Saturday morning found Tim awake early, and cheerfully whistling as he dressed and brewed coffee. Life was good, and it looked like it was going to get even better.
His own lawn needed mowing, so he went out to their shed and pulled out their electric mower. It was a sad, embarrassing little thing, but he’d gotten it free from a recently divorced co-worker at the winery. It ran on a long electrical cord, and was a blow to his pride…everyone else in the park, even Mrs. Joeson, the widow down the street, had a gas-powered mower.
Well, at least it’s cheap to use, he thought as he started it up.
Its motor was weak, and he had to go over the same spots several times, but it got the job done eventually. The only upside was that it was quiet, so it wouldn’t wake Crystal. Based on how much she’d drunk last night, he figured she’d sleep for a while longer.
Thinking about last night made him grin with blissful happiness. Damn, I’m lucky!
He was mowing close to the street when movement caught his eye. The new guy was standing on the verge, giving him a friendly but confused smile. “Hi, neighbor.”
Tim hit the mower’s power button, and it whispered to a stop. “Hi. Welcome to the neighborhood. My name’s Tim.”
“Shane. It’s nice to meet you.” They shook hands.
Up close, Tim noted, Shane’s physique was even more impressive, and his tight-fitting tank top, cargo shorts, and flip-flops highlighted his rugged muscles.
“What the heck is that thing?” he asked, baffled, glancing at the electric mower. “A vacuum cleaner?”
Tim chuckled. “No, it’s an electric lawnmower. I got it in a divorce sale.”
“Ahhh, I see.”
He shrugged. “We don’t have a big yard, and it works okay, I guess.”
“If you say so, bud.” Shane looked doubtful.
Tim forced another wry smile. “Yeah, I know, it sucks. But it’s functional.”
“I hear ya.” The bigger man nodded. “The best kind of equipment is free and functional.”
“Yep.”
“Well, listen, I saw that you were outside, and I was wondering if you had a crescent wrench I could borrow,” Shane asked with a quick grin.
“Sure thing.” Tim motioned toward his trailer. “Let me get my tool box.”
“Awesome. I’m working on my car, and I must have lost mine or something,” Shane admitted.
Tim rolled his eyes in amusement. “Man, you have to have a crescent wrench in your tool box. That’s like a man-law or something.”
“I think you broke a few man-laws by using an electric lawn mower, buddy,” Shane mocked with a cheerful grin.
“Okay, you got me there.” Tim tried not to wince, and fished the wrench out of his tool box. “You working on that Camaro?”
“Yep. Just finishing its restoration. It’s my baby,” Shane said proudly.
“It’s a sweet car.”
“Wanna come on down for a closer look?”
“You don’t mind?”
“Heck, no,” Shane smiled. “C’mon. I love showing it off. I’m going to take it to a car show in a few weeks; hopefully I’ll win a trophy,” he added, and winked. “Or at least meet some pretty girls.”
Tim laughed. “Girls are more fun than a trophy.”
“True, but a trophy’s cheaper, and doesn’t empty my wallet.”
They walked back to Shane’s trailer. In daylight, Tim guessed he was in his early thirties. His almost-black hair was cut short, and matched his dark eyes; it was hard to tell if they were brown or black. Six feet, maybe six-one, he mused. He didn’t feel much shorter than Shane, but he definitely felt weaker. The older man’s muscles bulged. He wished he worked out more. No contest.
His tattoos were a fascinating study in contrasts. Some were beautifully done with bright colors and detailed artwork. Others were simply black, and looked hand-drawn.
“How long have you lived here?” Shane asked.
“We’ve been here about three years, ever since we got married out of high school.”
Interest piqued the other man’s eyes. “I thought I saw someone with you last night. So you’re married?”
Tim proudly nodded. “My wife’s name is Crystal. She works at the Ancient Mariner.”
“Cool. I’ve seen that place, but never stopped in to eat.”
“The food’s good, and the bar is popular on weekends.”
“I’ll have to check it out,” Shane decided.
His Camaro was parked on the lawn beside his trailer. He waved toward the open hood. “It’s a work of art, isn’t it?”
Slowly Tim circled the classic car, admiring its sweeping lines and shiny chrome. “Damn, Shane, this is sweeeet,” he exclaimed, drawing out the word. “And the engine compartment is just as clean as the interior!”
“I just got through detailing it,” Shane bragged.
