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Copyright © September 2009 by Faye Draco
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Freaks And Geeks For Evie
by
Faye Draco
Chapter 1
"Damn it, Ivan, you're supposed to be honest with her."
"I told you, there wasn't time," Ivan said, running his long fingers through his shiny blonde hair.
"Can someone please be honest with me?" Evie asked.
Barry pulled a sheet of paper from the back pocket of his jeans and handed it to her. It was a medical report.
She sighed with relief. "Oh, I see. You too then? You should've emailed." She looked at the two of them. "But what if I choose one of you? Won't the other be angry? Especially living next door to each other?" She looked again from one to the other.
"Evie. Since Ivan has obviously made nothing clear, I'd like to fix that," Barry said. He took her hand and led her to the sofa. "The thing is that I'm a lab technician and Ivan does research at the university. Not alot of dating opportunities for either of us. Neither one of us is really into the club scene, and we'd just like a nice partner to do things with like movies, dinners, etc. We both loved your picture, and you're even more stunning in person. We're both hard working, honest men, and we're best friends. We can provide well for you..."
"Wait. We?"
"Ah, yeah. We. We would like to...share. Not at the same time," he said and held up his hands. "We'd each have our own time with you. That is, if you would agree to something like that."
Two men? Two homes? She wasn't expecting that. And yet it was a bit exciting. And they were both cute. But she didn't want to look too eager. She didn't want to seem like some kind of slutty chic you meet on the Internet.
"I'm sorry, Evie, I should have said something before you came over," Ivan began.
Evie stood up and walked a few paces away and looked at the two of them. Two. The possibilities ran through her mind again. "No, it's okay. It's something to think about."
Barry stood up then and faced her. They were both about ten feet away from her, standing by the fireplace in Ivan's living room.
"There's something else you should think about," Barry said. "Now, don't be worried or anything, because I'm going to stay right here. I'm not going to move. But you mentioned a little something in your ad that was important and I think you need to know what you might be choosing if you choose us, okay?"
"Okay," she said, not knowing where this was going until Barry suddenly unbuttoned his jeans, slid down the zipper and pulled himself out right there for her to see.
She couldn't say anything, she just stared. He was beautiful. Large and well formed, and shaved smooth. And the longer she looked, the more he lengthened, and when she looked into his eyes, they were misted over and he swallowed, just standing there for her, holding himself out to her like an offering. Wow. She felt herself pooling with heat and moisture until she was jolted when Ivan said,
"Barry! My God, man, just whip it out, why don't you?! And what the hell is that?" he demanded, pointing at Barry. "You have a piercing? It's right above the base of your..."
"Shut up!" Barry said, knocking Ivan's hand down. "Don't scare her." He looked back to Evie. "Sorry, Evie, Ivan gets a bit worked up. Yes, it's a piercing. If things go well I'll be happy to explain it all later. In the meantime," he said, looking back to Ivan, "I think you should show Evie the goods before she leaves."
Ivan's face turned red. "You mean..."
"Yes," Barry said firmly. "Drop trou so Evie knows what she might be getting into. You don't want her to pick someone else just because you're chickenshit, do you?"
Ivan's face was still red, but he looked at Evie and said, "No. I don't want her to pick someone else."
Evie blinked and she couldn't help it when her eyes wandered down Ivan's body.
"I'll stay right here too, Evie, okay? Nothing to worry about," he said.
"Okay." What should she say? Yes, you're yummy! Pull it out so I can dream of you tonight?
Ivan closed his eyes and pulled down his zipper, then tugged himself out for her to see.
"Nice, man," Barry said. Ever helpful Barry. At least Ivan opened his eyes now if for no other reason than to roll them at Barry. He couldn't believe he was exposing himself to this beautiful woman for her inspection.
But when he saw how she was looking at him, he couldn't control the desire shooting through him, and he felt himself lengthening in his hand.
Here they were, Ivan and Barry, holding themselves out, half hard for her to judge. And it felt good and hot and forbidden. And Ivan got harder.
Evie was not disappointed. Ivan was delicious. Long and thick and light colored with a dusting of pale blonde hair. Perfectly delicious. She loved fair skinned men. The lighter the better. Though Barry's light brown hair and good looks were very nice too. Her heart was thrumming fast in her chest, but she knew she had to pull her gaze away. She turned and found her purse.
"Um, thank you, guys," she said and they both zipped up. "Barry, is your number on the paper you gave me?"
"Oh, ah, no, I don't think so. Here," he said, almost running to the pad of paper by the phone and scribbling his number and jogging back to her.
She took the paper. "Thanks. So, just so we're clear, do you both approve of me?"
Both men nodded quickly.
"So it's up to me then?"
"It would appear so," Ivan said, moving to her. "I'm sorry about all this. We're really normal guys. We're not freaks or perverts."
Evie looked down. "I know that, Ivan," a shiver ran down his spine again when she spoke his name, "I think I can tell the difference. And I appreciate your honesty and forthcoming," she said and blushed.
Both men looked at each other.
"Anyway, I think I'll go for now. Barry, if it's okay, can I come by tomorrow and see your half of the house?"
Barry looked like someone had set off a firecracker in his shorts. "Absolutely! Come by anytime after 5:30."
"And you're really serious about sharing?" she asked them both.
They looked at each other and nodded. "Yes," they said together.
Evie nodded, not giving anything away. "I'll see you tomorrow then." She made for the door, but they both leapt in front of her, and Ivan opened it for her. They both went to her car too.
Barry kissed her on the cheek, and Ivan kissed her hand. She got in and pulled away.
