To Be With You
by Abby Lynn

PART 10

A Gift Like No Other

Karen heard the soft knock on the front door and got up to let Katie in. It was on 5 so the sun had not yet come up. Katie stood on the front porch, her breath forming a cloud in front of her lips, she clutched a beautifully wrapped package in her mittened hands.

“Good morning Katie.” Karen said with a yawn as she opened the door. “Come on in.” Katie smiled at her and stepped into the living room. The house was dark and silent.

“Jessie still asleep?” She asked in a soft whisper. Karen nodded to her, smiling.

“I’ll start breakfast if you want to go wake her up.” Katie smiled at her back at her. The two had planned this early morning breakfast as a surprise for Jessie’s 16th birthday. Katie tiptoed up the stairs and slowly opened the door to Jessie’s room. It was still and quiet in the room, Katie waited by the door for her eyes to adjust to the darkness before she made her way over to Jessie’s bed. Jessie was snuggled up in her comforter, looking unbelievably adorable. Katie paused next to her bed, her eyes sparkled as she watched Jessie sleep. Finally she sat down gently on the edge of the bed and let her fingers brush the hair away from Jessie’s face. Her girlfriends eyes fluttered open and looked up at Katie, a smile forming on her lips.

“Good morning beautiful.” Katie said softly, leaning down and kissing Jessie’s forehead. “And happy birthday.”

“Thank you.” Jessie said, smiling a little groggily. She reached up and wrapped her arms around Katie, pulling her girlfriends down so that she was stretched out next to Jessie. Jessie snuggled her head into Katie’s shoulder and held her tightly.

“Can we go back to sleep?” She asked, yawning. Katie squeezed her tightly.

“I would love to baby, but your mom is making breakfast for you downstairs and you need to sit up and open your present.” Katie said, smiling as Jessie’s eyes popped open and she made herself sit up in bed. Katie followed suit and flipped on the bedside lamp, reaching down and picking the package up that she had set next to Jessie’s bed. Jessie smiled as Katie handed her the gift. She tore the ribbon off of the top, and lifted the lid. On top lay a piece of white paper with a note from Katie on it.

Dear Jessie,

Happy 16th birthday baby! I hope that all of your dreams come true. I love you.

All my love,

Katie

Jessie looked up at Katie and smiled. “I love you too.” She said as she leaned forward, kissing her girlfriend gently. When they pulled apart Katie’s eyes were glowing brightly.

“Hurry up and open it!” She cried excitedly. Jessie smiled and turned back to the task at hand. She gently lifted the tissue paper out of the box and gasped with delight when she saw what was inside. It was a photo of her and Katie from that autumn in a beautiful oak frame with the word “forever” carved into the woodwork.

“Oh Katie.” She breathed, running her hand over the frame. “It’s so beautiful.” Katie smiled. It was her favorite picture of the two of them together. They were standing underneath the giant oak tree in her backyard. Katie was behind Jessie, her arms wrapped around her waist and her chin hooked over Jessie’s shoulder. Jessie was leaning back against Katie, her arms holding Katie’s around her. The smiles on their faces were incredible, and the beautiful autumn colors made the picture just that much more magical.

“There’s something else.” Katie said softly. Jessie’s eyes looked up at her and then into the box next to her on the bed. They fell onto a very worn leather book. Jessie pulled into out and slowly flipped through the pages, a look of surprise on her face.

“Katie, is this your journal?” Katie nodded at her.

“Jess, you have been so wonderful to me. You have let me into every part of your life.” Katie said, playing with the hem of her shirt nervously.

“Katie, you’ve done the same for me.” Jessie said honestly. Katie looked up at her, her eyes full of emotion.

“For the most part yes. But I have kept a lot of my past from you.” Jessie’s face clouded with concern. So Katie continued quickly.

“Nothing bad Jess, I’m not a criminal on the run or anything like that.” She said with a soft laugh. Jessie’s face eased up a little and Katie took her hand in her own.

“Before I met you Jess, I was so completely lost. I was lonely, scared, and miserable. I know that no one knows that about me, I’m damn good at pretending that I’m ok when I’m not. But I couldn’t hide from myself, so I began that journal to get out all of what I felt. Everything is in that book Jess. The good, the bad, and the ugly.” She finished with a sad smile. Jessie just looked at the book in her lap. When she finally looked up to meet Katie’s gaze, her eyes were filled with tears.

“You really want me to have this?” She asked in a low voice.

“Yes.” Katie said emphatically. “Jessie, I want you to know everything about me.” Jessie smiled at her warmly.

“But don’t you want to keep writing in it?” She asked, an inquisitive look on her face.

