, damn, you too? Cam, me and you...survival of the fittest," Trey replied to Cameron.

"Yeah, I thought so too, but...she's fine and sexy as shit and...she's..ummm....damn," Cameron replied.

"No, no, no, not my dog! I'm the last one! Cam, you're sprung on Tavin? Shit!" Trey replied.

"Yeah, I guess I am...shit...when did that happen?" Cameron asked.

"I think I know, but I don't want to go there," Nicholas stated with a grin.

"I mean, you can't sling your dick forever right?" Cameron asked. Trey looked at him like he was crazy.

"Fucking right you can!! That's what it's made for," Trey replied.

"I know, but I'm fucking crazy about this woman. I love her," Cameron replied as he dropped the bomb. They all looked at Cameron speechless.

"I know, I said love was for weak ass men, and that it didn't exist, but it does. I love Tavin's complicated ass," Cameron replied with a grin.

Trey broke the silence. "How do you know it's love? You could be infatuated with her."

"I'm not. This girl is on my mind 24/7...," Cameron replied but Trey interrupted.

"Sounds like infatuation to me," Trey replied.

"No...maybe I am a little, but if you really dig someone, you're going to be a little infatuated with them. I think about her all the time. I look at other women, then I compare them to her. I got tunnel vision thanks to her...she's all I see. And...I kind of gave her my black book," Cameron replied with a wince as his friends did the same.

"Holy shit...the Coochie Catalog?" Donovan asked.

"You gave her your Booty Bible?" Nicholas asked.

"You actually gave her the Nookie Numbers?" Trey asked.

"Yes, got damn it. It's not that big of a deal," Cameron replied.

"Like hell it isn't. I remember when you thought you lost it and you acted like a crack addict. This is monumental," Donovan replied.

"I remember that week. He acted as if the world was ending," Nicholas chimed in with a laugh.

"Alright, alright. But, I've matured and yeah, Tavin's mean as shit when she wants to be and has slightly bitchy ways. But she's sweet and she's so cute and fine and that ass...don't get me started on that ass. She's smart and sexy and passionate as hell and there's never a dull moment because she's always cursing me out or arguing with me and that's cool. I've had my share of women sexually and it's on a whole 'nother level with Tav...it's like...whoa! So, yeah, call me a punk or whateva' you want, but I can't really see myself with anybody but her so...that's how it is. Okay?" Cameron replied as his friends smiled at him.

"Damn, Cam. That was deep," Donovan replied.

"Yeah I never heard you reveal your feelings about a woman like that before. You really love her, huh?" Nicholas asked.

"Yeah, I do," Cameron stated proudly.

"You're pussy whipped, that's what you are. Love makes you pussy whipped. But I guess if you're gonna be whipped, Tavin would do it. Damn, you lucky bastard...Tavin Wilson...damn. Shit, we lost another one. So...it's like that?" Trey asked as Cameron grinned.

"Yeah, man...it's like that," Cameron replied as he shrugged his shoulders once more.

"Damn, Tavin really put it on you for you to be throwing in your player card, huh?" Trey asked.

"Like you wouldn't believe," Cameron stated as they all laughed.

"I guess it's alright. I feel you, Cam. Hey Nicky, let's talk about you and Ms. Fee Fee," Trey replied.

"What about us?" Nicholas asked.

"Have you two finally come to your senses?" Trey asked.

"Nothing's changed, but we're still friends," Nicholas replied taking a sip of his beer.

"Hey Nick, I didn't want to bring it up, but...I met that guy that Felicia's seeing. Yoiu got some serious competition, my friend," Donovan replied. Nicholas' eyes narrowed at Donovan.

"Yeah...you're in deep shit,pal," Cameron replied. Nicholas stared at Cameron.

"You met him too?" Nicholas asked.

"Yeah. I was meeting Tav for lunch last week and she was with Felicia. The guy met Felicia and we all had lunch together. He's a nice dude, kid. You've got your work cut out for you," Cameron replied.

"No loyalty for the home team, huh?" Nicholas asked Cameron.

"You know I'm always rooting for the home team, but the home team needs some new plays, man. The rival team has game for days. The home team needs to step it up with the quickness," Cameron stated. There was silence for a few minutes, then Donovan looked up at Cameron. There was also something that they had to discuss with Trey. Nicholas looked at them and mouthed, "Tell him you dick."

"Well, all I know is, I told you so. Felicia's fine as shit and she wasn't going to wait for you to come around. If you want her, you better handle your business and get her, you know what I'm sayin'?" Trey asked.

"Don't worry...I'm working on it," Nicholas replied.

"Say T, guess who we ran into the other day at Gardenia's?" Donovan asked as Trey took another shot.

"Who?" Trey asked.

"Nyla Lawson," Donovan replied. Trey's hazel eyes looked briefly at Donovan, then at Cameron and Nicholas. He looked back down at the pool table as Donovan took his shot.

"Oh really? How's she doing?" Trey asked.

"From the way she looked...extremely well," Cameron stated.

"She's an art buyer for Lexington and Coleman. She told us to give you her number. She'd like to meet you for lunch and catch up, you know," Donovan said. Nyla Lawson was a very touchy subject for Trey. She was his first love during his junior and senior year of high school and his freshman year of college. Something, or someone ruined what they had and Trey was crushed. Trey was no saint, but neither was Nyla. Still, they were crazy about each other until they broke up.

"I don't know. Pops has got me pretty busy lately. How did she look...for real, Cam," Trey inquired.

Cameron grinned. "Very good. Still gorgeous. Nyla has just gotten better with time."

Trey looked at his friends and shrugged his shoulders. "Umm. Whateva'", he said as he walked away to the bar to get another drink. The three men looked at one another. This was just the way they figured Trey would act. He did not dissapoint.
*********************************************************

"Look at my girl. Every other woman in here has on the usual holiday colors and you flip the script. Damn, sweetheart, you look beautiful. You're wearing the hell out of this dress, baby," Cameron whispered in her ear as they danced at his company's annual Christmas party. Tavin blushed, her head on his chest, loving the way he held her, how he felt, how he smelled.

"Thank you, Mr. Caldwell," Tavin replied, glancing down at her knee length form fitting coral strapless dress. It was beautiful and Tavin felt beautiful in it.

"You're welcome," Cameron replied.

"I must admit, I'm impressed. You're taking this very well. I know you are a little crushed because my ass isn't hanging out, but that's just too damn bad. I just didn't feel like dressing the part of thousand dollar skank, like most of the women here," she said. Cameron leaned his head down, his lips to her right ear.

"Don't worry about that, lovely. Besides, you can make it up to me later by putting on that little pink number that I brought you and bring out your inner hoochie," Cameron stated.

"My inner hoochie?" Tavin asked.

"Yeah, you know when you did that little strip tease for me and then you kind of bent like a pretzel and popped your ass and then....," Cameron whispered as she laughed.

"Hey, you said you weren't going to bring that back up," Tavin whispered.

"No, I said I wasn't going to bring it up too often. Listening skills, lovely, listening skills," Cameron replied.

"Asshole," she replied.

"I know," he whispered as they finished dancing. Cameron held her hand as they walked back to their table. He noticed how most of his colleagues and others looked at Tavin. She did look absolutely delicious, he thought as he pulled her chair out. After she was seated, he sat next to her, placing his right hand to her left thigh and caressed it as he leaned over and kissed Tavin's bare shoulder. He looked at her and she had the fakest smile he'd ever seen on her face. He laughed and then spoke into her ear.

"Why do you have that fake ass smile plastered on that pretty face, Tavin?" Cameron asked.

"Because I'm trying to stop myself from crying. I don't know how much more of this I can take. I thought this was a Christmas party, not a wake," Tavin replied, tingling from Cameron's lips and his touch. Cameron shrugged and waited because he knew she was going to say more. He intertwined his right hand with her left as they glanced around the party.

"Cameron?" Tavin inquired.

"Yes, baby?" Cameron asked.

"This is boring as hell," Tavin whispered as Cameron laughed.

"I know, baby. Why do you think I needed you here? At least you're good for a laugh," Cameron stated as Tavin popped him in the arm.

"Kiss my ass, Cameron," Tavin whispered.

"Later...much later," he whispered. Tavin's eyes rolled.

"I mean, is this their way of rewarding you and your colleagues for a job well done? This is mind numbingly dull. Cam, this isn't your scene and it damn sure ain't mine. The only good thing about this thing is the liquor and you look sexy as a mutha in that tux," Tavin replied as Cameron replied.

"Thanks, lovely. I'm glad you...," Cameron stated but Tavin cut him off.

"Yeah, yeah, but I'm not finished," Tavin stated.

"Of course you're not," Cameron whispered.

"All I have to say is 3 inch heel...that's what I got, a 3 inch heel. Before I was so rudely interrupted, I'll continue. The food...let's talk about the stuff that they are serving that's supposed to resemble food. You work for a multi-billion dollar corporation and all they could come up with is some Stove Top with sage sprinkled on it and wilted asparagus? Cam, we could have stayed in and cooked something better than that dry ass turkey. Damn, have I messed up already and is this your way of punishing me? Whatever I did, hell, let me make it up to you," Tavin replied as Cameron laughed. He brought her left hand up to his mouth and kissed the back of it.

"Baby, I feel you, and I know it's boring and the food is crappy, but I have to put in an appropriate appearance. We just gotta hang for 30 minutes, I promise, and then we are out of here. If you can bear with me, your grumpiness, I promise, I'll make it worth your while," Cameron whispered, as the tip of his tongue lightly grazed the shell of her left ear, without anyone noticing. He then began to make small circles with his finger on her thigh. He knew he was getting to her because she took a deep breath and slowly exhaled. Tavin's toes curled, and she bit her bottom lip to keep out the moan. She smiled at the other people at the table.

"How?" she inquired. A low chuckled left Cameron's lips.

"By testing a theory. I've been told that chocolate and champagne taste good together, but it sometimes leaves an aftertaste. I figured I could use you as the chocolate and pour the champagne all over your beautiful, naked body and lick it off...slowly...deliberately...you know, to get the full affect, for experimental purposes, of course," Cameron gave her that million dollar smile and pulled away.

"You know me...anything to help further scientific exploration," Tavin replied with a grin, blushing. Cameron laughed.

"Would you like something to drink, lovely?" Cameron asked as he stood.

"Yes a coke, please. Maybe it'll wake me up," Tavin mumbled. "And cool my hot ass off." Cameron chuckled.

"Be right back," Cameron stated as he walked away, leaving drooling women in his wake. Tavin smiled as she looked at the party. 30 minutes of boredom, she thought as she sighed.

"Is anyone sitting here?" a deep, male voice asked from her right. The mystery man had spotted Tavin on the dance floor earlier in the evening and he had to talk to her.

"Not that I know of...have at it," Tavin replied as she looked at the gorgeous, black haired man with hazel eyes, smiling at her.

"Thank you. So, is this as boring to you as it is to me?" the mystery man asked. Tavin smiled politely.

"Yes, it is," she stated as she looked away at the dancing couples. A few minutes went by and she could feel his eyes on her and decided to find out what was up with him.

"Excuse me, but I feel really uncomfortable with you staring at me. May I help you?" Tavin asked as the man gave her the once over.

"I didn't mean to make you feel that way, but you are beautiful...to beautiful to be sitting all alone. What idiot dragged you to this fiasco and left you alone?" he asked, knowing full well who it was. Tavin glanced his way. Tavin recognized his game. He was flirting with her. She would see how far he went before hurting his feelings.

"He didn't leave me. He went to get me a drink, and he'll be back any minute," Tavin stated as she looked around the party.

"Are you an investment banker?" he asked.

"I wouldn't stoop so low. No, I'm an accountant," she replied as he laughed.

"An accountant? I've never met a hot accountant before. This is a new one. So, what's your name?" the mystery man asked.

"Wow, how original. Is this how you come on to all women. I bet it took you all day to come up with that one. Besides, I don't give my name to strange men. Sorry," Tavin replied.

"Don't be so mean, beautiful. Let's strike a deal. I'll give you my name and then, you give me yours. I'm...," the mystery man began as Cameron walked up and interrupted them. Cameron placed her drink in front of her. Tavin looked up into the face of a very pissed off Cameron.

"Dulet. Jared Dulet," Cameron replied, his jaw tightly shut. Jared Dulet was drooling all over his woman and he didn't like it one bit.

"Caldwell....it's been awhile...since summer before sophomore year of college right?" Jared asked as he stood and smiled at him. Tavin watched the exchange as she sipped her soda.

"Something like that," Cameron stated firmly.

"Yeah, it's been awhile," Jared replied.

"Not long enough," Cameron stated. Jared Dulet was one of the biggest assholes he knew. He was a complete dickhead. What the hell was he doing here, Cameron thought. Then he remembered his boss was friends with Dulet's father and had recently aquired them as clients. The last he heard, the asshole was overseas screwing every woman in sight, with no plans on returning. What happened, Cameron thought.

"Surprised to see me?" Jared asked.

"A little, but not enough to give a damn. Tavin, are you ready to go?" Cameron asked, staring at Jared Dulet with a look that could kill as he pulled out Tavin's chair.

"Yes, thank you," Tavin stated as she stood up. Cameron snaked his right arm around Tavin's waist and Jared took in the sight.

"Tavin...I like that. It's different and beautiful...just like the lady. I should have known that you were the stupid guy who left this gorgeous woman alone," Jared replied with a grin.

"Do you want to be the dead guy escorted out in a body bag?" Cameron asked calmly as he stepped towards Jared Dulet, pulling Tavin in back of him. Tavin walked from behind him and stood in front of Cameron placing her hands on his chest.

"Cam, come on. You don't want to do this. Let's just go," Tavin said, looking up into his green eyes. Cameron's jaw was set and his hands were balled into fists.

"Why don't you listen to your pretty lady, Caldwell. She's making sense. Don't cause a scene," Jared asked with a smile, staring back at Cameron.

"Don't refer to her in any way, shape or form, do you understand?" Cameron asked, standing toe to toe with Jared Dulet. Tavin pushed on his chest.

"Cameron, come on...not here, sweetie. Come on baby, please," Tavin pleaded in a soft voice looking into his eyes. He looked down into Tavin's face and took a deep breath.

"Alright. Let's go. Come on," Cameron replied as he took her hand, and pushed their chairs in.

