by Karen Legasy
“I know you’d rather be driving to Canberra with Abigail this afternoon,” he said, “but can’t you at least fake a smile about being stuck with me?”
Marlee flopped into a chair. “That’s not it. I hate keeping things from people who care about me. I just finished a call with my brother.” She sighed. “I’ve always confided in him, but not this time.”
“I reckon he wasn’t happy.”
“No kidding. He threatened to come over and find out for himself what’s going on.”
“You’re lucky to have a brother who cares about you.” Tyler dropped into the chair at his desk and folded his arms. “I haven’t spoken to mine in years.”
“I didn’t know you have a brother. How many siblings do you have?”
“Only the one brother, but he disowned me and we’ve lost touch.”
“That’s too bad. What happened?”
“I was born gay into a homophobic family.” He waved a hand through the air, as though swatting a fly. “I left home when I was eighteen and haven’t looked back since.”
“What about your parents? Don’t you ever see them?”
“Nope. My brother was always the favorite and my folks told me to move out shortly after I came out. My being gay apparently made them sick.” Tyler’s knee banged the corner of the desk as he got up. “As far as I’m concerned, I don’t have a family.”
“You’ve got me. I’ll be your sister.”
“Sweet.” Tyler smiled. “Maybe you could get Abigail to adopt me too.”
“You’re on your own for that.” Marlee stood up and gave him an awkward hug. “I’m here if you ever want to talk more about this.”
“Thanks. You’re a good friend.”
“So are you.” Marlee moved toward the door. “I’m just lucky my straighter than straight brother isn’t the least bit homophobic.”
“It sounds like he really cares about you.”
“He does.” Marlee sighed. “I hope you’ll get to meet him one day.”
“I’d like to. Shall we head out?”
Chapter Thirty-Three
Heavy traffic snarled vehicles as Tyler drove across the Sydney Harbor Bridge on their way to Canberra. Marlee felt small and claustrophobic while trying to peer through the large beams and chain-link fencing for a glimpse of the Opera House.
“You can’t see much from here,” she said.
“You’ll have to climb the bridge if you want a good view. Lots of tourists do it and you can even get a T-shirt afterward to say you did. I can stop if you like.”
“No thanks. I’ve heard it’s pretty expensive.”
“Like you have to worry about that now,” Tyler said.
“Yes I do, especially since I’m unemployed.”
“Have you been to the Opera House yet?”
“No.” Marlee groaned. “I was hoping to at least see it today.”
“How could you have not visited the Opera House by now? What kind of tourist are you anyway?”
“One who came here to surf and enjoy the beaches,” Marlee said. “Besides, I’m not into opera.”
“Liking opera is irrelevant. Our Opera House is world-renowned and a must-see for anyone visiting Sydney. I’ll make a quick detour and park somewhere nearby so we can go for a short walk and have lunch at Circular Quay.”
After lunch, Marlee offered to drive because Tyler was feeling a bit tired. When she got into the driver’s seat, she pulled on the lever to move it forward, but something kept preventing it from sliding. She reached underneath and felt a plastic bag. She tugged on it, but the object inside was jammed and wouldn’t budge.
“What’s under here?” A piece of plastic ripped off. “I can’t adjust the seat.”
“Let me fix it.” Tyler lunged through the rear door and began to shift things. “There, try now.”
“What the fuck?” Instead of reaching for the lever, Marlee pulled out a bag with the gun nestled at the bottom.
“You weren’t supposed to see that.” Tyler slipped back into the passenger seat and refastened his belt.
“Fuck, Tyler, if we get caught with this we could be in big trouble.”
“We’ll be in worse trouble if we get caught without it. Give it to me.” He took the bag. “I’ll put it under my seat and you can forget it’s there. I’ll take responsibility.”
“Yeah, right, and they’ll believe I didn’t know about it.” Marlee groaned. “Let’s take it back to your ex’s.”
