Chapter 28.
William sat in the living room waiting for Buffy to emerge. He was dressed in his tux and sipping on a scotch. He heard the bedroom door open and looked up in anticipation. Buffy was wearing a stunning red dress that hugged her curves in all the right places. Her shoulders and arms were bare and as she walked a little thigh peaked out from the dress’s skirt. The fabric clung to her body and he could help but speculate as to what she wore underneath. As Buffy approached he sat his drink down and stood up, “What a lucky bloke I am. You are positively stunning, luv. I’d tell you that I want nothing more than to stay here and shag you senseless tonight, but the truth is that I want to take you out so as all the other boys get jealous- then shag you senseless.”
Buffy’s smile lit up the room, and then managed to melt William’s heart. “Really?” she asked as she swept her hair over one shoulder and turned around slowly.
William’s breath hitched in his throat and he could feel himself getting aroused as he looked at the back of Buffy’s dress. It was essentially backless and the way that it draped, dipping slightly below her lower back was making it hard for him to concentrate. He reached out and slowly dragged his index finger down the length of her back, making her shiver.
“Uh, Buffy?” asked William his mouth suddenly dry.
“Yes?” she asked, turning back around.
“Our car awaits,” said William.
“Our car?” asked Buffy, obviously confused.
“It’s a party, figured there might be drinking, hired a car. Told Conner the other night that if they wanted to take a cab there and leave with us they could. He had already elicited a promise from Dawn to drive, but said that he thought he would rethink that plan so that she would feel freer to enjoy the dancing and champagne. Anyway, the car awaits,” he concluded as he escorted Buffy to the front door.
A chauffeur stood outside, next to a black Rolls Royce, waiting for them. “Mr. Crawford, beautiful evening,” said the driver.
“Yes, James, it is. You have the address?” asked William.
“Yes, sir,” responded James, “the ride won’t take but 15 minutes or so.” James opened the car doors to allow William and Buffy to slide into the car. He then climbed into the drivers seat, put up the privacy window, and then began the drive to the party.
As Buffy and William walked through the entryway heads turned. The truth was that they made a positively stunning couple. They walked through to the living room and William took two glasses of champagne from a serving tray, handing one to Buffy.
The Imperiale Estate was beautifully decorated. It was elegant in a simple sort of way. All of the furniture, fabrics, etc., were of exceptional quality, yet the house was warm, tasteful; it felt like a family lived in it. It still felt like a home. William and Buffy spotted Conner and Dawn outside at one of the tables and started to make their way over to join them when Dr. Imperiale called out to Buffy.
“Buffy, so glad you could make it,” said Imperiale as he leaned over and kissed her on the cheek.”
“I wouldn’t have missed this for the world,” said Buffy. “I’d like you to meet William Crawford. William, this is Dr. Imperiale.”
“Actually, its Vince,” said Imperiale. “And, as luck would have it I believe that you are someone that I’ve been playing phone tag with this week. Am I right? Are you the same William Crawford?”
“Yes, I do believe so. Isn’t this an incredible coincidence? Tell me, what’s your whole take on the mixing business with pleasure thing?” asked William.
“Are you kidding me?” asked Imperiale. “I think I better try to catch you when I can, at least long enough to get your interest.”
“You’re a friend of Buffy’s, you have my interest. What can I do for you Vince?” asked William.
“It’s my eldest, Mariah, she just got engaged. My wife and I would like to give her a dream wedding. But, we need help.” Imperiale lowered his voice and continued, “My wife, Maria, has just been diagnosed with breast cancer. We’re keeping it quiet, for now. Maria is still coming to terms with it and we haven’t told the children yet. Hell, I’m still coming to terms with it. We are very concerned about Mariah’s wedding. Maria is worried that she won’t be able to help like she otherwise would. Maria’s brother, Rupert Giles, recommended we hire you to help.”
“Have they set a date yet?” asked William.
“They would like to plan on next June, but no set date yet,” offered Imperiale.
“Fine. I’ll need for you to decide on a budget. That’s really the first step. All of the expenses, including my fees should be included. Think it over then leave a message on my cell with the figure. I’ll fax a contract over tomorrow. It will include a couple different fee schedules-just check the box you prefer. There will also be a section that you need to complete regarding who you want the final decision maker to be with regards to choices,” explained William.
“Well, that would be Mariah, right? It’s her wedding,” said Imperiale.
“Right, well, you’d be surprised how many parents forget that. So, I’ll work directly with Mariah. Is she here? You could introduce us tonight,” offered William.
“Yes, she’s around here somewhere, I’ll make sure to introduce you before the night it out,” Imperiale promised as he shook William’s hand and left to greet other guests.
Buffy and William made their way across the dance floor and joined Conner and Dawn at the table.