*
As Evie entered her small apartment she thought of how this had all started. About her failed relationship that had lasted three years. Now Evie was twenty-six and it was three years of her life lost.
Oh, Trent had been wonderful at first. And in certain ways she still thought he was. He was handsome and fun to be with. Smart, witty. But he was selfish. That was painfully clear. They hadn't lived together. She was thankful for that now, but she never even asked because early on he'd made it very clear that it went against his principles. Yeah, his selfish principles. He did not like to share. But it was difficult to pay for her own meal at an upscale restaurant on her salary. And he refused to go anywhere more reasonably priced. And to his selfish credit, unless it was a very special occasion it was always dutch. She'd finally had enough when he suggested she pay for their parking. Enough of Trent. Enough of selfishness. Now she had two guys who wanted to share...her. The prospect of it made her toes tingle. And maybe she could quit her job. Especially if two guys were taking care of her.
Evie worked as a photographer's assistant. And though it had variety and was kind of fun sometimes, it didn't pay very well. And even though it may offend the feminist movement, what she really wanted was to stay home, or maybe sometime work out of her home. But mostly she wanted to stay home and enjoy her man - whoever that might be.
And she was done wasting her time. Did she want to throw another three years down the drain in hopes of that special someone giving her what her heart ached for, only to have it stripped away again? Nope. Not worth the time. Not worth the effort. She wouldn't be young forever. So what did she really want then?
She wanted a nice home of her own. She wanted to be able to stay home. No more work. Work sucked. She wanted to be taken care of and be treated well. And she wanted a man who was kind to her, generous, and great in bed. Love? Love was completely optional. It was mostly impossible to find anyway, and usually disappointing. Good sex and a nice home seemed like a better bet.
She recalled the ad she'd placed on craigslist that had led her to Ivan...and Barry.
'Mutual exchange. Attractive young woman seeks good home and good man. I'm honest and kind and would like to be taken care of. I'll take care of your home and your bed. You should be under 40, good natured, generous and a good lover. You should also be taller than 5'8" and respectable down south - and I don't mean Georgia! I'm looking for a long-term, friends with benefits relationship. Romance optional, but not required. Medical history is required and I will gladly provide same. All serious offers considered. Send your details to my email address. We can exchange photos and phone numbers from there. Thanks boys!'
The ad seemed to say everything she wanted to say, and it hadn't taken long to get dozens of responses. About half of them were pervs, but there were some good ones in the bunch. She filtered them out one by one, then she'd meet them at the local coffee shop and if she liked what she saw and felt safe with them, she'd go check out their house - which might ultimately be her house. There had only been one guy besides Ivan whose house she'd seen. She'd put a little star by his name, but now it seemed insignificant. When Ivan had walked into the coffee shop, she knew instantly that she would be going to his house.
He was tall and very blonde. Ivan Sokov. Russian. Oh yes, she'd heard her horror stories about Russian men, but looking at Ivan she wasn't sure she could believe them. There was something about him that was very enticing. Very pleasing.
True, he was a bit stuffy. Clinical almost. But his ice green eyes had a way of looking at her that made her insides melt.
Though she'd almost laughed when he'd placed a brown padded folder on the table between them and extracted a detailed profile sheet along with a medical history and test results. They were both neat, crisp, and entirely wrinkle free. Kind of like Ivan.
The profile sheet listed all of Ivan's traits and info.
Height: 6'3"
Weight: 185 lbs.
Hair color: blonde
Eye color: green
Age: 33
Birthdate: June 3
Allergies: none
It also listed his name, address, phone number, cell number and email address. Very thorough.
"This all seems very good," she'd said to him, not really knowing what else to say. He was so quiet. "Do you have any questions for me?"
"I know you mentioned it on the phone, but I just want to be clear that you would be living at my house, is that correct?"
"Yes. I want a home of my own. I want a long-term relationship that will provide that."
"Good. Very good."
"Ivan, may I ask why you're interested in this type of situation and what you expect out of it?"
Ivan's ice green eyes met her brown ones and his intensity moved through her. She had wondered then what it might be like to kiss him, and if that might be happening anytime soon.
"Certainly. You may ask anything at all and I'll give you my best, honest answer. The truth is that my family is very traditional."
"Your family is Russian?"
"Yes. Though I don't adhere to many of the traditions. However, it has become increasingly uncomfortable for me in recent years. My parents expect me to marry. I have, as yet, been unable to find a bride. My work is quite isolated, and I don't go out much." He looked pointedly at Evie and nodded. "If you were to decide to live with me, I would very much like you to act the wife for my family get togethers. And I would enjoy...companionship." His cheeks reddened a little at this, but his eyes never left hers. "And you?"
"Oh. Well, as it said in the ad, I want my own home and companionship too. I'm tired of wasting years on boyfriends who turn out to be dead ends."
After some more small exchanges she'd asked to follow him to his home to have a look around.
Evie sat on her bed and looked at the digital photos she'd snapped of the inside of Ivan's home. It was a side by side double house and Barry owned the side on the right and Ivan had the side on the left. They were buying it together. Best friends. She'd have to find out more about that, and why they would want to share a woman.