“I don’t need it anymore.” Katie said simply. Jessie looked at her questioningly, so Katie continued. “When you kissed me that day in your attic, everything that had ever hurt me before vanished. I found myself that day. I felt like I had finally come home and I haven’t needed the book since.” Katie gazed intently at Jessie as she spoke and Jessie’s heart swelled with the tenderness of Katie’s gift.

“I love you Jess.” Katie said softly leaning forward and pressing her lips against Jessie’s. Jessie sighed contentedly under Katie’s soft touch and leaned into her, deepening the kiss. The sound of Karen knocking on the door made the girls pull apart.

“Come in.” Jessie called out, her face flushed. Karen’s head poked in the door and she grinned at her daughter.

“Happy birthday baby girl.” She said cheerfully. Jessie grinned at her and then crawled out of bed.

“Thank you.” She said as she wrapped her arms around her mom and hugged her tightly. Karen kissed the top of her head.

“Breakfast is ready downstairs if you’re hungry.” Jessie’s eyes perked up and she looked up at her mom smiling.

“Cinnamon rolls?” She asked, hopefully. Karen smiled down at her.

“What kind of mother would I be if I didn’t make my daughter cinnamon rolls on her birthday?” Jessie grinned, kissed her mom on the cheek and then dashed downstairs.

Karen looked at Katie sitting on the bed and smiled. “We better get down there if we want any for ourselves.” She said laughing softly. Katie smiled and nodded as she got up and followed Karen downstairs.

After breakfast was finished Karen, Katie, and Jessie headed out for a day on the town. They first went to the mall and then to the park where Karen sat down to watch the two girls ice skate. Well, Jessie skated, but poor Katie spent most of the time on her backside. The poor thing just was not very coordinated. Jessie laughed and helped her girlfriend up after one particularly bad spill. Katie grinned at her sheepishly.

“Can we sit down for a while?” She asked, rubbing her backside.`

“Of course.” Jessie said laughing, and taking her girlfriend’s hand, helping her off of the ice.

“Sorry I’m such a spaz.” Katie apologized, sitting down next to Karen who was having a hard time trying to contain her amusement. Katie turned to her, “And what are you laughing at?” She asked, her brow arching as she pretended to be insulted.

“Oh, honey.” Karen said through her laughter, putting her arm around Katie’s shoulder in a friendly hug. “You’re about as good of a skater as I am.” Katie smiled at her and was about to come up with some smart ass response when her cell phone rang.

“Hello?” She asked, turning to smile at Jessie who was sitting beside her, removing her skates. “Whoa Mom, slow down.” She said, her smile fading as she listened to her obviously frantic mother. Jessie and Karen shared a concerned look. “Mom, just calm down ok? I’ll be home in a few minutes.” Katie was frowning as she hung up the phone. “Jess, I’m sorry but I’ve got to go home.”

“Is everything ok?” Jessie asked looking very concerned.

“Yeah.” Katie said, sighing. “Figaro got himself stuck up in the tree again and mom needs me to come get him down since Dad and the boys are out for the day.” Jessie’s face relaxed when she realized that there was no big emergency, Katie’s cat was always getting himself stuck somewhere.

“It’s ok babe.” She said, taking her girlfriend’s hand as they walked out to the car.

When Jessie got home that evening she saw that the answering machine light was beeping so she dropped her bag and sat down, pushing play. The sounds of a group of people singing “happy birthday” filled the kitchen, and Jessie smiled. It was her dad calling from Australia wishing her a happy birthday and saying that he couldn’t wait to see her and Katie next week. Jessie’s face was glowing as the machine clicked off. She sat for a moment and then suddenly remembered what Katie had given her, so she dashed up stairs to read the journal. Sitting down on her bed, Jessie opened the worn book and slowly started to read. It began when Katie was a freshman and Jessie could hardly believe that it was her girlfriend that had written it. The pages were filled with so much pain and confusion, Jessie felt tears form in her eyes as she took a walk through Katie’s past.

When the journal first mentioned Sarah, Jessie paused, her heart pounding. She was afraid to continue. She was afraid to see what exactly had happened between the two of them. She finally took a deep breath and continued. What she learned came as a surprise and a relief. Katie had never loved Sarah, in fact the two had hardly been what one would call involved. They had fooled around a little bit, but absolutely nothing serious had happened between them. Jessie’s heart felt lighter when she came to the end of the chapter on Sarah. The last few entries in the book caught Jessie completely off guard, but they would touch her deeply. They were all about her, and Katie’s growing attraction to her and the fear of her attraction. Jessie felt tears forming in her eyes again as she slowly read through the passages.