“Exquisite dress, Dawn,” said William as he held out a chair for Buffy then shook Conner’s hand.
“Thanks!” responded Dawn.
“Where’s the bar?” asked Buffy.
William turned to Buffy and said, “I’ll fetch us some drinks, luv, what would you like?”
“Champagne?” she asked.
“Coming right up!” William declared. “Anyone else need a refill?”
“I’ll come with you,” offered Conner.
The two men made their way through the crowd, leaving Dawn and Buffy alone at the table. Buffy was in the middle of explaining to Dawn that Imperiale had just hired William when she felt a hand on her shoulder. She covered the hand with her own, then looked back, expecting to see William.
“Parker,” she said quickly removing her hand.
Parker leaned over and whispered in her ear, “You look delicious, positively good enough to eat. Dance with me.”
“I’m here with William. He just left for a moment to get drinks,” Buffy explained.
Parker sat in the chair next to Buffy. He draped his arm over the back of her chair and leaning in suggestively said, “So. You could always leave with me. You should leave with me. Lets go, now”
“Are you drunk?” asked Dawn.
“Why hello, Dawn, I didn’t even notice you,” said Parker snidely as he stood back up. “I’ll catch up with you, later,” he promised Buffy before walking off through the crowd.
“Did we miss the good doctor?” asked William as he set the drinks down on the table, “That’s a disappointment.”
“Yeah,” offered Dawn, “you missed him hitting on Buffy. God, he is so infuriating.”
William looked at Buffy and raised an eyebrow.
“It was nothing,” Buffy assured him, “let’s dance.”
William led Buffy onto the dance floor as the first few notes of “Come Away with Me” began to play. As he wrapped his arm around her and pulled her close he thought about how tiny and fragile she appeared. Her head was resting on his chest right below his shoulder.
He breathed in her perfume as he ran his hand softly over her back.
“This is a beautiful song,” said Buffy as they swayed back and forth.
“It pales next to the beauty that is you,” said William.
“You really are quite the poet, aren’t you,” said Buffy without thought.
She felt him stiffen slightly before he said, “You read it.”
“Yes,” she admitted.
“I didn’t mean for you to. I’m sorry, it was-” he trailed off searching for the right word.
“Sweet, honest, open?” suggested Buffy.
“I was thinking more like, pathetic and overly revealing,” admitted William feeling embarrassed.
“I love it,” said Buffy, “and I’m going to love it even more when you recite it to me, as we make love, on the deck of your boat.”
“Does that happen before or after I get to tie you up to the ships wheel,” William teased.
Buffy looked up into his eyes, licked her lips, and then coyly said, “That would be up to the Captain.”
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Chapter 29
As William and Buffy left the dance floor Imperiale approached them. “I caught up with Mariah and she is dying to meet you. She’s thinking about wanting to have the ceremony here. There’s a spot overlooking the ocean she wanted to show you. It’s just at the end of the garden path, but a short walk. Why don’t we refill our drinks? Mariah was going to track down her fiancé, Chris to let him know where she’s going, and then meet us there.”
“I’ll start down,” said Buffy. “I’m afraid with these shoes it’s going to take me a bit longer.”
Buffy started to stroll down the garden path. Thankfully, it was well lit. She paused here and there to enjoy the flowers along the way. Towards the end of the path was a large archway covered with night-blooming jasmine. The archway led to an expansive clearing, overlooking the Pacific Ocean. There were several garden benches scattered at the edge of the property and Buffy made her way over towards one of them. She rested her hands on the back of the bench and leaned forward just a tad. She closed her eyes and breathed in the ocean air.
Buffy felt his lips softly graze her bare shoulder and she smiled. His arm moved to encircle her waist and pull her closer. She could feel his growing erection and she gently pushed her ass back, rubbing up against it.
“God, I want you,” he said as he reached around to cup her breast with his left hand. At the same time his right hand started to reach underneath the hem of her dress.
Buffy froze. Her heart began to race as she tried to disengage from his grasp. “Parker, what are you doing?”
“I would think it’s obvious. I don’t want to wait. I want you. Now,” he said pushing her so that she was leaning slightly over the back of the bench. Parker ran his hand up the inside of Buffy’s thigh, “Are you wet enough for me yet?”
“Get off of me! Parker, you’re, you’re drunk, you’re not thinking clearly,” pleaded Buffy as she struggled to set herself free.
Parker just held her tighter against himself. His hand was now hurting her breast.
“Parker, you’re hurting me, let me go!” she begged.
“I’m sorry, thought I could wait until tomorrow to make you mine, but I was wrong. Write the date down-Parker Abrams was wrong,” said Parker.
“You sent the flowers!” gasped Buffy as she tried to pull his hand from her breast.
“Course I sent the flowers, thought that was obvious. I know you had already agreed to come tonight with him. Thought I could wait, but I can’t. I need you Buffy,” said Parker as he pushed his tongue inside Buffy ear.