“We can’t. It’s his birthday today and he’ll be at home because he always takes it off work. I’ll return it next week. We’ll be fine for now. Let’s go.”
“I don’t like this.” Marlee reluctantly gave in and headed out toward Canberra.
Traffic was steady, flowing and manageable as Marlee drove them out of the city. She was upset about the gun and didn’t feel much like talking so was happy to let Tyler nap while she cruised the open highway. When they got to Canberra nearly four hours later, rush hour traffic was at its peak.
Marlee let Tyler take over the wheel to navigate through the city streets and roundabouts that were confusing enough let alone driving on the wrong side of the road. She was exhausted.
They checked in to separate rooms and agreed to meet in the lobby at six for dinner. Marlee flopped on the bed and sent a text to Abigail to tell her they’d arrived. They were booked into different hotels, but Abigail promised to drop by after dark and spend most of the night. She just had to be back at her room in time to meet Hannah for breakfast.
Marlee stressed about the gun. If they were caught with a stolen firearm, it wouldn’t look good for anyone. But if things got dangerous, it could come in handy.
By the time she met Tyler in the lobby for dinner, she was content he’d brought the gun along. The more she thought about it, the better she felt. She wouldn’t use the gun unless she had to, but somehow it felt good to know it was there. She’d always carried a gun on duty and would surely use this one if it meant protecting Abigail.
They left the hotel to explore a few blocks of businesses and restaurants before deciding on a grill house that served steak and seafood.
“Did you leave it in the car?” Marlee cut a corner off Tyler’s grilled sirloin after he’d offered her a taste. She’d opted for fish and chips.
“Maybe. The less you know about it the better.”
“Why did you bring it if you don’t want me to know anything?”
“Don’t worry. If it’s needed you’ll know about it.”
“I already know about it.”
“How’s the steak?”
“It’s good.” She swallowed. “Why do you think Hannah really wanted Abigail in Canberra this weekend?”
“To get her away from us, no doubt. Mind if I snag a few chips?”
“Sure, have the rest if you want.” Marlee pushed her half-eaten plate toward him. “I’m not very hungry. I have this feeling that whoever’s been messing with Abigail is going to strike soon.”
“Strike as in what way?”
“I don’t know, but the fact that someone tampered with her home security system worries me. I’ll be glad when Abigail gets to my room tonight. I don’t trust Hannah.”
“She has reason not to trust you as well.” Tyler bit into a fry. “If she knew her Tay was sneaking off to see you tonight, she’d freak.”
“If Abigail’s not here by midnight, I’m going to her hotel and if she’s not in her room, I’ll break down every door until I find her.”
“Sounds pretty dramatic. Is that how the police in Canada do things? Break down doors?”
“No, but I’m not a cop in Canada anymore and don’t have to follow any rules if it comes to that.”
“We have laws here, so you’d better calm down. Abigail was wise to insist I come along to keep you company.”
After dinner, they returned to the hotel and went into their own rooms for an early night. Marlee had brought a bottle of Abigail’s favorite red merlot and two wineglasses in preparat
ion for a relaxing nightcap. She showered then spent the next few hours surfing television channels, her mind too distracted to focus on anything other than Abigail’s arrival.
Chapter Thirty-Four
Marlee leapt off the bed to answer the light knock at her hotel room door. She viewed a tired Abigail through the peephole then opened it with a smile.
“You made it.” Marlee was relieved to see Abigail and let her inside. Once the door was locked, they fell into each other’s arms and kissed.
“I’m so glad you’re here,” Marlee said as they pulled apart.
“Me too.” Abigail sat on the edge of the bed and kicked off her sandals. “It’s been a long day.”
“It’s great you got here before ten.” Marlee opened the wine. “I wasn’t expecting you for at least another hour.”
“I told Hannah I was tired and wanted an early night. Surprisingly she agreed and even offered to pay the bill at the restaurant so I could get on my way. She said she had plans to meet a friend for a few drinks and wouldn’t be back until later.” Abigail let out her ponytail and fluffed her hair. “How was your day with Tyler?”