January 11, 2002

I met the most amazing person today. Her name is Jessie. God, what a beautiful name. Tad knows her and so I made introduce us. She is the most beautiful girl I have ever seen, and when she looked at me I just felt this shock go through my body. It terrified me because I felt like this girl could see the depths of my soul. It was so incredible. God! What am I saying! A girl like Jessie would never go for me, she’s not like that. She probably likes Tad anyways. But still, there is something about her.......

January 15, 2002

He kissed her! That asshole Tad kissed her! On my couch! Well, she did push him off of her. I think I might be falling for her. When I saw them together tonight I just felt this rage run through me, feeling this way is killing me inside. I’m finding myself thinking about her all of the time. No one has ever had this affect on me before. No one has ever gotten to me. It hurts, but it hurts so good......

February 5, 2002

........we’ve been spending a lot of time together lately. Just hanging out and getting to know one another. She is so easy to talk to. I have never been happier than I am when she’s around. She’s been opening up to me a lot, and sometimes when she looks at me I think I see something in her eyes. Something that I can’t quite define. Attraction? No, Jessie would never look at me that way, I’ve got to be imagining things.......

February 16, 2002

......sings like an angel. And she sang for me tonight. When her voice took up the song I felt myself become completely hypnotized. All I could do was just look at her in wonder. I know that I was staring, but she didn’t seem to mind at all. It’s weird, she almost seemed to be flirting with me. I can’t help but think that maybe she is feeling something too, but I’m so scared to find out. I don’t want to lose her, I don’t think that I could handle that. I’m so totally restless over her. God, I think I’m falling in love......

February 18, 2002

......mom has been in a terrible accident. When I saw Jessie cry today it broke my heart. All I want to do is take her into my arms and hold her. I want to take care of her, protect her, and let her know that everything is going to be alright. These feelings I have are driving me insane! I don’t know how much longer I can hide them, I don’t even know If I want to keep them hidden anymore......

February 28, 2002

.....I am going to drive myself nuts! The last few days I have been analyzing everything that Jessie does. Her looks, her hugs, the things that she says to me. I am just looking for some sign that she is feeling what I am. There is something there, but I just can’t tell what it is. Help me.....

March 5, 2002

I think she knows. She’s got to, and she’s not taking it well. All day she avoided me. Oh God! I feel like I am going to die! I can’t lose her, but I know I am. I should have know she wasn’t like that, but I just had to write her that damn letter! I am such an ass. Oh Jess.....

March 7, 2002

She kissed me! Oh my God! I am on top of the world right now. I am so gone that I can hardly sit still. Alright Katie, slow down, from the beginning. I went over to her house today to get my sweater back, I was so nervous I thought that I was going to throw up. I went upstairs and there she was, reading my letter. I don’t remember what I said, I was so scared and I couldn’t stop crying, but all of a sudden she was hugging me saying she still wanted to be friends. So I told her to throw the stupid letter away, and forget I ever wrote it. But she said no, that she wanted to keep it forever and then she kissed me! At first I thought that she was going to regret it, but then she looked at me and smiled, and then, get this, she kissed me again! I still can’t believe it, but I know it happened. I can still taste her lip gloss. I am so on top of the world right now! I don’t think that I have ever been happier in my life, I just feel so complete. God, what she does to me!

By the time Jessie finished reading the journal, tears were streaming down her face. She felt so amazingly close to Katie right now, and she smiled closing the book. Putting it in her nightstand drawer, Jessie looked at the picture that Katie had given her, smiling through her tears. Then she picked up the phone, dialing Katie’s number, just to say, “I love you.”

PART 11 

Arriving In Sydney

Jessie’s crystalline blue eyes sparkled as she looked out the window of the plane, watching the ground slowly fall away beneath them as the jet rose. Her heart pounded with excitement as she thought about the trip that lay ahead of her. 

“Isn’t this exciting, Katie?” She breathed, too wired to speak properly.  There was no answer, and so Jessie turned her gaze to the girl sitting next to her. “Katie?” she asked, her voice taking on a concerned edge as she saw her girlfriend’s pale face. “Katie?” She asked again, slipping her hand into Katie’s, surprised to find it icy cold, and trembling. “Katie!” She said firmly this time, tugging on her girlfriend’s hand sharply. Katie blinked and then looked over at Jessie quickly, coming out of her semi-coma.

“Yeah?” She gulped, her hand still trembling in Jessie’s.

“Baby, what’s wrong?” Jessie asked softly, bringing her other hand over to cover the one that held Katie’s, trying to still the older girls tremors.