"Nice meeting you, beautiful. Caldwell," Jared Dulet smiled as Cameron gave him the look of death. Jared gave Tavin another once over and licked his lips. Cameron put his hand on the small of Tavin's back and guided her out of the auditorium.

Caldwell and his friends always had good taste in women, Jared thought to himself. How in the hell did lame ass Caldwell pull a woman like that? Damn, she was sexy woman, he thought. Huh, I may need an accountant, Jared thought to himself as the wheels in his head began to spin.

Once inside the car, Tavin looked at Cameron. His right hand was on her left thigh, as usual, as he drove with his left hand.

"Alright. What in the hell was up with that Neanderthal shit? I mean, I'm used to you doing bonehead things, but that was ridiculous," Tavin stated.

"Jared Dulet. I fucking hate that prick. We went to high school together," Cameron replied.

"I assumed you knew each other, but why did you look as if you wanted to smash his face in?" Tavin asked.

"Trust me, lovely, that wasn't just a look," Cameron replied.

"Is this over a woman from the past or something?" Tavin asked.

"Something like that, but not in the way you think. Besides, I would have loved to give him a facelift. The dude is garbage, baby, trust me. Jared Dulet has always been and will always be an asshole," Cameron replied as he took a deep breath.

"It's amazing how you always seem to recognize your own," Tavin stated as Cameron laughed. She really knew how to lift his spirits, he thought.

"I may be an asshole, but he's literally an asshole. Now let's change the subject," he replied as he pulled the car over slowly. He took off his seatbelt. Tavin looked and they were not in front of the penthouse.

"What are you....hmmmm?" Tavin asked as Cameron silenced her by pulling her face in his hands and kissing her passionately. Tavin moaned as his tongue danced along hers. They shared a long, sweet kiss, then Cameron pulled away and looked into her eyes.

"I wanted to do that all night. You look absolutely dead sexy in that dress," Cameron whispered as he gave her lips a few pecks.

"Is it rippable?" Tavin asked with a smile on her lips. Cameron gave a sexy chuckle.

"Definitely rippable. You looked really good in this dress, but you would look a whole lot better out of it," he replied kissing.

"You do have an experiment to conduct, remember?" Tavin asked. Cameron grinned and ran his thumb along her bottom lip.

"I sure do, don't I?" Cameron asked.

"Yes. So, what are you waiting for?" Tavin asked, running her tongue along the tip of his thumb. Cameron bit his bottom lip.

"Whoo....10 minutes...I can get to the penthouse in 10 minutes," Cameron replied, looking over at her. Tavin's hand caressed his right thigh slowly. He looked back over at her as Tavin blew a kiss to him. Cameron bit his bottom lip again and let out a few deep breaths.

"Make that 5," he whispered as Tavin giggled.

Chapter 14

"Tell Mama Tammy and Papa Carl that I will miss them. I guess I'll miss Kalise's disgusting behind, too. Remember to give them the gifts that I bought," Tavin stated into the phone as Cameron walked up behind her.

"Didn't you talk to mama already?" Nichelle asked.

"Yes, but I just want you to tell them that for me, okay. This is my first Christmas away from them and I want them to know that I do love them and I'm thinking about them," Tavin stated as Cameron put his hands on her hips and kissed her neck. Tavin giggled.

"They know that Tavy. You have a good time with Cameron. Meeting the family, huh? That's kinda big, honey," Nichelle replied as she heard Tavin giggle again.

"I know, right! I mean, I'm nervous, but I'm just going to be myself," Tavin replied as Cameron continued to kiss her neck.

"Stop," Tavin whispered to Cameron. She could feel his grin against her neck.

"Nope, this is my time with you. Get your sexy ass off the phone," Cameron whispered, kissing her bare shoulder and grabbing her from behind. Tavin wore well-worn blue jeans and tried to pull the old one shoulder sweatshirt she had up as Cameron pulled it down.

"I will. What are you doing Tav? Are you and Cam gettin' busy?" Nichelle asked.

Cameron heard what Nichelle said as he stopped and yelled, "If you would hang up, we would be. Got nothin' but love for you, Shelly, but I haven't spent much time with my baby in the last week. You messing with my Q.T., Nichelle." He continued to kiss her neck and tug her sweatshirt lower as Nichelle laughed. Tavin pulled her sweatshirt back up as Cameron's hands found another target.

"Well, excuse the hell out of me. Tell Mr. Possessive Merry Christmas and I'll see you guys for New Years Eve," Nichelle replied as Tavin laughed.

"Merry Christmas, Shelly. Tell Donovan to hit me up when he gets the chance," Cameron replied as his hands caressed Tavin's behind. She popped him and he laughed and continued what he was doing.

"I will. Merry Christmas, Tavy. Love you," Nichelle replied.

"I love you, too. Merry Christmas," Tavin replied as she hung up the phone and spun around and looked up into Cameron's face, which held a huge grin. His hands held her behind as Tavin's fingers played with his shirt.

"You are so wrong, Cameron. You saw me on the phone," Tavin stated.

"Yeah, and I wanted you to get off the phone so I could do this," he whispered as he kissed her jawline "and this," he whispered kissing the column of her neck, "and this" he whispered as his lips landed on hers for a slow, sweet kiss. Tavin smiled as she kissed him.

"Baby, there ain't no mistletoe over here," she whispered in between kisses.

"Fuck the mistletoe," Cameron whispered as they continued to kiss. His lips left hers and traveled along her neck, still holding on to her behind. Tavin sighed and Cameron looked at the Christmas tree once again. It was Christmas Eve and she decided after careful deliberation to stay with Cameron. She made him buy a tree and they had just finished decorating it. Cameron was about to begin another argument over the sheer pink and lavender ornaments that Tavin put on the tree.

Cameron stopped kissing her and looked at the tree. "Tav, can we reconsider the colors. Christmas trees are supposed to be decorated with traditional colors. It's not Easter, Tav. My tree looks like a got damn Easter egg."

Tavin walked away from him and went to stand in front of the tree, smiling at her handiwork. "No it doesn't. It looks beautiful and it's not just your tree, it's our tree."

"You're just saying that because you decorated it," Cameron replied.

"Yes I am, and no, we are not changing anything," Tavin stated. Cameron sighed and sat on a bar stool. He ran his hand over his face.

"Tav, the tree kind of looks like your tree at your place," Cameron pointed out.

"So what?" Tavin asked.

"Well, this was supposed to be our tree, not just yours. I'm a dude. I'll wear a lavender shirt, hell, I'd wear a pink one, but I don't want a tree that looks like Pepto Bismol was thrown all over it," Cameron replied as Tavin put her hands on her hips and shifted all her weight on one leg.

"It does not look like that, Cam," Tavin replied.

"The hell it don't. Tav, come on. If my friends see this tree, I'll never hear the end of it," Cameron replied.

"That's just too damn bad. You told me to pick out what I wanted and I did," Tavin stated.

"Yeah, I did, but I thought you would at least consider what I liked," Cameron stated.

"You didn't say what you liked," Tavin said.

"Yeah, but you know me. You knew I wasn't going to like this Paisley Park fucking tree. All it needs is for Prince to jump out and sing "Raspberry Beret," Cameron stated.

Tavin narrowed her eyes and said. "You are truly tripping over this tree. Besides, I let you decide the lights". Cameron laughed.

"Because you already told me ten times that you wanted clear lights. Clear lights make the tree sparkle more Cam. What the hell was I supposed to do? You hypnotized the clear lights into my brain. That's about the only thing I like. I want to redecorate the tree," Camron stated. Tavin narrowed her eyes more.

"I don't care if you like it or not. No redecorating. It stays," Tavin said finally. Cameron sighed in defeat and walked over to her, hugging her around the waist from behind.

"You really like Christmas," Cameron replied.

"Yeah. Presents and sparkly lights. What's not to like?" Tavin replied.

"Oh yeah, I forgot how one track minded women get when they receive a gift and see something sparkling. It's like you revert back to childhood or something," Cameron replied as Tavin elbowed him.

"Not funny, bro. Not funny. Presents...I love presents," Tavin stated.

"You're a female. You guys have a gimme gene. Of course you love presents," Cameron replied. Tavin stepped away and picked a small box with her name on it from under the tree. Cameron took it out of her hand and put it back under the tree.

"Why do we have to wait until Christmas Day? See, I knew I should have went by Nichelle's. We always opened our presents on Christmas Eve," Tavin stated, crossing her arms with a pout. Cameron laughed and laid back on the rug in front of the fireplace, staring at her with his head cocked to one side.

"You're really cute, but that ain't gonna work. Tomorrow's Christmas. That's when you get your gifts. See what happens when you make a man stare at a tree that looks like Fruity Pebbles," Cameron stated as Tavin rolled her eyes at him and gave him the finger. Cameron sat up and moved to her denim clad legs.

Cameron smiled at her and winked. "Looking forward to it." Tavin rolled her eyes again and Cameron tugged her by the bottom of her jeans to sit with him in front of the fire. Tavin sat crosslegged in front of him on the floor. She reached over and placed her right hand on his face.

"So, are you ready to go back to work next week, even if it is for a few days," Tavin replied, caressing his face. He turned his face and kissed the inside of her palm, then the back of her hand. Tavin continued to touch his face.

"Oh, I forgot. I took some days off, so I don't go back to work until January 6th," Cameron replied.

"Well, it must be nice. I have to report back to work January 2. Whoopee," Tavin replied with fake enthusiasm. Cameron sat up in front of her. and grinned.

"It is nice. I can take my baby to lunch everyday and have dinner ready for you, too," Cameron stated, giving her a peck on the lips. Tavin grinned and pecked him back.

"That sounds good. I'm domesticating your ass, huh?" Tavin asked as she turned her back to him. Cameron pulled her between his legs as she laid back against him.

"Shhh. Don't tell anyone. You know what would be better than being off from work?" Cameron asked.

Tavin inquired, "Staying in bed all day?"

Cameron smiled and intertwined her hands in his. "That would be a hell of a lot better. Your mind is just as dirty as mine now. I love it! I've created a monster. No really, what I was going to say is, it would be good if I didn't have to work there at all," Cameron said. Tavin turned and looked at him.

"I thought you liked your job?" Tavin asked.

"I do, lovely, but it gets boring and I hate all of the traveling that I've been doing the last couple of years. It's tiring. It was exciting and shit at first, but then you came along and I don't want to do it anymore. It would be different if you could come with me, but you're busy with your job. I hate being away from you for weeks like that," Cameron stated looking at her fingers.

"I know, but that's your job, Cam. It's apart of your job, baby," Tavin replied.

Cameron sighed. "I know, I know. You know what I was thinking about doing?" Cameron asked.

"Figuring out a new way to bug the shit out out of me," Tavin replied with a grin. Cameron smiled.

"That too, but later for that. I was thinking about opening a restaurant. I have a friend from Georgetown who's a chef. He finished culinary school in France four years ago. This guy was a corporate attorney for six years, making major figures, and said he couldn't do it anymore, so he followed his passion, quit his job, and went to Paris. Says it was the best decision that he ever made. He's working at some upscale restaurant in Manhattan now and he says that he doesn't have much freedom to create and with this guy, you want to give him freedom," Cameron stated, putting his hands on her waist, caressing her hips.

"He's that good?" Tavin asked.

"Makes what some of these restaurants serve taste like Hungry Man meals," Cameron replied.

"Damn...he is good," Tavin said.

"Yeah," Cameron whispered, pressing a kiss to her neck and exposed shoulder.

"Hey, wait a minute. You said something about cooking being your friend's passion," Tavin inquired.

"Yeah," Cameron replied.

Tavin grinned. "If you want to open a restaurant, does that mean that is your passion? I thought I was your passion." Cameron laughed, as he kissed her shoulder again.

"You are, Tav, but I can't do you for a living...wait a minute...what in the hell did I just say? I could...I could definitely do that. Are you interested in a full-time sex slave?" Cameron asked .

"I thought I already had one," Tavin stated with a laugh.

"Shit...you got me on that one. No, seriously baby. You are my passion...believe, that, know that. But...I'm kind of interested in seeing if I could make a go of it, you know? I have the start up capital. I just need to find a location and my friend wants to come on as head chef. He'd hire the sous chefs, the pastry chefs, everything," Cameron said looking into the fire, now caressing her left thigh.

"You've really thought about this, huh?" Tavin asked.

"Yeah, but nothing's final. I'm going to think about it some more, but honestly...what do you think?" Cameron asked as they watched the tree lights twinkling and the fire.

"I think that if this is something you want to do, then do it. It would be a risk, but sometimes you have to take risks. Being safe isn't always the way to go. You taught me that," Tavin replied as Cameron grinned widely.

"Listen to my baby, talking about risk taking. This can't be my woman. Are you sure you're Tavin Wilson and not some pod person?" Cameron asked.

"Ha, ha. Cameron...for real...if it's something you want, then do it. Whatever you decide, I got your back," Tavin stated as Cameron smiled and placed a kiss on her bare shoulder.

"Thanks, lovely. That's good to know...really good to know. I love you when you're all supportive, baby. It's sexy," Cameron stated.

"I know. I love you too, P.I.T.A." Tavin said with a smile.

"P.I.T.A?" Cameron asked.

"Pain in the ass. That's your new nickname," Tavin replied as Cameron laughed.

"I don't like it, Tav...I don't like it," Camron replied.

"Hell, I don't like Bush and cheap perfume? What's your point? You're my Pita, so get used to it. So, baby...do you think I'm ready to meet your peeps?" Tavin asked.

Cameron responded, "More than ready. They're already fuckin' nuts...you'll fit right in."

"More jokes, huh? Just remember that later on when you want some booty. I may be inclined to tell you to kiss my ass...and not literally, nasty," Tavin said.

"Damn, you're going to hold the booty hostage? You can't do that. It ain't right," Cameron replied.

"I can and I will. Now, deal with that," Tavin said. Cameron got up and came back with a wrapped box and sat back behind her, putting both of his legs outside of hers. He leaned back on his arms.

"Shit...I can't deal with that. Here you go. Merry Christmas, baby," Cameron replied as Tavin clapped and grinned. She looked like a big kid, he thought to himself. He loved to see her this happy. Tavin opened the box and her mouth formed an "O".

"Aw, Cameron...the hooker red shoes! You got them anyway after I told you not to? You know I really wanted these," Tavin said as she pulled the red shoes out of the box and looked at them. Then, she pulled off her fuzzy socks and put the shoes on. Tavin pulled up her jeans and walked around in them, looking at her feet. Cameron smiled as she paced back and forth.