Buffy jerked her head away. She succeeded in doing nothing more than further exposing her neck to him and he started sucking on it, biting the area under her ear. She pushed back against him hard and now in a total panic said, “Oh my God! You’ve been the one, the one lurking about my house!”
“Never been to your house, Goldilocks, but I’ll take you there, now, if you’d prefer. But, you know, my place is closer. You remember, don’t you Buffy? I remember,” he said as he started to slide his fingers inside of her thong.
“Parker, please, let me go! You’re scaring me, you-” suddenly Buffy was free. She spun around, heart still racing, fear in her eyes. Parker was on his knees before her. William was standing over him, holding Parker’s wrist as an odd angle; Parker was wincing from obvious pain.
“Don’t speak, don’t move, or I break it,” said William through clenched teeth. Imperiale stood about fifteen feet away, next to his daughter. They each held two drinks in their hands. Mariah’s eyes were wide with fear. Imperiale looked like he was trying to decide if he should be disgusted or amused.
“I didn’t do anything she didn’t want- arrrgh-” said Parker, in pain as William increased the pressure on his wrist.
“Thought I told you to keep your gob shut,” threatened William. “Now, from where I was standing I heard her say you were scaring her- right after she asked you to let her go.”
“Yeah, well she’s a tease, she was also grinding her tight little ass into-arrgh- for Christ’s sake I’m a surgeon-you’re going to break my hand!” yelled Parker.
“You should have thought of the BEFORE you put them all over my woman!” said William, so tense that his jaw muscle was twitching.
“Ah, William?” asked Imperiale. “Not that I’m defending Parker here, but, surely you can get satisfaction and still leave him fit for work on Monday?”
William rolled his eyes, then let go of Parker’s hand and took a step back. Parker immediately pulled his wrist to his chest, cradling it as he started to stand. As Parker looked up William struck with a powerful right cross knocking Parker back to his knees. They all heard the bone break and blood began to gush forth out of Parkers nose.
Imperiale took his cell phone out of his pocket, dialed a number, and then said, “It’s me, and I’m at the end of the garden path. I need a bucket of ice and some towels, right away.”
William took his handkerchief out of his pocket and wiped Parker’s blood off his hands. He knelt down next to Parker, and although he spoke softly Buffy clearly heard him say, “Parker, I thought I made it clear to you that you didn’t want to mess with me. You are way out of your league. Trust me, you come near me or mine again and I will not hesitate. I have killed over less. Want to know how I got my nickname? Spike? Was from my first kill, some wanker fucked with me and I shoved a railroad spike clean through his eye. Then, once it was imbedded in his brain I wiggled it around-just a bit-you’re a big smart surgeon. You know what happened. Now, I’m prepared to walk away from this, but I need two things. Do I have your attention?”
Parker nodded as one of Imperiale’s caterers suddenly appeared with a bucket of ice and some towels. Imperiale dismissed them quickly and handed Parker one of the towels so that he could try to stop the bleeding.
“One, you are going to apologize to Buffy, and you are going to sober up. Apparently the alcohol tonight has rendered you both stupid and deaf. And, by the way, I’m being incredibly generous by allowing you that excuse. Two, unless its strictly business and you have to interact, you are to stay the hell away from Buffy. At work, when you find it necessary to be around her, you are going act like a fucking boy scout. I will NOT forget this,” finished William. William stood, folded his handkerchief back up, and placed it back in his pocket. He took a moment to straighten his jacket and tie, and then walked over to Mariah.
“Mariah,” he said extending his hand, “William Crawford, pleasure to meet you. Please, don’t let this incident spoil your vision. This will be an absolutely breathtaking setting for your wedding. I’ll be in touch sometime this week so that I can start gathering information. A year may seem like a long time to plan, but it will be here before you know it.”
William turned to Imperiale, shook his hand, and then reached to interlace his fingers with Buffy. “Vince, I’m terribly sorry about all this, I think Buffy and I should be going. Do me a favor and let Dawn and Conner know that I will send the car back around for them,” he said.
“But it’s early yet, the night it young, stick around. What do you have to run off and do? It’s Saturday night, the party is just getting started,” reasoned Imperiale.
“What do we have to do?” repeated William as he looked intently at Buffy, “We’ve got a date to go sailing.”
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Chapter 30
William had given James the address to the marina and now the three of them were on their way there, driving in silence. Buffy was staring out the window. “So,” said William, “great party. Don’t your think?”
“Did you hear? Parker sent the flowers, denied ever being at the house,” said Buffy.
“You believe him?” asked William skeptically.
“Yeah, I mean, I just can’t see Parker…you know… while he peeped in my window. Normally he’s so confident, cocky even, I just don’t see it…” Buffy trailed off her tone sounding less certain than her words.