The pictures had come out nice. They showed Ivan's large, elegant living room with the matching sofa, love seat, and two chairs. The fireplace, the light colored tile floor, the large area rugs. The kitchen was beautiful too. Modern appliances and granite counter tops. There was a nice bedroom downstairs, as well as a study with Ivan's computer. The upstairs had two bedrooms with a bathroom between them. One bedroom was decked out in shades of cream with laces and ruffles and Evie had wondered why. Did he have it done that way in hopes that she would see it? Would it be her room? Or would she share his room? His room was masculine in a pleasant way with shades of cream and warm brown. Neat. Very, very neat and orderly. Evie wasn't sure if she could live up to his standards there. She wasn't super neat like he was and it might bother him. And she wasn't exactly sure what her duties might entail. Was she supposed to cook and clean? She wasn't real keen on that. Cooking, maybe. Sometime. After she really learned how. That might be kind of nice. Cleaning, not so much. She'd ask.
And she hadn't even seen Barry's side of the house yet. She recalled as Ivan had led her back downstairs after seeing the bedrooms that Barry came bursting through the door that connected the two sides of the house in the middle.
He had stood there for a moment and just stared at Evie. And then he moved in.
"Hello, I'm Barry. Barry Ricker. I live in the other side," he said, extending his hand to her with a large smile on his face.
Evie took the hand and shook it gently. He was pleasant looking. Not real tall. Probably 5'10" with sandy brown hair and a medium build.
"Evie St. James," she'd said. "You're Ivan's neighbor?"
Barry had sent a look to Ivan and then back to Evie. "Best friend, actually. Um, Ivan should've mentioned that, right, Ivan?"
Ivan looked nervous and his eyes shifted from Evie to Barry. "Um, yes, but there wasn't time."
"Sure, buddy. Wasn't time. I think Ivan wants to keep you for himself," Barry said to Evie.
And that's how it had begun. Sharing. Two men. She could still see them standing there, holding themselves out to her like she was a goddess and they were at her mercy. Her mouth went dry just thinking about it. She could hardly wait to see Barry's half of the house and get a few more answers. This could actually work!
Chapter 2
"You fucking scared her off. She's not coming," Ivan said.
It was nearly 8:00 and Evie hadn't shown up yet. Barry had been waiting since 5:00. He'd even taken off early from work just in case.
"I did not scare her off. She liked it. She's a very sexy girl. Did you see her eyes? She's not scared," Barry countered, looking out the window for the hundredth time.
"Well she thinks we're sickos then. What gave you the bright idea to just pull it out? And why'd you make me do it too?"
"Because," Barry said in exhaustion, "she specified in her ad. I didn't want to be turned down if she thought we didn't measure up. I mean, Ivan, can you imagine how many guys answered her ad? Do you think they're all playing by the rules? You have to stand out."
"Yeah, well, we stood out alright. Out and up." Ivan shook his head.
"God, she's foxy, isn't she? That dark hair, those big, dark eyes. Pink skin. I'll bet she's pink in alot of places. And the bod is fantastic. Too bad she didn't wear that little bikini top she had on in her pic."
Ivan shook his head again.
"Shit! She's here!" Barry yelled, watching her pull up the drive. "Get your ass out of here, Iv, you had her last night. I get her to myself tonight."
"I'm going," he said and left through their adjoining door. But he didn't want to go. He wanted to see her again too.
A knock sounded and Barry leapt to answer it.
There she stood, bathed in the porch light, little droplets of rain sparkling in her dark hair.
"Hi, Evie," he beamed.
"Hi. Sorry I'm so late. We had a long shoot and I couldn't get out of it."
"Shoot?"
"Yeah. Ah, Barry, do you think we could discuss this inside? It's kind of raining out here," she looked hopefully at him.
He jerked a little. "Oh jeez, I'm sorry. I'm an idiot. Please come on in. Let me take your coat." God, he was dumb. Way to go, Barry. Leave her standing out in the rain, why don't you?
She came in, but she looked a little tired now that he could see her with the indoor lights.
"Can I get you a drink or something?"
She shook her head. "I better not. I didn't have dinner yet."
"Come on," he said and took her by the hand.
Evie noted that Barry's place was laid out exactly like Ivan's, only it was a mirror image. But that's where the similarities ended. Ivan's home was cool and neat with light colors and clear glass accents. Barry's was warm and rich. Expensive carpets, wooden furniture, oil paintings on the walls, copper kettles in the kitchen, candles, and potted plants. Beautiful and inviting.
"Sit here, honey," he said and led her to a lovely round wooden table in the kitchen. "Do you like chicken?" he asked, his head stuck in the refrigerator.
"Yes, but I don't want you to go to any trouble. I just came to see the house. I didn't mean to keep you waiting so long."
Barry took out the broiled chicken and gave her a look. "Evie, you did not just come to see the house. And if you think I'm going to pull you around while you're fainting from hunger, you're way wrong." He began slicing the chicken, made a quick side salad, some bread and butter, and a cup of hot tea. "There now. Eat. And tell me about this shoot."
She looked up at him through her dark lashes. He really was rather attractive. Pleasant looking with hazel eyes and a broad mouth that liked to smile. He was smiling at her now.
She started to eat and relax. It was nice here. She could get used to this. And he made her feel comfortable.
"A photo shoot. I'm an assistant."
"Ah, now I get it. Do you like it?"
"The only thing I'll really like about it is quitting. It's mostly hauling lights and equipment around, setting up backdrops, checking exposures, and things like that."
"So you definitely want to quit then?"
She nodded, chewing on her sliced chicken. "When I find the right situation."
"Well I think it would be lovely to have you at home, Evie. Not that I'm pushing anything. I just want you to know that I think it would be...nice to come home to you."
She blushed a little bit. "Do you mind if I ask a few questions?"
"Ask away. I'm all yours," he said with a wink.
She lowered her eyes and smiled, then looked back up at him. "So what would my duties include?"
"Duties? What do you mean?"
"Well," she said, stroking a hand through her long hair, "like laundry, dishes, shopping, stuff like that."