"Yeah, I know you wanted them, you silly broad. I remember the way you drooled all over them. Your stubborn ass was too proud to admit it, but I knew. I called Jennifer the next day, and picked them up," Cameron stated as Tavin sat back down on her knees, took off the shoes, and smiled at Cameron.

"Thank you, Cam," Tavin said as she kissed him on the lips softly.

Cameron grinned and kissed her back. "You're welcome, but there's a catch."

"Aw shit! What the hell have I gotten myself into?" Tavin asked.

"Nothing bad," Cameron replied with that devilish look that Tavin knew all too well on his face.

"When you say that, it's never good. What is it?" Tavin asked.

"You know when I told you about all the things I wanted us to try,"Cameron began.

"Yeah. I told your hot ass to write it all down...and you actually made a list. It was a joke, Cam," Tavin pointed out.

"Never joke about sex, baby. Never," Cameron replied.

"Whatever. The only problem that I have with the list is that you keep adding shit to it, Cameron...it gets longer and longer everytime I see it. There is only one of me. You are a freaky bastard," Tavin stated as Cameron laughed.

"I know, but if I wasn't freaky, you would get bored and I don't want you to get bored," Cameron stated with a little boy look on his face.

"Bullshit. You're freaky because you're freaky, that's all," Tavin replied, as Cameron winked at her.

"Yeah, you're right. Now, back to what I was saying," Cameron stated.

"Oh, shit," Tavin replied.

"Well, this is the holiday season and you should be in the spirt of giving," Cameron said.

"Cut the preaching, Cam, out with it," Tavin replied narrowing her eyes.

"I would like you to take me up on one of my fantasies," Cameron replied.

"Well, the last time I did that I had to scrub honey from places I have never seen," Tavin replied.

Cameron winked, "That's not true, baby. I helped."

"Whateva', you freak. Just tell me," Tavin stated. Cameron smiled and clasped his hands together.

"First, take off the booty restriction and second, let me use the whip cream...and the cherries...and the chocolate syrup...and wear those sexy little numbers...just those...for me...tonight," Cameron whispered, pulling his bottom lip into his mouth as he inched towards her.

"You're serious. Am I on crack? Of course you're serious," Tavin replied as Cameron stared into her eyes. Tavin put her thumbnail in her mouth.

"You sneaky shit! You pulled the gift that would be a gift to you, too," Tavin exclaimed.

Cameron shrugged his shoulders and looked so innocent, she couldn't be mad. "Yeah, but it's still your gift...and you do look hot in those shoes. So, are you going to be my own personal hot fudge sundae, baby?" Cameron asked in that sexy voice of his, giving her that gorgeous smile of his, placing his hands on her waist. The next thing he knew, Tavin was laying on top of him. He wrapped his arms around her waist.

"Do I have a choice?" Tavin asked.

"You always have a choice. Please, baby. I promise to make sure that every inch of your body gets licked clean," Cameron whispered as he stared into her eyes, running the tip of his tongue across the seam of her lips as she sighed.

"Since you put it that way...okay, Pita...but I want to open another gift," Tavin whispered as her head slowly leaned down to his.

"Shit, for becoming my personal dessert, you can open all of your gifts and mine too," Cameron whispered as Tavin giggled, placing a soft peck on his lips.
******************************************************************

Cameron looked over at Tavin, who slept the entire journey to his parents house. He stopped the car and kissed her on the cheek.

"Wake up, sweetheart...we're here," Cameron whispered, running his hand along her cheek. She was not happy. She was still tired.

"Pita, it's 8 o'clock in the morning...on a day off. Don't expect me to be a ray of damn sunshine," Tavin said with a small yawn.

Cameron replied with a grin. "Stop whining...and don't flatter yourself...you're never a ray of sunshine, Tav."

"To hell with you. This situation is not cool. I'm tired, baby. This is way too early and someone kept me up until 1am," Tavin said as they pulled up to his parent's house.

"My bad, but you didn't complain at the time, when you were calling my name, so enough of your complaining. The family does Christmas early...deal with it. Come on," he said getting out of the SUV and opening her door.

"If you weren't so damn fine...damn, you're fine,with your bossy ass...I would not be here right now," Tavin stated as Cameron kissed her on the forehead.

"Tav, you've been bitchin' all morning. 'Cam, it's too early...this is inhumane...the least you could do is get me a caffeine drip'...I felt like tossing your ass out of the window, but then I thought about that ass and I couldn't do it," Cameron grinned.

"I'm not even going to tell you anything," Tavin replied as she got out of the truck, with wide eyes.

"Damn, I knew you had loot...but I didn't know you had LOOT!" Tavin exclaimed, taking in the large brick mansion. Cameron didn't act like he was a trust fund kid, but looking at the home in front of her made her realize that he was. Whoa, Tavin thought to herself. Cameron took her hand in his right and held the bags of gifts in his left. They proceeded to walk to the front door.

"Tavin, don't get caught up in all this okay? It's not important. Don't sweat it and don't be nervous...okay lovely? You look really good...hell, you look amazing," Cameron said, taking in her deep red scoop neck sweater, dark denim guachos that hugged her hips and navy blue alligator knee high boots. Tavin began to bite her thumbnail

"Thank you, baby, but I'm still nervous. I've never met a guy's parents before," Tavin said.

"I know, but they're just people...crazy as hell, but regular people nonetheless. Don't worry, lovely. They're going to love you as much as I do. And if they don't, too damn bad," Cameron said with a smile as he rang the doorbell. Tavin smiled. Cameron leaned over and gave her a peck on the lips.

"See, I got you to smile. It's going to be fine and you're fine and we've already established that I'm fine, so all is right with the universe. Actually, I'm kind of scared of the impression my family is going to make on you," Cameron said, shifting the bags in his hands.

"What do you mean?" Tavin asked.

"You'll see soon enough," Cameron stated as Ms. Consuela, the petite, older, pretty Puerto Rican housekeeper, answered the door.

"Ms. Sway!" Cameron exclaimed.

"My boy, Cameron. Come in, come in," she said as she gave him a hug. Cameron smiled and returned her embrace. He looked over at Tavin with that smile that he reserved only for her and smiled again at Ms. Consuela.

"Hey, Ms. Sway. This is Tavin. Lovely, this is Ms. Consuela, or Ms. Sway as we call her," Cameron replied. Tavin smiled at her and shook her hand, then leaned over to kiss her cheek.

"Hi, nice to meet you. Merry Christmas. Cameron told me a lot about you," Tavin stated as they smiled at each other. Ms. Consuela smiled then gave Tavin a hug.

"He's talked my ears off about you for some time now. Merry Christmas to you too, Tavin. Cameron, she's very pretty," Ms. Consuela stated.

"Isn't she, Ms. Sway?" Cameron put in, grinning at a blushing Tavin.

"Thank you, but I'm nervous enough. You're making it worse," Tavin stated as Cameron tweaked her nose.

"It's your fault, Tav. You're just too cute and I told you, you don't have anything to worry about. Let me put these presents down and I'll be right back," Cameron stated as he placed the bags on the floor near the formal living room. He walked back over to Tavin and took her coat and his and placed them in the foyer closet. Cameron walked back beside her and intertwined her left hand with his right. Consuela watched the two in amazement, because she'd never seen Cameron look at a woman like that before and he never brought them home. This was epic. Cameron handed Ms. Consuela a bag with four wrapped gifts.

"These are for you, Mark, Tony and Mr. Rick. Merry Christmas," Cameron replied as Ms. Consuela grinned. She took the presents and gave Cameron another hug. Tavin smiled.

"Thank you, Cameron. One of your gifts is under the tree and the other is in the kitchen," Ms. Consuela stated.

"Banana pudding?" Cameron asked.

"You got it," Ms. Consuela replied.

"My day is set! Baby, wait until you taste Ms. Sway's banana pudding...it's...wait until you taste it. What are you doing here, Ms. Sway? Shouldn't you be home," Cameron asked.

"I was, until I realized I left something, so I came back. I'm leaving in a few minutes. Please, call me Ms. Sway, Tavin. All the kids do. Come on, you're the last to arrive," she stated as they walked towards the den.

"The firing squad is waiting, huh?" Cameron asked, still holding Tavin's shaky hand. He pulled it up to his lips and lightly kissed the back of her hand to reassure her, then he winked at her. She smiled.

"Yep...Ready and waiting...armed and packing. Would you like a drink or anything, Tavin?" Consuela asked.

"Yes, coffee please and if you have any heavily caloried, sugary sweet piece of pastry, I would surely appreciate it," Tavin stated as Ms. Sway laughed.

"Definitely different, Cameron. I'll tell the holiday staff and they'll bring it to you. Nice meeting you Tavin. I'm on my way home. Good luck...you're going to need it. Bye you two," Consuela said, walking to the kitchen. Cameron walked with Tavin to the den and when they arrived, Tavin felt seven pairs of eyes on her. Cameron squeezed her hand and smiled at her. Tavin gave him a small smile.

"Merry Christmas, fam! This is Tavin. Lovely, that's my mom, Colleen, my dad, Nathaniel, Josslyn, my older sister, her friend and I don't know who he is, Logan my older brother, his fiancee' Michelle and my younger brother Taylor," Cameron said as everyone just stared. Logan, his dad, and Taylor smiled brightly at Tavin.

"Holy shit...she's black!" Josslyn exclaimed, her blue eyes trained on Tavin and Cameron. Tavin looked up at Cameron with her mouth wide open and he shrugged his shoulders.

"Tav, meet my fam, " Cameron stated.

Chapter 15

"What the f...?" Tavin asked as she looked at Cameron. He gave her a small smile, shrugging his broad shoulders once more.

"Josslyn, how dare you! Apologize to Tavin! One day I'm going to take your bottom lip, pull it over your head and crazy glue it to your scalp. Then, you won't have such deplorable things coming out of your mouth because you won't have anything coming out of your mouth," Colleen Caldwell exclaimed, giving her daughter an unappreciative stare.

"That's what you get for teaching them to speak their mind," Nathaniel Caldwell stated.

"Yes, but a little couth would be nice, Nathan," Colleen stated.

"Josslyn doesn't know how to spell that word, much less know the meaning of it," Logan stated.

"Blow it out of your ass, Logan. I just stated what everyone in the room was thinking and I'm the bad guy?" Josslyn asked.

"It's the way you say things, you idiot," Logan stated.

"Wow...no, duh, Joss! She's black...you're discovery skills are amazing. You just keep astounding us with your intellect, kiddo, " Taylor replied, as he walked over to Tavin and Cameron with his hand out, a mirror image of his brother, except that his eyes were hazel, and his hair was thicker, curlier and dark brown.

"Hi, I'm Taylor, and you must be Tavin. Wow...you're freakin' hot," Taylor replied with a smile and a grin to Tavin.

"Thank you," Tavin replied, taking Taylor's hand and shaking it, more confused than ever.

"Very hot. Ow," Logan mumbled, his blue green eyes glued to Tavin as Michelle, his fiancee' elbowed him.

"I mean, we've always dated the whole spectrum, but Cam's never brought any dark meat home before and to say the least, I'm shocked, that's all," Josslyn stated with a grin. The look that Tavin gave Cameron said 'This heifer really doesn't know who she's messing with'. Tavin was not going to take this. She had to get Ms. Poster girl for White America set straight. Cameron knew Tavin was about to speak and he just stood there and waited.

"First, this one drags me out of bed at the ungodly hour of five in the morning and now I have to listen to this crap. I mean no disrespect Mr. and Mrs. Caldwell, but it's too early in the morning to be going through this. Let's get a few things straight, Josslyn is it?" Tavin asked.

"You can call her the Beast with a 1000 heads if you want. That's what we call her," Taylor replied with a grin as Josslyn gave him the finger. Her eyes looked into Tavin's.

"Yes, that's me," Josslyn replied as Tavin stared her down.

"I don't care if you are Cameron's sister, but no one speaks that way about me or to me. I came here very respectfully and I do not appreciate the things you have said nor do I like the tone that you have used with me. The name is Tavin, not dark meat or any other animal or negative connotation. I suggest you remember that and use it. I don't take too kindly to people who don't know me judging me based solely on my skin color and that in itself pisses me off. So, I can basically ignore you and the poison that comes out of your mouth, but being that this is Christmas, and you are Cameron's sister, let's just clean the slate. You will look at me as your brother's date and I won't look at you like the ignorant, pompous woman that you have displayed yourself as being. Agreed?" Tavin stated as Cameron smiled. Taylor, Colleen, Nathaniel, Michelle and Logan smiled.

Josslyn grinned, "Agreed."

Tavin looked up at Cameron and he mouthed, "I love you" and Tavin smiled. Everyone in the room stared at Cameron, who shrugged his shoulders and held Tavin's left hand.

"She hasn't had her coffee yet. I know I should've warned you, but I love to see her go off on the unsuspecting and you deserved that Joss," Cameron stated as Taylor walked back over to Tavin and Cameron.

"Way to go Tavin! You're going to fit in just fine. You've got that sexy little southern accent going on and you're cute and feisty, just what Cam likes. Nice choice, Cam. Me likes, me likes a lot," Taylor replied, smiling at Tavin as she laughed.

"You are a pretty little thing. I apologize for my daughter's behavior. Don't mind them, Tavin. I dropped them on their heads when they were kids. They don't mean any harm. Welcome, sweetie, I've heard a lot about you. Merry Christmas," Colleen Caldwell replied as she gave Tavin a warm hug. She was dressed in a long sleeved fitted white shirt and faded jeans and sneakers. Tavin hugged her back and looked over at Cameron. He just grinned. Cameron's mother had shoulder length light brown hair and green eyes, just like her son. She then gave Cameron a hug.

"So, you're the young lady that's been giving my son shit all these years? Now I see why he was moaning over you all this time. Welcome to my home," Nathaniel Caldwell stated, his blue eyes on Tavin as he walked towards her. His face broke out into a grin as he hugged her. Tavin hugged him back. Did she step into a time warp? Should she stay or run, she thought looking over everyone as they smiled at her, especially Taylor. Logan and Michelle walked over and introduced themselves, while Josslyn and her date stood in the background.

Cameron's father hugged him and leaned over to whisper in his ear, "She is pretty hot, son."

