Jordan motioned him out of the room. “That’s enough, you too. Stop talking business. Calvin, you need to go and come back tomorrow. She needs rest.”
“I’m lucky to be with such a loving lady, but before I rest, I want the truth. What happened out there?” Silence filled the room and Emmy could hear the hum of the medical equipment. Jordan began to mumble more about getting rest, and Emmy cut her off. “No, sweetheart. I won’t rest until you two tell me the truth. If you won’t tell me now then how do I know that everyone’s not lying about my medical condition? If you want me to calm down, then tell me. I’m tough. I can take it.”
Jordan laid her hand on Emmy’s shoulder and nodded to Calvin.
“There was a pressure pump explosion. The debris somehow breached the reinforced glass window where you were standing and punched a hole in the damn thing. The blast was powerful and knocked a lot of us down, and you came down hard. The blow caused your brain swelling.” He swallowed, ran his fingers through his hair, then said, “There was a big piece of shrapnel that almost ended your life. It grazed the side of your head and impaled in a support column nearby.” He was pale now. “A fraction of an inch closer and you would have been dead. They know that because the blood type on it matched yours. Fourteen platform workers were severely injured and two died. They evacuated us out late that night.”
Emmy reached up. Although she was unable to feel under the bandage, she somehow knew that one side of her head had been shaved. She could now feel the stitches.
“Well, at least I got a new hairstyle out of the event.”
Her dry humor caused chuckles and relief that she would soon be her old self.
Over the course of the next couple of days, she talked to various friends and family over the phone. They raised her strength and made her aware that her family circle was growing.
****
Emmy was released six days later. Calvin picked them up, and to their surprise, took them to the Aberdeen Anderson Resort and Spa. The luxurious nineteenth-century mansion loomed over the rolling hills of thirty acres. Its stone exterior seemed like a fortress, and its turrets and spires soared to the sky. They were greeted by an attentive staff from the very moment they arrived.
Inside, the mansion exuded warmth and charm. Rich hand-carved wood, a coat of arms, and other antiques showed the lavishness of an era gone by. Modern tartan fabrics hung from the ancient stained glass windows and added a splash of color. Calvin had arranged for everything and insisted on escorting them to their room.
Several bouquets of double-flowering rose lilies adorned their suite. The fragrance of the rich rose-pink petals was soothing. The living room’s high ceiling, wainscoting, and traditional mahogany furniture tied to days long past. A fire had already been started in the massive fireplace.
They followed the bellhop into the spacious bedroom. Its modern décor was the opposite of the living room. A chandelier hung over a king-sized bed. The deep purple duvet contrasted against a plush light gray carpet with a faint geometric pattern. There was another fireplace. Bouquets of lavender double tulips, Blue Bird roses, lavender orchids, and pink Godetia were placed around the room. The corner suite had many vantage points and views of the landscaped gardens below.
“Calvin, thank you for the suite and for the flowers.”
“I know how much you love flowers, my dear. And the suite is booked for sixteen days, but say the word, and I will make it longer.”
He bowed and began walking backward. “I know you two are dying to lay in one another’s arms, but remember the doctor did say rest and to not get the blood pressure up.”
Emmy gave him a mischievous smile. “I think we can manage.”
“Well, you must make sure that you’re decently dressed by six. A romantic dinner will be served in your suite tonight.” He winked and started to leave but spun around on his heels. “Oh, I did leave you some lesbian porn on top of the TV, but you should probably wait until you’re medically cleared to that level of exertion. Ta-ta, ladies. Enjoy your stay.”
Emmy was not fazed by his risqué humor. She had been used to it for so long. Jordan was another matter. She flipped through the DVDs so rapidly they almost flew out of her hands. Her face contorted in shock. “These look like porn for guys with a harem of girls.”
Emmy chuckled. “He has no expectation of us watching those crude movies. His humor with me is over the top. He’s always trying to raise the volume with me. Once he realizes that he has gone too far for your sense of decorum, he will be apologizing to you.” She grabbed the DVDs and threw them in the trash. “Tomorrow, I’ll hand him the waste can, movies and all.” She paused and picked up the can. With a facetious look and a coy voice, she said, “Unless you think we can gather some insights watching them.”
