Sea Legs Part 4

aIam sure it isnat as bad as it looks. It should turn into a tan overnight, at least for me. Pamela has bright red stripes on her thighs that look like theyare going to blister.a Natalie located a tube of lotion in the stateroom and pa.s.sed it around the divider. aPoor Pamela. I hope this makes her feel better. Kelly and I were thinking we might go up to that bistro by the observation lounge. It has a nice romantic atmosphere and such a lovely view.a Kellyas ears went up at Natalieas dreamy tone. Not that she minded the idea of a romantic dinner one bit.

aPeachy,a Didi hissed as she turned on her heels and disappeared back inside.

Natalie made a sheepish face. aI think I p.i.s.sed her off.a aAnd you didnat even try.a She chuckled and shook her head. aYou must think Didias truly awful, and that Iam totally insane for wanting her back.a aI donat really know her all that well.a That sounded better than saying she hadnat yet discovered anything that made up for the dour mood and relentless criticism. So far, her favorite thing about Didi had been the retching sounds from beyond the walls as she puked up her guts. It was impossible to imagine someone as easygoing as Natalie had been charmed into a relations.h.i.+p with Didi that lasted six days, let alone six years.

aIt took a long time for Steph and Yvonne to warm up to her, but they eventually did. She really can be a very sweet person.a Kelly didnat want to disagree since it was obvious Natalie cared about her, but she couldnat hide her skepticism. aShe doesnat really give that sweetness off to me. I guess thatas why it feels like I donat know her very well.a They finished their coffee as the s.h.i.+p turned toward the sunset.

aI thought maybe Iad come snorkeling with you tomorrow,a Natalie said out of the blue. aIf thatas all right?a aAre you kidding me? Iad love it.a aItall be perfect. If today was any indication, you-know-who will go nuts.a Kelly felt her insides deflate. Natalieas sudden interest in snorkeling had nothing to do with her.

Natalie paused to admire in the mirror the light brown tone of her arms and chest against the lacy white top Didi had given her for Christmas two years ago, just before they split up.Another two or three days of sun would deepen her tan and make her the envy of everyone in the store once they returned to Rochester.

She smiled again to think of Kellyas aladylikea compliment, and wished Didi had been there to hear it. It was rare to get compliments in Didias presence, since Didi usually commanded most of the attention. That other bita"ladies that interested hera"had taken her off guard momentarily. She hadnat minded the idea that Kelly thought she was interestingawhich is what she must have meant by her remark. It was highly unlikely she had meant interested in, because Kelly understood how she felt about Didi.

As frivolous and petty as it seemed, she relished all the details Steph had shared about Didias frantic concern at the beach. It was amazing how well her plan was working. She never would have guessed being with Kellya"of all peoplea"would have tweaked that green-eyed monster, but she was beginning to think Steph was right after all. There were plenty of things about Kelly that were appealing, and Didi obviously saw them too.

As she rummaged through the closet for her shoes, her musings were interrupted by the sudden halt of the shower.

aHey, Natalie.a The bathroom door cracked a bit, just enough for Natalie to see Kelly standing with her back to the door in her underpantsa" they were purple briefs, low-slung and rectangular shaped, showing the bottom third of her b.u.t.t cheeksa"as she slipped a gray tank top over her head. aUh, Iam right here by the door.a Kellyas head jutted through the opening, along with a bare leg. aMaybe you should check again with Didi. If weare going to the bistro we may need a reservation and I should probably dress up a little.a aYou could always wear your black pants againamaybe with the vest this time.a She turned away from the eyeful in the bathroom and dialed Didias room. aHey, there.a She explained her reason for calling. aYouare kidding. Is it that bad?a By now, Kelly was standing behind her, rolling up the sleeves on a white b.u.t.ton-down-collared s.h.i.+rt that hung to the top of her thighs.

Natalie replaced the phone. aTheyare burnt to a crisp. Didias eyes are swelling shut and Pamela has little blisters on her shoulders and legs. The nurse is on the way.a aAre they going to be all right?a aI think so. Didi has a flair for the dramatic.a aNo!a Kellyas dimple twitched.

aI can see you trying not to laugh. You should be ashamed of yourself.a She knew her own mouth was turned up at the corners. aAnd as soon as I stop laughing, Iam going to tell on you.a Kelly was smiling now, showing off, not only her dimples, but her bright white, perfect teeth. aYou think I should wear the vest with this?a aYou know what I really think? We should go eat a juicy hamburger in the pub and see if we can find a movie or something. Wouldnat that be more fun?a She owed Kelly a good time, considering her help with the Didi situation. Besides, she loved a cheeseburger just as much as the next person, but Didi had always given her a hard time about enjoying junk food. Now she had an excuse to actually enjoy one.

Chapter 12.