"Oh, I get it. Well, we're not hiring a maid, honey. I don't expect that. I want you to be my friend and lover. So do as much or as little as you like. I get a cleaning person in once a week anyway. Cook whatever you want. I have a nice laundry room - I'll show you that. But I've been doing my own laundry for a long time, so I don't expect you to have to. I'm more interested in having dinner with you. Going shopping together. Watching something stupid on TV together. I'm tired of being alone. And even though Ivan is good company, it's not the same."
Evie nodded. "What about Ivan? What does he expect?"
"Well, you'll have to talk to him about that, I suppose. I don't want to speak for him."
"And what about this sharing thing? How will that work?"
Barry put his fingers together. "We've discussed it a little. We thought for starters, one week on and one week off. Like that. You would switch sides of the house, spending a week here with me and then a week with Ivan. We could make an assessment after that and see how it goes."
"Well, if you don't mind my asking, why would you want to share?"
"That's a fair question. But the answer is pretty logical. We're logical guys. We share a house and we've seen alot of friends torn apart by their women. Not one woman. Women. Many of them just can't get along. I even knew of two brothers who were as close as anyone could be until they each got married. Since their women can't get along they don't even see each other anymore. I think they might make a phone call on Christmas. That's just sad. I don't want to lose my best friend, and neither does he. We thought the best solution, aside from pure economics was to share."
"Yeah, I've seen that too." Evie agreed.
"Evie, I'd like to ask you a question. I know that the whole idea of sharing is a little bizarre, and in order for it to work you have to like both of us. I know we're really opposites and some people wonder how we can even be friends."
"Mm hm," she said, nodding her head.
"So, do you think you could like us both? If you can't you should say so right away."
"I already do like you both. And I have noticed that you're very different. How long have you been friends?"
Barry let out a breath he'd been holding. She liked them both. With Ivan's good looks he wasn't sure she'd really go for his rather average appearance. Then again on the other hand, Ivan could be off-putting with his one word answers and glaring scowls. If they could combine themselves into one man they'd be about perfect. "We've been friends since high school."
"You're the same age then?"
"No, I'm a year older. 34, actually. Didn't I tell you that?"
She shook her head.
"Sorry. I know there's alot you don't know about me yet. It just seems so nice with you here, like I've already known you a long time. So anyway, here are the basics. I'm 34, my birthday's in August. I have three sisters that are all older than me. My parents are retired and traveling the country in their RV. I work in a lab doing tests. I like all kinds of movies. I like books about wizards and sci-fi. I hate fried rice and soy milk. That's about it."
She laughed. "Okay, well, I'm 26. My birthday's in November. I have an older brother, but I never hear from him. My mother raised me, but she passed on four years ago. I like all kinds of movies too and books about vampires. I hate okra and spinach."
"Very complete. Now I know you utterly. Come on, now that you're fed I want to show you around." He pulled her up by the hand, but didn't move away. He moved closer, pulling her gently to him. "Is this okay?" he asked softly.
Evie could feel desire pulse through her at his closeness. Oooh, Barry was sexy. "Yes," she said, but it came out all breathy.
He pulled her closer, tighter, his arms around her waist, and she could feel him pressing against her. And she knew what was waiting for her. She'd seen it the night before, and it made her ache with longing. He lowered his head to hers, touching her lips softly, sweetly. Then more firmly, and she let her lips part and he moved his tongue in tentatively, tasting her, his hips pressed to hers, and he groaned, pulling her to him. He released her mouth and touched his forehead against her, his eyes closed. "My God, Evie. My God," he whispered, breathing raggedly, still holding her tight. After several moments he released her and stepped back a pace.
She was surprised at how empty she felt when he left her arms. He was so warm. So open. He felt so familiar and good to her.
"Sorry about that. I don't want to push you. I just couldn't seem to help myself." He looked embarrassed.
Evie took his hand. "Don't be sorry, Barry, it was lovely. You're very nice. I think we could make good companions."
He kissed her softly once more. "Yes, very good companions," he said. "Now let me show you the house."
The rest of the rooms were as beautiful as the living room and kitchen. The downstairs bedroom was decorated in shades of mint green with embroidered pillows with little flowers on them. There was an elegant lamp on the nightstand and empty bookshelves. The upstairs bedroom was decked out in pink and white roses. A rose printed comforter adorned the large bed, there was a shabby chic dresser with decal roses, and a white lamp on the matching nightstand. This room included a little TV in addition to the empty bookshelves.
"Barry?" She couldn't resist going around the roses room and touching things. It was so pretty. He watched her every move with a little smile.
"Yes?"
"Would this be my room?"
"If you'd like it to be. I decorated it with you in mind. But you can have any room you like, honey."
"What about later, you know, if we're together? I really like the roses." She looked up at him hopefully.
"Evie, if you
want to cover my room in roses it's fine with me."
She smiled. "Barry?"
"Yes, Evie?" He gave her a crooked grin.
"I think we should talk to Ivan. Or maybe you should."
"You don't want to talk to him?"
Evie fiddled with her fingers and looked down. "Yeah, I do, but I'm not so sure he wants to. He seems kind of...reluctant."
"Cold, distant, bastard-like?" Barry laughed.
Evie let out a sigh. "Well, maybe not the last one."
"Mm hm, that's just because you're too sweet to say so. Look, he isn't really like that. He's just quiet. He doesn't always know what to say. If we were both a little better at this we probably would've been married a long time ago. Let me go downstairs and ask him to come in. You just look around some more. Make yourself comfortable, okay?"
"Okay."
