Have I ever been so responsive in my life? Tally’s only verbal reply was a sensual moan. Her eye lids closed as she leaned against Lex’s chest, giving herself to the sensations he evoked. As his powerful hand cradled the curve of her face, tipping her head to the side, she felt her body turning to liquid. When he brushed his lips across the exposed skin of her erogenous zone along her collar, Tally recognized the wetness saturating her panties. Is this really happening?
Entangling his hand in her luxurious wealth of hair, Lex twisted Tally, dipping her back enough to capture her mouth with his own. Heat poured through her core as his tongue penetrated her, tasting her freely. Oh, God, I don’t remember it ever feeling so good, and we’ve only just started. Reaching up, she knotted her hand in his inky, black locks. I can’t wait for the rest!
Suddenly, the whisper of kisses, like the flutter of a butterfly’s wings, trailed down her belly. Tally felt the tension of her waistband give way and the gentle stroke of her skirt along her legs as it dropped, pooling at her feet. She groaned into Lex’s open mouth as strong hands grasper her buttocks and hot breath bathed her mound. What? What – wait, she thought in befuddlement. Then Lex opened her blouse, displaying her hardened nipples straining against the lace of her sheer Balconette bra as he disrobed her. Feeling herself starting to come undone, she fought to articulate her question as she pulled away from her best friend’s embrace. “What are we doing?”
Almost simultaneously, Lex popped her bra open while Ishkode slid her matching white, lace panties down. Both garments hit the floor at the same time. Peering down at the handsome man nestled between her legs, she fought the incredible urge to grab the back of his head and bury his face in her neatly trimmed bush. Biting her lip with an uncontrollable moan, she heard both men answer in unison, “We’re making a baby.”
Chapter 5
As her mind slowly regained consciousness, Tally stretched her arms above her head, twisting her back slightly while jutting her ass to the side. She felt languid and rested, enjoying the coolness of the microfiber sheets that caressed her naked body. The comfort of the cradling bed made her hesitant to open her eyes, but the quiet snort of the sleeping man beside her immediately brought complete wakefulness.
She instinctively grasped the covers, gathering the fabric over her breasts as her eyes sprang open. Oh, God! she fretted as her groggy brain spun in panic. Please don’t be George! Please don’t be George! Unwilling to acknowledge the sleeping form beside her, fearing his identity, she focused on the ceiling. It took only a millisecond for her to realize she wasn’t in her own bedroom. Where am I, she wondered, a sense of familiarity poking her subconscious as she finally glanced toward the man, and who did I do last night?
When a warm, muscular arm dropped over her waist from the opposite direction, her mind screamed in alarm before awareness dawned. As the previous night took shape in her memory, a gentle kiss landed on her bare shoulder. Smiling sheepishly, she covered her face with her hands, both in relief and to try to hide her momentary fear from her friend.
“Good morning, beautiful,” Lex whispered in a husky voice. “How’d you sleep?”
“Better than I have in ages,” she admitted, surprised at how true her statement really was, “which is actually quite amazing. I mean, I usually suffer from chronic insomnia.”
“I know,” Lex replied, sounding pleased. He gently eased her onto her side while simultaneously scooping her toward him. He aligned her body with his so they could spoon together. “I’m happy to report you hardly moved last night.” He smiled against her exposed flesh making her heart soar. “I guess we thoroughly wore you out.”
Tally couldn’t help grinning herself. “That might be partially true, but I think it had more to do with my sense of security than the sex. Though, I admit, the sex definitely made an impact.”
“Considering how well-endowed both Kode and I are, I should hope so,” Lex teased.
Her grin turned to a devilish smirk. “Are you sure they don’t just look big because I’m so small?”
“Oh! Look who has jokes this morning.”
“Speaking of jokes, what about this joke of a bed?” Tally asked as she butted into Lex, enjoying the feel of his erection tucked between her butt cheeks. Shifting to enticingly press his thick shaft firmly against her, Lex nestled his forehead against the back of her head with a soft moan. “This is the largest California King I’ve ever seen. I’m surprised I didn’t get lost in it.” When the duo chuckled, Ishkode snorted again as he rolled onto his side. Tally covered her mouth in embarrassment and said, “Oops. I guess we’re being too loud.”
Lex laughed easily. “There’s no such thing when it comes to Kode. That man can sleep through anything.” Squirming a little, Lex briefly squeezed Tally tighter before slipping away. “I don’t want to let you go, but I have to pee so bad my brain is floating.” He paused awkwardly to eye her in warning. “Don’t say it. I know brains float inside our heads, so you don’t need to get all technical and geeky.”
He knows me so well, she thought with a chuckle. Raising her hands in surrender, she said, “I’m not. I have to pee, too.”