Didi glared through her swollen eyes at Natalie, who hung over the balcony rail sipping her morning coffee. aSaying aI told you soa is not helpful. You could show a little more sympathy.a Natalie bit her tongue to keep from expressing her sorrow that Didi had chosen to ignore their warnings. aIam very sorry it hurts. How is Pamela feeling?a aProbably worse than I do, but donat tell her I said that. At least she has medicine to put on her arms and legs. I canat use it on my face.a She held out her hand for Natalieas cup and took a sip. aI guess shopping is out for us today. What are you going to do?a She couldnat wait to see the look on Didias face. aIave decided to go snorkeling with Kelly. We had such a good time the other day on the catamaran and then again yesterday on the Wave Runner. I had no idea water sports were so much fun.a aYouave got to be kidding. You hate showers because you get water in your eyes.a aIall be wearing a mask. And Kelly promised to hold my hand.a aIsnat that sweet?a Didi proclaimed, heavy on the sarcasm. She peeked around the divider to make certain Kelly wasnat on the balcony. aDoes she run around without her s.h.i.+rt on?a Natalie bristled. aNow you cut that out. Sheas very nice, and sheas been very concerned about your sunburn.a Despite giggling.

Didi sighed, clearly admonished. aJust promise me you arenat going to start wearing board shorts.a aAs you well know, that is not a fas.h.i.+on statement Iam inclined to make. But why should I care if itas what Kelly likes? And why should you?a aBecause it offends my poor eyes,a Didi wailed dramatically. aSeriously, Natalie. Iave seen theaa"she made finger quotes in the aira"aaandrogynous looka on the runways, and it can be sort of hot on the right person. But thatas one of those high-fas.h.i.+on looks that doesnat translate to the real world and even if it did, Kellyas not pulling it off. It only works if the women are women.a In the ten years they had known one another, Natalie had heard literally thousands of fas.h.i.+on critiques from Didi on people they ran into, but rarely one tinged with such personal venom. aThatas silly. Kellyas definitely a woman. I can vouch for her personally.a The look on Didias face was one of pure shock, and Natalie realized she had stepped over the line she and Kelly had agreed to about what impressions to leave. The decent thing to do was to clarify what she meant, that her quiet, serious talks with Kelly had revealed a feminine side, though one that was edgier than any she had known. But there was a distinct advantage to playing her cards close to her vest, namely, that Didias jealousy had visibly escalated.

aIs there something going on with you and Kelly?a aIf there is, itas my business.a aNatalie, come on. You canat seriously find someone like that appealing.a She looked over her shoulder to see where Pamela was. aA woman like you deserves better than that, not some butch trying to make a statement about how she is what she is. And just in case youave forgotten that you have a business to run, keep in mind that sheas exactly what turns people off about lesbians. They want to see people like us, not people like that.a By the time Didi finished, she was practically spitting her words. It was well beyond her usual criticism, so vicious that Natalie sprang angrily to Kellyas defense. aYou donat know the first thing about Kelly and who she is. It just so happens sheas one of the nicest people Iave ever met, and you should keep in mind that not everybody in this world judges people by how they look.a aMaybe not, but thatas how they judge them first, whether they admit it or not. Be honest. What did you think the first time you saw her? That she was nice? Or that she looked like a teenage boy? You even said being with her would be like being with a man.a She could feel her ears burning. aWhat difference does it make? What matters is that I know her now, and so do you. Sheas never been anything but nice to you, so stop being an a.s.s and show her a little respect.a Didi let out a heavy sigh in her usual dramatic style. aSheas perfectly nice, and Iam sure if I knew her a little better the other things wouldnat bother me so much. I just donat want to see you getting all swept up in that just because youare feeling lonely. Iam always right here, and you can join us for anything. Believe meaa"she checked again over her shouldera"athereas a lot to be said for young and s.e.xy, but once youave said it, thereas not much else to talk about, if you get my drift.a Natalie rolled her eyes, though secretly celebrating the fact that Didi was voicing exactly what she felta"that being able to talk about things and enjoy each otheras company was a better foundation for a relations.h.i.+p than s.e.x. Now she just needed for Didi to turn those thoughts into actions. aLook, we can go shopping tomorrow in St. Lucia.a aAll of us?a She shrugged. It wasnat her place to suggest the two of them go off alone. Kelly would do whatever she wanted, but Pamela was Didias responsibility. aWhoever wants to go. Theyare having another formal night in the dining room and I wouldnat mind having something new to wear.a aNow youare talking. Thatas the Natalie I know and love.a A warm feeling enveloped her as Didi shot her a smile. aYou should put some ice on your eyes today so the swelling will go down. You want me to fix you a cloth?a aOh, youare so sweet. Lord knows no one else cares enough about me to do that.a She went back inside to raid the ice bucket and found Kelly sitting on the coucha"very close to the sliding gla.s.s doora"going through the daily newsletter that detailed the s.h.i.+pas activities.

aHow are Didi and Pamela?a Kelly asked, with not even a hint she had overheard the balcony conversation.

aTheyare better. Didi still has a little swelling around her eyes. I was just getting her some ice. They wonat be going ash.o.r.e today so I was thinking I might go with you if itas not too late.a aYou mean out on the boat, like you did the other day?a aI was actually thinking I might give it a try, if you still feel like helping me and all.a Kelly shot up off the couch. aAre you kidding? Iall go down to the excursion desk and get your ticket now.a Natalie packed the remnants of the previous nightas ice into a cloth and took it back outside. aHereas a pack for your eyes. You should lie down and rest with this on.a Below their balcony, crewmen were scurrying onto the dock at Barbados to secure the ma.s.sive ropes to giant cleats along the dock. The gangway would go down soon to allow them ash.o.r.e.