Tim softly whistled. “I love the color combination, man…the gray stripes look awesome against the black paint. It’s so shiny, it looks wet!” he added, leaning close for a better look.
Shane was more than happy to show off all the features and updates he’d made. Then their conversation shifted to sports as he resumed working under the hood.
“What’s going on down here?” Crystal’s cheerful voice interrupted their discussion about the Dallas Cowboys. They both straightened to smile at her.
“Hey, babe,” Tim waved her over. “I want to introduce you to Shane and his sweet Camaro!”
“Hi, Shane.”
When she stepped forward to shake his hand, Tim felt electricity sizzle between them. Was it only his imagination, or did Shane’s fingers linger on hers a few seconds too long?
Then he broke the momentary tableau by smiling, and motioning to Tim. “Hi, Crystal. It’s nice to meet you. Tim’s a lucky guy!”
“Thanks,” she blushed. “It’s nice to meet you, too.”
Quickly she retreated to Tim’s side, and slid an arm around his waist. “So tell me about this car. It sure looks shiny!”
The two men exchanged quick glances, then humorously rolled their eyes. “You’re looking at a 1969 Camaro,” Shane finally grinned. “It was born a simple base model, but I’ve restored it, and added a new engine and lots of upgrades. It’s unbelievably fast, and smoking hot.” Then he hesitated a second. “That’s a technical description, of course.”
It was Crystal’s turn to roll her eyes. “Men,” she said dryly, and walked slowly around the car, admiring the shiny exterior. She leaned through one of the windows, and then looked over her shoulder at Shane. “Can I sit in it?”
“Absolutely,” he smiled. “Pretty girls are always welcome to sit in my car.”
Crystal slid into the driver’s seat, and then looked up at Tim. “Wow. Can I have one, honey?”
He laughed sarcastically. “Sure thing. I’ll get you one with my next paycheck.”
“The next time I take it out, you’re welcome to ride with me,” Shane offered, then quickly glanced at Tim. “If that’s okay with you. Sorry.”
“No problem.”
“Thanks, Shane. I appreciate it,” Crystal responded coolly. When she rejoined Tim, she slid her arm around his waist again. He didn’t take the hint, being too fascinated with the beautiful classic muscle car, until she cleared her throat loudly. Then he grinned sheepishly at Shane. “Keep the crescent wrench as long as you need it, Shane. It’s an awesome car! I hope you win a trophy…or that other thing we talked about.”
The older man chuckled. “Thanks. Nice to meet you, Crystal!”
They were partway back to their trailer when he called, “Hey, what are you two doing today?”
They exchanged quick glances, then shrugged. “We don’t have any plans. Why?”
“Well, I wanted to burn some burgers this afternoon,” he explained, “But I didn’t want to just cook for myself. Want to join me?”
Crystal seemed agreeable, so Tim nodded. “Sure, what can we bring?”
“I’ve got the meat and stuff,” he began, then snapped his fingers. “Why don’t you bring some chips, and whatever you want to drink?”
“Cool. What time?”
Shane shaded his eyes and peered up at the sun. “How’s six? It should be cooled off by then.”
”Sounds good,” Crystal smiled. “We’ll see you then.”
“So what did you think of our new neighbor?” she asked once they’d returned to their own trailer.
Tim restarted his mower, and continued cutting the grass. The engine was quiet enough that they could talk over it without shouting. “He seems really nice,” he said simply. “We didn’t have a lot of time to talk, but he’s got a good sense of humor…and he definitely loves that car.”
“Yeah.” She nodded, then folded her arms. “Did you see his bike?”
“No.” Tim blinked in surprise. “Does he have a motorcycle?”
“Yeah. It was at the end of the trailer. It looked nice.”
“Wow. A Camaro and a motorcycle.” He smiled. “Must be nice. I’d love a classic car.”
“Why don’t we fix the Honda first?” she teased.
“Awww.” He made a face. “You’re no fun.”
“Oh, really?” She cocked an eyebrow at him, and smirked. “No fun, huh? I seem to remember someone having fun last night!”
Tim flushed, and focused on the yard. Crystal chuckled, and plopped down in a lawn chair. Texas could be unbearably hot during the summer, but right now the weather was still comfortable. She leaned back and enjoyed the late morning sunshine.
“Want some company?” he asked when he was finished, and settled into the adjoining chair.