Cameron laughed and grinned. "I know. Thanks, dad." Cameron's father smiled genuinely at her and she gave him a small grin. This was unbelievable, she thought. They are crazy. Cameron looked at Tavin and kissed the back of his hand. His family was a bit overwhelming he knew, but he wouldn't have them any other way.

The holiday staff finally came in with a tray of sweet pastries and coffee and Tavin almost drooled. Cameron laughed.

"Help yourself, lovely," he replied as Tavin walked over to the table and began to speak with Michelle. Logan and Taylor walked over to Cameron with smiles.

"What are those looks for?" Cameron asked.

"Not bad, little brother, not bad at all," Logan replied with a grin, his dark brown hair and blue green eyes smiling.

"Shit, not bad is an understatement. She's gorgeous. Is this really the Tavin that's been giving you grief all these years?" Taylor asked.

"Yeah, that's her," Cameron replied as Tavin smiled nervously at him and continued to speak with Michelle.

"Does she have any sisters?" Taylor asked.

"Yes, but she's fourteen," Cameron replied. Taylor grinned.

"Hey, four more years and she's legal. Just ripe for the picking. If she looks anything like her sister, she's definitely fair game," 21 year old Taylor stated with a grin.

"Don't even think about it. Who's the Neanderthal that Joss has employed or should I say forced on us for the day?" Cameron asked as Tavin began to walk back over. Logan walked back to Michelle.

"Don't know, don't care. Some dude she works with," Taylor replied.

"Better now?" Cameron asked, looking down into Tavin's brown eyes with his green.

"Much better. I feel human again. This is a beautiful house, Cam. You must have loved growing up here," Tavin replied looking around as Cameron smiled.

"I did. Come on lovely, let me show you around the house," Cameron said. He wanted to get her alone, maybe stop her from being so nervous. Taylor, however, sensed Cameron's plan and he was not having it.

"Good idea, big brother. I'll come with you guys," Taylor stated with a huge grin. Cameron narrowed his eyes at Taylor, who was just like Cameron but worse. Tavin was in trouble.

Josslyn walked up to Tavin, pinning her with ice blue eyes that resembled her father's. She had her father's dark brown hair, which was long and beautiful. Josslyn reminded Tavin of Liv Tyler, she was that gorgeous. Too bad her mouth was so nasty, Tavin thought. She approached Tavin wearing a long sleeved, off the shoulder pink sweater, blue jeans and black high heels. She was a few inches taller than Tavin, Tavin noticed and made sure to prepare herself.

"Hey, Tavin. I apologize for that. I didn't mean it to come out that way. I've been known to have diarrhea of the mouth at times," Josslyn replied.

Cameron and Taylor looked at each other, then back at Josslyn. "At times. Please, Joss, stop lying," Cameron replied.

"Yeah, your mouth is always spitting out dumb shit," Taylor replied as Josslyn pinned him with a look that could kill.

"I guess the apple doesn't fall far from the tree, now does it. Like I was saying before the biggest loser interrupted me. I'm sorry. No disrespect, I was just a little shocked and I actually wanted to see what you were made of. That's all. I didn't mean to hurt your feelings. Welcome and Merry Christmas. Are we cool?" Josslyn asked offering her hand with a huge smile , which Tavin deemed as genuine as Tavin looked at the brothers who shrugged their shoulders.

"Yeah, we're cool and thank you," Tavin replied shaking her hand, smiling, although she would watch her back, just in case.

"You're welcome. So, Cameron," Josslyn began as she put her arm around her little brother's waist.

"So Josslyn," Cameron replied looking down at his quirky sister.

"I like her. She's not trampy or slutty, which happens to be your usual MO, plus, she has a backbone and she can speak in complete sentences. How did you pull this miracle off?" Josslyn asked as Tavin and Cameron just looked at each other. Tavin thought it was pretty funny. Josslyn was a bit out there, but Tavin had a feeling that she was going to like her.

"A lot of patience and hard work...very hard work. She couldn't resist me for long," Cameron replied grinning at Tavin.

"Yeah, he kept getting on my nerves so I gave in. I'm glad to hear that I'm not Cameron's usual gutter slut. Makes me feel all warm and tingly inside," Tavin replied as Josslyn, Cameron and Taylor laughed.

"No, you're definitely not what I'm used to seeing him with, which is his usual garden variety skank. Don't give me that look, Cameron. I've seen some of the women you've been out with and I always wanted to know if they had hepatitis or something. Slutty," Josslyn replied as Tavin , Cameron and Taylor laughed.

"Yeah, Cameron, your taste has improved tremendously," Tavin stated as Cameron looked at her with a wink.

"You're just saying that because it's you," Cameron stated.

"I knew there was a brain inside of that head somewhere," Tavin replied with a grin.

"Well, I know my brother and, well, let me say that you must have a little bit of something in you because, my brother's are sex fiends...not that I'm calling you a ho, but I know my freaky ass brothers. He wouldn't be with someone who wasn't a lady in the street and a freak in the bedroom, you know," Josslyn replied. Tavin just looked open-mouthed.

"Are you for real?" Tavin asked.

"Look, my brothers and I are jam tight. We talk about everything, so yeah, I'm serious. In this house, we speak freely," Josslyn replied.

"Sometimes, too damn freely if you ask me," Taylor stated.

"That's good to know. But don't you worry, Josslyn. I won't pull out my ho card in front of the family. That wouldn't be appropriate, and I am trying to make a good impression and all," Tavin stated as Josslyn and Taylor laughed.

"She's funny, too. How in the hell did you get this girl, Cam?" Josslyn asked.

"I just told her that life with me is the best thing since ESPN and she agreed," Cameron stated with a grin.

"You didn't say that. You kept bugging the crap out of me. You aggravated me until my ass couldn't take anymore. You wore me down," Tavin stated.

"He is a persistent little bugger, isn't he?" Josslyn asked.

"Yes, he is," said Tavin.

Cameron hugged Tavin by the waist and looked down into her eyes. Josslyn laughed and looked at the couple. Her little brother was freaking gone.

"Yeah, I wore you down and....," Cameron whispered into her ear and Tavin blushed and let out a small giggle.

"Stop with the dirty talk or you won't be doing anything horizontally any time soon. It's Jesus' birthday, boy. Have a little respect," Tavin stated.

"Well, since you put it that way, I'm sorry Lord and I'm shutting my mouth," Cameron replied as he leaned down and kissed Tavin slowly on the lips. Josslyn grinned and cleared her throat.

"Umm, umm, there are innocent eyes watching," Josslyn replied nodding her head to Taylor.

"Innocent. I have more...," Taylor started, but Josslyn interrupted.

"Blow up dolls than you know what to do with?" Josslyn asked as Cameron laughed. Tavin held her laugh in.

"Yeah, you would know about blowing, wouldn't you Joss?" Taylor asked as Tavin's mouth went wide and Cameron laughed.

"Sorry little brother, but you'll never find out. This is New York, not West Virginia," Josslyn stated sticking out her tongue at her little brother and hitting him on the head

"Please, keep that thing in your mouth. I'm sure your cloned Conan the Barbarian likes it, but it's just gross to me," Taylor stated.

"Yeah, Joss, who's the card carrying Klansman that you dragged in with you?" Cameron asked, who was speaking with Cameron's mother.

"Hail Hitler," Taylor said in a mimicking Nazi voice, as Cameron and Taylor laughed.

"Shut up, you little shit. That's Leo from marketing at CI (Caldwell Industries). I've been seeing him for a couple of months. Nothing permanant. But he's a good lay and gives great head," Josslyn replied as Taylor put his finger in his mouth and mad a horrible harking sound. Tavin just looked at Josslyn.

"TMI...and you say you don't have loose bowels for a tongue? Right," Cameron replied.

"Gross...I think I'm going to be sick," Taylor replied.

"Says every girl who sees you naked. Nice chatting with you guys, but I'd better get him before mom makes him sweat. I meant what I said, Tavin. You're alright, and that was really my bad. Okay?" Josslyn asked.

"Okay," Tavin said.

"I'm sure you make the dude sweat all by your lonesome, but check mom out. She's already making him sweat. Get the 3rd Reicht a towel now," Cameron replied as Joss walked away, giving Cameron the finger behind her back.

"I didn't need to know all that about your sister's man. She's a little mouthy, huh?" Tavin asked.

"Looks who's talking," Cameron stated with a grin.

"I'm going to let that one slide. You're family's a huggy, smily bunch. They are crazy as hell. I'm kind of scared Cam," Tavin whispered, clutching his hand as he laughed.

"Be afraid...be very afraid," Taylor replied.

"Yeah, because you ain't seen nothing yet. Come on baby, lets go on our tour of the house," Cameron said as Taylor walked with them.

"Why are you following us, Taylor? You know the house," Cameron stated.

"Yeah, but I want to get to know Tavin. I also know you. If I can't get any, you can't either. I'm blocking majorly. No ducking off to the west wing without me, dude," Taylor whispered into Cameron's ear as he held his arm out for Tavin. She smiled at him and put his arm through his. Cameron just shrugged his shoulders and followed them. So much for alone time.
******************************************************************

The day was turning out to be interesting. Tavin liked Cameron's real, unedited family. She felt very comfortable around them. His parents were laid back, very decent people. Josslyn was pretty cool after she got to know her and the more she spoke to her, the more Josslyn reminded Tavin of Felicia. Taylor was Cameron times two and Logan was quiet, and on occasion, would slip in a funny quip. Michelle, Logan's fiancee' was nice and told her that the family was just...weird. But Tavin considered herself weird, so she fit right in.

"Tavin, you sure you want Cameron? I mean, I'm a lot younger and hell, let's face it, I'm cuter. He's pushing 30 and you need somebody who's not going to be mixing Geritol with Viagra. Why don't you give me a chance?" Taylor asked with a wink and a grin as Tavin laughed.

"Sorry, Taylor, but I don't keep it in the family. Besides, your brother has ingratiated himself into my life. He's kind of like a wart...hard to get rid of," Tavin stated as everyone laughed as she and Cameron stared at each other.

"Quit playing, lovely. You don't want to get rid of me. You love me," Cameron replied, grinning at her. Tavin smiled.

"Yes, I do and where else will I find a man who can cook and has good taste in shoes. I'm not going anywhere," Tavin replied as they all laughed and Cameron winked at her and touched the tip of her nose.

"Shoes and cooking? I knew you had gay tendencies. You sure you don't want to drop him before this turns into a bad version of "The Crying Game?" I'm handing you a life preserver, Tavin. You don't have to drown. Next thing you know, he'll be crocheting doilies and shit," Taylor said, stuffing roast beef into his mouth. Cameron smiled.

"You need to shut up, you little shit, because you cook better than all of us," Logan replied.

"I taught all my boys to cook, so they wouldn't have to depend on a woman, you know," Colleen replied, after sipping her champagne.

"Yep, and she did a good job too, because all Taylor needs is a string of pearls and a pair of heels and he'd be Julia Childs," Cameron stated.

"Ha ha. You're still half a Streisand. I know why you can't get rid of him...you're whipped dude, in a big way," Taylor stated. Cameron just grinned as he picked up Tavin's left hand and kissed it as she blushed, eating a dinner roll.

"I'm not whipped...okay, maybe a little, but I'm happy. Something that you will never be with a woman, Taylor. Remember, no one will love you any less if you come out the closet now," Cameron stated, eliciting another round of laughs.

"I have 3 girls, dude. It takes a whole lot of women to handle me, man," Taylor replied.

"You just said you had 3 girls, little bro. I hope you're not going to catch a case like R. Kelly, because I'm not going to take it," Logan said as they all laughed.

"Suck the big one, Logan. They're all legal. Poor Mcichelle...marrying a lawyer. Are you sure you want to live the rest of your life with this boring ass dude?" Taylor asked.

"Logan's not boring...not one bit," Michelle said.

"I know the only reason you're saying that is because of that ridiculously expensive, extraordinary piece of ice on your hand. It's okay, Michelle, I understand. Keep building him up," Taylor said as Logan gave him the finger.

"So, Tavin, we've heard all about how you and Cam got together, but I have a question to ask, something I've been really curious about. Is my brother really good in bed or is he just a lot of talk?" Josslyn asked as Tavin almost choked on a piece of potato that she was chewing. Cameron patted her back and handed her her glass of water. Taylor and Logan laughed. Leo and Michelle just stared.

"You okay, baby?" Cameron asked as she nodded yes, staring at Josslyn with narrowed eyes.

"Josslyn Greenlee Caldwell, have you lost all of your mind!" Colleen Caldwell stated nodding her head in disapproval as Nathaniel shook his head and continued to eat.

"No she didn't just ask me that," Tavin stated in a low voice as she stared at Cameron.

"Yeah, I'm afraid I did. I'm just curious, although I'm concerned about Taylor because I rarely see him with a female and he has all those callousses on his hands. You know what they say, little brother...if you don't use it, you lose it," Jossyln stated.

"I didn't think it was going to be such a big deal when I raised them to speak their mind, but I guess I was wrong. This girl takes it to the extreme. Why didn't you stop me?" Colleen asked Nathaniel.

"Hey, you told me to shove my opinions up my ass and I did. That's your creation sitting over there. You deal with her," Nathaniel stated with a grin as he continued to eat.

"Hey, I get plenty of action, Joss, so don't worry about me. I'm just not brave enough to bring them around you guys. I really feel for Tavin and Leo. This family is cuckoo for Cocoa puffs," Taylor said as he stuffed dressing in his mouth.

"You're not brave...you just don't have any women...any real women anyway. But seriously Tavin. I would really like you to answer my question because girls have been drooling over these three forever and being attractive and rich can only get you so far. I've accidentally seen all of my brother's third legs, so you know they're hanging right down below. I just want to know if they know how to use what they've got," Josslyn replied to an open mouthed Tavin.

"Of course he's good in bed...he's my kid. He'd better be," Nathaniel replied as Cameron grinned.

"Mom, doesn't she have an off switch or something?" Logan asked.

"Up yours, Logan," Josslyn replied.

"No, that's Thor's job, isn't it?" Logan asked as Cameron, Taylor and Nathaniel chuckled.

"His name is Leo, you jackass," Josslyn replied.

"I'm sorry...Leo. You do know that you have your hands full with my little sister," Logan replied.

"Yes, I know that," Leo replied with a slight grin to Josslyn.