aYouare an angel, Nat.a An angel on a mission, she thoughtaa mission to make Didi jealous enough to come back to her. aKelly just went to get our snorkeling tickets. Iam so excited.a aYouare really going through with that?a aOf course. Iall tell you all about it at dinner. You and Pamela feel better, okay?a aYou better not drown. Iall be really mad at you!a When they stepped onto the boat, Kelly saw a familiar face and waved. aThereas Jo.a aI wonder where Julie is. I havenat seen her around in the last couple of days.a aShe must have gotten the message that you werenat interested.a aI guess,a Natalie said sheepishly. aShe was nice, but not really my type. Sort ofanot really pushy, just kind of obvious about what she wanted. I guess I prefer a little more subtlety, if you know what I mean.a Kelly chuckled to herself, thinking back on her conversation with Yvonne. aSo you donat really go for that being clubbed over the head and dragged back to the cave?a aNot usually.a They took a seat on a cool plastic bench near the bar where a young woman was serving juice and cookies as they ferried out to the snorkel site. As usual, Kelly wore her board shorts and a sports bra, with a sun-blocking long-sleeved s.h.i.+rt on top. Natalie was dressed casually also, tan shorts and a loose cotton polo s.h.i.+rt over her swimsuit, and the sandals she had worn to the beach the day before. Her large beach bag held their towels, sunscreen and Kellyas underwater camera. At their feet were two sets of fins and snorkel masks.

aThis is going to be fun, Natalie. Iam really glad you decided to come.a aI promised Didi I wouldnat drown.a aYeah, that would be a real b.u.mmer.a She could tell Natalie was nervous. aYou want to try on your gear?a aI guess.a She slipped off her shorts and s.h.i.+rt and worked with Kelly to apply sunscreen. Finally she pulled her hair back and secured it with an elastic band. aOkay, Iam ready for this.a Kelly sprayed their masks with defogger and rinsed them in a large garbage can filled with fresh water. Then she walked Natalie through the process of sucking the air out of her mask in order to make a watertight seal around her face. Next she tightened the straps and adjusted the snorkel so that it slid easily into Natalieas mouth. aOf all the things you can do in the water, snorkeling is probably the easiest. Once you put your face in, you forget about everything except what you see.a aAnd youare sure it doesnat matter that Iam not all that good a swimmer?a she asked, lifting the mask to her forehead.

aNot with this.a Kelly lifted an inflatable vest over her head. aStand up and Iall fix it for you.a One of the ties wrapped around the waist and she made quick work of fastening it. The other hung from the back, which meant looping it through Natalieas crotch and snapping it on the hook just below her b.r.e.a.s.t.s. She tried not to think about the fact that Natalie might consider it overly familiar for someone to reach between her legs.

aThatas awfully loose.a aYou donat want it really tight, just enough to keep it on your chest instead of around your neck. But either way, it keeps you afloat.a She tugged on the valve and let some of the air out. aIn fact, you donat even have to keep it fully inflated. Just a little bit of air is probably enough.a Natalie nodded at a couple who were also getting ready. aThose people over there didnat blow theirs up at all.a aThey probably want to dive down into the reef. You canat do that if you have air in your vest. I probably wonat blow mine up either.a aGreat, the person whoas responsible for making sure I donat drown isnat even going to use her life vest and plans to run off and leave me flopping in the water.a aI promise not to leave you, Natalie. If I dive down, Iall still be right in front of you where you can see me. I wonat even do that if you donat want me to. Just let me know by holding onto my hand.a Natalieas eyes grew wide as the boat drew to a stop, and one by one, the snorkelers jumped off the boat into the clear blue water.

aCome on. Weall go down the ladder.a She waited until everyone else had gone before leading Natalie to the ladder, their flippers slapping across the deck. Then she made the final adjustments on their masks and slipped into the water to wait.

For a few seconds, she wondered if Natalie would follow through. Finally she did, cautiously descending the steps and practically gliding into Kellyas arms. aEverything okay?a Natalie nodded, though the look on her face was pure terror.

aYouare doing great. Letas move away from the boat.a She swam backward for several feet and towed Natalie along. When the water below turned dark she stopped.aThe coralas right under us. Are you ready to put your face in the water?a Another nod.

aOkay,here we go.aKelly bit into her mouthpiece and lowered her face into the water, s.h.i.+fting so they were side by side with their fingers tightly intertwined. Then she kicked her flippers to send them over the coral, which was swarming with dozens of species of brightly colored fish. With her free hand, she pointed from one sight to another as they floated on the surface.

Again and again, she looked at Natalieas mask for any signs of leakage or distress. None appeared, and when she flashed the A-OK sign, she got one in return.

Kelly kicked harder and steered them into deeper water, where larger fish trolled near the sandy bottom for the occasional morsel. She snapped off a few photos, including one of a sea turtle, about a foot and a half in diameter, as it scuttled away.