“You’d be surprised, pet, sometimes behind the confident, cocky exterior there is just a scared little boy,” said William looking down at this hands.
“What was up with story about your nickname?” Buffy asked placing a hand on William’s knee.
“Wasn’t a story, luv. That’s how I got it. Ok, I embellished the bit about scrambling the brains, got caught up in the moment,” admitted William.
“Stop it!” gasped Buffy. “You mean to tell me you really killed someone?”
“Was self-defense and I was 15. It was the day of the Crawford’s funeral. I had skipped school that day so that I could go. As I walked along the railroad tracks back to the orphanage afterwards I found a loose railroad spike and put it in my pocket. That night I was woken by one of the wards orderlies. I wasn’t about to be buggered. I was small for my age and the sick fuck thought he could just do as he pleased with me. I managed to reach the spike on my nightstand and, somehow, twist around and shove it right into the bastard’s eye. It all happened really fast. Afterwards many of the boys came forward and admitted to being used by him. They all called me Spike after that,” he concluded.
“God, William, what an awful story,” said Buffy as she slid closer to him, wrapping her arms around his arm. “So, where did you learn that move you used on Parker?”
William smirked then, quicker than a flash had Buffy, pinned, underneath him and said, huskily, “Baby, I’ve got all sorts of moves,” before placing an almost chaste kiss on her nose.
“Truth is I’ve studied lots of martial arts and I’ve done some boxing. I wanted to always be able to defend myself. You see, pet, there wasn’t anyone else looking out for me. Only me.” William sat up, pulling Buffy with him. “Come on, it’ll be a beautiful night for a sail.”
The car pulled to a stop in the Marina parking lot. William instructed James to return to the party and wait for Dawn and Conner. He and Buffy then made their way down to the boat. William had Buffy wait on the dock while he unlocked the hatch to the cabin and dropped below.
William opened the middle drawer in the galley and pulled out a plastic bag. He carefully pulled the blood-soaked handkerchief from his pocket and placed it inside, then tucked it into the drawer of the nightstand of the aft cabin. William took a deep breath and as he washed the last of Parker’s blood off his hands assured himself that for now Buffy was safe, that they had this night, and that he was going to make the most of it, for her. Tomorrow he would take her away, do whatever he needed to do to keep her safe.
Buffy noticed the deck lights come on and some soft jazz began to play. William came back up with cushions for the seats, and then disappeared again. This time, when he emerged, he had removed his jacket, shoes, and socks. His bow tie was now undone, he had, unbuttoned the top two buttons of his shirt, and was carrying a bottle of champagne and two glasses in his hands.
He set the champagne down and did a quick check of the boats lines. He then stepped up onto the bench and leaned over the cabled rail, known as the lifeline. Extending his hand towards Buffy he said, “Come on up the stairs, luv, but hold my hand, it can be slippery, especially at night.”
Buffy gingerly climbed the three steps. William had unhooked the lifeline, and taking her hand, led her over so she could sit on the bench. “Have a seat while I take her out.”
William opened the bottle of champagne and poured them each a glass. He then fired up the motor, pulled out of the slip, and headed out into the harbor.
Buffy leaned back to look up into the night sky. The summer night was warm and there was a gentle breeze. The movement of the boat as it rose and fell over the waves was lulling. William looked exceedingly happy as he steered the boat into the wind. His blue eyes met hers and he winked at her before cutting off the engine. “I’m going to drop anchor, be right back.”
Within a few minutes, true to his word, William had returned. As he made his way back towards Buffy, he leaned down and picked up the end of a piece of well-worn cotton line. “Lucky for us, we have plenty of jib sheet I can put to use,” he said as he walked slowly towards her. His gait was almost predatory as he stared intently into her eyes. William sat Buffy’s glass down on the wheels console next to his then reached around her waist and pulled her sharply to him and into a standing position. He took a moment to nuzzle her neck and take in the combined smell of her perfume and the tangy ocean air.
“Do you trust me?” William asked seriously as he pulled back and searched her eyes.
“I-” started Buffy.
“Let me rephrase that,” said William. “You can trust me, Buffy. I promise you, I’ll make it so good for you baby. And, I won’t hurt you, except maybe in a really good way.”
Buffy smiled shyly and felt suddenly embarrassed and afraid to look William in the eye.
William swept Buffy off her feet and carried her the few steps over to the ships wheel. He set her down and kissed her, passionately. He broke off the kiss, and then taking the jib sheet, using a simple slip hitch, he first secured Buffy’s right wrist, then her left.
William brushed the hair back from Buffy’s eyes, “Comfortable, luv?”
Buffy smiled and looked away. William lifted Buffy’s chin so that she looked him in the eyes and said, sternly, “Look me in the eye when I talk to you, wench.”