Josslyn licked her lips at Leo. "And he knows what to do with those hands. Don't worry, Tavin. You can tell me later," Josslyn winked and replied, placing asparagus in her mouth.

"Not gonna happen," Tavin stated to Josslyn.

"Aw, no fun. You know what I really want to do you guys?" Jossyn inquired.

"Wear a bra?" Logan asked.

"Take your meds?" Taylor asked.

"Stop talking for five minutes?" Cameron asked.

"Funny. I'm going to remember that the next time one of you calls me and wants tips on how to really please a woman. No, what I want to know is what's sex like with a woman. I mean, I know how it feels to us, but really you guys, how is sex with a woman. I'm truly interested in knowing," Josslyn replied as her date dropped his fork as the rest of the table chuckled.

"She's on a roll today," Cameron replied.

"Tavin, Michelle, mom...come on...haven't you ever wanted to know what sex with a woman was like?" Josslyn inquired.

"Joss, you'd better stop...you're freaking Mr. All American out," Taylor said, laughing with Cameron and Logan.

"Yeah, he looks like he's scoping out the nearest exit and I don't blame him. Run, Forrest, run," Cameron replied as Logan and Taylor continued to laugh.

"Boys, stop being so rude to Leo," Colleen replied, biting her lip so that she wouldn't laugh at Cameron's last statement.

"It's all fun. It's fine, Mrs. Caldwell," Leo replied and with that line they knew that they would never see Leo again.

Logan stopped laughing and said, "You sure she wasn't left on the doorstep or something?"

"No, I think we found her in our shopping cart at the grocers," Nathaniel Caldwell said with a wink to his eldest son.

"So, would you, Michelle, Tavin...get it on with a chic?" Josslyn asked.

"No. Not only no, but hell no," Michelle stated as she finished eating.

"I only go one way and it's sitting to the left of me. I don't want no part of bumping and grinding with a woman," Tavin stated as they continued to eat.

"Well, my friend Clarissa's gay and she told me I could try her out. I may take her up on it. I'll let you guys know what happens," Josslyn stated with a smile.

"You can keep that to yourself," Tavin stated as they all laughed.

Dinner was complete and they continued to talk in the family room. Everyone exchanged gifts and ate dessert. It was fun and Tavin liked the atmosphere. Tavin was talking to Michelle and Josslyn when Cameron stood over her with a piece of mistletoe. Tavin smiled as his head leaned to her level.

"Merry Christmas, baby," he whispered looking into her eyes.

"Merry Christmas. Cameron, later, not in front of your family," Tavin whispered.

"Don't worry...we know you two are gettin' it on. He wouldn't be so whipped if you weren't," Josslyn stated with a grin.

"Once again, thank you for your nosy ass, not needed anecdote. Really appreciate it, Joss," Cameron replied.

"No problem. You know I'm here for you," Josslyn said.

"Baby, it's okay. Stop being so shy and give me a kiss...please...I'm standing under the mistletoe," Cameron replied with a little boy pout as Tavin laughed and slowly kissed Cameron. They forgot about everyone in the room. Nathaniel nudged Colleen and they shook their head knowingly.

"Give the woman some breathing room, Cam," Logan stated.

"Yeah, enough of the mushy crap, Cam. You're acting really gay," Taylor said. Cameron pulled away from Tavin's lips and gave Taylor the finger.

"No, it's gay when you don't kiss a woman...you know a little about that, huh, Taylor?" Cameron asked as they all laughed.

"You're a riot, Cameron. Keep it coming," Taylor replied.

"If you two are done swapping spit, we can finish our conversation. Move Cameron. Go talk to Leo and dad," Josslyn replied.

"Oh, hell no. He may try to convert me. Leo looks like a Nazi, Joss. Me and that dude have nothing in common. But I'll rattle his cage, just for kicks," Cameron stated as he walked away.

Tavin laughed. What a bunch of characters, she thought. Then she was approached by a grinning Colleen Caldwell.

"Tavin, do you like art?" Colleen asked as Josslyn and Michelle looked at each other knowingly.

Tavin gave her a genuine smile and replied, "Of course. I love art."

"I have a great collection on the 2nd floor. Why don't I show it to you?" Colleen asked.

"Sure...I would love to see it," Tavin stated and as they walked out, she heard a collection of voices mumbling, "Dum, Da Dam Dum...Dum Da Dam Dum Dum." Tavin turned around and everyone was looking at her like she was going to her death. Cameron mouthed, "I love you." She mouthed the same and walked with Colleen up the winding staircase to the 2nd floor. They ended up in a huge room that looked liked an art museum that had everything from Van Gogh to Picasso to Basquiat. It was an exquisite collection.

"I guess this is the part where you ask me about my intentions towards your son, to see if your golddigger radar will begin to beep?" Tavin asked as Colleen laughed.

"Such a sense of humor...and you are right. This is the part," Colleen said.

"Can I ask you something before we begin?" Tavin asked.

Colleen nodded, "Sure."

"Why did you set Cameron up with that Rainwater girl? She was definitely not his type," Tavin stated. Colleen rolled her eyes.

"I know that Rainwater, I mean Misty is not Cameron's type. You know that as well. Her mother, on the other hand did not. She's all into the elite society crap and her daughter marring well and Misty and her mother had their sights on Cameron. Misty's mother and I are very good friends and I didn't want to jeopardize a life long friendship by telling her that my kid is not into your ditzy daughter. I know, I know. But sometimes if you don't have something nice to say, you don't say anything at all. The only way I knew to solve this dilemma and to get their mind off of Cameron for good was to set him up with that dimwit of a daughter. The wedding was perfect. Cameron escorted Misty to the wedding and they didn't click...at all...which I knew was going to happen. He promptly told her in a very gentlemanly way, I might add, that she wasn't his type. Now, my friend and her daughter will never ask me about Cameron again," Colleen replied as Tavin nodded her head.

"Good move," Tavin said.

"Hey, I'm a mom...it's what I do," Colleen replied.

"Nice to know there are some caring moms still around," Tavin stated, thinking about her own mother, Delia.

"Yes, and as a caring mom, I will cut to the chase," Colleen said.

"Now I see where he gets it from," Tavin said as Colleen smiled.

"That's my boy. Tavin, Cameron's my third child and he was the baby for nine years. We have a unique bond. What I want to know is...how do you plan to handle Cameron?" Colleen asked.

Tavin looked confused. "Handle him?"

"His heart...handle his heart. Cameron really loves you. I see it when he looks at you. I hear it when he talks about you or talks to you. I have never seen my son like this Tavin and he never brings women home...never. So you can feel my distress," Colleen replied.

"I understand," Tavin replied.

"You have his heart in the palm of your hand and you're the only one that can break it. I know he comes off as this arrogant, take charge guy, but Cameron...when he sets his mind to something he gives it his all and he's given you his all, Tavin. He is crazy about you. My question to you is, are your feelings as deep for him as his are for you. Are you going to hurt my son, because you are definitely capable of doing so," Colleen stated.

Tavin looked her square in the eye and began to speak. She had to be honest with this woman who simply loved her son and had his best interest at heart.

"I'll be honest with you. You know that we couldn't stand each other for years. Then, we began to hang out as friends and we realized we had feelings for each other. Cameron and I were friends first and that's something I want to stress. I am a loyal friend. I don't lie to my friends and I love them with all my heart. Cameron is still my friend and not many men can be a friend...a real friend. Cameron is the first man that I've freely given everything to. He looks out for me and I look out for him. Sometimes, I do want to knock him out, but hug him at the same time, you know, but it's who he is and I like that about him...I love that about him. We argue and we fight, dont' get me wrong. It's not all peaches and cream, but who wants the same old thing everyday. I like arguing with your son. I love arguing with your son. And as far as the money thing goes, I have my own money...not as much as you do, but I don't want for anything and that's all I need. Cameron is incredible, Mrs. Caldwell. Your son is a giving person and he treats me like every woman wants to be treated. He brought fresh air into my stale little world and I love everything about him. Why would I hurt him? It would be like hurting myself," Tavin replied as Colleen smiled.

"Thanks for the honesty, sweetie. That's all I needed to hear. Now, I don't have to tell Josslyn to kill you. I'm kidding. Thank you for making that kid of mine happy. Come with me. Let me show you my Monet," Colleen replied as she led the way to more paintings.

Colleen Caldwell and Tavin spent the next hour speaking about food, art and politics and they shared some of the same interests. Colleen was a cool woman, Tavin decided and Cameron was lucky to have the family that he had. They were millionaires, but they certainly didn't act like it.

Later, they were lying in Cameron's bed back at his penthouse watching TV. Tavin was laying on Cameron's chest.

"That was one of the most interesting and fun Christmas' I've ever had. Your family is crazy, Cameron. But, they are real and I like that," Tavin said as Cameron laughed.

"Yeah, they're real alright...real nutty. They sure did like you...trust me...you're in," Cameron said as Tavin smiled.

"Really?" Tavin asked.

"Oh, yeah. After the inquisition, my mother stated that you were adorable and she was glad that I picked someone who could hold an intelligent conversation in lieu of a dunce. My dad kept winking at me and whispering how pretty you were and Logan and Michelle liked you. Taylor is crazy about you...I think he wants you. I may have to look over my shoulder. He may have a hit out on me already. And Josslyn...well, Josslyn is a weirdo who seriously needs to be on medication, but at least she talked to you. Usually, when she doesn't like someone, she snorts like a wild boar and sings show tunes," Cameron stated as Tavin gave a hearty laugh.

"Yes, she said some wild stuff all day," Tavin said.

"Oh, no...that's not wild. She was much tamer today than usual. She asked one of Logan's girlfriends when was the last time she had been tested for any STD's. She asked another girl if she swallowed. We never saw those girls again. Maybe she reigned herself in because she had Bush Jr with her. I don't know," Cameron replied as Tavin laughed, then yawned. He yawned right behind her.

"It was totally unexpected, but it was pretty good. I got some great gifts, met your crazy ass relatives and got to spend the day with you. A very good day, all in all," Tavin said yawning again. Cameron kissed her on the head.

"Yeah, it was. Loved the way you handled Joss. I knew that you would. She won't give you anymore shit from now on," Cameron whispered as Tavin yawned once more, snuggling closer to Cameron.

"Umm hmmm. I'm sleepy baby. Long day," she whispered as Cameron kissed her head again.

"Then go to sleep, you nut," he whispered.

"I love you," she whispered.

"I know...love you too...now get some sleep," Cameron said as he watched Tavin fall asleep. He watched a little TV and smiled at the way Tavin yawned and stretched as she fell deeper into sleep. What was he going to do? he thought. His family liked her and he was falling deeper in love with her.

"Shit...what have I gotten myself into?" Cameron asked himself, then he smiled as he looked at Tavin's sleeping face.

"Who the hell am I fooling?" he asked himself once more as he kissed the tip of her nose and began to fall asleep.

Chapter 16 

"Happy New Years!! Woo-hoo," hollered a tipsy Liza as Tavin and Cameron approached the alcove that held three tables seated with their friends. Hello's and Happy New Year were passed around to everyone. Nicholas was there with a leggy brunette that the couple had never seen before. Tavin glanced up at Cameron and he shrugged his shoulders, because he had no idea who the woman was. Felicia was sitting on Marcus' lap, ignoring Nicholas and his date, or at least giving the appearance of ignoring them. The tension at the three tables could be cut with a knife. Cameron and Tavin looked at Trey, Nichelle, Donovan and Liza who all gave them weird looks in return.

Cameron stood directly behind Tavin and helped her take off her coat, glancing at the denim sleeveless catsuit that she was wearing with a pair of sexy heels. Cameron stared at her body and leaned his head down so that he could whisper in her ear.

"Damn baby, you look good...and I mean extremely good. You sure you don't want to go back home and continue to bring in the New Year alone? Think about it, lovely. Just you and me...alone...in front of the fireplace, with me getting you out of that outfit, making love to you the way you like me too. Doesn't that sound good, baby, because it sounds great to me," Cameron asked as his tongue ran lightly across her right ear, then slowly licking her spot. Tavin sighed as she leaned her head back and to the side as she gave Cameron a peck on the lips.

"As good as your tongue feels and as good as that sounds, I want to stay and have a little fun. You already tried to talk me out of my clothes as I was getting dressed and it didn't work. I thought you wanted to be here, Cameron," Tavin inquired as Cameron sat down and pulled her into his lap. Cameron wrapped his arms around her waist.

"You really don't have a clue. You look so sexy tonight, lovely. You really don't know what you're doing to me in this outfit. I know you feel what you're doing to me. This damn outfit is hugging every curve on your body, " Cameron replied in a low voice as his hand caressed her thigh.

"Is that a problem? You told me you wanted me to look sexy. Either you want me sexy or not? Make up your mind," Tavin replied as Cameron kissed her neck.

"Stop trying to pick a fight because you and that sassy little mouth are only turning me on more, along with this zipper...damn this zipper. Come on sexy, let me at that zipper," Cameron whispered sexily.

"Nope," Tavin replied as she watched Felicia, Liza and Nichelle stood up as a great dance song filtered through the air in the club. Donovan and Marcus went to the bar.

"Stop trying to get your groove on in front of us, Cam. That's just rude...and nasty," Nichelle replied.

"Nobody tells you anything when you and Donovan dry hump all over each other. Leave us alone," Cameron stated as Nichelle pulled Tavin out of his lap. Cameron's eyes fell on her ass.

"Nope. Come on Tav, let's go dance," Nichelle replied. Tavin looked from her man, who looked as fine as he wanted to be in that grey jacket with a black shirt and black, baggy jeans, to her friends, then back at Cameron again. Cameron kissed his lips at her.

"Stop drooling over Tav's ass, Cameron. You can do that later. That's my song. Come on chicas. I didn't come here to sit all night. Let's go shake our asses. We will be right over there. You guys can come and join us anytime," Felicia replied as Marcus smiled at her from the bar and Nicholas gave her a strange look. Felicia rolled her eyes and Cameron looked up and into Tavin's eyes. She grinned as he pulled her by the hand so that she was standing between his legs.

"Sorry baby, but I want to shake my booty," Tavin replied. Cameron gave her that sexy grin that made her heart melt.

"I want you to shake it, too...for me. You sure you don't want to leave?" Cameron suggested as he gazed into her eyes and kissed her hand lightly.