“Oh, I can’t believe you said that.”
“Well, research does show that visual stimulation can help a couple maintain the spark.”
“Maybe so but having Calvin give them to us makes my skin crawl. And I definitely don’t want a man in any damn film. Now, let’s get you tucked in. Otherwise, I will give you a good tongue-lashing.” Jordan turned an instant crimson when she realized the double entendre. “I didn’t mean that like it sounded. It’s just a stupid American phrase for scolding.”
Emmy’s eyes twinkled. She cocked a brow and her grin spread from ear to ear as she stood with her hands on her hips. “If you say so, but I’ll take a rain check just in case.”
****
Jordan spooned against Emmy’s backside. The lingering smell of the flowers filled the suite. She smiled remembering yesterday, the best day ever. After a delicious meal, they talked about how lucky they were. Lucky to be alive, lucky to be in love, and lucky to have caring families. Hugging, holding hands, and laughing never felt so good. She carefully unwrapped from Emmy and slipped out of bed.
Emmy stirred several minutes later. Pulling the covers up over half of her face with only her eyes peeking out, she groaned in protest. “I miss your warm, soft body pressed against me. Come back to bed. Please.”
“I’m stoking the fire and ordering breakfast.” Jordan tucked another blanket over her.
“I think you’d be enough for breakfast.”
“Rest. Don’t fight the prescriptions. They may make you drowsy, but they will help you heal. Now close your eyes, and we will eat in a couple of hours.”
Jordan placed wood on the glowing embers. As the flames grew, Emmy slipped back to sleep.
****
Jordan sat in an oversized chair between the fireplace and the bed, curled up in a blanket. As the fire roared and the temperature rose, she kicked the blanket down. She listened to Emmy’s breathing and occasional soft snore. Her sound was like a gentle background noise that often helped lull Jordan to sleep. She loved this woman, snores, quirks, and all. Sex was fantastic, but the snuggling was the best.
I’ve never loved anyone more. I’m never going to let her go. As the words flowed in her mind, her heart swelled, and tears filled her eyes. The tears now were of joy and determination. Yes, they had said those three precise words several times, but now “I love you” took on a deeper meaning. With Emmy well on the way to healing, Jordan felt contentment, happiness, and an intense desire to make a stronger commitment. She wiped away the tears.
When the knock came on the door, Emmy’s eyes fluttered open.
“I’ll bring breakfast in here.”
As Jordan wheeled the heavy cart into the room with the clank of dishes, Emmy sat on the edge of the bed. Jordan stopped and admired her. “You’re stunning.”
“Ditto, Ms. Sexy.”
“Don’t get me going.” Jordan laid out the hot food on a small round table next to the fire. “We have oatmeal with golden currants, eggs, sautéed mushrooms, sausage…I mean bangers. And pita bread with lots of butter?” Jordan picked up the plate to eye the dish.
“Tattie scones. It’s a mashed potato griddle cake. You did well, sweetie.”
Emmy rose and
kissed her cheek while Jordan poured the tea. They both were hungrier than they realized. Between bites, Emmy talked about Calvin’s ideas for expanding her consulting business.
“I’ll have to spend at least three days in DC and travel to Europe as well. It will be challenging at times. I’d really like for you to be with me on some of the trips.”
“Em, slow down.” Jordan’s hands caressed Emmy’s fingers intently before she looked up. “At first, I was worried you’d change your mind about our relationship and stay in Europe. There are a lot more lesbians and parties here than in little Oakville. Then the accident ripped my heart out.”
“Jordan, don’t you know you rock my world? I love you.” Emmy gripped Jordan’s face. “I choose you. I’m happy with you.”
“I promise to take more time and travel with you.”
“You better because business trips are dull and I could never be happy leaving you for more than a few days.”
Jordan’s eyes misted. “I was going crazy from the moment I heard until you woke from the medical coma. I thought you might die.” A tear trickled down her cheek.