“Sure. Come here often, handsome?”
“I sure do!” He smiled, then flashed her a teasing grin. “I’m surprised you didn’t ask Shane that question.”
Crystal blushed, but tried to act dumb. “I don’t know what you’re talking about.”
He rolled his eyes in mocking disbelief. “Don’t try to act all innocent…I saw the way you looked at him.”
“What?” She almost got the word out without laughing, then cracked up. “Okay, okay. I think he’s cute, and he’s got a great body.” She glanced shyly at Tim from the corner of her eyes. “I’m sorry.”
How could he be truly mad at her for anything? “It’s okay,” he shrugged. “You’re forgiven.”
She narrowed her eyes, and peered suspiciously at him. “Hey. I’ve seen you check out a girl or two yourself, so be careful how hard you swing that club, mister.”
That made him laugh. “I love you, baby, temper and all.”
“I love you, too, Tim,” she replied softly, and smiled at him.
Maybe Shane could help us with our fantasy?
Seven hours later, Tim sat on the couch, staring blankly at the TV, and wondered what in the hell was taking Crystal so long.
Damn, Crystal. It’s just a barbeque! he thought irritably.
“Are you about ready?” he shouted back to her.
He’d missed having cable TV, and had spent most of the day catching up on the shows he hadn’t seen for the past several months. But now he was anxious to get going, and the delay was annoying.
“Almost!” Her singsong voice carried forward from the back of the trailer. “What are we bringing to drink?”
“Well, we have some soda, a six-pack of beer, and most of the whiskey from last night. What do you want to drink?” he asked, but he already knew the answer.
“Let’s take the soda and the whiskey.”
He preferred beer, but he’d already decided to stick with soda tonight. Besides, if they took the whiskey and the beer, Shane might think they were alcoholics. That wasn’t the impression he wanted to give their new neighbor.
“Tada!” Finally she appeared, and twirled in a graceful circle. “What do you think?”
Tim’s mouth dropped open, and his mind went blank. “Wow!” he finally managed to gasp. “You look gorgeous!”
Crystal beamed with delight, then tossed him a naughty wink. “Thank you, honey…I’m glad you like it.”
“But it’s just a few burgers,” he added lamely, and felt his nerves tingle uneasily. She’d admitted earlier that she thought Shane was cute, and he trusted her…she’d never given him a single reason to doubt her. But still it wasn’t easy being married to someone so beautiful.
“I know, honey.” She put in her earrings, then grinned down at him. “But we haven’t socialized in a while, and I felt like dressing up. Is that okay?”
He couldn’t very well force her to change, especially since she’d slid a vest over her tight white tank top. Her ample cleavage was still tempting, but not too revealing. “Of course,” he agreed, and managed a fairly convincing smile.
She received a lot of male attention, he reminded himself, and enjoyed it. But she was always careful not to encourage anything more. Tonight wouldn’t be a problem.
“Are you ready?” she urged, laying a hand on the door handle.
“Yeppers.” Quickly he picked up the chips and bottles, then hesitated. “Do you think Shane will have ice?”
She chuckled. “Yes, Tim.”
He couldn’t help admiring her outfit as she stepped outside. Her tight shorts really showed off her legs, and her high-heeled sandals sparkled in the evening light. Instead of leaving her hair loose, she’d woven it into a loose braid that streamed down her back. She looked like the proverbial ‘girl next door,’ he thought with a proud smile…only a helluva lot hotter!
“Hey, neighbor!” Crystal shouted as they approached Shane’s trailer. He was already outside, working on his gas grill. He shot them both a grin, then kissed her cheek and gripped Tim’s hand in a firm handshake.
“What’s going on, party people?” he teased. “Thanks for coming. Tim, you can put the chips and drinks inside on the table. I thought we’d eat outside, if that’s okay.”
“That’ll be great,” they both agreed.
Tim went inside while Crystal followed Shane back to the grill. Her eyes roamed over his muscular body, and lingered on his tattoos. Yummmmy, she thought. I like his ink!
His deck was just barely large enough to hold the grill, a small table, and four chairs. She noticed a roll-out cover attached to the trailer, so the deck could be shaded. “I haven’t tried to unroll that yet,” he said, following her gaze, “so I don’t even know if it’s usable. I guess I’ll find out when it rains.”
“Why don’t you unroll it tonight?” she suggested.