"Not gonna work, Cam. Later," Tavin replied as she turned to walk away. Cameron slapped her on her rear end and Tavin narrowed her eyes at him.

"Don't hurt nobody with that sexy thing," Cameron replied with a wink as he referred to her behind. Tavin laughed and walked toward the dance floor.

"Man, why did she want to come out tonight?" Cameron asked, watching Tavin dance.

"Because it's New Years Eve, you dick. The biggest party night of the year," Nicholas replied as they laughed.

"Yeah, you were all hype about going out for New Years when I talked to you yesterday. What happened?" Trey asked.

"I didn't expect to see her dressed like that when she opened the door. Shit, look at her," Cameron stated as he stared at Tavin on the dance floor.

"I am looking and so are most of the men in here. Yeah, Tavin's brickhouse," Trey replied.

"I know. I mean, that body...those hips, that ass and that fucking zipper is driving me crazy. All I want to do is strip her out of that outfit. I'm hard as nails right now," Cameron stated as they all laughed.

"Speaking of fine, Marley is nice man. Where did you meet her?" Trey asked Nicholas about the leggy brunette.

"At a bookstore a few weeks ago. She's cool," Nicholas stated as he looked at Marley. Nicholas' eyes left Marley as his eyes went to Felicia who was shaking everything she had on the dance floor. Cameron and Trey looked at each other, then back to the dance floor.

"You guys were right about one thing. That Marcus dude, is nice. Too bad the cat is boring as shit. It won't last, mark my words. I'm going to dance," Nicholas stated as he took a swig of his drink and went to the dance floor.

"What was that?" Cameron asked as he saw a few guys dance with Tavin and the girls. Tavin's eyes connected with his over her shoulder as she rolled her hips at him and smiled. He held his drink up to her, puckered his lips at her and smiled back.

"No idea. Cam, can I tell you something?" Trey asked in a low voice.

"Yeah," Cameron stated.

"Don't say anything to big mouth ass Donovan either," Trey replied.

"Alright. What's going on, T?" Cameron asked staring at his friend.

Trey grinned. "I called Nyla and we went out a few nights ago. You were right, man, she's still beautiful. We talked, I mean, really talked about everything that went down. We never did that before. So, we decided to do the friends thing for a minute and see where it takes us," Trey replied, his hazel eyes dancing as he grinned. Cameron smiled at Trey. He was happy for Trey because he had never seen Trey happier than when he was with Nyla Lawson.

"That's good to hear, T. Why didn't she come with you tonight?" Cameron asked.

"She's out of town with her family. I'll call her at midnight," Trey replied with a smile as a tipsy Tavin sauntered over to the table and pulled Cameron up.

"Hey baby! Dance with me!" Tavin exclaimed as she pulled Cameron up by the hand. Cameron stared at her from the back the entire trek to the dance floor. They began to dance. Someone was watching them dance and they didn't know it.

"Shaking your moneymaker, huh, Tav?" Cameron asked with a grin.

"Yep and you're staring at my ass," Tavin stated as she danced with her back to him. Cameron's hands were on her waist and he was dancing closely to her.

"You damn right I'm staring at it. It's a beautiful thing. Baby, are you drunk? You're acting a little loose," Cameron whispered as his lips nipped at her neck as his hands moved slowly over her hips. Tavin smiled.

"I ain't that damn loose and I'm not drunk. I just feel good. I know where I am and I know your hands are trying to get to my ass," Tavin replied as he chuckled lowly.

"Damn, you really ain't drunk," Cameron replied.

"I told you," she said as she turned to face him. His hands slowly gravitated below her waist.

"Well, as long as you keep moving like that, you can have all my money," Cameron whispered, slowly licking his lips.

Tavin moved closer to him. "Well, I don't want your money. I want you, just you," Tavin replied smiling at him and looking up into those beautiful eyes of his.

"That's not a problem because you already got me...all of me," he whispered as they danced to a few more songs and the countdown began. As they yelled Happy New Year, Cameron pulled her to him by the waist, staring into her eyes.

"Happy New Year, Tavin. I love you," he whispered.

"Happy New Year, Cam. I love you, too," Tavin replied back as she met Cameron's lips with hers in a slow, passionate kiss. They forgot everyone and everything in that club. Cameron's hands were all over her as they danced into the New Year. They danced through a couple of uptempo numbers, until the DJ slowed it down. Tavin's arms went around his neck as his arms wrapped around her waist. Cameron looked down into her eyes.

"Did I tell you that you really look good tonight?" Cameron stated as Tavin smiled.

"Yep, you told me about three million times. Thanks for being my personal ego booster, Cam," she replied.

"Always here at your service. Did I tell you that I'm also horny as hell?" Cameron stated matter of factly.

"No, you didn't say anything, but I definitely know that, for some reason," Tavin answered back.

"Tav, you don't get it. You feel so good and you smell delicious and that fucking zipper, girl...I'm dying. My patience is really running thin. I want you so bad, baby. Can we leave now?" Cameron asked, kissing her on the cheek and the neck. Tavin smiled seductively at him.

"Nope. I want to dance a little more," Tavin replied.

"This ain't flying. We gotta compromise. I say, we leave in 15 minutes," Cameron replied. Tavin shook her head no.

"45 minutes?" Cameron asked. Tavin looked at him and shook her head no once more.

"An hour and that's as high as I go," Cameron stated as Tavin smiled.

"I guess I should have all my ass shaking out of my system in an hour," Tavin said.

Cameron gave her a dirty grin. "Please don't do that. I want you to shake your ass for me...at home...in private."

"I guess I could hold some of it in," Tavin stated.

"You do that. I'm going to go and sit down and time your ass. In an hour, we are out of here, do you understand?" Cameron asked. Tavin laughed.

"Yes, Master," she replied in an "I Dream of Jeannie" voice. Tavin went back to her spot on the dance floor. Cameron sat down with Nicholas and Donovan. Felicia and Marcus had left, as well as Trey. Nicholas glanced out at the dance floor and his eyes blinked. He wanted to make sure that his eyes were not deceiving him. Jared Dulet was dancing with Tavin and the look in his eye...that dude was up to no good. Cameron and Donovan were laughing at something else when Nicholas hit Cameron.

"Dude, look up," Nicholas replied as his eyes followed Cameron's gaze. Donovan followed their gaze as well and then he looked over at his friend, who's jaw was clenched and his fist was closed tightly.

"I forgot that bastard was back in town and look at him, with his sheisty ass. This ain't good," Donovan stated.

"That son of a bitch," Cameron said lowly as he stood up and walked to the dance floor with Nicholas and Donovan on his heels.
*****************************************************************

Cameron couldn't believe his eyes. Jared Dulet was dancing behind Tavin and she didn't seem to notice. Cameron walked calmly to the dance floor with Nicholas and Donovan on his heels.

Cameron walked up to them and Tavin smiled and danced over to Cameron.

"Hey baby," Tavin replied with a smile.

Cameron looked at her with a slight smile and said,"Hey. You really should pay more attention to who you are dancing with, lovely. Dulet, what a surprise." Tavin looked and noticed it was that guy from Cameron's office Christmas party that he didn't like.

Jared smiled slowly at Cameron. "I'm sure, Caldwell. Tarrington and Whitmore. Still close I see. Happy New Year," Jared replied smiling.

"Are you for real?" Donovan asked.

"Just trying to be courteous. Come on, let's wipe the slate clean, huh? Let bygones be bygones," Jared replied as he looked at the three friends. They all looked at each other and laughed. Cameron pulled Tavin slowly behind him and smiled at Jared Dulet.

"Right. You know Dulet, here's a thought...why don't you get your own woman, Dulet? Oh, I forgot...you always had a problem with that," Cameron replied as Tavin looked from Cameron to Jared. Jared continued to smile.

"Why get my own when I can have whoever I want? I don't have a problem with getting any woman I want, no matter how taken she seems...you already know that, Caldwell," Jared replied.

Cameron continued to smile calmly at Jared. "All too well. You're not slick, Dulet. There are tons of women in here and you zero in on Tavin. Isn't that a coincidence?" Cameron replied as Tavin looked at him. Cameron looked calm, but she knew at any moment he could explode.

"I was dancing and I saw a group of hot women, so I danced behind one. It's pretty dark in here, so you can't really see. I just danced with her, man. What's the problem?" Jared asked in a voice that made Cameron even angrier. Cameron walked directly into Jared's face and Tavin grabbed his hand. Nicholas pulled Tavin away from Cameron and he shook his head no at her., because interfering at that time would not be good. He kept Tavin close by his side as Cameron approached Jared.

"You're my problem. If you value your health, you will stay the hell away from my lady. Is that clear?" Cameron asked, narrowing his green eyes at Jared. Jared grinned.

"It's your fault, Caldwell. I mean, you let a woman that looks like that dance alone and you don't expect people to dance with her? She's not a possession, Caldwell. She's a woman and she's a very attractive woman at that. You shouldn't be so insecure, Caldwell. If she's yours, why are you worrying about her dancing with me?" Jared asked.

"It's not her I'm concerned about. Look, just take heed to what I said. Stay away from her," Cameron replied.

"This is a little infantile, don't you think. I mean, she's a grown woman. No harm was done. Just a little friendly dancing. Do you go ape shit every time a man dances with your woman?" Jared asked as his friend Michael appeared at his side. Both men were staring each other down.

"No...but then again, you're not a man. Let's not forget, Dulet. I know your sorry ass for the real shithead that you are. I know what you are all about. The next time I see you pressing up on her, let's just say that I'm going to be in jail and you're going to be in the hospital...maybe the morgue. And your rich pops wouldn't be able to fix that...he can't bring you from the dead. Come on Tavin, let's go," Cameron replied holding her coat. He pulled Tavin away by the elbow as Nicholas and Donovan glared angrily at Jared Dulet. Nicholas grabbed Marley and Nichelle was pulled away by Donovan as Jared laughed.

"Woo, the hot girls travel in packs," Michael replied referring to Tavin, Nichelle and Marley.

"Yeah, they usually do," Jared replied with a grin.

"So that's the Tavin Wilson that I've been hearing so much about?" Michael inquired.

"Yes, that's her in all of her loveliness. Did you see the body on that woman? The curves just don't stop," Jared replied.

"I also saw the way her boyfriend looked at you as if he wanted to rip your head off and pull out your insides. What was up with that?" Michael asked.

"Oh, the caveman with the nice threads? That's Caldwell. I went to school with him and the "Duh" posse. Seems one was missing. Sometimes, we shared things, if you know what I mean," Jared replied with a smile.

"Yes, I know what you mean. Well, I wonder what's going to happen when he finds out that his woman's firm has just been hired as Dulet Inc's Eastern Division's new accountanting firm, specifically her," Michael replied.

"Yeah, he's going to shit bricks. He may dump her. Goody for me," Jared replied with a grin.

"I'll admit that she's very attractive, but why are you doing this?" Michael asked.

Jared looked at him increduously. "Did you see the ass on that woman? I want some of that, that's why".

"No, I mean, why go through all this trouble? You usually take what you want. Take her," Michael replied as he elbowed Jared.

Jared smiled at him. "She's different. I can't do that just yet."

"Jared, come on. This is nuts. You date supermodels, actresses and heiresses. She's cute and very sexy, but what's so special about her?" Michael asked.

"She's a challenge. I haven't had that in a while. I've got to have that. The fact that she's seeing that bonehead Caldwell is an added bonus. I hate that guy. I hate all of them actually. I always have. It's time for a little payback. I'm going to take her from him, fuck her and rub it in his face. Then, I'll drop her when I've had enough of her. You wanted to know, so now you know," Jared replied as Michael shook his head at his friend. When Jared plotted, the outcome was never pretty.
*********************************************************

Tavin walked into Cameron's penthouse and went straight to the bedroom. She was silent the entire ride there and when Tavin was silent, that was not good. Tavin took off her boots, placed them in the closet and placed the bunny slippers that she kept in Cameron's closet on her feet. Cameron pulled off his shoes in silence and threw his jacket on the leather recliner in his bedroom. Tavin walked to the kitchen to retrieve a bottle of water. Cameron followed her into the kitchen a few minutes later and sat down on a stool. Tavin leaned against the opposite counter, glaring at him through narrowed eyes as she sipped water from the plastic bottle. He knew it was coming. He was just waiting for it to come.

"What the hell was that all about?" Tavin asked.

"I told you, the dude was bad news. Just believe what I say Tav and leave it at that. Trust me," Cameron stated as Tavin continued to glare at him.

"I trust you, Cameron, but you were acting like the guy's a terrorist or something," Tavin stated.

"Terrorists at least believe in their cause. He's just an asshole," Cameron replied. Tavin sighed.

"It takes one to know one and tonight, you acted like a huge asshole. I don't like you behaving as if you own me, Cameron. That shit was not cool. Listen, Cameron, you are hot...extremely fine," Tavin replied as Cameron smiled.

"You really think I'm hot, huh?" Cameron asked.

"No, you are not smiling right now! This ain't a smiling moment, Cameron. It's also not the time to get me to stroke your ego. I'm trying to make a point. Women stare you down all the time, licking their lips and wagging them as you walk by. You don't see me telling them, "Bitch, I'll cut you if you keep looking at him like that," Tavin said.

Cameron looked at her with a grin. "You would cut someone over me? That's a little extreme, baby. I would rather you and the broad just fight over me in thong bikini's. That would work a lot better, don't you think?"

Tavin placed her hands on her hips and glared menacingly at Cameron. "This is not the time for your menage a trois fantasies, Cam. I'm serious. What the hell happened tonight, Cameron?" Tavin asked angrily.

"I don't know, lovely. You know me...I'm jealous, but I'm not that jealous. You know I don't usually act this way. I saw him dancing with you and I just saw red," Cameron stated. Tavin stared into his face and began to speak.

"Just so we are on the same page, I was dancing in a circle with my friends. A guy danced behind me. I didn't see his face. I didn't know it was him until you walked over," Tavin replied honestly to something Cameron was already aware of.

"I know Tav, it's just...Jared Dulet ain't shit, baby. He's really a piece of shit," Cameron replied.

"What's so bad about Jared Dulet? He seems like he's full of himself because he's attractive and has money, the usual rich prick, but I could give a damn. I'm with you, Cameron. I love you. I danced with other guys and you didn't seem to have a problem with it. Why do you have such a problem with Jared Dulet?" Tavin asked as she walked towards him. Cameron pulled her between his legs, wrapped his arms around her waist and placed his hands on her hips.