Several yards ahead, a larger bank of coral teemed with life. As they neared it, she spotted a conch sh.e.l.l on the bottom. She wriggled her hand free and dove about twelve feet to the spot, where she lifted the sh.e.l.l and turned it over. A lively conch flapped from the folds. She gently replaced it and kicked upward, expelling the air from her lungs as she resurfaced.

To her surprise, Natalie had raised her head and removed her snorkel. aThis is fantastic!a aI told you. Did you see the conch?a Natalie began to cough and Kelly swam quickly to her side. aYou okay?a Several coughs later, she regrouped and adjusted her mask. aLetas look some more.a Kelly stuck close by and took more photos as they crisscrossed the reef, lifting her head occasionally to check their position relative to the boat and the other snorkelers. They were well away from the crowd, but close enough to get back easily when it was time to leave.

She felt almost silly for being so happy about swimming around with Natalie and holding her hand. Natalie probably had no idea she was getting such a buzz from it.

A swimmer suddenly appeared below them, gesturing to his camera. He was a crewman taking souvenir pictures he would print and offer for sale before they returned to the dock. Kelly and Natalie waved with their free hand as he took the photo. Then he pointed in the direction of the others and motioned for them to follow.

They kicked along behind until they found themselves among the others, who were looking on as their snorkel guide fed a small reef shark. They floated, mesmerized, for several minutes until the guide surfaced and called them all back to the boat.

aLetas hang back until people are out of the way,a Kelly said. She removed her mask and tossed it to a crewman on the deck. aIs that okay?a Natalie nodded and pushed her mask up too. aI canat wait to tell Didi I actually saw a real live shark. Sheas going to freak out.a She cringed at hearing Didias name, but tried to put herself in Natalieas shoes. Natalie wanted to brag to her friends that she had done something thrilling, something they wouldnat have expected. aI got a few pictures you can show her.a She nudged Natalie toward the ladder, where the gentle waves rocked it up and down. aGrab the rail and try to sit on the steps. Iall take your fins off.a Kelly scooted up behind to keep her from falling back into the water. When she realized Natalie was struggling to time her upward thrust with the swell of the waves, she placed a palm on her b.u.t.t to give her a lift. One last wave rolled into them, drawing out the contact, which Kelly didnat mind at all.

Natalie finally spun onto the ladder, kicked off her fins and climbed onto the boat with Kelly following. aThat was so amazing. I see now why you love it,a she said as she toweled off.

aWe were lucky you picked this one. It was a gorgeous reef, and there wasnat a cloud in the sky.a aA shark! I canat believe Iam going to be able to tell people I saw a shark. Do you think we can do this again?a aI donat see why not. We haveawhat? Three more ports?a Kelly could not keep from grinning at Natalieas excitement. Everything about their day had been perfect as far as she was concerned. Besides all the things they had seen, Natalie had trusted her at every turn. Not only had she been excited about everything she saw in the water, but now she was also br.i.m.m.i.n.g with a newfound confidence and sense of adventure. aSt. Lucia tomorrow, then the private island and Na.s.sau. Of all of those, St. Lucia would probably be the best.a Natalie made a face. aI promised Didi Iad go shopping with her in St. Lucia. I canat believe Iam saying this, but I actually donat want to. I bet the devilas sharpening his ice skates.a aYou can always cancel out, maybe plan shopping for Na.s.sau. The water wonat be as warm there.a Kelly was in favor of anything that meant breaking a date with Didi.

aIam worried Iall hurt her feelings. I havenat done anything with her on this trip except our outing to the beach yesterday.a She rubbed her eyes and blinked. aI think I have salt water in my eyes.a aHold on.a She wet a corner of her towel from a jug of fresh water and gave it to Natalie to wipe her face. aYou want a beer?a aSure.a At the bar, Kelly ran into Jo and chucked her in the shoulder.

aHowas it going? Did you see that shark?a aHey, mate. That was cool. I took a load of pictures.a aYeah, me too. I havenat seen you around.a aNah, Iave been up in the library reading mostly. Taking it easy.a She tilted her head in Natalieas direction. aYou seem to be doing okay.a aNot bad. Justataking it easy too.a She grinned. aWhatas Julie up to?a Jo rolled her eyes and smiled. aShe got a splinter in her toe.a aWow, is it serious?a aThe splinter isnat, but Iam not so sure about the nurse. Julieas spending every free minute at the clinic, and they went off today touring some sugar plantation. She said the nurse suggested it because she was so sweet.a Kelly winced.

aYeah, that was my reaction too. But theyare having a good time. Thatas what we came for.a aI know what you mean. I came to make friends.a She picked up her two beer bottles and turned toward Natalie. aI think Iam doing pretty well.a aGood on ya, mate.a She delivered the beer to Natalie and clinked their bottles together. aTo a fabulous day.a aLook what I got.a She offered a small plastic picture viewer on a key chain. aIt turned out great.a Kelly held it up toward the sun and closed one eye as she peered into the viewer to see the photo the crewman had snapped. Even wearing their masks and snorkels, their smiles were evident. And best of all, they were holding hands.

aI got two of them, and a couple of refrigerator magnets. I thought that would be more fun than just pictures.a aThese are great.a She locked onto Natalieas eyes and held her gaze. She could feel something hokey welling up inside her chest, but she didnat care to stop it. aThis has been the best day of all, and thatas because I got to share it with you.a aIt was my best day too.a As they smiled at one another, Kelly wondered if there was even the slightest chance Natalie had enjoyed it for any of the same reasons she had.