Barry went to find Mr. cold and bastard-like himself. If Ivan ruined this he was gonna be pissed.
When he thought about that kiss again he nearly cried out with longing. She was something. And he wanted her.
Ivan opened the door and Barry stepped in. He spoke in a hushed voice so Evie wouldn't hear him.
"She wants to talk to you. I think she wants to work out the details, but she wasn't sure you'd want to."
"What? Why not? I can't wait to get her here." Ivan looked genuinely shocked.
"Because you're being Ivan the Ice Man again. She thinks you're reluctant. You better warm up, buddy, or she's gonna be out the door. And I'll never forgive you," Barry said and pointed his finger into Ivan's chest.
"Yeah. Okay. What should I say?"
"Well I don't know for Christ's sake. Tell her how much you're looking forward to spending time with her or something. Oh yeah, and she wants to know what you expect of her."
"What do you mean, like sex?"
"No. She asked me if she had to cook and clean and stuff."
"Uh huh," Ivan said.
"Don't give me that uh huh shit. I told her she didn't have to do that stuff unless she wants to, and you'd better make it clear too. I don't give a fuck if the place falls in ruin. She gave me a kiss tonight that about melted my zipper off! She said in her ad she wants to be taken care of. So if you can't manage that I'm taking you out of the equation." Barry looked stern. And Barry never looked stern.
"But it was my idea! Besides, I never said I didn't want to take care of her. I do. Totally. She doesn't have to do that stuff. I told you that before."
"Well tell her. And make it good. Come on."
They went back to Barry's.
"She must still be upstairs. She really liked the rose room," Barry said and wriggled his eyebrows.
They'd had a decorating contest for Evie's room and it looked like Barry had won.
"Fine, five bucks. I'll pay you later," Ivan said as they went upstairs and stopped in the doorway of the rose bedroom.
Evie was stretched out on the bed, one arm over her head, sound asleep.
"Evi...," Ivan began, but Barry smacked him in the chest.
"Shh, let her alone. She came here right from work, hadn't had a bite to eat and was dog tired. Poor thing. Now do you see why she needs someone to take care of her? Look at her."
Ivan looked. She was an angel. All soft curves, long, flowing hair, and a mouth that looked like the gods had fashioned it just for kissing.
He went to the bed and slowly slipped her shoes off. He pulled a pink throw from the chair in the corner and gently laid it on top of her. Then he stood there staring down at her. He bent down and lightly kissed her mouth, her lips soft and yielding, and a spark shot through him. She didn't move.
But Barry was waving at him to come out of the room.
They turned off the light and silently closed the door, then made their way downstairs.
"I think she might be the death of me," Ivan said, his eyes glazed and staring.
"What are you talking about?"
He turned to look at his friend. "You're right. A little more and I think my zipper'll melt."
Chapter 3
Evie woke up and didn't know where she was. It was completely dark. No, wait, there was a little sliver of light coming under the door.
Then she remembered with a start. Barry's. She must've just dozed off. He was probably angry. She was supposed to have talked with Ivan, not fallen asleep.
She fumbled for the lamp that she knew was on the nightstand and flipped it on. The bedroom was bathed in a soft glow and it made it look even prettier. Oh, it just felt so right to be here. Like a real home. But it wasn't her home yet. And she was imposing. All she'd done was show up late, eat his food, complain about his friend, and fall asleep before she could finish talking with them. She should leave. She was being a terrible guest. She'd be surprised in they didn't just axe the deal because of it. She could just slip out and leave a note on the kitchen counter for him apologizing and letting him make the next move. Yes, that would be best.
She found her shoes and held them in her hand as she quietly padded down the stairs and into the kitchen. She found some paper and began writing. There. That was pretty good. It said thank you and sorry for the trouble she'd caused and that he could call her tomorrow if he wanted to. She turned to get a little drink of water and was just sipping it when arms encircled her waist from behind. She jumped and squeaked.
"Shh, it's only me," Barry said, nuzzling her neck. Oh, that felt nice. "What are you doing? It's 3 a.m."
"I thought I should go."
He moved her hair to the side with one hand and kissed her neck, sending shivers all down her. "And why would you want to do that?"
She gulped. "Well, I didn't think I should impose. I'm really sorry I fell asleep..."
He turned her in his arms and took her mouth in a kiss that said he wasn't a bit sorry. It said he'd be very, very sorry if she left right now.
His mouth assaulted her senses and a slow heat began to build inside, sending liquid fire to her center, and she couldn't help moaning as his tongue moved inside her, deepening the kiss. His hands pulled her roughly to him, making her very aware of his need for her.
"Evie, please," he begged. "I want you so much. Please," he whispered against her lips.
Her answer was another scorching kiss that had him pumping his hips against her and moaning into her mouth.
"Ah God!" he cried when the kiss broke. He grabbed her hand and practically dragged her to the mint green bedroom. He turned on the bedside lamp and nearly ripped his t-shirt off over his head. "Okay?" he asked, desperation in his eyes.
She just nodded and began to unbutton her blouse, never looking away from his hazel eyes. She wanted him too.
He made a little choked noise as he watched her undress, revealing a little black bra and matching panties.
Barry pulled his pj bottoms down, showing all of himself to her again. And she walked to him this time, taking him in hand and stroking slow and gentle until he was gasping and clawing at the hooks of her bra. It snapped apart and he pulled it down and cupped her in both hands, gently rubbing her, and then taking her into his wet, hot mouth until she was whimpering and crying with need.
He kissed her neck and held her tight, pressing hard into her. "Evie, are you using birth control? I know we're both safe, but do you still want me to use a condom?" he whispered into her ear.