“Nah, it’s such a nice night. We won’t need it.” He puttered with the grill a bit more, then explained, “I’m just making sure it’s connected right before I light it up.”
“Good idea,” she smirked, and settled into one of the chairs. “We wouldn’t want to start a fire.”
“It’s too late for that,” he teased, winking slyly at her over his shoulder, “because you look flaming hot!”
“Awww, go on,” she chuckled.
Tim chose that moment to step back outside. “What’s up out here?”
“Shane’s just trying to avoid burning his trailer down,” Crystal quickly answered.
“Yeah,” he agreed with a casual smile. “The dang thing is brand-new, so I want to make sure it’s hooked up right. Don’t want to have a bonfire.” He slid his fingers along the gas line, and made sure the fitting was secure.
“Good idea.” Tim paused, then glanced curiously around the deck. “Hey, how come no one’s drinking anything?”
“Good question, buddy.” Shane grinned. “Wanna play bartender?”
“I’ll do it,” Crystal offered, before Tim could agree. “You sit and talk with Shane. I’ll be bartender and waitress tonight.” Winking, she cocked her hip out to the side. “What do you fellas want?”
The two men exchanged amused glances; then Shane replied, “You mean to drink, right?”
“Maybe,” she chuckled.
Tim rolled his eyes at their banter. “Well, I’ll have a Jack and Coke.”
“Make that two,” Shane agreed. “And make mine a double.”
“Sure thing, boys.” She deliberately swayed her hips as she walked inside, giggling.
“Wow,” Shane said softly, after the door closed behind her. “That’s quite a lady you have there.”
“Thanks.” Tim’s reply was curt, and he softened his tone with an effort. “She’s a handful, but I wouldn’t have it any other way.”
Shane nodded his absent agreement, then pushed the grill’s ignition button. “Okay, dude, here goes something.” The familiar whomp as the burners caught made him grin. “Hell, yeah!”
Crystal returned carrying two glasses. “Here you go, boys,” she smiled, and handed Shane the larger one. “I hope you like it.”
He sipped it, and nodded. “I do. Great job.”
She beamed at him, then handed Tim his drink. “Here you go. It’s mostly Coke, the way you prefer it.”
“Cool. Thank you, honey,” he smiled.
Shane glanced at him over the rim of his glass. “Not much of a drinker, Tim?”
“No, not really,” he admitted with a diffident shrug. “I always seem to get sick, and I can’t handle hangovers.”
“You need more practice, dude,” Shane chuckled.
“That’s what I told him,” Crystal laughed.
“Yeah, yeah.” Tim wryly shook his head. “I’m a lightweight…I know it.”
“Nothing wrong with that,” Shane countered seriously. “The alternative is to be a heavyweight, and that rarely turns out well. I’m going to go get the burgers.”
Crystal snuggled into Tim’s lap, and lightly kissed him. “You’re in a good mood,” he smiled.
“I know. I’ve missed hanging out with people and socializing,” she shrugged. “I’ve been working so hard lately, and money’s been so tight…it just feels really nice to relax and hang out. Is that okay?” she added worriedly.
“Of course!” He sipped again, then offered her the glass. “I want you to be happy, and you’re right…you’ve been working so hard to support us! You deserve to let your hair down and have some fun!”
“Awwww, thanks.” She kissed him again, this time on the nose, and then moved to her own chair.
Shane reappeared with a plate full of burgers, and in moments the sizzle of grilling meat filled the air. Tim’s stomach began to seriously rumble.
“So,” Shane urged, “tell me about you guys.”
Crystal grinned. “Tim and I started dating in our senior year,” she explained, and reached over to squeeze his hand. “And we just clicked.”
“That’s not entirely true,” Tim countered with an ironic chuckle. “Crystal didn’t know I existed for the first three years of high school.”
She tossed him a reproving pout. “We just moved in different circles, that’s all.”
“Yeah,” he snorted, and winked at her. “You were in the popular circle, and I was in the loser circle.”
“Stop it,” she ordered. “You were not.”
Shane laughed, and spread his hands wide. “Easy, you two. It was a simple question.”
Crystal shot a warning glance at her husband, then smiled at their host. “I was a cheerleader, and I played sports. Tim was an introvert, so we had different social circles.”
“My social circle consisted of my best friend, Jeff,” he agreed wryly.
She cast another dire glare in his direction. “Anyway, that all changed one night when Tim rescued me.”