Chapter 13.

Fresh from her shower, Natalie smoothed her skin with moisturizing lotion and studied her reflection in the bathroom mirror. Her b.r.e.a.s.t.s stood out bright white against her darkening tan. She had never liked them. They were average in size, but on her slender torso were more prominent than she would have liked. Didi always said it athrew offa her look, since most fas.h.i.+on was designed for rail-thin women with no b.r.e.a.s.t.s at all.

The rest of her was mostly fine. She secretly liked the curve of her hips, a stark contrast to the shapelessness of the usual runway models. Her fingers followed her eyes to the soft bare skin of her pubis. The waxing technician had left an artistic swirl of dark, trimmed hair, barely an inch across, and in the shape of a flame. No doubt the rest would grow back before anyone had the chance to admire her handiwork, but Natalie was glad to enjoy it herself.

She tucked the towel between her b.r.e.a.s.t.s and checked its security. After sharing a cabin with Kelly for the past week, she was perfectly comfortable walking out of the bathroom only partially clad, but had never been one to parade around totally nude, even with Theresa or Didi. She didnat have a body like theirs, pet.i.te and perfectly proportioned, and it always made her self-conscious to think her features were under their scrutiny.

aItas all yours,a she announced as she exited the bathroom.

Kelly was out on the balcony, apparently talking to Didi or Pamela. Natalie hoped she was telling them what a wonderful time theyad had on their snorkeling trip. If they hadnat still been in port, she would have joined them in her towel just to see the look on Didias face.

Hurriedly, she dressed in Capri pants, a sleeveless top and sandals, and opened the sliding gla.s.s door. aIam through in the shower.a Kelly spun around and smiled. aI was just telling them how much fun we had, but I saved you all the best parts.a aSo you didnat tell them we saw a shark?a aYou saw a what?a Didi practically screamed.

Natalie gushed out the details, making no special effort to exaggerate what a good time they had. Her excitement was genuine, and it was obvious Kellyas was as well. aWe thought about going again tomorrow. You want to come?a aYou promised to come shopping with meaa"Didi glanced at Pamelaa"awith us tomorrow. We havenat had a single chance to go.a aOkay, okay.a It had been worth a try, but she should have known Didi would protest. What she didnat know was if her objection had more to do with her not going shopping, or with her spending another day with Kelly. Didias jealousy was probably sufficiently piqued but Natalie didnat want to miss the chance to drive it home one more time. She turned to Kelly, who was heading inside to shower. aMaybe we can do it again in one of the other ports.a aYouare turning into a regular Jacques Cousteau,a Didi groused.

aItas fun. You should try it. And doing it with Kelly was really nice, because she was right there beside me the whole time, holding my hand. She took care of all the little details so I could just concentrate on feeling safe and seeing everything.a Though she had thrown in the part about Kelly just to twist the knife, her words rang absolutely true. Kelly had focused totally on making certain she had a good time, something Natalie wasnat used to at all.

Pamela spoke up for the first time.aSomething like that would be a lot of fun with someone who knew what she was doing.a Pleased to see the scowl on Didias face, Natalie congratulated herself and changed the subject to underscore her nonchalance, asking about their respective sunburns. When the phone rang, she excused herself with one last dig. aI better get that. Kellyas in the shower, and sheas liable to run out naked.a Steph was calling to hear about her day and to brag that Yvonne had actually come along on a carriage tour of the city. They agreed to meet for a drink at the poolside bar.

If she had thought about it, she would have suggested meeting in about fifteen minutes instead of right away. The shower was still running and she hated just to dash out without saying anything to Kelly, especially after theyad had such a nice day together. She cracked the bathroom door, allowing the steam to escape. aKelly?a aYeah?a aSteph called and wanted me to meet her upstairs for a drink.a The condensation on the mirror evaporated and Kellyas nude body came into view, every bit as sleek and defined as her outward appearance had implied. The biggest surprise from this angle was her b.u.t.ta"high, firm and decidedly feminine. Natalie was glued in place in hopes she might turn.

aWill you come back here before dinner, or do you want to meet in the dining room?a aI, uhathe dining room is fine.a aAll right. See you then. Oh, and Natalie?a aYes?a aIf itas okay with you, Iad like to come along if you decide to go shopping tomorrow.a aYouare kidding.a aNo, I want to find a new s.h.i.+rt, something nice for dinner. Is it okay?a aOf course it is.a She closed the door and leaned against it, willing her heartbeat to slow.

Kelly had never been very good at reading women, and Natalie Chatham was no exception. One minute she was warm and almost inviting; the next, distracted and aloof. There was nothing about any of it that seemed intentional, but it was hard not to feel at times invisible, particularly when Didi came into the picture. Still, there were moments when the charade seemed to fade away and Natalieas attention seemed genuine.

A breath of frustration spurted from the corner of her mouth as she dropped her towel and pulled on her briefs. Her plans for the afternoona"relaxing with Natalie and talking more about their excursiona"were shot, and while that was no big deal in the grand scheme of things, it was a disheartening confirmation that Natalie wasnat as interested in spending time together as she was.