Katie licked her lips and smiled nervously. Her eyes darted over at Jessie for a moment before returning to the back of the seat in front of her. “I guess I forgot to mention that I really don’t like to fly.” She said, sheepishly.

“You’re afraid of flying?” Jessie asked, surprised. She had come to think of Katie as fearless, and this new, insecure side of Katie was something that she found to be actually rather adorable.

“Flying? No.” Katie said, shaking her head, earning a puzzled look from her girlfriend. Katie smiled and continued, “I’m perfectly fine with the flying part. It’s the whole business of plummeting from the sky and exploding into a giant fire-ball that gets me.” her eyes twinkled a little with her normal, wry humor, and Jessie smile laughing softly. “I’ll be okay. Really.” Katie said reassuringly, finally locking eyes with Jessie and squeezing her hand.

“You sure?”

“Oh yeah. The plane’s leveling off now. You don’t have to worry about me, unless we should hit some turbulence that is,” Katie added, grinning. She leaned a little closer to Jessie,” If that should happen,” she continued in a low voice, “It might be best for you to knock me unconscious so that I won’t be able to become hysterical and make a complete ass of myself.” Katie was doing her best to be serious, but Jessie caught the gleam in her eye and laughed. Katie leaned over quickly and caught Jessie’s lips between her own, surprising Jessie and successfully shutting her up. Katie pulled away gently and ran her thumb along Jessie’s bottom lip. “I am really looking forward to this trip.” Katie said softly.

“Me too.” Jessie replied, kissing Katie on the nose. Then she snuggled against Katie’s shoulder, settling in for the long flight to Sydney.

**********

“Dad!” Jessie shrieked, scrambling past the other passengers in the terminal, running forward to where her dad was waiting, just beyond the security checkpoint. She was ginning happily as she threw her arms around his neck, hugging him tightly.

“Hi Jess.” he chocked, as Jessie’s arms tightened around his neck. Rick couldn’t help but smile and he held her close to him. After a moment he lifted his eyes and scanned the crowd, finally spotting Katie making her way toward them. “Forgetting someone, Jess?” he asked quietly.

“Oh no! Katie!” she said suddenly, pulling away from Rick and whirling around to find herself nose to nose with her slightly irritated girlfriend. “I’m so sorry.” Jessie said quickly, giving Katie a hug, “I saw Dad and kind of took off, I didn’t mean to leave you.” her eyes were apologetic and Katie smiled at her.

“It’s fine, Jess. I understand.” Katie said smiling. “Hello Mr. Sammler.” She added politely, turning her attention to Rick.

“Hello, Katie. I’m glad you could come.” He replied, giving her a slightly forced smile. Katie noticed his expression and tone, and she sighed inwardly as she studied his face. * He’s still not completely okay with this* she realized.

Meanwhile, sweet little Jessie was oblivious to the fact that her Dad and girlfriend were sizing each other up. “Where’s everyone else?” She chirped happily, drawing Rick’s attention once again, and he smiled.

“They’re all back at the house waiting for us.”

“Then let’s go.” Jessie said impatiently, playfully pushing him toward the baggage claim. He laughed, overjoyed to have his baby girl with him for the holidays, even if it meant having to try to adjust to her sexuality, and to Katie.

**********

The Sammler household absolutely erupted when Rick and the girls pulled into the driveway. Eli came bounding down the steps and pulled Jessie into a tight hug. She grinned at his display of affection, surprising as it was.

“Hey E.” She greeted him as she pulled away, running her hand through her hair as she examined him. He looked good, and he looked happy.

“Hi Katie.” Eli said over the top of Jessie’s head as Katie climbed out of the car. His tone was warm and much more friendly than Rick’s had been.

Katie smiled warmly back at him, “Hello.”

Grace and Zoe ran up to the girls hugging them both tightly as a very pregnant Lily made her way down the front steps.

Jessie ginned. “Hi Lily.” She said as she bounded over to the porch and threw her arms around her step-mother. Jessie pulled away and looked down at Lily’s bulging stomach, smiling. “It’s getting close isn’t it?” She asked in amazement, resting her hands gently on Lily’s stomach.

“Yes it is.” Lily replied, nodding. “Are you excited?”

Jessie looked up into Lily’s eyes, a thoughtful expression on her face. “To tell you the truth, I don’t think it’s quite hit me yet that I am going to be a big sister. I mean, with you and Dad here, and me back in Illinois, it’s easy to forget in a way. But now that I’m here, I am getting excited.”

Lily looked down at her, smiling, “You’re going to be a great sister, Jess.”

“Hello Mrs. Sammler.” Katie said politely, making her presence behind Jessie known.