Lex extended a hand to assist her from the bed. “Well then, follow me, my lady.”
Bowing caused his muscles to ripple and flex. The splendor of his statuesque albeit slender body stirred something deep inside Tally, igniting desires she hadn’t realized she had, or maybe she’d chosen to ignore. I’ve never been a prude or anything, and I’ve enjoyed sex, but it’s always seemed lacking. As Lex pulled her in tow toward the sleek, modern bathroom, she turned pensive. The only other time I remember feeling this way was in college. The memory of the night she’d spent with the two men brought a splash of life to her nether region.
In that moment, Lex caught her eye. He gave her a knowing smile as he held his penis on display for her while he urinated. Oh, no! Damn him and his ability to read me like an open book. She crossed her legs to hide her slit and wrapped an arm across her torso to shield her breasts. This is going to be more complicated than I expected, she thought, chewing on her nail.
*****
Aroused from a deep slumber, Ishkode stumbled into his en suite bathroom. The sounds of muted chatter and soft laughter reached his ears as he stepped into the expansive walk-in shower. It sounds like I’m not the only one who feels content this morning, he thought. It’s heart-warming hearing the two of them together.
As the water warmed, Ishkode relieved himself, aiming for the shower drain. What an odd sensation, he mentally noted. I’m completely relaxed and satisfied, but I feel like I’m ready for another round of baby-making. Stepping into the direct line of the streaming water, the corners of his mouth pulled upward. Hmm, baby-making; I can’t believe that’s what we’re really doing.
Having realized at a young age that he was indeed gay, he’d never seriously thought about having a family before. Well, except for the time I considered marrying Tally, he admitted to himself. I used to console myself by saying I’d hate the clamor and chaos it’d bring, but honestly, I’d love to wake up to the squeals of children being chased by Lexi and Tally. It’d be a welcomed ruckus, not to mention, a dream come true.
Ishkode reached for the shampoo. After our crazy, impromptu night of carnal activities in college, I remember dreading its inevitable end. I wanted nothing more than to keep the three of us together. He huffed, dropping a dab of soap into the palm of his hand before returning the bottle to the shower caddy. I never imaged it’d be possible. If I had known then where we’d be now, I would’ve done so many things differently.
Ishkode felt a momentary pang of sadness for the lost time. Things would’ve been easier if I hadn’t needed to pick between them, he thought, rinsing his hair clean. It broke my heart, knowing I couldn’t have them both, yet loving them nonetheless. Of course, despite how I felt about Tally, there really wasn’t a choice in the end. I mean, I couldn’t live without Lexi. He’s my soul mate.
Coating his long, raven-col
ored hair with conditioner before lathering up his loofah, Ishkode contemplated how he truly felt. Tally thinks our children will bind us together, but she’s wrong. Massaging his body with suds, he knew it was his spouse who bound them to one another. Lexi’s not just the person who introduced me to Tally, but he’s the one who’s kept us tethered. I mean, considering the strong feelings I have for the woman, I would’ve put distance between us. If for no other reason than to remove the temptation she posed – still poses, but… He pictured his husband’s kind face. Lexi couldn’t imagine life without either of us and I refused to make him chose the way I did. Ishkode was incapable of denying Lex Ackerman anything that made him happy, even if it meant sharing his love.
Of course, if I’m honest with myself, I never wanted to see Tally go either, but I can’t forget how worried Lexi was after our threesome. He sighed as he rinsed the soap from his loofah. Setting it aside, he stepped forward again, allowing the water to wash over his sculpted body. He questioned so many things, feeling insecure and inadequate. He recalled the pain they’d both endured and, in some ways, it still felt fresh. My obvious attraction and concern for Tally only made it more difficult to convince him of his worth. Though he’s known how I’ve felt, I’ve made a conscious effort to ensure his security’s never been tested like that again. He just thinks about things I don’t.
He closed his rich brown eyes, sticking his face under the showerhead before turning the water off. Ishkode squeezed the excess moisture from his hair and then reached for the fluffy towel Lex had been adamant about acquiring. This piece of cloth says it all. I mean, Lexi cares about things I don’t even consider. He’s very sensitive, whereas, I’m not. Though Lex wasn’t flamboyant, his mannerisms were more effeminate, especially in comparison to Ishkode. Despite being niizh manidoowag, I’m a traditional homosexual, masculine in every facet save for my sexual preference, which, understandably, fed his fears.