She had gotten a nice vibe from their outing this morning, especially as they held hands in the water. But when Didi came on the scene, Natalie invited them along on the next excursion as if to underscore that it was the adventure, and not the time with her, that had made it fun and special.

Aware that she had allowed thoughts of Didi to sour her mood, she shook off the exchange on the balcony and tried to focus on something more pleasant, namely, that glorious moment when the boat had rocked as she held Natalieas beautiful rear in the palm of her hand. It was a feeling she would not forget anytime soon. And when she had glanced over her shoulder from the balcony as Natalie popped out of the bathroom wrapped only in a towel, it was almost more than she could stand.

Enough of that. No sense getting worked up over something that was out of her control. Natalie was the one calling all of the shots in this game, and this was about making Didi jealous. Period.

She chose a black ribbed tank top because it let her get away with not wearing a bra. Her cargo shorts would do until dinner, when she would change into chinos and add an over-s.h.i.+rt.

A shudder announced they were pulling out of port, and she grabbed a beer from the minibar and returned to the balcony. By the silence, she surmised that Pamela and Didi had gone back inside.

aGoodbye, Barbados,a she murmured softly, committing to memory her wonderful day. When they returned to the dead of winter in Rochester, it was thoughts of holding Natalieas hand in the warm water that woulda"

The sliding gla.s.s door opened forcefully on the balcony next door. aI think you should go,a Didi said firmly. aYou heard what Natalie said. Kelly showed her how to do everything and stayed right there with her. I bet shead do that for you too.a aBut wouldnat it be more fun if it was all of us?a Pamela asked.

aIt might be more fun for all of you, but I have zero interest in flopping around in the water like shark bait just to see a bunch of little fis.h.i.+es eating each other. Thatas what coffee table books are for.a aFine. Then weall go shopping. That could be fun too.a aAre you intentionally trying to make me feel bad, Pamela? Iam trying to give you what you want. I donat want you to miss out on something you want to do just because Iam a stick-in-the mud. This is a no-brainer. You want to go snorkeling. I donat. So you go, and Iall go shopping with Natalie. Whatas the big deal?a Pamela sighed. aDoes it occur to you that I might want to be with you, Didi?a aJesus, we had three whole days of being locked up together.

Canat we just take a little break?a Kelly sat perfectly still so as not to give away her presence.

aThatas what I thought,a Pamela said, her tone giving away hurt feelings. aThis isnat about you wanting me to have a good time. Itas about you getting away from me.a aI never said that.a aYou know what, Didi?a Pamelaas voice began to shake. aWhen we first started dating, a lot of my friends asked me why Iad want to be going out with a woman who was so much older than I was. I told them I was glad to finally find somebody who was mature. I had no idea how wrong I was.a The sliding gla.s.s door slammed.

as.h.i.+t,a Didi muttered. Then, to Kellyas embarra.s.sment, her head appeared around the divider. The swelling in her eyes had lessened, but they were still puffy and red. aYou could have cleared your throat or something, you know.a Kelly could feel herself blush. aIt all came down pretty fast.a aMost arguments do. Whereas Natalie?a aOff with Steph.a aSo what do you think? Am I right? You should ask Pamela at dinner to come snorkeling with you tomorrow, and Natalie and I can go shopping.a Kelly suddenly realized that Didi was definitely up to something, but that Pamela had only half the picture. It wasnat just about ditching Pamela for the day. Didi was jealous, and either wanted Natalie for herself or wanted to keep her from having a good time with someone else. aActually, I already told Natalie Iad come with her shopping tomorrow. Youall be there too, right?a Didi squinted, opened her mouth as if to speak, then closed it.

aI was thinking khaki chinos for dinner. That sound okay to you?a Natalie stared off from the terrace bar as Barbados grew smaller on the horizon. She had told Steph all about the snorkeling tripa"the fish, the turtle and the sharka"but nothing about her interactions with Kelly. If she closed her eyes, she could still envision the steamy reflection of water cascading over Kellyas sinewy backside.

aWhere is your head, Nat?a She took a sip of her drink, an ice cold beer like the one Kelly had shared with her on the boat. It was probably only the third or fourth beer she had ever drunk, and it went down pretty well. aYou remember those little kaleidoscopes we used to have when we were little that you could look through the hole and twist it so it changes shapes and colors?a aI canat wait to hear where youare going with this.a Steph twirled the ice cubes in her Collins.

aThatas how I feel right now, like somebodyas just twisting me back and forth so that everything looks different.a aWhat are you looking at that keeps changing?a aDidiamostly.a Actually, the mostly part belonged to Kelly, but the question of Didi was the one that had to be answered first. aOne minute I feel like I have to get her back or Iall just go insane. But then whenever I start to feel like sheas within my grasp, I donat want her anymore.a Steph was shaking her head in obvious disapproval.