“Hi Katie, it’s great to see you again.” Lily said, smiling at her warmly. “And please, call me Lily.”

Katie smiled back at her, before glancing quickly at Jessie. Jessie could tell that Katie felt a little out of place, and realized that she had been rather distracted with getting to see her family again. So, she reached over and gently squeezed Katie’s hand, smiling as two beautiful eyes turned to look at her. Katie relaxed a little at Jessie’s calming touch.

“Well girls, the boys seem to have your luggage under control, so let me show you to your rooms.” Lily said, happily leading the girls into the spacious living room.

“This place is amazing, Lily.” Jessie breathed, and Katie nodded her agreement. Lily smiled at them, she rally like the house a lot.

“Jessie.” Rick said, coming into the living room, dragging her heavy suitcase. “How much did you bring, honey?” he groaned, setting it down. Jessie smiled at him and walked over to kiss him on the cheek.

“Not that much.: She said, sweetly. Rick rolled his eyes and grinned.

“Alright, Jess. You are upstairs with Grace, and you, Katie, are down here in the guest bedroom.” He added, pointing toward a pair of French doors across the room. “There are also a few rules that I would like to discuss with you both after you unpack.” He added. His voice was friendly enough, but his eyes had a very stern glint and Katie felt her cheeks redden under his scrutiny.

Lily saw the slightly uncomfortable situation, so she chose to break it up.  “Rick, honey, why don’t you come help me with dinner while the girls settle in.” She suggested. He took one last look at the two girls before following Lily into the kitchen.

Jessie watched them both leave the room and then she quickly crossed over to Katie and hugged her, kissing her cheek softly. “Are you okay?” She whispered into Katie’s ear.

“Hmmm? Oh yeah.” Katie said distractedly, pulling away from Jessie. “I’m just tired. I’m gonna go unpack.” She said, picking up her suitcase and starting for the guestroom door.

“Katie.” Jessie said softly, causing her girlfriend to turn around. “I love you.” she said, walking over to where Katie was standing. She kissed her gently. “And I’m really glad you’re here.”

“I love you too.” Katie said, smiling back at her softly.

**********

Jessie watched Katie pick up her bags and walk into the guestroom, closing the door behind her. A worried expression marked her beautiful face.* Something’s wrong.* She thought to herself. Before she had time to contemplate the matter further, a voice behind her caught her attention.

“Jess?” She turned around to see Grace standing there.

“Hey.” She smiled, going over to hug her step-sister. She was really glad to see her again, despite the animosity that used to exist between the two of them.

“Hey yourself.” Grace said, returning the hug. “You want me to help you upstairs?” She asked, pulling away.

“Sure.” Jessie said, simply, picking up her suitcase, while Grace grabbed her carry-on, and she followed Grace up the stairs.

*Grace’s room is pretty nice.* Jessie thought as she walked into it, setting her bags on the floor. It was large and comfortable, with large bay windows that had a view of the Sydney skyline. She noticed a small rollaway bed had been placed near the window so she crossed the room to put her stuff on her bed.

“You okay, Jess?” Grace asked gently.

Jessie turned around and looked at her, contemplating whether or not she really wanted to discuss this with Grace. Finally she conceded. “I don’t think Dad likes Katie.” She sighed, a frown etching across her face.

“I don’t think that’s true, Jess.” Grace said gently, sitting down on her bed. “I think he’s just getting used to the idea of the two of you as a couple.”

“Still getting used to it?” Jessie asked, incredulously. “I told him months ago, Grace.” She continued, her obvious irritation creeping into her voice.

Grace sighed and looked over at Jessie. “I know Jess. But I think that because he has never actually seen the two of you together, until today, that he has been able to pretend like it’s not real.”

Jessie felt the tears forming in her eyes as she met Grace’s gentle gaze. “That’s the problem.” she choked, standing up to pace the room. “This is not something that he should have to LEARN to deal with, Grace. Why can’t he just be happy that I have found love. Why is it so damn important that the person I am in love with is a girl?”

“Homosexuality carries a very powerful stigma, Jess. And is still a controversial issue, even today.” Grace explained, trying to be gentle and soothe her fuming step-sister, while at the same time being brutally honest.