"Are you serious? I didn't want you dancing with anyone, but I realize at a club, sometimes that can't be helped. Trust me, my eyes were on those other cats, but Jared Dulet just can't be trusted. I know you were just dancing, but I know that dude and he was plotting. I saw the way he looked at you," Cameron stated as Tavin smiled. Her fingers were on the collar of his t-shirt.

"I did look good, Cameron," she replied as Cameron chuckled.

"Yeah, you did, but it's the way he looked at you. I've seen him look like that before and it's never good. He's trouble, baby. He wanted you, not that I blame him, but he looked like he was up to something. He always is," Cameron stated in a cool tone.

"What did he do that was so bad?" Tavin asked.

"Let's just say that he has a bad track record with a few women that I know and leave it at that, please baby? Just trust me, okay?" Cameron asked, not wanting to talk about it. Tavin decided not to press him and shrugged her shoulders.

"Fine. So, the general consensus is he's a dickhead and not to be trusted. Got it. I have plenty of experience with guys like him. Besides, I probably won't even see him again, so relax. New York is a huge city," Tavin whispered as she kissed him on his cheek, then she gave him a soft peck on his lips. Cameron shook his head.

"Yeah, I guess you're right. I didn't mean to get all, "Me Tarzan, you Jane," on you. That's not my style," Cameron replied, pulling the zipper on her outfit slowly up and down.

"I know, but I have got to admit, it turned me on," Tavin replied with a blush. Cameron smiled.

"Ah, hah, so you liked that, huh...I knew it. Well, I liked you...correction...I loved you in this outfit. Fits like a second skin," Cameron whispered, still playing with her zipper. Tavin smiled and took a step back. Cameron stood up and pulled her back to him. He pulled her chin up with the tip of his index finger and stared into her eyes.

"Tavin, seriously. I'm sorry if I ruined your New Years with my shit. The thought of someone, anyone trying to hurt you or do something to you, freaks me out...do you understand? You are the most important thing in my life, Tavin. I love you and I want to protect you, that's all...even if I do get a little Prehistoric on you from time to time, I do mean well. Do you forgive me?" Cameron asked, with the cutest pout Tavin had ever seen. She smiled at him and tiptoed to kiss his lips.

"Well, I guess after saying something like that there's only one thing left to do," Tavin stated as she stepped away, walking back into the back wall of Cameron's kitchen.

"What?" Cameron asked as Tavin laughed.

"Men are so clueless sometimes and I'm the tipsy one here. My zipper's stuck, baby. Do you think you can help me get it loose?" Tavin asked, biting her bottom lip. Cameron walked slowly over to her with a huge grin on his face.

"Hell yeah, I can get it loose. You know I've been wanting too...," Cameron began as Tavin interrupted him.

"Get your hands on this zipper all night. I know, baby, I know," Tavin whispered as Cameron put his fingers on the catsuit's zipper and slowly slid it down, revealing the lacy cotton candy pink bra and lace thong that Tavin was wearing. Cameron licked his lips as he stared down into those beautiful brown eyes of hers.

"You're just like a banana, lovely...you have to peel away the outside to get to the soft, sweet inside. You're beautiful, Tavin," he whispered as he continued to stare at her, his fingers tracing the path of the zipper along her exposed skin.

"Thank you, but you're not finished yet, are you?" Tavin asked as Cameron gave her a knee shaking, sexy grin. He pulled the outfit slowly down her body and fell to his knees. He slowly pulled the outfit off of her legs and threw it in the living room. He kissed her calves, her thighs, her stomach and lingered at her belly button, licking it softly. Tavin's ran her hands over his closely cropped head. He stood up and kissed her softly on the lips. After he kissed her, he threw his t-shirt off, picked her up and carried her to his bedroom.

"No, I'm not finished..not at all. I'm just getting started, sweetheart. It's going to take me awhile to do what I want to do to you. You don't have any plans for the next couple of hours, do you?" Cameron asked as he placed a half-naked Tavin in the middle of his bed. He then began to crawl to where she was.

"Depends on what you are offering," Tavin whispered as Cameron leaned over and kissed her on the neck.

"The very sexy you," he whispered as his lips went to her collarbone, "and the very horny me, naked in this bed," he whispered, as his tongue licked the sensitive skin underneath her jaw. He continued to whisper as Tavin held his head to her neck, arching her back to allow him more access. Cameron somehow took off the rest of his clothes in record time.

"That's it?" she asked.

"Nope. I'm offering wild loving in various positions...on the floor...in the shower...on the kitchen table...with multiple orgasms and a lot of moaning and licking and sucking and just some downright freaky shit...," he whispered as he pulled her right bra strap down, kissing her shoulder as Tavin interrupted him. His lips felt so good on her and she felt his thumbs hook into her thongs, pulling them down.

"How freaky?" Tavin asked as he looked up at her, throwing her thong on the floor. He kissed her lips and pulled her tongue gently into his mouth, sucking it. Tavin moaned and he stopped pulling on her tongue long enough to give her a lustful gaze.

"So freaky that you won't be able to think about it after I'm done without shivering. Do you have time for what I'm offering?" Cameron asked with a sneaky grin as the licked a very intrigued Tavin's ear. Tavin moaned.

"I definitely have time for that. I'm turning into a freak, you know that," Tavin whispered as Cameron pulled her under him. He chucked.

"Yeah...but you're my freak, lovely," Cameron whispered as he sucked on her neck.

"That I am, baby. That I am," Tavin whispered as they began to get on with their plans.

Chapter 18

"Baby, that cookie bouquet was just about the best thing you could have bought me," Tavin stated.

"Well, you're welcome," Cameron replied.

"It was just what I needed today. Thank you so much," Tavin replied, referring to the milk chocolate chip and white chocolate chip macadamia nut cookie bouquet that Cameron sent her. He knew they were her favorite and decided to surprise her.

"I thought you might get a kick out of that since you've been working late all week. Just something to brighten my girl's day," said Cameron. Tavin grinned into her desk phone as she looked through the papers on her desk.

"Well it did. See I knew your aggravating ass was good for something," Tavin stated.

"Blow me," Cameron replied.

"You wish," Tavin stated.

"You're right, I do wish. Baby, what do I have to send you or buy you to get you to give me some oral reciprocity?" Cameron asked as Tavin grinned. She had not been comfortable enough to do that yet.

"The Bahamas," Tavin stated.

"Hell, Tav, I got money, but I ain't got that kind of money," Cameron replied as Tavin laughed.

Cameron looked at a few notes on the desk in his hotel room. He was out of town once again.

"So that's a no to wetting my whistle?" Cameron asked.

"That's a hell no," Tavin stated.

"Alright sexy, I'll let you slide with that one. You know I'm not serious, right?" Cameron asked. He didn't want to pressure her to do something she wasn't ready for and she definitely told him that she wasn't ready.

"Yes you are, but I feel you Cameron," Tavin said.

"I wish you could feel me right now," Cameron stated with a grin.

"Cameron," Tavin sighed. He loved when she sighed his name.

"That's me. Did you actually get any of the cookies? I mean, Shannon should have been a Hoover vacuum cleaner. She eats anythiing and everything in sight," Cameron said, referring to Tavin's assistant Shannon.

"I only got two, maybe three, I don't know. She eats so damn fast. You know that chick loves food, but her hyper ass definitely doesn't need any sweets. It couldn't be helped. The damn thing didn't stand a chance. Her ass had eaten three of the cookies by the time the bouquet reached my desk," Tavin said as Cameron laughed.

"The nerve of some people," Cameron stated awaiting Tavin's response.

"Greedy heifer is what I call her. Oh, and she told me to tell you to tell the bakery to put more nuts in the white chocolate macadamia chip cookies, because they didn't have enough, and next time, you should send some milk because cookies without milk just ain't right," Tavin said with a smile.

"Did you tell her to kiss my ass?" Cameron asked with a grin.

"You know I did," Tavin said with a smile.

"That's my baby," Cameron stated in that sexy voice of his that made Tavin's toes curl.

"I'm your baby, huh?" Tavin asked.

"Yep..my one and only," Cameron whispered into the phone as Tavin giggled. She was too cute, he thought.

Damn, I love this man, Tavin thought. "Alright, enough of the mushy crap. You have reduced an educated professional woman to a gigglin' bitch. Are you proud of yourself?" Tavin asked.

"I'm actually very thrilled with myself, thank you very much. And if you are a gigglin' bitch, you're my gigglin' bitch," Cameron stated.

"Kiss all of my black ass, Cameron," Tavin replied.

"I would but you won't show my boy no love. Ain't gonna happen. Okay, I'm bullshittin'. I'll kiss your ass and lick it and bite it if you want me too," Cameron whispered as Tavin giggled again.

"See that? The gigglin' bitch returns. Stop that," Tavin stated.

"Nope. I would kiss and lick and bite your ass if you wanted me too, but who am I kidding? I'm a freak. It would be more for me than you," Cameron replied.

"Selfish bastard," Tavin stated.

"Blame it on that ass. I love that ass," Cameron replied.

"Okay, enough about my ass," Tavin replied.

"But I do love it...I love all of you...but your ass...," Cameron began as Tavin interrupted him.

"You are a freaky mofo, but I love all of you, too. Do you kiss your mother with that mouth?" Tavin asked.

"Not the way that I kiss your lips...all of your lips," Cameron repllied with a grin.

"Cameron...," Tavin stated blushing.

"Yeah, I know...I'm nasty, freaky, whateva'. And I know you're blushing, so I'll leave you alone. But I do love you, baby," Cameron replied seriously.


"I know. I love you too," Tavin replied smiling.

Cameron grinned as he began to speak." Do you hear this shit? We sound like Donovan and Shelly and they're sickening enough to make your teeth rot with all that sweet crap," Cameron stated.

"The sweet crap as you put it, is okay, Cameron," Tavin replied.

"This coming from a woman that I thought had a set of steel balls," Cameron replied as Tavin laughed.

"Nope, sorry to disappoint you...but if you swing that way, just let me know...," Tavin said.

"Hell no. I like women. I love pussy. Don't get it twisted. Don't ever second guess my love of the female anatomy. And that's the end of that conversation," Cameron replied as Tavin laughed.

"Alright, Cam, chill. Seriously, are we getting as sickening as Donovan and Shelly?" Tavin asked.

"A little bit, but we're cuter than they are," Cameron stated in a matter of fact way. Tavin laughed.

"That explains everything. So, you're sure you're going to be home tomorrow?" Tavin asked. She still had not told him about her newest assignment, Dulet Inc. She didn't want to disclose what was going on over the phone and she hoped he would come back soon.

"Yes, I will be home tomorrow. If you really want me to have something to hurry home to, say you'll be waiting in my bed, with your legs wide open...naked," Cameron stated and Tavin could feel his sexy grin through the phone.

Tavin blushed and smiled. "I'll be waiting in your bed with my legs wide open...naked."

Cameron bit his bottom lip, imagining the sight as he blew out a slow, deep breath. "Damn, girl, I didn't expect you to agree. I was getting ready for a verbal beat down. You know that shit turns me on."

"Aw, sorry to disappoint you," Tavin stated with a grin.

"Trust me lovely, I'm not disappointed, but shit, Tavin, when did you get so damn easy?" Cameron asked as Tavin laughed.

"When you told me that you would lick and kiss my ass. Your fault, freak master. I'm sitting here all wet just thinking about you doing that to me," Tavin whispered truthfully in a sexy voice as she turned the tables on Cameron.

Cameron was already aroused, but that response took the cake. "Damn, Tav, I'm hard as a rock right now...from imagining it, and from you saying it. Damn girl. You better believe I'll be home tomorrow. Just hold up your end of the deal, alright?"

"Don't worry...I will," Tavin whispered, getting hot and bothered herself.

"I don't want to get off the phone now. Shit. Look, sweetheart, I got to bounce to this meeting. I'll call you tonight, okay?" Cameron responded.

"I know you will," Tavin fired back.

"Listen to you, woman. Stop that shit. Now I gotta think about old women with no teeth to get my dick to go back down," Cameron stated as Tavin laughed.

"The pain you must be in," Tavin said.

"You have no idea. Hey...I love you baby," Cameron whispered in that voice that made Tavin shiver all over as she smiled into the phone.

"I love you, too, Cameron. Enjoy the rest of your day," she replied.

"I will now. Be careful, lovely. I'll see you tomorrow," he replied.

"Okay. Bye," Tavin said as she hung up the phone, realizing that Cameron will not like what he hears when he gets home. Tavin looked over her paperwork and thought about the best way to approach Cameron concerning the Dulet account.
*********************************************************

She was punk...a huge punk. Cameron had been home a week and she hadn't told him about the Dulet account. I mean, it was his fault. He did have her occupied for the last couple of days and she had the soreness to prove it. It's not that she was scared of Cameron, but she knew he was going to shit bricks when he found out that she working for someone that he basically hated. That's when Tavin devised a plan.

Tavin looked down at her black boyshorts and her black tank top. These were typical pj's for Tavin, but tonight, they were ammunition against Cameron. He loved when she walked around like that and she could barely keep her clothes on when he saw her dressed like that. She ordered his favorite Chinese take-out and spiked her short hair so that it looked wild and sexy like Cameron liked it. she heard the doorbell rang and ran to the door, with bunny slippers on her feet and a light purple silk robe tied loosely around her waist as she opened the door.

Tavin opened the door. Cameron stood in her doorway, looking and smelling absolutely dead sexy. He held in his hands a bottle of wine and a single red rose. He grinned as he leaned down and kissed her softly on the lips. Tavin smiled as she kissed him back and pulled him through the door.

"Hey baby," Tavin whispered.

"Hey you," he replied as he kissed her once more. They broke away from the kiss and he kissed the tip of her nose. Tavin smiled as she locked the door and took the wine and the rose and placed them on the kitchen table. Cameron was out of his coat and tie in minutes as he walked towards Tavin and hugged her waist from behind. He kissed her neck softly, inhaling her lovely scent and turned around. Cameron hugged her tightly, placing soft, sweet kisses on her face. Tavin sighed. She loved when he kissed her like she was special and precious. What a man, she thought.

"You hugged me so tight, I thought I was going to suffocate. Are you trying to off me?" Tavin asked jokingly.

"Not yet," Cameron replied.