Natalie continued, aI know you donat want to hear any more about Didi, but I canat just put her out of my head. This is complicated.a aNo, it isnat. Whenever you feel like you donat want her anymore, itas because thereas a little voice in the back of your head telling you not to go through with it. You need to listen to that voice.a aBut why does it keep telling me I do? Iave made up my mind a dozen times in the last two years to let it go and get on with my life, and Iall be all right for a few weeks, or even a month or so. Then Didi comes around to talk at work or maybe we just run off to lunch together, and there I ama"right back where I started.a aRight back where Didi wants you is more like it. Every time you start to feel okay about moving on, she reels you back in like a big tuna.a She gripped both of Natalieas forearms forcefully.

aYou know what you have to do.a Natalie stared back defiantly.

aYou need to sell her your half of the store and let her go. Thatas the only way she will leave your life.a aI donat want her to leave my life. I told you, I love her and I always will. I know you donat understand that, but I canat help it. I just want to settle things between us once and for all. Either we get back together, or we break up for good.a aYou only have control over one of those, Nat.a The way she was feeling right now, walking away from Didi might be the only way to save her sanity. What scared her was thinking about what waited in the wings. When had she started l.u.s.ting after muscles?

Kelly looked from one face to another as the waiter served their appetizers. The air was thick with tension that emanated from all around the table. Didi and Pamela were still fuming over their fight this afternoon. Even Steph and Natalie were unusually quiet and serious after their long talk over drinks. Only Kelly and Yvonne seemed unaffected, and they tried in vain to lift the groupas morale.

aI hear weare going to hit the stores tomorrow and find something nice to wear for formal night,a Yvonne said. aI should head to the casino tonight and raise a few bucks.a aWin about seven hundred dollars, honey.a aI probably donat have enough money to buy forgiveness,a Didi said, looking sheepishly at Pamela. aWould you consider taking it out in trade?a From the corner of her eye, Kelly saw Natalie look away, shaking her head almost imperceptibly. Remembering how she had responded to the display on New Yearas Eve, she reached beneath the tablecloth and patted her thigh.

Natalie responded with a small squeeze and cleared her throat. aI think weall all have a great time tomorrow. Even Kellyas going to come along. Letas show her how the pros shop.a aThereas no way Iam going to be able to keep up with all of you.a aYou wonat have to. Just follow the trail of frazzled sales clerks and weall be at the other end.a aWhat will you be looking for, Spike?a Didi asked.

Kelly noted the biting tone and nickname, but refused to rise to the bait. aNothing in particular. I just thought Iad go along to help Natalie with her packages.a Didias eyes flashed with jealousy.

aBut you never know,a Kelly continued. aWe might pa.s.s a tuxedo shop. That would be pretty hard to resist.a The game was on.

Chapter 14.

Kelly filled her lungs with the humid morning air as she exited the s.h.i.+p. aAnother gorgeous day!a She placed her hand in the small of Natalieas back as they walked down the gangway, just to give her a little support in case she slipped on the incline, a gesture Natalie didnat seem to mind. In fact, Natalie had been quite familiar herself today, even fetching a second cup of coffee and casually delivering it to the bathroom while Kelly had finished her shower. She didnat dare return the favor when Natalie went into the shower, feeling certain she would get caught staring.

aKelly, you really donat have to do this shopping bit just because I went snorkeling with you. I know how you hate this sort of thing.a aAre you kidding? I canat wait to finally see what this shopping fetish is all about. I feel like Margaret Mead going off on one of her cultural studies.a She put her fist to her mouth and lowered her voice as if talking discreetly into a tape recorder. aThe taller of the species is instinctively drawn to the decorative items with the horizontal stripes, while the reverse seems to be evident for those creatures of smaller stature.a aVery funny. Did you happen to know that, or was it just a lucky guess?a aIall never tell.a Natalie laughed.aIam sure it seems silly, but itas our business to help women find the clothes that will make them look good. We have to look good too, or no one will want to take our advice.a aI donat mean to make fun of you, Natalie. Or Didi either. From what Yvonne tells me you have a very successful business and you both know what youare doing.a aWe do. And the fas.h.i.+on part is all Didi, but Iave learned to hold my own when it comes to dressing myself.a aIall second that. You always look terrific.a aThank you.a aIn facta"and I realize that you realize that I donat know what Iam talking abouta"I think your clothes look better on you than Didias do on her, but thatas just my opinion.a Natalie smiled and looped her arm through Kellyas as they came to a stop at the end of the dock where they had arranged to meet the others. aWhat makes you say that?a aOkay, youare definitely going to think Iam weird when I tell you this, but I actually do have an aesthetic eye. However, itas for architecture and interior structural design, not clothes. Some of the principles are the same, though, so I canat help but notice things.a aLike what?a Kelly was pleased Natalie seemed genuinely interested in her thoughts. aLike that scarf Didi had on at dinner the first night we sailed. It really got my attention because the colors were the same as her blouse, but the pattern was different. But then I also noticed her belt, which had those same colors too, and a totally different texture.a aI do that sometimesamix and match accessories.a aRight, but itas a different effect for you because youare taller.a She placed one hand just above Natalieas breast and another at her waist. aItas okay to have two focal points in anything, but you never want them too close together. Didias short, so that meant her focal points were only a few inches apart.a aYou really noticed that?a aI told you, I notice weird stuff.a aI think itas kind of amazing if you want to know the truth. With all of that in your head you probably have a better eye for what looks good than I do.a aI wouldnat go that far, but if you want to try on a million things today Iad be happy to tell you how nice you looked in all of them.a Flirting didnat get much plainer than that, but before she could gauge Natalieas response, they were joined by the others.