"Yes, please," she said softly.
He dove across the bed and rummaged in the nightstand. "I know I put some in here. God! Where are they?!" He began throwing things out of the drawer and onto the floor.
Evie walked around to the other side of the bed and moved his hands away, looking slowly through the drawer and easily finding a packet of condoms. He pulled her down on top of him on the bed and kissed her madly again.
"I wanted this to be really nice and slow, but honey, I don't think I'm gonna make it," he said with desperation in his voice. "Can we do slow another time?"
Evie laughed a little. "Barry, you're assuming I want slow. Fast is fine with me. I like fast."
"Oh man, you're perfect!"
She rolled off of him and tugged down her panties and he groaned again and closed his eyes, then reached out for her, his hand slick as he entered her and moved in and out until she was panting as hard as he was. He kissed her hard once more, then swiftly rolled on the condom and moved on top of her.
Evie pulled her legs around him as he found her entry and pushed, sending her into a bliss of feeling as he filled her, and when he was all the way in she felt a little nudge at her pleasure point. Out and back in again with the same little nudge, right where it counted.
"Oh God! Barry!" she cried as every inward thrust kept hitting that spot until she thought she'd go out of her mind. And he moved faster, pushing harder as she held onto his back, her legs still wrapped around him, and she got one more perfect little nudge that sent her over the edge, her inner walls clasping him in waves of pleasure, in perfect little pulses that squeezed him until he shuddered and thrust hard into her once more, spilling himself as he let out a long, low sound that broke into the quiet night around them.
"Holy fuck," he said, panting, still on top of her. Evie's eyes were closed and she was trying to catch her breath too. He gave one last little thrust inside her and she gasped. "Holy fuck," he said again. He managed to roll off of her and to her side, holding her tight and covering them up with the blankets. "Evie," he said, but was soon drifting off into sleep. And Evie drifted off too, held tight in Barry's arms, feeling safe and oh so satisfied.
*
"Hey Bar?" Ivan tapped on their adjoining door in the morning and opened it. "Barry, are you up, man?" He wandered down the hallway. And stopped dead in his tracks. The door to the downstairs bedroom stood open and Barry and Evie were standing there in a half-dressed state. Evie's hair was in wild, dark tangles and she stood motionless now. She wore a pair of tiny black panties and the blouse from the night before. Ivan couldn't help noticing her very long, smooth legs. But he didn't notice them for long because he also saw Barry with no shirt and just his pj bottoms that he was currently tugging up. His hair was also in wild disarray, and the room was in quite a mess with things all over the floor. They both stared at him, still not moving, with their wide eyes meeting his shocked ones.
"Well it's good to know we got all the details worked out before anything major happened," Ivan said in a cool tone.
Barry laughed a little. "Yeah, Iv, you're hilarious. Try to be nice, won't you?"
Evie pulled up her slacks and looked from one to the other. Barry came up to her and kissed her warmly. "Evie, honey, Ivan needs to be brought up to speed a little bit. Do you think you could make us all some coffee while I talk to him? Everything's in the cupboard on the right."
Evie didn't look too sure, but she nodded. "Okay. Hi, Ivan," she said softly, her eyes meeting his.
And all the anger and shock just drained right out of him. He softened and smiled. "Hi, Evie."
She walked towards him and touched his hand, tilting her face up to his in a kind of automatic gesture. He was quite a bit taller than her 5'7", but she did like tall. And seemingly without thinking, he lowered his lips to hers, melding them to her in instant passion and fire and he wrapped his arms around her waist and pulled her body up against his own as her hands worked into his blonde hair.
Oh, she was warm and tousled from being in bed, and she fit perfectly in his arms. And Barry was right, her kisses were like wildfire! He couldn't think. There was only her lips, her arms, her body pressed against his own.
"Excuse me, kids. I'm still in the room," Barry said, laughing some more.
Ivan released her like she'd burned him, and stepped back. She blinked at him and then frowned, disappointment clouding her features. "Sorry," she said and silently left, heading toward the kitchen.
"Why'd you do that?" Barry asked.
"Me? I don't think you should be asking me why I did anything. It was just a kiss."
"Not the kiss. Why'd you shove her away like that?"
"I just wasn't thinking."
"Yeah, well, she's got your number, pal. And she's got mine too. Does she ever. But you shouldn't do that. She likes hugs and affection. She's sweet, Ivan. She doesn't want to be thrown halfway across a room when you're done kissing her like she did something wrong."
"Well you shouldn't have startled me. Besides, I still say you've got nothing to say about anything. What the hell happened last night?"
"Do I have to draw you a picture?"
"You know what I mean. How?"
Barry sat back on the bed and pulled on his t-shirt. "She woke up in the middle of the night. It wasn't like I was getting any sleep knowing she was in the other room. I kept drifting off and waking up again. So I heard her when she walked downstairs and into the kitchen. She was just gonna leave. She thought she was imposing or some nonsense. She's a little insecure, Ivan. Please keep that in mind before you turn Ice Man on her again, okay?" he said and gave Ivan a pointed look. "Anyway, she was just so sweet standing there by the sink and I just gave her a hug and well, one thing led to another. I shouldn't have to tell you. Look what just happened to you right in front of me."
Ivan scowled. "Well we were supposed to sort everything out first."
"I know. I'm sorry. But not very," he said and smirked at his friend.
"Fuck you."
"Maybe later. Right now I think we should go talk to Evie before she gets the jumps and ditches us."
Yep, Evie was already halfway to the door when they came in. Barry took one of her hands and Ivan took the other.