“I didn’t rescue you, Crystal,” he said patiently. “You had everything under control. I just gave you a ride home.”
Shane eyed them with new interest. “I have to hear this story,” he chuckled.
“Well, I was dating this football player. He was a new transfer student, and he asked me out, so I said yes. God, he was just huge!” she exclaimed, then blushed and quickly added, “I mean physically.”
“Everyone was certain he’d flunked a few grades,” Tim interjected. “I swear the guy looked twenty-five.”
“He did not,” she protested, then sheepishly grinned. “Well, maybe a few. Anyway, after a game one night, we went down to a private spot by the river.”
“Just to talk, right?” Shane teased.
She blushed again. “Okay, we went down there to make out.”
Both men laughed. She took a sip of Tim’s drink, then continued, “We’d only been dating a short time, so I wasn’t sure I wanted to do anything more. But he had a different plan.”
“That’s an understatement,” Tim added grimly.
She nodded. “He wanted to have sex, and take pictures and videos…basically he wanted to make a porno. Then he wanted to pass me around to his brothers. So I told him to fuck off! But that didn’t go over so well, and he started to get aggressive.”
Shane winced. “Ouch.”
“Yeah. I jumped out of the car and started walking home. He followed me, of course…and when he got close enough, I kicked him in the balls.” Her grin was sly and malicious. “Hard and repeatedly!”
Tim laughed. “The poor guy was crying like a baby when I drove by and stopped.”
She buried her face in her hands, and admitted, “I probably overdid it…but he really scared me, and pissed me off.”
Shane looked curiously at Tim. “How did you just happen to be driving along that same road?”
“My best friend, Jeff, lived nearby, and I’d just left his house,” the younger man explained. “Imagine my surprise when I came along and saw this petite cheerleader kicking the ever-loving shit out of this big football player! You should have seen her,” he laughed. “She was amazing!”
Shane didn’t doubt it for an instant.
“I’d known her all through high school,” Tim continued, “and I was completely shocked. When I got out of the car, she was swearing to beat the band, and he was moaning and rolling around on the ground.”
“What can I say?” Crystal flipped her hair back, and smiled sweetly. “I have strong legs.”
Both men burst out laughing.
“Anyway,” Tim finally continued, “she asked me to drive her home, so I did. When we got there, I asked her if she’d go to a movie with me, and she said yes.”
“Tada!” Crystal grinned, and threw both hands in the air.
“And we’ve been together ever since.”
Shane got up to check the burgers, and flipped them. Aromatic smoke rose, and he inhaled deeply. “Oh, yeah…I love grilling, hanging out, and just relaxing.”
They both nodded their agreement. “Thanks for having us over, Shane,” Tim smiled. “We haven’t been out a lot lately.”
“Wow. I’d think you’d go to the bar where she works!”
Crystal stuck a finger in her mouth, and pretended to gag. “No. I work there. The last thing I want to do is hang out with people I see all day.”
“That’s not the only reason,” Tim soberly reminded her.
“I told you,” she soothed, “he’s an ass, and I can barely stand him.”
“It’s not you I worry about, Crystal.”
Shane shot confused glances between them. “What are you two talking about?”
“Nothing,” Crystal said firmly.
Tim hesitated, then explained, “The bartender at the Mariner likes Crystal, and he’s been hitting on her.”
“Seriously?”
Tim grimly nodded.
“Crystal, do you want us to go down there and kick his ass?”
His spontaneous offer made her smile. “No. I can handle one horny bartender.”
“Okay. But if you change your mind, let us know.” He winked at Crystal, but nodded at Tim to indicate that he was serious. “Well, folks, smells like the burgers are ready. Condiments and stuff are inside, so let’s go grab plates and eat!”
They were delicious, and conversation lagged while they applied themselves to the hearty meal. Then Crystal insisted on cleaning up, so the two men relaxed and enjoyed the cool night air.
“Thanks again for having us over.” Tim raised his glass in a silent salute. “This was a great idea.”
“You’re welcome. Hopefully we can make it a regular thing.”
“I’d like that,” Crystal said from the screen door. It flapped behind her as she came back outside and leaned on the railing. “Next time, though, you’re coming to our place, and we’ll cook for you.”
“That’s a deal!” Shane finished his glass, then stared mournfully down into it. “Is there any more Jack left?”