Jessie’s head snapped up, and Grace felt the chill of the two icy pools that bore down on her. The air was sucked out of the room as the two girls stared at each other, locked in a duel between passion and sensibility. Finally, Jessie’s eyes released Grace from their chokehold, and she collapsed onto the bed in defeat. “I don’t want to be an issue, Grace.” Jessie sighed softly. “I just want to love, and be loved in return. Katie gives me that. Before she came along, I felt nothing of attraction for anyone, male or female. Hell, I was beginning to think I was non-sexual.” She laughed at herself sadly, her soft blue eyes slowly raising up to meet Grace’s. “Then one day, this vibrant, beautiful girl comes up to me in the hall and says ‘hello’. That’s all it took Grace. The moment she said hello, was the moment I woke up. Of course, I was confuse about these feelings for a while, bit I sorted them out in the end. And everything I feel is because of her. It’s all for Katie.”

Grace looked back softly at her step-sister, moved by the sincerity in her eyes. “Jess.” she began softly. “That’s what you have to tell Rick. He loves you, and he wants to support you. And I know he will, when he sees how much Katie means to you.”

Jessie looked up gratefully at her step-sister and smiled.

**********

The Sammler clan, plus Katie gathered around the table for dinner. Conversation was light, Jessie and Katie participating very little. Their lack of enthusiasm was obvious, as they both were so tired they could hardly keep their eyes open.

After dinner, the girls excused themselves and went to their respective bedrooms to get ready for bed. Jessie washed her face and brushed her teeth after slipping into comfortable pajamas. She then padded quietly downstairs to tell Katie goodnight.  The light was off in the guest bedroom, but the moonlight provided sufficient illumination for Jessie’s keen eyes. She slipped quietly into the room, careful to leave to door ajar, and crossed over to the bed where Katie lay in the begging stages of sleep. Jessie sat gently next to her and let her hand softly brush a stray hair away from Katie’s remarkable face. Katie’s eyes fluttered slowly open, and she smiled sleepily at the girl hovering above her.

“Hey.” she said quietly, her green eyes blinking drowsily. Jessie smiled and leaned down, pressing her lips softly to Katie’s. Katie pushed up into the kiss gently, and then she felt Jessie pull away.

“I just wanted to tell you goodnight.” Jessie said sweetly, running her fingers across Katie’s soft cheek. “And I love you.” she added smiling, kissing Katie again softly.

“I love you to.” Katie murmured, as they pulled apart. Jessie stood slowly and began to walk to the door, upon reaching it she turned around.

“I’m going to talk to my dad tonight, Katie.” She said thoughtfully. “Everything will be better tomorrow. I promise.”

“Goodnight Jess.” Katie called out softly. And Jessie slipped out of the room, closing the door quietly behind her.

PART 12

A Peace Treaty and a Discussion

Katie stepped out onto the front porch, her mossy green eyes blinking in the early morning sunlight. She yawned loudly, and stretched her, before bending over to lace up her running shoes. The air was light and warm as Katie jogged down the walkway and onto the sidewalk, beginning her morning run down the street. Her long, soft hair was pulled up into a ponytail that was swinging in rhythm with her long strides.

Katie stretched out her long legs, her pace quickening so that she was eating up ground. She loved to run. Loved the feeling of release that it brought. She was fast too, but despising conformity as much as she did, she had never gone out for track or cross-country, a fact that had irritated the coaches of Upton Sinclair.

She found it odd that it was summer time here in Australia, while back home it had been snowing the day that they left. She didn’t mind it though. She loved the feel of the warm morning sun on her back as she ran.

When Katie reached the end of the street, she paused to catch her breath. Her eyes sparkled as she looked down the hill and over the city of Sydney,. It was so beautiful. In the distance she could make out the billowy shapes of the Sydney Opera House and hundreds of little boats floating in the bay. The wind gently drifted in from off of the ocean, toying with her hair and filling her nostril’s with the invigorating smell of seawater. Her lips parted in a broad grin as she took in her surroundings, realizing that she would be getting to spend the next two weeks exploring the vast city with the one she loved.

Her thoughts returning to Jessie, as they always did, made Katie realize that she should be getting back to the house. So she took a deep breath of ocean air, and looked around once more before turning and jogging easily back up the street to the Sammler residence.

Entering the house, Katie was met with t the pungent smell of fresh coffee. Following her nose, Katie wandered in to the kitchen, where she found Rick sitting at the table in his suit and tie sipping a cup of coffee.

“Uh...good morning, Mr. Sammler.” Katie stammered, surprised to find anyone else awake at this hour.

“Oh, good morning Katie.” Rick said turning towards her and smiling. “Would you like some coffee?” he offered, cheerfully.

“Sure.” She stuttered. Was this the same guy who had given her all those icy looks yesterday? She couldn't quite figure it out, but Rick’s demeanor towards her had definitely changed. Deciding not to question, but rather accept is, she sat down and took the cup of coffee Rick placed in from t of her.