"Evie, where are you going?" Barry asked.
"I didn't bring a brush and the comb in my purse is too small to fix my hair. I need a shower, and I don't have any clothes and I have to get to work in less than an hour, and my car needs gas before I get to work or I won't make it all the way there and I need to pick up some breakfast on the way." She looked frantically from one to the other, biting her lower lip and blinking rapidly.
"Whoa, slow down, Evie. The world will keep turning without your help. Come have a cup of coffee with us first, alright?"
She blinked several times again, but nodded nervously. Ivan and Barry still each held a hand of hers and they took her to the kitchen and sat her down at the table there, getting her a cup of coffee.
"Cream or sugar?" Ivan asked.
"Both. Lots of sugar, please," she said, looking into his green eyes. He couldn't breathe. He just couldn't breathe when she looked at him like that. But he somehow managed to appear like a normal human and get the milk and sugar for her.
Barry sat next to her and Ivan stood leaning against the counter. Barry started.
"Evie. I want you to stay. We want you to stay. You know this, right?"
"Uh huh, I guess so."
"Please say you pick us."
Evie looked from one to the other and back again. "I pick you," she said quietly.
Barry breathed out a sigh of relief. "Good. Great. We want you to move in, right, Ivan?"
"Yes, definitely."
"Okay, but I think we should do a kind of trial basis to be sure it works out," she said, sipping her coffee.
Barry didn't look too happy about this, but he nodded. "I suppose that's reasonable. What did you have in mind?"
"Something like 30 days, maybe? I should keep my apartment rented and keep my job and stuff until we're sure."
"But, Evie, if you keep your job you won't know what it's really like. You told me you wanted to stay home. We want this to be your home now. I think a better idea is if you take a hiatus from your job. Can't you tell your boss that you need a break for a month? That way you won't lose your job and just in case you'll still have it there, but in the meantime you'll be able to be here."
Evie hadn't considered this. She supposed her employer would allow that. There were allowances for maternity, family emergencies and things of that nature. Maybe she could talk to them and work something out. "I guess I could ask."
"Good. Now about your things. I think Ivan should take the day off and help you move. In fact, I think he should go with you to your job and help you explain things. He can be quite intimidating to employers and can probably get you that hiatus," Barry said and laughed.
Evie giggled a little, looking at Ivan. And he smiled back at her. He couldn't help it. Ice Man was melting.
"But he doesn't have to help me move. It'll all fit in my car, really."
"I'll help you move," Ivan said simply.
She started that rapid blinking again, but just nodded at him and lowered her head. Barry glared at Ivan and mouthed 'be nice'.
"I mean, there's no need for you to do everything yourself now, Evie. We're here to help. We'll be your home and family now. At least for the first 30 days, right?" Ivan tried again, softening his approach.
She smiled weakly at him and nodded. "Okay."
"Okay, good. Ivan, feed the girl while I get ready for work."
"Um, Barry?"
"Yes, honey?"
"Which side will I be staying in this week?"
Oh shit. They hadn't figured that one out yet, had they? Barry went to the back of her chair and kissed her on the top of her head. "Well, Iv, what do you think?"
"Cards? Coins?"
"Cards, I guess. High card?"
"Fine."
Barry pulled out a deck of cards from one of the kitchen drawers and put them down on the table. Damn, he really wanted Evie with him this first week. Especially after last night. They needed to bond after that. He didn't want her feeling like it was some one night stand. Ships passing in the night.
He cut the deck and pulled out a jack. Phew. That was looking good. He gave Ivan a nasty grin.
Ivan cut and pulled up an 8.
"Well, you have her all day today, best friend, then she's mine for the week. Make the most of it. I have to get ready for work. Evie, can you come with me for a minute?"
Evie stood and followed Barry back to the mint green bedroom and he closed the door. He took her in his arms and kissed her softly. "Listen now, last night was so wonderful I can't even begin to tell you. I want you here, now and always. I want you to be happy. Make my house your house. Take any room you want. We'll go shopping and get things you need later. I'm going to have a great day just knowing you'll be here when I get home." He kissed her gently once more, but it was still making him hard and he pulled her to him a little harder than he intended. She stroked his back and whimpered a little in the back of her throat. "Christ, I'm never gonna get out of here like this. You drive me crazy, Evie. But try to help Ivan out today, okay? He's not as tough as he looks."
"Okay. Barry?"
"Yes, baby?"
"I liked it too," she said, sending him a smoky look that had him closing his eyes and throwing his head back.
He kissed her quickly once more and let her go, moving off to get ready for work.
Chapter 4
Barry had been right about Ivan's intimidation skills. Evie's boss took one look at him, heard what he said about Evie needing some time off, and almost immediately agreed. His points were just so logical and he delivered them with such cool assurance that Evie didn't think anyone could say no. And he held her around the waist and made her feel like a fragile doll too. That was nice. He was nice. He was so nice. And though the time she'd recently spent with Barry was special and she was looking forward to staying with him for the week, she almost wished Ivan had pulled the high card. She would really like to spend some more time with him and get to know him better.
After her work was taken care of Ivan drove them to her little apartment. She was a bit embarrassed to have him see it. It was nothing at all like their spacious and impressive house. But it was tidy and anyway she wouldn't be staying in it anymore, so who cared?
They walked up the three flights of stairs and Ivan was getting a stormier look on his face with each flight. She shouldn't have bothered him with this. Barry should have listened to her. She could get all her stuff and fit it easily into her car. Ivan didn't need to help.
"Um, I'm sorry about all the stairs. But it'll be easier taking things down the steps, and there really isn't much."