William noticed Buffy’s eyes widen as he spoke sharply to her. He winked at her in an effort to set her again at ease. He then stepped back and took his time taking in the beautiful creature before him. “You take my breath away,” said William. Buffy’s long, golden, hair was draped over her left folder. She was still dressed in her black high-heeled sandals and red dress. Her wrists were tied to the ships wheel at the 2:00 and 10:00 position. He could visibly see her chest rise and fall as she was breathing rapidly, partially from excitement, perhaps a little bit from fear.
William reached behind Buffy’s neck and unclasped the back of her dress. He slowly let down the halter top, leaving behind a trail of kisses down her neck, around her shoulder, across her breasts, and over her stomach. He fell to his knees before her and as he gazed steadily into her eyes gently pulled the dress down over her slender hips. He coaxed her to first lift one foot, then the other, so that he could toss her dress to the side.
William reached around the side of the console and picked up her glass of champagne. He tilted the glass to Buffy’s lips while he gently ran the pads of his fingers over her right nipple. “Cold, luv?”
“A bit,” she said, softly.
“Not for long,” assured William.
He sat down on the bench across from her and took a leisurely sip of his champagne. Buffy now stood before him dressed only in her black heels, black lace thong, garter belt, and nude stockings. Her breasts were bare and bathed in moonlight. His cock was already throbbing with the need to be inside of her. He was determined, however, to draw this out. He wanted to bring her as much pleasure as possible.
“You’re enjoying this, aren’t you?” she asked.
“I’m going to show you just how much,” replied William as he stood up, finished the champagne, set the empty glass on the console, and then walked slowly towards Buffy.
William covered each of Buffy’s hands with his own then rested his forehead against hers. He slowly brought his lips closer and grazed her mouth, his tongue darting out to sweep across her bottom lip. As she opened her mouth in invitation he slipped his tongue inside and delved deep within it's wetness. He pulled away only to then begin a fierce rain of kisses on her neck. He realized that he had never wanted a woman so badly as he took her earlobe between his teeth and grinding his still clad erection into her growled, “Tell me you’re mine.”
“I’m yours,” said Buffy, breathless.
“Tell me you’re only mine,” demanded William as he took one breast into his mouth and reached down behind her, grabbing her ass to pull her closer seeking more friction.
Buffy panted, “I’m only yours, there’s no one else, William. Only you.”
He dropped to his knees and slowly, possessively ran his hands up her legs. With his index finger he then teasingly traced the tops of one stocking before moving on to the other. Then, finally, William gently coaxed her legs further apart. He licked his lips in anticipation, then reaching behind her pulled her just a little closer. He grabbed her thong underwear with both hands and with a strong tug, ripped the delicate lace panty, then cast it aside.
Buffy was writhing now in anticipation and it only served to excite William further, “Tell me you want me,” he asked.
“I want you,” moaned Buffy, “Please, I need you.”
“What do you need?” asked William, still on his knees, looking up into Buffy’s eyes.
“I need you to make me yours, only yours,” Buffy replied.
William spread her legs, used his fingers to separate her folds, and then he slowly dragged his tongue up the length of her slit. She was already wet and he gratefully lapped up her juices. He explored her inner folds, applying pressure with his tongue. Then using just the tip he flicked his tongue across her clit for a few seconds before taking it lightly between his teeth, pulling on it gently. William could feel Buffy’s excitement growing as her juices flowed exquisitely into his mouth.
He took two of his fingers and slipped them inside of her, moving them in and out in time to her now thrusting hips as his mouth continued to pull on her sensitive bundle of nerves.
“More!” demanded Buffy.
William grinned, in pride, as he kept up his ministrations, but added an additional finger. He gently curled the fingers of the hand moving inside of her forward, searching for the spot that would ensure her release. At the same time he gently pressed down on her lower abdomen. He could hear Buffy’s breathing becoming more and more ragged. Her hands struggled against the bonds that held them. She wanted desperately to entwine them in his hair and pull his head closer to her center, but she couldn’t. Her upper torso arched forward, her head was thrown back as she pulled against the ropes. Her legs and thighs were quivering, then trembling, and then, she came- screaming his name- he had never heard a more satisfying sound.
William rolled back onto his heels, wiped his mouth with the back of his hand, and gazed up at Buffy. She was glistening with a sheer layer of perspiration, her hair was tousled, her breathing winded, her skin flush, she looked wanton as she gazed at him through dazed eyes. He had never seen anything so beautiful, and for that moment, he knew she was his.
William stood up and while she watched him, he slowly licked his fingers. Then, he kissed her, softly, deeply on the mouth. As he broke off the kiss he wrapped his arm around her waist and released the knots that held her wrists.
“Thank you, luv,” he said as he kissed her behind her ear. “Now, you answer however you want, what do you want?”