"Did you have a bad day, sweetie?" Tavin asked, rubbing her hand over his head. His hair had grown back and it was spiky and sexy looking. He hugged her tighter around the waist.

"Yeah, it was crappy, lovely, but I feel a whole lot better now. Umm, you smell good. Did you take your shower without me, Tav? I thought I asked you to wait for me...you know, so that your back gets squeaky clean," he whispered, smiling against her neck, giving it little nips and licks with his mouth and tongue.

"I'm sure I'm going to get dirty later, so you mind if I give you a raincheck until the next shower?" Tavin asked, wrapping her arm around his neck. She pulled him closer to her, loving the way his lips felt on her her neck.

"Definitely," he whispered as she walked away and he tapped her on the butt. Tavin looked at him, shook her head and smiled. Her robe opened a litte and she saw Cameron's eyes get that devilish glint in them when he wanted something...particularly her.

"What do you have on underneath this thing?" Cameron asked as he walked in front of her and opened her robe. He grinned sexily as he took in her attire.

"That's what I'm talkin' about. Little drawers with a thin tank top with no bra on...ass on display...I love women. Baby, you know I love when you wear this shit," Cameron replied as his finger traced the top of her lowcut tanktop.

"Yes, I know," Tavin stated.

"You must have known that I needed to see this today, especially after my day. You must be psychic," Cameron asked, as his finger continued to trace her cleavage.

"No, all the rest of my underwear is dirty. Not clairvoyant, I'm just a chick that hasn't done laundry in a week," Tavin replied as Cameron smiled.

"Well, thank you for being lazy this week," Cameron stated.

"No problem," Tavin replied.

"You know we may not get to eat, right? Well, you may not get to eat," he said, giving her that sexy lopsided grin that she loved as he slowly caressed her breasts through her thin tank top. Tavin's eyes closed, loving the way his hands caressed her, but knowing that if she didn't move, things would heat up and now was not the time for that. Tavin stepped away from him and smiled.

"No, I have been craving Chinese food all day," Tavin stated as Cameron pulled her back to him.

"And I've been craving you all day," Cameron countered back as his tongue outlined her lips slowly. He slowly placed soft pecks on her lips.

"I'm hungry, Cam. I need to eat," Tavin stated slowly. Cameron grinned devilishly and pulled her bottom lip into his mouth, slowly sucking it, then releasing it as he winked at her.

"I need to eat too....you. Trust me, you taste better than anything I've ever eaten," Cameron whispered looking down into her brown eyes with his green.

Tavin blushed slightly, "Cameron".

He winked at her again as he ran his tongue along her bottom lip once more.

"That's my name, sexy," he whispered.

"Cameron," she whispered as Cameron licked his lips and looked at her from the bottom of her feet all the way to the top of her head. He pulled her closer as he licked the middle of her lips lightly, giving her a soft peck on her lips. Tavin sighed.

"Aw, baby, come on. I had this really shitty day and all I could think about was being with you and then you parade around in those little ass shorts and that little tank top...I want you, bad, Tav. Come on baby, please? Just a litttle taste? You know you are slowly driving me crazy," he asked as he licked the spot below her right ear. Tavin moaned as she broke away from Camron and tightened her robe. Cameron walked toward her with desire laden hooded eyes.

"One of my many talents. Come on Cameron...later. Cooperate please or momma won't give the baby no puddin'," Tavin stated as she placed the take out in the middle of the table. Cameron leaned against the wall, grinning at her.

"Alright, but later...," he replied as he sat down. Tavin pecked him on the lips and smiled as she sat next to him.

"Later. What a good boy you are," Tavin stated as Cameron looked at her with a grin.

"I'm going to show you what a good boy I am...later. But then again, you already know," he replied.

"Yes, I do," Tavin stated smiling at him.

"So, how was your day, lovely?" Cameron asked as he piled shrimp lo mein and Kung Pao Chicken on his plate. Tavin placed a Crab Rangoon in her mouth.

"Damn, you would ask that first," Tavin replied, thinking about Dulet Inc.

"I always ask you first. Besides, your day couldn't have been any worse than mine," Cameron replied, stuffing chicken into his mouth as Tavin sipped her wine.

"If you only knew," Tavin muttered, thinking about how she was going to tell Cameron about Dulet Inc., boomeranged through her head the entire week.

Cameron looked up at her. "What did you say, sweetheart?"

"Um, I asked what happened to you that was so bad," Tavin said, eating an eggroll.

"Well, I quit my job today. I'm officially unemployed," Cameron replied as Tavin dropped her fork and pinned him with her stare.

"What did you say?" Tavin asked.

"I'm a scrub, baby. I quit today," Cameron replied as he continued to eat.

"What happened, Cameron?" Tavin asked. Cameron took a sip of wine and began to speak. He looked into Tavin's eyes and from the way he was looking at her, she knew immediately that his new unemployment status had something to do with her.

"First, Mr. Cardinello calls me into his office and tells me that I'm their first choice for partner. He then goes on and tells me that I'm one of their best bankers and that my hard work has not gone unnoticed. Then he goes on and on about how much of an asset I am to the firm and how much money that I've made them...you know, things I know already. He continues his little song and dance and then...," Cameron said as he took her left hand in his right.

"Then what?" Tavin asked.

"Then, he asked me about our relationship," Cameron replied.

"What about it?" Tavin asked.

"He wanted to know how serious we were. I didn't mind telling him that we were very serious. He went on to say how pretty you were 'for a black woman' and he heard about your reputation and that you were a good accountant, blah, blah, blah. Then, he basically said that if I were to become partner, I would have to uphold the right image...wear the right clothes, have the right look, the right woman, quote, unquote," Cameron said, holding onto her hand a little tighter. Tavin bit her bottom lip and put her head down. Cameron leaned over and lifted her chin with his index finger to look into her eyes. He cupped her chin with his hand.

"I told him I had the right woman. So he went on and on about his dalliances, as he put it, with black women. By this time, I was pissing nails mad and I asked him to get to the point. He basically told me that their future partner should not be with a black woman and I had a decision to make...them or you. I asked him if he was serious. He said yes. I told him there was nothing to think about. I told him that I wasn't giving up my woman for a damn promotion. I then told him thanks, but no thanks, because I don't work with close-minded, racist fucks. Then, I told him that he and the other partners could take a flying leap out of the nearest window. I then proceeded to tell Cardinello that he could go and fuck a goat and that my office would be cleared out by the end of the day. That's about it," Cameron replied still looking into her eyes as his hand left her chin and cupped her left cheek. Tavin kissed the inside of his hand.

"Cameron, why did you do that? I don't want you giving up your job for me," Tavin said as Cameron pulled her from her seat and sat her on his lap, resting his hands on her left hip.

"It's already done. I couldn't stay there knowing how they felt about our relationship, like something's wrong with us. I know what you are about to do...don't. None of this is your fault and I made this decision. Tav, you are my world, baby. There's nothing I wouldn't do for you...except do another guy. I love you, but I don't love you that much," Cameron whispered as he leaned over and kissed her forehead, then her nose. He then pecked her softly on the lips as Tavin laughed, trying to stop the tears from falling down her face. Cameron wiped them with his hands.

"Why do people think something is wrong with us, Cameron?" Tavin asked as she sniffled.

"People are just stupid, lovely. Baby, please...don't cry. It's just a job. I can get another job. Money is not an issue. If I want to keep investing, I could work for my dad or Trey. But this has just opened the door to another opportunity. I'm going to open my restaraunt, maybe do some trading part-time. Besides, I was tired of all the traveling anyway. This is a good thing, baby and none of this is your fault or mine...do you understand?" Cameron asked as she continued to sniff.

"What if you get another job and this happens again?" Tavin asked.

"Instead of telling them to take a flying fuck out of the nearest window, I'll tell them to kiss my ass...my tan, sexy ass. Or I could tell them to suck the big one? How does that sound?" Cameron asked with a small grin as Tavin let out a low chuckle.

"How can you joke at a time like this? This is serious stuff. We're always going to have to deal with crap like this, you know. You see the way people stare at us when we're out. Why can't they just let us be? It's hurtful and annoying," Tavin whispered as she cried.

"And I could give a shit. And so should you. Look sweetheart, I know that stupid shit hurts, but how does that song go by Jon B?" Cameron asked.

"No you are not quoting Jon B," Tavin replied.

"Yes, I am. I liked that song. Don't even act like you didn't either," Cameron said as Tavin laughed.

"Yeah I did. He was kinda cute too and he could sing...," Tavin stated as Cameron interrupted her.

"And I could give a shit. What did that song say? Don't listen to what people say, they don't know about you and me. They don't know about this here. This here, baby, is us. They don't know what we have lovely. We got a good thing goin' here. It feels right and we're happy. Stupid, ignorant ass people should be the least of our worries, Tav. That's just how I see it," Cameron replied as his hand went to her hair as he played with the ends. Tavin stared at him.

"You ain't gonna sing "Cumbaya" or "Ebony and Ivory" or something corny like that, huh?" Tavin asked as Cameron grinned.

"I wouldn't do that to my worst enemy," Cameron stated as he played with her hair. There was a comfortable silence as Tavin and Cameron stared at each other. After a few minutes, Tavin broke the silence.

"Do you know how much I love you?" Tavin asked, sniffing and kissing him on the lips.

"As much as I love you...and that's a hell of a lot. I'm letting you cry and snot all over my Armani shirt and that job was a six figure a year job, girl. You should be thinking of ways to take my mind off of this," Cameron stated as Tavin kissed him solidly with passion on the lips. Cameron's hands went into Tavin's hair as her hands caressed his face. They explored each other's lips for a few minutes, then Tavin fell against Cameron.

"I guess I should shut my ass up now," Cameron replied, licking the taste of their kiss off his lips.

"That would be wise, Pita," Tavin replied as they fell into another comfortable silence. Tavin sat on his lap and they fed each other dinner. An hour and a half later, clean and spent after one of their long showers, Tavin and Cameron lay in Tavin's bed, with his head in her lap. Tavin cleared her throat.

"Um, Cam, remember when I told you that I had a shitty day too?" Tavin asked as she ran her hands over Cameron's scalp, massaging it the way he liked it. Cameron sighed, loving the way her fingers felt in his hair.

"I'm sorry lovely. I didn't give you any vent time. Bad Cameron. Go ahead, baby, tell your man all about your crappy day. Damn, lovely, that feels so good," he whispered in a relaxed tone of voice.

"Actually, it's been a doo doo week, but...aw hell, here goes. I'm the new accountant for Dulet Inc., and guess who's the CFO. I feel so much better, baby. Do you want some chips?" Tavin asked as she tried to get up from the bed. Cameron lifted his head from her lap and stared into her eyes. He was not happy.

"Say what?" Cameron asked.

"Dulet, Inc., has been having problems and they needed assistance from an outside firm and that's us. Since I'm the best, they gave the account to me. No biggy, but I wanted you to know," TAvin said as she gave Cameron a smile. He wasn't smiling and his jaw was set firmly.

"If it's no biggie, why did you tell me?" Cameron asked.

"Because I knew if I didn't and you found out, it was going to be some shit," Tavin exasperately stated.

"You were right about that. So, you're telling me that you're going to be working with Jared Dulet on a regular basis?" Cameron asked in that calm voice that Tavin knew was not going to be calm for long.

"Not with him directly...well, sometimes, but mostly with his assistant. It's going to take a few months to clear their books and get them back on track, but no longer than that," Tavin replied, not comfortable with explaining herself and issues that concerned her job.

"I knew his ass was up to something. Just out of the blue, he chooses your firm and you get the job...bullshit," Cameron said angrily.

"Why is it bullshit?" Tavin asked, getting angry as well.

"Do you know who the Dulet's are, Tavin? Billionairs with a lot of power, prestige and clout. They have deep pockets and know what to do with them. They know everyone, baby. It wouldn't be hard for Dulet to find out who you were, where you worked and how to get you to work for him. He just drops his daddy's name and shit parts like the Red sea for that ass," Cameron responded.

"So basically you want me to believe that he set all this up because he wants some ass from me? He could have anyone he wants? I mean, I'm cute, but why me?" Tavin asked getting angry at Cameron's accusation and the fact that she had thought the same thing.

"The same reason I wanted you. There's something about you. Tav, you're spunky and sexy and pretty and special. You 're one of a kind, baby. That's why," Cameron stated matter of factly.

"So you really want me to believe that Jared Dulet, multi-billionaire did all of this to get my goodies?" Tavin asked.

"By George, I think she's got it," Cameron saidin an off the wall British accent. Tavin sat up and crossed her arms, giving him a look that could slice him in two.

"You have to give that account to somebody else, Tavin. It's that simple," Cameron stated stubbornly. Tavin laughed.

"No, it's not. First of all, I am not in the habit of explaining who I work with and why to anyone. I did not have to tell you, but I did because of the way you feel about Dulet...but wait, I don't know about that because you won't tell me," Tavin said incredulously.

"Now, Tav that's something...," Cameron began but Tavin finished.

"Oh, it's some CIA, Mission Impossible classified shit, right? What-the-fuck-ever. And now, you're implying that I didn't get this job because I'm the best in my department. You think my boss just pimped me out or something?" Tavin asked angrily.

"Yep. He knows Dulet, Tav, I'm sure of it. I'm saying that you got this account because Dulet wants to get closer to you so that he can try to fuck you. It's that simple," Cameron stated as Tavin got up from the bed.

"Get your ass up and get out," Tavin said calmly, wrapping her short purple robe around her body.

"Tav, you can't be serious? You really want me to go?" Cameron asked.

"Did I fuckin' stutter? Get out!" an angry Tavin replied.

"I can't believe this shit. You want me to leave because I'm telling the truth. I know that conniving, weasely mother fucker, Tavin. He set all this shit up...trust me," Cameron replied standing shirtless in a pair of pale gray silk boxers.

"And I can't believe you don't trust me. I can't believe that you would think that I was some dumb ass, brainless nitwit who didn't recognize game. And now, apparently, I'm naive and will spread my legs for any good looking charming man. You got about five minutes to get out of my house before I stab you with this nail file," Tavin replied as she stared at Cameron. He muttered to himself as he got dressed. No words were spoken as Cameron looked at her once more. Tavin turned her head as Cameron slammed the door. Tavin walked up to the door and locked it. What a great night, she thought as she headed to her room to cry once more that night.