“Yes,” she grinned. “I’ll go get the bottle.”
It was still mostly full, and Tim was surprised until he realized Shane had been the only one really drinking.
The biker reached the same conclusion, and curiously glanced at Crystal. “Aren’t you going to have any?”
“Sure,” she agreed. “I just didn’t want to drink on an empty stomach.” Cheerfully she took Shane’s glass inside for an ice refill, then returned with a glass for herself.
“I’ll just have the Jack over ice this time,” he instructed. “No Coke. Thanks.”
“Yes, sir,” she teased, and poured him another double, then did the same. “That’s how I like it, too.”
“Nice to meet another whiskey drinker,” he said, and raised his glass.
She clinked hers against it, and smiled. “Yes, it is.”
“Couple of alcoholics is what you both are!”
Shane cocked an eyebrow at the younger man. “Whiskey drinkers are not, and never will be, alcoholics,” he said seriously. “We’re connoisseurs, and highly selective of our alcohol.”
“Amen.” Crystal lifted her glass.
Time slid by as they sipped their drinks, and enjoyed the balmy weather and good company. Tim closed his eyes, and felt his muscles slowly relax. Crystal sighed, Shane groaned, and Tim added a chorus by burping. Their laughter echoed through the cool Texas night.
Finally Tim cracked open one eye and peered across the table. “So, Shane, what’s your story…if you don’t mind my asking?”
Shane looked away for a moment, then drank deeply and set his glass on the table with a loud clink. Crystal and Tim exchanged a quick baffled glance.
“There’s not really much to tell,” he said, looking at each of them in turn. “I grew up in a small town in north Texas that I guarantee you’ve never heard of, left as quickly as possible, and drifted for a while.”
Sudden bitterness darkened his features, and he scoffed, “Drifted, hah! What I mean is, I joined a biker gang, and rode my Harley all over the southwest. It was great, and I had a boatload of fun…” He hesitated for one brief moment, then softly finished, “Right up until I went to prison.”
If he noticed the startled glance they exchanged, he gave no indication. “Anyway, to make a long story short, I was released on parole, and found a job in Fredericksburg. I had some money, so I bought this trailer.” Another deep gulp of whiskey eased the tightness in his throat. “Then I met you nice folks, and so far it’s been great.”
“Cool,” Tim said quickly, and Crystal nodded her emphatic agreement.
His story was obviously long and complicated, but they didn’t push him. “Did I see a motorcycle over here earlier, Shane?” she asked, to smooth over the awkward moment.
Shane suddenly grinned. “Yes. That’s my Harley and, besides my car, it’s my most prized possession.”
“You ride, too?” Then Tim winced. What a dumb question…of course he rides, dumbass!
“Hell, yes,” Shane smiled at them. “The motorcycle club was my family. I had more fun, and got into more trouble, than I care to remember. All while riding my Harley.”
“Wow. That’s sounds awesome,” Crystal murmured.
Tim flashed her an odd look, but her attention was focused on Shane’s wistful expression. “It was, actually,” he said earnestly. “I miss it. There’s a special type of freedom when you ride a motorcycle…especially in that kind of company.”
Chuckling, she rolled her eyes. “You’re so dramatic, Shane. What were you, a member of the Hell’s Angels or something?”
“No,” he replied seriously. “I was never an Angel or a Bandido. The club I belonged to was smaller, and you wouldn’t recognize the name, although we were allied with several larger clubs.”
“Wow. Were those guys who helped you move in part of your gang? Sorry, your club,” Tim hastily corrected himself.
“You saw them?” Shane’s eyebrows rose in surprise.
“Just briefly,” he assured the rugged biker, “and from down the street.”
“It’s okay, Tim,” Shane assured him, and took another drink. “Yes, they’re members. I’m no longer a member, though; I left the club a while back. Well, I’m taking a break from the club,” he clarified. “I still have some good friends who are members, though, and they offered to help me out.”
They were staring at him as though he was a box of dynamite, and he couldn’t really blame them. Gravely he warned them, “There is one other thing you need to know about me.” When he leaned forward, they did the same, then leaned even closer when he widened his eyes dramatically.
Suddenly he yelled, “Boooo!” and threw his hands up in a sharp gesture.
Crystal screamed, and Tim jumped back in his chair. Then they all dissolved into hysterical laughter. “You jerk!” she cried, throwing a piece of ice at him. “That was awesome!”