Buffy pulled back and searched his eyes. “Did he think this was only a game? A role play?” she thought. Buffy reached up and caressed the side of William’s face before responding, “I want you, only you.”
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CHAPTER 31
William ran his thumb gently across Buffy’s lips before kissing her softly. “Ill be right back, luv. Pour us some more champagne, he said before disappearing below deck.
He returned a moment later with the down comforter from the aft cabin and a pillow. William pulled a couple of the seat cushions off of the benched and laid them on the deck. He then spread out the comforter and dropped the pillow on top. Buffy sauntered over to William and handed him his glass of champagne.
“Someone’s very overdressed,” she said.
William took a sip of his champagne while he slowly walked around Buffy, looking her over closely, “Well, I could be wrong, luv, but I don’t think it’s you.”
Buffy smiled as she shook her head, “No, definitely not me,” she said as she lay down to recline on the comforter.
William leaned down and handed her his glass, “Hold this for me, will you, pet?”
William then pulled the tie from around his collar and dropped it on the makeshift bed. Next he started to unbutton his shirt, his eyes never leaving Buffy’s. His skin shown pale under the moonlight and Buffy openly admired his body as it was revealed to her. His beauty never ceased to amaze her. He slowly removed his shirt and let it fall to the deck. He then unbuttoned the waist of his trousers and gradually eased down the zipper. He hooked his thumbs over the waist of his boxers and pants, slipped them down, stepped out of them, and then pushed them aside. He was hard with want for her, his erection jutting proudly from his body.
“This better, luv?” William asked as he moved to join her on the blanket.
Buffy set their drinks on the deck and reclined back again the pillow as she watched William move towards her. The soft rocking of the boat reminded her, vaguely, of their earlier dance. The night air was warm against her bare skin. The ocean was unusually still, although she could still hear it lapping against the side of the boat. William lay down beside her and reaching out to cup her face asked, “My love, how long will this paradise last?” As Buffy opened her mouth to respond he quickly covered lips with the tips of his fingers and moved to hover over her, saying, “Like the springs breeze you have renewed my faith.”
He looked, deeply into her eyes and whispered with almost heart-breaking sincerity, “First, you looked into my eyes, then my heart.”
He kissed her lower lip, pulling it into his mouth and gently sucking on it before showering a rain of kisses down her neck. He could taste the salt on her skin. Her hands had entwined themselves in his hair and he reached for first one, then the other. He interlaced his hands with hers and positioned them slightly above her head before leaning down. As he gently slipped inside of her he whispered into her ear, “Now, love, it is my soul that you have reached.
William slid in and out of her, totally absorbed in the feel of her, so tight, so wet, so-his. Buffy felt overcome with emotion, never had she been made love to with such intensity. William’s eyes seemed to glisten in the moonlight with unshed tears of wonder as he continued, “My lonely soul had so long lied dormant, now it sings each sunrise a joyous song. Its soft, sweet melody with you I share.”
As he continued to steadily thrust inside of her Buffy could sense that his excitement was building. He bit down on his lower lip then briefly rested his forehead against hers while making an effort to control himself. “Under the summer’s sky, together, we love,” he declared.
His control began to shatter and he reached down to apply the pressure to her clit that she so desperately needed, “The stars witness the joining of our bodies-”
William thrusts were deeper now and with each stroke he pulled out almost completely before burying himself in her up to the hilt. He continued to stroke her, he hand reaching between their bodies. She tilted her hips upward and wrapped her legs around his waist, increasing the angle-increasing their pleasure, “Glowing, glistening, giving approval,” said William as his breath became more ragged and he felt Buffy’s body begin to tremble beneath him.
He surrendered to his emotions, to the almost incomprehensible sensations running through his body and came with her. His seed spilling into her womb as freely as he had spilled all that was locked up in his heart. As his breathing returned to normal he kissed her lips, cheeks, eyes, nose, before pulling back, still inside of her and saying, “Like others I’ve loved will you leave me soon? Like the heavens stars will you be beyond reach?” He rolled off her, slipping out and wrapping his arms around her pulled her close. “I thank God for you, for the time we have.”
William reached across Buffy and grasping the end of the comforter pulled it over to cover them. He could sense that she was already drifting off to slumber, and so was he. As the gentle rocking of the boat lulled him further just as sleep overtook him, he asked, “My love, how long will this paradise last?”
As William drifted off he heard Buffy dreamily respond, “Let’s make this last forever,” before she joined him in what was at last for both of them a peaceful sleep.
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Chapter 32
Buffy woke up as the sun started to break over the horizon to the smell of fresh coffee and bacon cooking. She was still warm and snuggly under the comforter and she stretched, languidly.
“Ohhhh, Caaaaptain? Your wench is hungry!” she teased.