“Great.” Marlee poured them each a glass of merlot as she spoke. “I finally got to see the Sydney Opera House. We even ate lunch on the front steps with all the other tourists. It was amazing and a nice start to our afternoon drive here.”
“I’m glad to hear that.” Abigail’s feet were on the bed and she reclined against some pillows.
Marlee handed Abigail her wine then sat down in a chair opposite the bed, clutching her own glass. She needed to exercise restraint against the seductive tresses until they’d talked, and the best way to do it was to keep that hair out of reach. “How did the rest of your day go?”
“Okay, but strange.” Abigail sighed as she tucked hair behind her left ear. “We didn’t leave the Sydney office until later in the day and Hannah seemed distracted for most of the ride.”
“I hope she wasn’t driving.”
“I was happy to be behind the wheel and let my mind wander.” Abigail patted the bed and caught Marlee’s gaze. “Why don’t you sit here?”
“I will, but first tell me what happened today with Hannah.” Marlee fidgeted with the bottom of her shorts. She was losing her resolve for self-discipline.
“There’s nothing much more to say.” Abigail put her glass of wine down on the side table and held out her hands. “Come here. I’ve been waiting all day for this and want you beside me.”
“Sounds like an order.” Marlee was melting. “Are you trying to be my boss?”
Abigail grinned. “If anyone’s in control right now, it’s you. All I could think about during the drive was you and the dirty stuff you’ve planned for our little vacation in Merimbula. I was so turned on that it was rather awkward sharing space in the car with Hannah.”
Marlee laughed as she put her wine down and climbed into Abigail’s lap. She eased Abigail back onto the pillows and sprawled on top. “I think we should take some of the edge off now.”
“Before we get too carried away, there’s one more thing I need to tell you,” Abigail said, as Marlee began to cover her with kisses.
“And what’s that?” Marlee unbuttoned Abigail’s blouse and slid her tongue between two inviting breasts beneath a mauve lace bra.
Abigail’s breathing hastened as she caressed the back of Marlee’s head. “Hannah’s asked me to give her the passcode to my new security system.”
Marlee’s head jerked back in anger. “She can’t have it.”
“She said she wants it in case something happens at the house while I’m in Merimbula.”
“Doesn’t she think Tyler and I are staying behind?” Marlee’s voice almost screeched from frustration.
“I told her you’re going to Tasmania for a few days.” Abigail rubbed her hands along Marlee’s rigid arms. “I didn’t want her to expect you to be there.”
“I haven’t been to Tasmania and wouldn’t know what to say if she asked me about it.” Marlee hated this.
“I know. She caught me off guard when asking about using the pool and I spoke without thinking. Sorry. Someone in the office mentioned a seat sale to Hobart, Tasmania so that’s what came to mind. I owe you a trip there after this.”
“What about the code? Did you give it to her?” Marlee sure hoped not.
“Of course not. I said I didn’t have it with me and the security company could deal with anything that happens to set it off.”
Marlee relaxed, a slight tinge of guilt for doubting Abigail. “That’s my girl.” She slid off her T-shirt and rubbed her naked breasts against Abigail. “Now where did we leave off?”
“The way you turn me on is unreal.” Abigail wriggled out of her blouse.
“Just wait ’til we get to Merimbula.” Marlee unhooked Abigail’s bra and began to ravish the woman who made her feel so complete. How could she ever live again without this woman?
* * *
Marlee woke to Abigail’s goodbye kiss. “What time is it?” The room was dark.
“It’s just before five. I have to go.” Abigail had on navy cotton slacks and a tailored yellow T-shirt, appropriate for a casual day at the office. She sat on the edge of the bed, fingering Marlee’s scalp.
“I wish you didn’t.” Marlee switched on the lamp and sat up.
“Hannah’s an early riser and she knows I am too.” Abigail sighed. “I can’t wait for this hiding to be over with. It’s getting on my nerves. I’m going to tell Hannah about you the moment we get back from Merimbula.”