Emmy leaned over and hugged her. “This near-death experience has made me appreciate life and every little detail. We have both been through a lot, and we’re stronger for it.”
“I don’t know how to say this.” Jordan took some deep breaths. Her nerves caused her to pause, and she saw Emmy’s facial expression change to one of confusion. She needed to get this out and hoped for the best. “I can’t imagine going forward without knowing that you’ll be by my side. Will you marry me? I admit it sort of scares me. A wedding that is. No, that came out wrong. The crowd at a wedding scares me. But I love you. I need you, and I want to be there for you. I want us to build a life. I know Oakville isn’t the center of culture but Emmy, please be my wife. Please.” Jordan’s brown eyes were softly pleading.
Emmy’s face relaxed. She smiled and put a peck on Jordan’s lips. “I did not expect that question but yes.”
“So, yes, you’ll marry me and live with me in Oakville?”
“Positively, my love. Why do you look so surprised?”
Jordan let out a sigh of relief. “Are you kidding? You’re smart, gorgeous, and a terrific person. You make me laugh and”—she brushed Emmy’s check with the back of her hand—“you don’t take anybody’s crap, even mine.”
Emmy laughed. “Why thank you. And you are equally a lovely catch. I think we’re a smashing couple.”
Jordan hugged her, and they rocked in one another’s arms. Comfort and exuberance consumed Jordan. Then a snicker rose from her throat and soon turned hysterical. She could not control it.
Emmy leaned back. “What’s so funny?”
“Just don’t say June.”
“Why?” Emmy squeezed and gently kissed Jordan’s hand. “As long as we get married this year. Life is short. Jordan, I know you’re a planner, but we can keep it small and private.”
“Then you definitely don’t want to get married in June.”
Emmy cocked her head. “Because?”
“I guess you didn’t get my text or messages about Mom since it was the day of the accident.”
“No. What’s up with your mum?”
“She and Dave switched their date. They’re planning a big wedding on Sunday, June twenty-eighth.”
Emmy’s eyebrows shot up. “That’s soon. How big of a wedding, and how’s Angie handling this?”
“So far, the list is over two hundred. Angie’s hanging on but consuming a lot of caffeine. I’ve made it well known to Mom and Angie that I have no intention of wearing a dress. I’ve got my eye on a satin-trimmed tuxedo.” They both laughed. “I suggest we quietly plan. There’s too much whirlwind around Mom’s nuptials.”
“Agree.”
“Mid-to-late October would be nice. The leaves are turning gorgeous orange, red, and gold, and the weather is cooler. Perfect for snuggling. Do you fancy a large wedding?”
“I’ll be your bride either way but will your family push you into a large wedding? You know they love loud and large gatherings.”
“You’ve got a point. So, let’s keep it a secret until we’re ready.”
“There will be a few complications to overcome.”
Jordan scrunched her eyebrows. “Complications?”
“Is our last name going to become Russo-Simón or Simón-Russo?”
“Anything you wish.” Jordan laughed. “Let’s get you back to bed. You need to rest.”
“Only if you snuggle with me.”
“Snuggle time with the most beautiful fiancée in the world. Nothing could be better.”
Chapter Thirty-two
May 2015 - West Virginia
Emmy’s hair fell over her pale shoulders as she leaned down to softly kiss Jordan. She peered intently into Jordan’s smoldering gaze before her fingers and eyes moved down Jordan’s torso. Her fingertips stopped to circle and pinch perky nipples before moving on to tease Jordan’s lower abdomen. She stroked the delicate skin between the belly button and Jordan’s curls.
“Em, you’re driving me crazy.”
“Hush. My craving is to meticulously examine your body before I devour it. So soft. Such a beautiful brown. You’re like a caramel that I can’t get enough of.”
She replaced her fingers with her mouth. Kissing her belly button, she moved upward with her tongue, teasing her breasts with smooth strokes and occasional flicks. Only when Jordan begged did she fully take the nipple and suck. After lavishing one, she made a broad leisurely swath with her tongue across to the other. She could hear Jordan’s ragged gasps.