Still chuckling, Shane wiped his eyes. “Sorry, guys. I couldn’t resist.”
Crystal scowled ferociously at him, but it was clear that she wasn’t mad. Tim grabbed his glass and clinked it against Shane’s. “Totally awesome, dude.”
“Thanks for being such good sports,” he grinned, then sobered. “Listen, there is one thing, though, and it’s not a joke this time. If you see those guys at my trailer, or a bunch of bikes outside here…” He paused to make sure he had their full attention. “Don’t visit, okay?”
“What? Why?” they echoed in unison.
“Listen, just stay away,” he said seriously. “The gang I used to belong to is a bit rowdy, and they can be pretty rough around the edges.”
“Really?” Excitement sharpened Crystal’s voice, and her eyes began to sparkle with interest.
“Oh, yeah.” Then he hastened to add, “They’re not dangerous or anything. It’s just that they live a different lifestyle. They don’t bother civilians, but they can get rowdy. The biker lifestyle can be a shock if you’re not used to it…and I don’t think anything bad would happen. But better safe than sorry.”
Tim nodded his prompt agreement. Crystal hesitated, then realized she was staring at him, and quickly nodded her own head.
“Thanks, guys, I appreciate it,” he said, with obvious relief.
Tim and Crystal stayed a while longer, then finished their drinks and thanked him profusely for dinner. He readily accepted their offer to visit their place next time, and thanked Crystal for cleaning up.
They were silent on the short walk home again. Then, when the door was securely closed behind them, Tim slanted a curious glance at his wife. “So what did you think of Shane?”
“I like him,” she smiled. “He’s funny, and he seems like a genuinely good guy.”
“Yeah. I agree…but did you get the sense that he’s had a rough time?”
“Oooh, I know, right?” She turned and clasped his hands. “How about that part when he said he ‘just drifted’ for several years. I’ll bet he was traveling with his motorcycle buddies.”
Tim led her to the couch, and settled down on its worn cushions. “Yeah, probably. What was the deal about not visiting when his motorcycle friends are there?”
“I have no idea, but he was completely serious.”
“You don’t think they’re dangerous, do you?” he mused aloud.
She shook her head. “No. I believe Shane…but I imagine they party hard, and probably use drugs.”
That hadn’t occurred to him, and his eyebrows rose. “Yeah, you’re probably right.”
Her eyes sparkled. “Isn’t it exciting?”
“Hell, no!” he exploded, eyeing her with alarm. “Damn, Crystal, it’s not exciting!”
“Oh, c’mon, Tim,” she exclaimed, and dramatically rolled her eyes. “Shane was in a motorcycle gang, and he has dangerous friends. It’s like a good mystery show…or even better, Sons of Anarchy!”
“Crystal!” Exasperated, he jumped up and braced both fists on his hips. “This isn’t a TV show. Shane was completely serious about us not visiting him.” Then he hunkered down, and gently shook her. “Don’t go down there when he has company…okay?”
Her eyes flashed, and she shook off his hands. “I’m not a baby, and you’re not my daddy. I understand that he was serious, and I won’t go down there when his biker friends are visiting. But don’t you ever treat me like a child.” She drilled a fingernail into his chest. “Got it?”
He hadn’t wanted to anger her…only warn her of the danger. Since it seemed like she’d gotten the message, he backed away, and sat down again. “Yes, ma’am.”
“Good.” Her fury vanished as suddenly as it had appeared. “Or I’ll kick you in the nuts until you cry like a baby!” she winked.
Tim laughed, and dramatically covered his crotch.
“Good boy,” she chuckled, and flicked her head in the direction of the bedroom. “Now let’s go get naked.”
Tim lunged off the couch as she dashed down the hallway, laughing. She made it to the bedroom first, and threw herself on the bed. But when he would have joined her, she rolled onto her back, and held up a hand. “Uh uh. Stop!”
“What?”
“You don’t get me tonight, mister,” she teased.
Slowly, seductively, she took off her vest. When she arched her back, her breasts pushed hard against the thin fabric of her tank top. Her nipples were clearly visible. Tim’s eyes bugged as he realized she wasn’t wearing a bra.
She swayed sensually on the bed and dreamily smiled, enjoying the effect she had on him. She had the same effect on all men, even Shane. He’d known immediately that she wasn’t wearing a bra, and she’d leaned over in front of him as often as she could manage. She’d been wet all afternoon, feeling thoroughly wicked and delighted with herself.