“That’s a good idea. We shouldn’t be hiding our love from anyone, least of all our best friends. I’d like you to meet Kerry and Gabe after Merimbula.”
Abigail took Marlee’s hand. “I’m so looking forward to having a few private days with you to walk along the beach and talk about us. We haven’t had time to think about our future and what it’ll mean, especially with you giving up your job and moving here. What do you want to do with the rest of your life?”
“Spend it with you.” Marlee kissed her. “That I know for sure.”
“I don’t want your life here to be just about me. I want you to have a life of your own too.”
“I will.” Marlee stroked Abigail’s ponytail. “At least you won’t be stuck with a surf bum because I’ll never do that again.”
“You can do whatever you want as long as you’re happy and fulfilled while we grow old together.”
“I like hearing that, especially the part about growing old together.” Marlee kissed Abigail’s fingers then locked eyes with the woman she was born to love. “I love you, Abigail Taylor, and am so looking forward to spending the rest of my life with you.”
“And I you, Marlee Nevins.” Abigail kissed her then sighed. “I should get going. I don’t think we’ll find anything at the office and it’s going to be a long day. I’m not looking forward to it.”
“Please be careful and keep in touch.” Marlee squeezed Abigail’s hands and feared for her safety. “I know you’ll be with Hannah, but if anything doesn’t feel right, get yourself out of there.”
“I’ll be fine.” Abigail entwined their fingers. “What are you and Tyler up to today?”
“We’ll be hanging out here in case you need us.” Marlee wanted to be near Abigail.
Abigail began to flip through messages on her phone. “Don’t waste your day like that. Get Tyler to tour you around our capital city. It’s quite beautiful and you have to at least see Parliament House.”
Marlee didn’t detect any concern from Abigail and was starting to wonder if she was being overly paranoid about Hannah. “He did say there were kangaroos here. I haven’t seen one yet.”
“You need to get out into the country.” Abigail’s eyes stayed on her phone. “Tyler can take you to the Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve. It’ll make for a nice day and you’ll even see some koalas there.”
Marlee rubbed Abigail’s arm as she tried to alleviate her unease. “I can’t go traipsing aro
und looking for kangaroos and koalas while you’re trying to find a suspect. My holiday will begin when we hit the road for Merimbula tomorrow morning.”
Abigail smiled. “My holiday will begin as soon as Hannah leaves for the airport this afternoon.”
“Isn’t she supposed to be your best friend?” Marlee nudged her, relieved that Abigail was happy to be rid of Hannah too.
“Let’s not talk about that for now.” Abigail gave her another kiss then stood. “I have to go. I’ll let you know as soon as Hannah heads out. Her flight is for five o’clock so she should be gone by four at the latest.”
“I can hardly wait.” Marlee pulled on a T-shirt and followed Abigail to the door. “Have a good day, my love.”
“You too.” Abigail kissed Marlee again then slipped into the hallway.
Chapter Thirty-Five
“Want to go inside for a tour?” Tyler stood in front of Australia’s Parliament House.
Marlee remained in a state of distracted quiet on this sunny Sunday morning in Canberra. While other tourists awed at the surroundings, Marlee’s exhilaration focused on the brief conversation she’d had earlier that morning with Abigail about their future together. A fresh start in a new country with an amazing woman she loved and who loved her back. Maybe she really had died out on the water and was now in Heaven because that’s what her future with Abigail felt like.
“Hello.” Tyler waved a hand in front of her.
“Sorry.” She gave her head a shake. “What did you say?”
“That I heard you and Abigail making out all night.”
“Stop it. You weren’t even in the room next to mine.”
Tyler laughed. “Your poor neighbours.”
“You seem obsessed with our sex life.” Marlee put her hands on her hips and glared at him. “I wouldn’t have expected that from a gay man.”
“Whoa.” He stepped back. “I was just teasing. Sometimes it’s so obvious where your mind is. Just like now when you were in gaga land.”