“So, did you go jogging?” Rick asked, attempting to start a conversation.

Katie looked up at him and smiled politely. “Yeah. It’s really a beautiful morning out.” She said, glancing out the window. “I wasn’t expecting anyone else to be up this early.” she added, attempting to explain her surprise at finding him in the kitchen.

Rick smiled, “Usually no ones up this early, but I have a contractor's meeting this morning that I couldn't get out of.”

Katie smiled back at him, but her eyes danced nervously around the room. Being alone with your girlfriend’s father is not the most comfortable situation in the world.

“Listen, Katie,” Rick started slowly, and Katie glanced up at him. “I wanted to apologize for the way I acted yesterday. I realize now that I was rather cold to you, and I’m sorry.”

“It’s okay Mr. Sammler. Really.” Katie said quickly. “I understand. how this might be a difficult thing for you to accept,.”

Rick smiled softly at her “It’s not so much that I’m having trouble accepting it, it’s just...I worry. You know?”

Katie nodded her agreement.

“I worry about how the world will treat the two of you. People can be so cruel Katie, and I don't want that for Jessie, or you for that matter. It’s just so hard on a man, trying to protect his daughter from something that she doesn’t want protection from.”

Katie looked up at him with clear, hopeful eyes. She felt like a connection was being made.

Rick cleared his throat and continued. “I guess all of these fears made me forget that the most important thing is Jessie’s happiness. But last night, Jessie and I had a talk, well, more like she talked and I listened. And she really put things into perspective. I see how happy she is, and I also see now that you are the biggest reason for this new found happiness.” he paused, looking for the effect this was having on the girl before him. “You know I like you, right Katie?” he asked, gently.

“Sure, I know that, Mr. Sammler.” She replied, agreeably.

“Good.” He said contentedly. “I also want you to know that I am going to support your relationship with my daughter.”

Katie smiled warmly back at him. “Thank you Mr. Sammler.”

“You’re welcome, Katie.” he smiled, before adopting a more serious expression. “On a fatherly note, I think I should add that in case you have any plans on hurting my daughter you should know that I do own a shot gun and a shovel.”

Katie gulped and blinked, trying to decide how to respond to that, not knowing if he was serious or not. Rick saw that poor girl’s expression and broke out into laughter.

“I’m sorry Katie. That was just a joke.” he said between laughs. Katie relaxed and smiled, she even laughed a little. Rick glanced down at his watch, and then gulped down the rest of his coffee while grabbing his briefcase.  “Well, Katie. I’m glad that we had this talk, but I’ve got to run now or I am going to be late.” he said, heading for the door. “See you tonight.”

“Bye Mr. Sammler.” Katie called after him, watching him leave. Her head was spinning slightly, but she felt so much better than she had yesterday. Looking around, Katie decided that she should take advantage of this opportunity to shower before the rest of the house woke up.

**********

Jessie woke with the warm sun creeping in over her face. She yawned, stretching contentedly. Looking over at Grace, she saw that her step sister was still fast asleep. So Jessie rose quietly and went in to the bathroom to wash up.

After brushing her teeth and washing her face, Jessie tip-toed down that stairs. She had checked to make sure that the rest of the clan was still asleep, and so she was looking forward to a little time alone with Katie. Jessie crossed the living room silently and came to a stop in front of the guestroom door. She leaned her ear against the door and heard music playing softly. realizing that Katie must be awake, she let her hand gently turn the knob on the door and she poked her head in the room. He breath caught when she saw Katie.

Katie was standing at the far end of the room in a pair of short jean shorts and her bra. Her back was to Jessie and she was swaying to the musky, singing softly, as she gently toweled her long hair. Jessie felt her jaw drop open at the amazing sight before her. Katie looked so beautiful with the morning light reflecting off of her skin, and the way she was dancing, so uninhibited was absolutely adorable.

Jessie ginned mischievously and cleared her throat causing Katie to whirl around in Surprise. “morning beautiful.” Jessie smirked, letting her eyes run the length of Katie’s body.

“Jessie?” Katie cried out in surprise, her hands instinctively drawing the towel around her so that her torso was covered.

“Why, Miss Singer, I do believe that I have embarrassed you.” Jessie said coyly with a big smile as she crossed the room.

Katie flashed her a grin, regaining some of her composure. “Not at all.” she smirked. “I was merely surprised that you would go to such shady lengths to catch me without my shirt on.”

“I was doing no such thing!” Jessie cried, adopting a shocked expression. A smile quickly crept across her lips as she slid her arms around Katie’s waist, pulling her close. “I just wanted to surprise you. You being topless was merely a bonus.” she added, then leaned up, catching Katie’s lips with her own.