aLetas go spend Yvonneas casino winnings,a Didi said, slapping Kelly on the back. aYou ready, Spike?a Kelly decided it was a rhetorical question and swallowed her retort. The last thing she wanted was a petty squabble with Natalieas ex. Especially since her inclination was to kick Didias a.s.s.

aKnock it off, Didi,a Natalie spat as she grabbed Didias elbow and squeezed it hard.

aWhatad I do now?a aYou know d.a.m.n good and well what you did. Her nameas Kelly, not Spike. And if you do that one more time, Iam going to make a scene in front of everybody.a Didi sighed. aShe knows Iam kidding. Besides, sheas a big girl. She can take care of herself.a aSheas too polite to clean your clock, but donat push it, because Iam not.a She dropped Didias arm and strolled casually back to where the others were looking over a rack of colorful tops. aAnyone seen Kelly?a aSheas back there with Steph looking through the silk stuff.a To Natalieas surprise, it was Kelly pulling out the silk tops and holding them up for Stephas opinion. They were dressy, more like blouses than s.h.i.+rts, and not at all like something Kelly would wear. aLooking for something?a aYeah, I thought maybe I should break down and buy something that was actually formal-looking for dinner instead of winging it with my starched s.h.i.+rts.a Natalie frowned at their choices. aIam not so sure this is you, Kelly.a She took the blouse from Kellyas hand and held it up, looking around to see that no other customers were listening. aSee how full it is? Itas for people who want to hide their stomach. You donat want to do that.a aI donat?a aNo, because you donat have any stomach to hide. You need something thatas sleek and tapered so it shows off your lines. What do you think, Steph?a aI can see it. Something fitted.a aRight.a Natalie rummaged through the racks and pulled out a navy top with darts that pulled it snug around the waist. aIam not too sure about this one, but itas the only one here that might work.a When Kelly disappeared into the fitting room, Steph whispered, aI think sheas trying to impress someone.a Natalie thought it more likely that Kelly was playing along just to get Didi off her back. But it didnat matter, because when she returned in the navy s.h.i.+rt, the response was a unanimous shaking of heads.

aIam glad we all agree,a Kelly said.aI would have been screwed if you guys liked it.a aWeall keep an eye out for the right thing.a aWhatever. I can always wear what I brought. Besides, I promised to carry your bags while you bought out the store. So hop to it.a Natalie and Steph busied themselves until Kelly returned from the fitting room in her own clothes. As they left the store, Yvonne met them on the sidewalk. aDidi sent me to get you guys. Sheas in the store across the street. She says sheas found the mother lode.a aIt must really be something if Didi likes it,a Natalie said. aLetas go.a The moment they entered the store, Natalie knew exactly why Didi was so excited. Dozens of displays showed off cutting-edge fas.h.i.+ons they wouldnat receive in Rochester until the late spring s.h.i.+pment. Didi and Pamela each had an armload already and were following an animated older woman as she showed them still more styles.

Kelly pointed to a mannequin perched high on a shelf.aThatas what Iam looking for.a Natalie smiled and nodded. It was a dressy silk s.h.i.+rt with a high collar and wide cuffs. aPerfect. I canat wait to see it on you.a She began exploring the racks and like the others, soon ama.s.sed a pile of items to try on.

Steph, found several outfits she adored. aItas times like these when I can almost understand what you find so appealing about Didi. The woman knows her stuff.a It was, in fact, that realization over eight years ago that first drew Natalie to Didi. She had stepped out of a fitting room to check her look in a full-length mirror when a very attractive blond salesclerk boldly laid a hand on her b.u.t.t and told her she needed a tighter skirt to show off her figure. Natalie had been nearly floored, until Didi nonchalantly collected several examples and had her try them on. In a matter of minutes she was transformed from an ordinary corporate clone to a fas.h.i.+on plate.

Natalie smiled at the memory of the dinner invitation she had gotten as she was signing her credit card slip. She had accepted without even the slightest bit of hesitation, just as she did the night of pa.s.sionate lovemaking that followed. Didi Caviness had literally swept her off her feet.

From their first night together Natalie was a new person, filled with the self-confidence that had eluded her since her college days when Theresa had left her for a woman more elegant than she knew how to be at twenty-one. With Didias love and guidance, she had become the woman she always wanted to be. If only their pa.s.sion had survived.

aLooks like that s.h.i.+rt must have fit her,a Steph said.

Natalie looked up to see Kelly smiling and flas.h.i.+ng a thumbs-up sign.

aI should go try some of these things on.a As she pa.s.sed the sales counter, she stopped in her tracks to listen to the exchange.

aWhat do you mean it isnat for sale?a Kelly demanded. aIt was on the rack. It has a price tag on it. I have money. What more is there?a Didi and Pamela emerged from the fitting room with their potential purchases, hundreds if not thousands of dollars worth of clothing and accessories. aCan I set these here?a Didi asked, spreading her things across the counter.