"Mm hm," he said, his keen eyes missing nothing. Was he angry? She didn't like conflict.
She opened the door and let him in. He looked around and scowled. Seeing it as he might, she was noticing all the little things wrong with the place. The cracks in the plaster, the scuffed baseboards, the shabby furniture. Jeez, he must think he was taking in some refugee.
"You know, Ivan, if you'd prefer to just wait for me in the car, I can get everything together in just a little while."
"Why would I want to do that?" he asked.
"Well, you don't seem very comfortable here. I don't want you to have to sit in this dingy place while I'm packing clothes. None of the furniture is mine except the TV and computer, but I think I'll just leave those here for now. So it's basically just clothes and shampoo and things," she tried, twisting her fingers together.
Ivan shook his head. Okay, he was pissed.
"Evie, was no one helping you out? What about that boyfriend that you broke up with? Did he work at a fast food restaurant or something?"
Okay, maybe he wasn't pissed. At least not at her. Still, he seemed upset about something.
"No. He was a stockbroker."
"A stockbroker! Good lord. And this was how he let you live? What about your parents?"
Evie grabbed some brown bags from behind the kitchen cupboard and started heading for the bedroom. "Oh, well, I don't have any anymore. I never knew my dad, and my mom passed away a few years ago."
Ivan followed her into the little bedroom. She had a twin sized bed with a neat cover that looked too thin, like it wouldn't keep her warm at night, but it was clean and soft looking. She started pulling out dresser drawers and dropping clothes into the brown bags. She didn't even have any luggage, and her clothes looked like they could use some updating. He hadn't even noticed it before. She just wore everything so well and looked so beautiful that he didn't even see the little worn spots here and there. The purse that was a bit shabby. The button missing on her coat. She was a class act. She just needed some better props.
"Evie, if you don't mind my asking, what's your financial situation like? Do you have debt?"
She shook her head and stuffed more clothes into bags. "No way. I don't have any credit cards or anything like that. My car is paid for. I never wanted to fall into that trap. But I don't really have alot of savings either. Just a couple thousand dollars for a rainy day. It was just a little difficult to keep up with the lifestyle that my old boyfriend wanted. You know, fancy restaurants, high class bars, theater tickets. I could've saved more otherwise." She moved on to the closet and started yanking her dresses from the hangers, folding them neatly and filling more bags.
Ivan folded his arms across his chest. "You mean he made you pay for all those things yourself when he was a stockbroker?"
"Uh huh. I think he has a selfish gene. I should've sent his blood off for analysis at Barry's lab," she giggled.
Ivan walked to her and put his arm across her shoulders, looking down into her brown eyes. "Evie, I won't let anyone treat you so badly ever again." He hugged her close and after a moment she relaxed and let herself be hugged. "Finish up here. I need to take you to the bank."
"The bank? Why?"
"We have to set you up with an account. I'm not going to have my girl running around in rags. First the bank and then we're hitting the shopping center. Sheesh, why didn't Barry mention any of this?"
"What do you mean? About my old boyfriend and stuff? He didn't really know much about it, Ivan."
There went that shiver down his spine again. Every time she said his name it hit him. "No, not the boyfriend, just...nevermind. I forget that you haven't been with us long. It just seems like you have. And you seem to know Barry really well," he reddened a little at that. She loved how he so easily showed what he was thinking because he was so fair.
"Well, I'm comfortable with him. He's really easy to be with. But it doesn't mean I know him any better than I know you. And, Ivan, I really want to know you."
She was doing that head tilting thing again, offering up her lips to him. Whether she did this consciously or not he wasn't sure. And he really didn't care. There was no thinking, just acting - for once. That was a rare thing for Ivan. He pressed his lips to hers gently at first and she moved a little closer to him. But gently really wasn't his way, and he took her into his arms, pressing her firmly against him from shoulders to knees, his mouth taking hers in a hot exchange of lips and tongues. He ran his hands down her back, caressing her, wanting her. God how he wanted her. The image of Barry in bed with her was still fresh in his mind. But did it matter? They had agreed to share, and she seemed amenable to the idea. And there he went thinking again. Over analyzing everything. Just kiss her for God's sake! So he did. But kissing wasn't enough. Not nearly enough.
His hands tugged at the bottom of her blouse, pulling it from her slacks and starting to work the buttons on the front as she made soft, wanting noises against his lips.
Fucking hell! He was hard. Harder than he'd been in years. Since he was a teenager. He broke the kiss and almost ripped the fabric of his shirt trying to get it off.
Evie was fascinated by Ivan. He was so passionate! Cold and reasonable one minute and full of fire the next. And when he ripped his shirt off she could only stare in wonder for a moment. He was beautiful. Sculpted like a marble statue, his skin smooth and pale and perfect, and she ran her hands over his chest, over his back, around his waist.
He kissed her again, his hands working off his jeans while he kicked off his shoes in a frenzy of activity. It was like he couldn't get naked fast enough. And he reached for her pants, yanking them down and freeing her of her panties in one go. He looked at her and groaned, kissing her again hard and moving himself to press against her. He walked her backwards towards the bed and had her on her back in seconds, but she was trying to get his attention between kisses.
"Ivan? Ivan?" she whispered.
"Hm, what is it, baby?" He kissed her neck now, moving his hand between her thighs.
"Ivan, I'm not protected."
His finger pummeled her depths and she arched up into his hand, her words almost lost to him.
"Hm, what do you mean? I saw your report, you're fine. I'm fine. We're fine," he mumbled against the side of her neck as his hand rocked her and made her gasp with need.