Katie moaned softly, letting her arms fall around Jessie, pulling her as close to her as it was physically possible. She felt Jessie’s tongue flick along her bottom lip, asking for entrance, which she eagerly granted.  Jessie let her hands wander up Katie’s back as she kissed her. Sliding her fingers around the edge of the towel, she tugged insistently. Katie was too lost in the kiss to protest much, so the towel quickly fell to the floor. Jessie felt the smooth, warm skin of Katie’s back and she let her hands caress it softly.  Katie moaned, almost silently, but the sound gave the normally reserved Jessie courage and she found her hands taking a hold of the clasp to Katie’s bra. The motion brought Katie back to reality, and she pulled back from Jessie, her face flushed and lips swollen.

“Hey now, little missy.” she managed, severely out of breath.

“What?” Jessie grinned, pushing forward to kiss her again.

Katie smiled, but pulled back, resisting. “Don’t you think we’re moving a bit fast?” she asked softly. Jessie gave her a questioning look, and so Katie continued quickly, “I mean, your family is all home-”

“They’re all asleep.” Jessie said quickly, cutting her off.

“I know.” Katie moaned in frustration. She really wanted to move forward with Jessie, but the time just didn’t feel quite right. “I know. I just don’t want to risk getting caught. Especially since your dad just talked to me this morning.”

“He did?” Jessie asked, surprised. “What did he say?”

Katie smiled, “Well, he apologized for acting coldly towards me, and he told me that he supports us. AND...he told me that he likes me.” She added, ginning happily.

Jessie smiled at her and laughed. “Of course her likes you, Katie! God, who couldn’t?” she said, kissing her softly.

Katie blushed slightly, and smiled back at her. “It really meant a lot to me to hear him say it, Jess.” she said, pulling out of Jessie’s arms to put a shirt on. “I don’t want to jeopardize that.....yet.” she added mischievously.

“I know.” Jessie replied, smiling. She plopped down on Katie’s bed while Katie sat on the floor in front of her and began combing through her hair. Jessie looked at her thoughtfully.

“What?” Katie asked, curious.

“You’ve thought about it before, haven’t you?” Jessie asked, shyly.

“Thought about what?” Katie asked, teasingly. She knew what Jessie was talking about, but her genetic programming required giving her girlfriend a hard time.

“You know...sleeping with me.” Jessie’s cheeks were a fair shade of red, and Katie was so loving it.

“Of course I have, silly!” She teased. “And I’ve come to the conclusion that you’re a bed hog, and you snore.”

“I do not!” Jessie gasped, faking disdain. “And you know that’s NOT what I meant!” She pouted, crossing her arms over her chest.

Katie chuckled. “I know baby. But I’ve got to razz you up a bit from time to time. And yes, I have thought about it...a lot actually.” She smiled shyly, it was her turn to blush.

“Oh?” Jessie asked, arching her eyebrow. “And what have you thought exactly?”

“Well, I know that when it happens it will be beautiful, and that I DEFINATELY want it to happen. I just don’t know when.”

Jessie looked at her curiously. “Do you feel like you’re not ready?”

Katie grinned back at her. “No, I’m ready all right. I know I want to give myself to you, Jess. I guess that I’ve just been caught up in the moment, simply enjoying getting to know everything about you. Why? Do you feel ready?” She asked softly.

“Well, yeah.” Jessie replied, blushing, but looking deep into Katie’s eyes. “I love you Katie, and I really feel like I am ready to share everything with you.”

Katie moved so that she was kneeling in front of Jessie. “I love you too baby.” She murmured, kissing Jessie softly. She pulled away and let her hand gently caress Jessie’s cheek, looking into her eyes. “I think that when we get back to the states that we will definitely have to look into this issue a little deeper.” She continued, her voice now low and husky.

Jessie smiled at her, running her fingers through Katie’s hair. “I guess it will have to wait until then, won’t it? It’s not like anyone around here is going to leave us alone long enough for anything too good to happen.” she grinned.

Katie laughed and leaned up to kiss Jessie but was interrupted by a knock at her door. She groaned in frustration and called out, “Come in!”

Grace’s head poked through the door. “So that’s where you got to.” She grinned, looking at Jessie. Jessie just smiled back at her. “Well, let’s get some breakfast and then we’re all going to go Christmas shopping.”

“Alright.” Jessie sighed, climbing off of Katie’s bed. Katie stood and slipped her hand into Jessie’s, leaned over and kissed her cheek softly. Jessie gave her a knowing smile and they walked out of the room, looking forward to both a day on the town, and to certain other things to come.

TBC??