“Breakfast is coming right up, my feisty little vixen,” William said as he climbed up the ladder and handed her a steaming cup of coffee.
“My hero!” exclaimed Buffy with mock enthusiasm.
William leaned over, and pressing his lips to hers, gave Buffy a good morning kiss. “Last night was-incredible Buffy. I…you…”
Buffy smiled as she took a sip of her coffee, “We are good together, aren’t we?” she asked.
“I’d go for bloody brilliant, luv, the things you do” marveled William as he tucked a loose strand of hair behind her ear.
“So,” said Buffy coyly. “Does that mean no more practice?”
“No!” said William quickly, “You know, practice makes perfect. We’re close, but not quite there yet.”
“Hungry,” pouted Buffy.
“Coming right up! Got bacon, eggs, and biscuits. When I moved out of my apartment I stored the food I thought would keep awhile here. No real milk for the coffee though, just the fake stuff. How about we eat up here?” William asked.
“Perfect!” said Buffy as she picked up Williams tuxedo shirt from the deck and slipped into it.
The morning was spectacular. They ate their fill, enjoyed their coffee, and then spent a few hours sailing around the harbor. It was a perfect day for sailing. As the wind filled the sails the boat cut a graceful path through the ocean.
By mid-morning they had started to head back to the dock. Buffy and William cleaned up from breakfast, dressed, and then began to secure the boat. By noon they were in the back of a taxi, on their way back to Buffy’s. Buffy reached for William’s hand and interlacing her fingers with his said, “I almost don’t want to go back, to real life, I mean.”
“You just need more of last night in your real life. Just need to figure out what it was about last night that you enjoyed so much, and then make sure that you get more of it,” suggested William.
“Oh, I think we both know which parts I enjoyed,” teased Buffy as she drew little circles on the back of William’s hand.
“My memory might be fading a bit, you might need to remind me,” he whispered into her ear as they pulled into Buffy’s driveway.
“Bloody Hell! Unbelievable!” exclaimed William as he noticed Parker sitting on the steps in front of Buffy’s front door. He was still dressed in his tuxedo from the night before, his shirtfront still covered in blood. His nose had been reset and bandaged, both of his eyes black. He looked like hell but the amount of satisfaction that would have given William was driven away by the fact of his mere presence.
William paid the driver, then after exiting the car himself he reached in to help Buffy out. “Let me see what he wants,” said William.
Buffy watched as William confidently walked towards Parker, all sex and swagger. Parker stood up, hands in his pockets, looking rather sheepish. As Buffy walked up closer she heard Parker say, “I came to apologize to Buffy. And, well, to you too. I had too much to drink and acted impulsively. I really want to make things right again. I really want things to be just as they were between us.”
“Go away, Parker,” said William.
“William, he’s trying to apologize,” said Buffy softly as she walked out from behind William so that Parker could speak to her directly.
“Buffy, I really am sorry. I thought that the initial start that we had was just too fast for you and so, since then I’ve worked at just trying to build a friendship. Working alongside of you, everyday, I was waiting for you to be ready to take our relationship to the next step. I thought that was what you wanted too. But now, I see you with William, and well, it’s hard to admit…to watch you fall in love with someone so quickly, someone that wasn’t me. I had convinced myself that if I just continued to be patient that you would come to care for me. I’m, I’m sorry for everything.” Parker trailed off.
Buffy reflexively glanced at William when Parker mentioned her being in love and saw William almost imperceptibly shake his head. Was that what people thought? What William thought? They’ve known each other for such a short time…..
“I’m sorry,” said Buffy, “if I ever did anything to lead you on, Parker. I can accept your apology, but things can’t be just as they were between us. You need to know that a relationship between the two of us is not going to happen. You’ll find just the right girl someday Parker, someone that will give you what you deserve in a relationship.”
“Thanks for understanding Buffy,” said Parker before extending his hand out to William, “William? No hard feelings?”
Buffy nudged William’s shoulder then left the two men alone as she walked up unlocked the door and went inside.
William glanced down at the ground briefly and shook his head a smirk emerging as he looked back up to meet Parker’s eyes. He could see Buffy watching the two of them through the living room window as he reached out to accept Parker’s outstretched hand.
Still holding Parker’s hand in his strong grasp, William stepped a little closer and in a low voice, with a hint of admiration said, “That, mate, was something.”
“Aww, shucks,” said Parker a smile forming on his lips, “that means so much, coming from you.”
“The way I see it,” explained William, “you think you’ve managed to get back into her good graces with this little gesture. Now, aside from the fact that she doesn’t want you, you’ve only got one other obstacle. Me.”
William let go of Parker’s hand, walked up and opened the door leaving Parker in the driveway. Before crossing the threshold he turned and said, “You see, Parker, I’m not going away, and I’m a lot harder to convince.”