Tim’s stunned reaction thrilled her, and a naughty smile curved her lips as she slowly unbuttoned her tight shorts. The beautiful white lacy top band of her underwear was just barely visible.
Grinning, she eyed him closely, and reveled in the way his cargo shorts were jutting out at an obscenely erotic angle. “I don’t want you tonight, Tim,” she said lustily. “I want Shane!”
The very thought of watching her thrash energetically beneath the virile biker drove him half-crazy with mingled jealousy and hot lust. Groaning, he tore his clothes off as though they were on fire. His cock leaped up, hard beyond belief, and desperate for attention.
“Hmmmmm,” she teased. “Someone likes that idea. Don’t you?”
Tim flushed, and dropped his head.
“Say it, baby,” she urged.
No response.
“Tim, be honest,” she pushed. “Tell me what you’re thinking…tell me what you want!”
He mumbled a few inaudible words, and his color deepened.
Impishly she slid over to the edge of the bed, ran her hands over his body, and gently cupped his hardened balls. “What was that?” she grinned. “I didn’t hear you.”
He swallowed hard, and bit his lip for several long seconds. Then he shyly met her steady gaze. “Fuck Shane,” he whispered. “I want to watch you fuck Shane. Please.”
Immediately she kissed him hard, passionately, and wrapped her arms around him. He almost ripped her shorts and panties off as they fell onto the bed together.
She was wet, ready, and frantic for him. Fuck me, Shane! she thought eagerly. Fuck me! God, I want you so badly!
All afternoon she’d stared at him, and lusted over his muscular body. His dark eyes and amazing smile had drawn her attention like a magnet. He was so masculine…and a bad-boy, or former bad-boy, which added extra appeal.
She gasped, and her eyes snapped open, when Tim entered her. His eyes were bright but unfocused, and she could tell by his fast, frantic rhythm that his fantasy of watching her with another man had taken over. He was totally lost inside his imagination.
Faster, harder…he was desperate for relief! His body quivered wildly…and then, barely half a minute later, he groaned loudly, and jerked spasmodically above her. She wasn’t even close to a climax when he came, but feeling him jet violently inside her pushed her over the edge. Her orgasm wasn’t nearly as powerful, but it was still sweet and delicious.
Tim collapsed on top of her, gasping and totally exhausted. The powerful fantasy and intense climax had completely sapped his energy. When he finally did muster the energy to move, and returned from the bathroom with a towel for Crystal, he couldn’t meet her eyes; he was too mortified.
Never should have admitted that to her, he fretted. But his other half argued, C’mon, man, if you can’t be honest with your wife, who can you be honest with?
His chest still ached with exertion. Wearily he lay back on the bed, staring at the ceiling, and hoped she wouldn’t run with his fantasy. Please don’t bring it up, Crystal.
“Do you want to talk about it?” she murmured, stroking his cheek with gentle fingers.
Shit! No such luck.
“Not really,” he muttered
“Why not?”
Exasperated, he rolled his eyes. “Gee, I don’t know…maybe because it’s embarrassing. It’s wrong. It’s private. Shane’s exactly the type of guy you used to date in high school. He’s good-looking, and a biker, or former biker. He’s a bad boy, Crystal. It’s a damned good way to screw up our marriage,” he said fiercely. “You want me to keep going?”
He was right on every single count, but still…
Sighing, she rolled onto her side, and kissed his flushed cheek. “I love you, Tim,” she said softly. “I always will. I hope you know that.”
Those three magic words had always made him fold without a struggle. “I love you, too,” he whispered, and felt his throat ache with suppressed emotion.
She was silent for a long moment, gauging his thoughts and feelings. Careful, she thought. Don’t push him too hard.
“Everyone has fantasies,” she finally murmured. “I don’t think yours is embarrassing or wrong. Y’know,” she added, and took a deep breath, “it’s not just your fantasy. It’s mine, too.”
No response. Tim didn’t even twitch…but she saw his breathing quicken slightly.
“Why don’t we just talk about it?” she urged.
When he finally rolled over to face her, she saw fear reflected in his dark eyes. “You’ll leave me for him. I’ll lose you…I know I will!”
Gently she caressed her husband’s cheek. “You’ll never lose me, Tim. I promise.”