“Please. More.”
With her mouth feasting, her hand moved through the curls to stroke the folds before she slipped two fingers into the core. As her strokes began to build in intensity, Jordan moved her hips up to match the thrusts. Emmy took pleasure in feeling Jordan’s muscles constrict around her fingers and she enjoyed the quivering of Jordan’s body and her moans.
After pleasing her lover, she inched up to watch the rise and fall of her chest. She loved taking total control sometimes and simply giving.
But before Jordan had calmed, her eyes popped open. “I want you.”
Emmy followed the gestures and straddled her. Jordan cupped her ass and guided her over her hungry mouth and took her with vigor. Emmy held the bed frame trying not to crush her, yet gently rocking. As the climax built, her knees and thighs weakened and she cried in pleasure. “Oh, sweetie. Oh, yeah!”
Jordan didn’t let up and her frenzied tongue slowed to soft lapping. Emmy rode every wave until she couldn’t take it anymore. She rolled off exhausted.
Jordan rose on one elbow, kissing her forehead. “Satisfied?”
Emmy softly laughed. “Very. You can take me like that anytime.”
Jordan scooped Emmy into her arms. “You know, I have to confess. I wasn’t sure how our dynamics would change after you moved in. Some people freak out when they see the other’s idiosyncrasies. But it keeps getting better. Well, all except you can’t cook worth a damn.”
Emmy playfully punched her. “Watch your criticism, or I’ll make you beg harder next time. I also have something to confess. Your cooking and hot body are two of the mouthwatering reasons why it has been bliss. Yet, what nails me is your zest for life. Do you even realize how much you’ve grown? I can clearly see positivity flowing out, and there is nothing hiding below the surface. Even when you do an ordinary activity, you look more relaxed and at peace.”
“So, I guess you’re glad you took a chance on me?”
“It wasn’t hard to do. I saw a determination in you to make the leap and how desperately you needed and wanted to do so. While I gave you a gentle nudge here and there, it was all you.”
“And don’t forget, plenty of sweet kisses helped.”
“Yes, they are good medicine for both of us, but you never answered my question. Jordan, do you realize how much you’ve grown?”
“I do, and my next step is for yo
u to be my wife. I’m not going to waste any more time. What are we going to do for our October marriage? I will do whatever pleases you.”
“I always wanted the fancy dress and dinner. I know the crowd makes you a little nervous and the family’s likely to kill us if we unleash another extravagant event. Even with the immediate family, it’s going to be its own force of nature by the sheer number of relatives. That doesn’t take into account their personalities and spirit.”
Jordan chuckled. “We have to make some decisions this weekend. The clock’s ticking.” Maybe...we should go downstairs, sticky note options to the basement wall, and throw darts.”
“Uh-huh. I’m all for simplicity but not that far.”
“I checked out some dates for the resort lodge and cabins. There’re a few left, but we’re going to have to book them within the next couple of weeks. Otherwise, they’ll be snagged up by the tourists coming for the fall festival.”
“Speaking of decisions, how’s Angie holding up since your mum’s plans keep changing?”
“She’s running from predawn until way after the kids go to bed, but she makes it look effortless. Poor Carter tries to help when asked and stays out of her way when she’s spun up like a twister.”
“When are we going to announce our engagement? The news is going to spread like wildfire through town gossip if we file for a marriage license and don’t tell our families. Your mum and Betty Jean will be hurt if they find out that way.”
“Yeah, you’re right. Never thought about that. It only takes one day for a license. If we marry in October, we could tell everyone in July. It would give them time to recuperate from Mom’s wedding.”
“Guess that will work. By the way, a simple wedding is fine, and I can do most of the planning with a little help.”
“That’s a possibility, but it’s getting late. Let’s take time and figure it out tomorrow. Right now, I’m still horny.” Jordan captured Emmy’s mouth giving her a long, hungry kiss while her hand slid down her body. It would be well after midnight before they collapsed into sleep.
Falling for Love Page 24