________________________________
Chapter 33.
The lights were dimmed on American Airlines flight 100 to London, Heathrow. Buffy and William had flown from LAX to JFK where they boarded the luxurious Boeing 777. William had used his frequent flyer miles to upgrade his ticket to first class and to pay for Buffy’s ticket. They had had a bit of an argument about her wanting to pay her own way. When he pointed out how much he would have to pay a private case manager to accompany him to London and assist with making arrangements for Drusilla’s care, Buffy relented.
The seats extended back, all the way, like a bed. Each seat was equipped with data-ports and a movie screen. For the first portion of the flight William tried to work on his computer while Buffy watched “My Big Fat Greek Wedding”. After twenty minutes of trying not to watch it on Buffy’s screen, without sound, he finally surrendered and put on his own headset so that he could enjoy the film with her.
Now, she was sleeping. The flight attendants had come around after serving dinner and “made up their beds”. William always had a hard time sleeping on planes and he wasn’t hopeful that this flight would be any different. He tried to stay focused on work, but his thoughts kept drifting to his sister and the inevitable struggles that she had before her. He had to admit, if only to himself, that he was afraid for her, for him. He was also worried about Buffy.
He looked over at her, sleeping peacefully, golden hair fanned out on the pillow beneath her head. He shifted in his seat, turning onto his side so that he could study her more comfortably. He wondered how he had ever gotten himself into this position. His entire life, caring only for himself, now, suddenly, two women that he felt compelled to watch over, to care for.
He started to write:
II
How is it that I have let this happen?
This is an unfamiliar dance for me.
The melody new, the steps never tried.
How have you taken such hold of my heart?
What powers, my siren, do you possess?
I gazed for the first time into your eyes
And suddenly felt my silent heart beat.
No longer still. It beat, it time, with yours.
My soul, it sang as you looked upon it, me.
Your gaze travels down my body, I live.
As your hand caresses my skin, I want.
More. More of you, of love, of life, I want.
Want so desperately for you to know,
Know how it is you can make me feel.
It took some time for William to complete the 14 lines of iambic pentameter that composed a tradition sonnet. But, by the time he was finished he felt satisfied, sleepy. William pulled a pad of Post-it’s out of his briefcase. He carefully wrote the verse down and after sticking it to the back of the seat in front of Buffy went peacefully to sleep knowing that when she woke, it would be the first thing that she saw.
Buffy opened her eyes slowly as she gradually woke from sleep. The first thing that she noticed was how peaceful William’s face looked, asleep, beside her. It wasn’t the first time that she had woken up beside him, and she found herself wishing for many other mornings such as this. The thought was fleeting, however, and she quickly scolded herself for the indulgence.
The flight attendant walked through the cabin and Buffy requested some club soda. As she brought her seat to an upright position she saw the Post-it notes and began to read. As she finished reading the last line she could feel his eyes on her.
She turned her head slowly; his eyes were open but still slightly glazed over from sleep. “Hey, sleepyhead,” she said smiling softly.
“Kind of surprised I dozed off,” admitted William sitting up again in his chair.
Buffy leaned over and whispered, “Thank you, it’s beautiful,” as she rubbed her cheek against his.
“Not a beautiful as you,” William whispered back before taking her face in his hands and kissing her. As her mouth opened slightly, he gently pulled on her lower lip with his teeth.
A soft moan escaped Buffy as she felt his tongue slip inside. His hand moved of it’s own accord to cup the roundness of her full breast. The kiss was long and lingering as he explored the warm heat of her mouth. He stroked her tongue, tenderly, with his. He could feel his arousal building and was struggling to keep his need for her in check. As he pulled back from the kiss she snuggled against him and said, “I need to ask you something and I want an honest answer.”
“Shoot,” he responded.
“It’s about what Parker said yesterday,” she started.
“About you falling in love with me so quickly,” William finished. “I think he was trying to make you uncomfortable. Probably trying to make both of us uncomfortable. Don’t worry, luv, my eyes are clear. Not that you’ll be able to resist my sinister charms forever. The way I figure it? Eventually I will wear you down, or wear you out trying,” said William suggestively with a raise of his eyebrow.
Buffy nodded and looked away. William reached for her hand and she looked back into her eyes, “What else?” he asked.
“How do you feel? About this?” she asked hesitantly.
“Hell,” scoffed William, “thought I was wearing my heart on my bloody sleeve,” he finished, gesturing to the poem that still rested in her lap.
“So, they’re not just words?” she asked.
William tilted his head to the side as her meaning finally dawned on him. “You’ve heard words of love before and found that you couldn’t trust in them. My words scare you,” he said as he brought her hand and held it to his heart.
“The fact that I find myself wanting to believe them scares me,” admitted Buffy as she snuggled into his embrace.