Hanging the damp towel on the rack to dry, Ishkode approached the vanity. Pulling the drawer open, he grabbed his brush and began to detangle his silky hair. I’ve never blamed him for how he felt, especially considering the constant attention I received from women. It was uncomfortable for me, so I can only guess how troubling it was for him. Like most people, Lexi struggled to believe I was gay. Well, that is until I proved it to him, he recalled with a mischievous grin. After my performance, he knew the truth. That is, at least, until we accepted Tally into our bed.
Sex with Tally had brought forth a lot of doubt. It had made both men question their own tastes, challenging what they believed about themselves and each other. A single night with Tally destroyed months of trust. In many ways, we’d had to begin again, rebuilding everything between us. He prayed there wouldn’t be a repeat of their agonizing history. Sexuality is confusing, not to mention, complex, but no matter what happens, I won’t let anything come between Lexi and me. Not even Tally.
But even as he thought it, Ishkode knew things were different than they had been. In all fairness, I have to admit what happened wasn’t Tally’s fault. Our questions came from the necessary process of self-awareness and personal growth. She was never a wedge between us. He absently applied his deodorant before walking over to tug on a pair of jeans. If anything, she belonged with us.
His epiphany healed his old wounds and set the course for his future. We suffered, trying to come to terms with how we felt. For the longest time, I thought it was because of the persecution we experienced being gay, but I now see it was more than that. I mean, it was hard enough establishing my own sexual identity without adding Tally to the mix. After all, if I couldn’t explain the situation to myself, how was I supposed to make others understand?
Ishkode, like Lex, never had any disillusions about himself. He wasn’t bisexual, pansexual, or gender fluid. I guess Tally’s just special, he decided. I just wasn’t able to accept loving her and Lexi. It wasn’t just the oddity of a polyamorous relationship and the defiant nature of it all either. It was because I didn’t believe I deserved their love. Still, if I’d have suspected the possibility for the three of us to be together, I wouldn’t have resisted. No, he knew he would’ve done anything to make it happen. And now that it’s real and plausible, I’m never letting go.
*****
“Well, good morning, Sleepyhead,” Lex teased from where he leaned against the breakfast bar, clad in jogging shorts and a T-shirt. His slate-colored eyes sparkled as he leaned forward to kiss Ishkode.
“Good morning,” Ishkode responded, welcoming the affectionate peck of his spouse. He turned to where Tally was sitting on the bar stool, took her face between his hands, and placed a sweet kiss atop her head before he swiftly moved on toward the coffee pot. Gesturing, he asked, “Is this fresh?”
“Of course,” Lex replied, beaming with joy.
“You’re in a good mood,” Ishkode remarked as he poured a steaming cup of the invigorating elixir.
Lex wiggled a little, biting his lower lip. His expression was playful and happy. “Yeah, well, I spent an enjoyable evening with the two people I love most in the world.”
Glancing sideways, his eyes sparkling with mischief, Ishkode remarked, “I didn’t know your mom and dad were here.”
“Ha-Ha,” Lex said with thick sarcasm. Though he feigned annoyance, a tiny smile danced on his lips as Tally giggled at their exchange.
Approaching the table, Ishkode’s eyes roved the area as his fingers drummed against his hot mug. “Do you have the –” Before he could finish his sentence, Tally lifted the sugar toward him as Lex simultaneously passed him the creamer. “Thanks.”
“You’re welcome,” the duo replied in unison before breaking out into laughter again.
“Oh, baby, I made some pancakes, if you’re hungry. There keeping warm in the oven.”
“Wonderful,” Ishkode said as he wasted no time in retrieving his breakfast. “Do you have the –”
“Syrup’s on the table along with the butter,” Tally interjected, winning a wink from Lex as he brought his own cup to his mouth.
“Thanks, sweetie,” he replied, pulling a fork from the silverware drawer. “You look adorable, by the way. When did you get a new dress?”
Tally rolled her eyes. “Whatever. This is your T-shirt and you know it.”
Shrugging nonchalantly, he said, “Could’ve fooled me.”
“Oh, Kode,” Lex said in an excited tone, “Guess who finally slept an entire night, soundly.”
“She didn’t?” Ishkode sounded pleased as he looked over his shoulder toward the pair.
Tally beamed. “Yep, that’s right boys. You not only gave me a night of passion, but you gave me my first night free from insomnia in ages.”
“That’s great, Tally,” Ishkode responded with enthusiasm. “It’s been long overdue.” Returning to the table with a stack of pancakes piled on his plate, he plopped onto the bar stool next to the elegant young woman. “I guess that means we need to sex you up more often.”
The trio chuckled at his quip, but the comment inadvertently dredged up emotions that ranged from confusion to merriment. We all know this is the start of something we’ve tried to suppress. Now that we’ve unleashed it, there’ll be no turning back. Feeling nervous, Tally asked the question they were all thinking, “So we’re really doing this?”
The men looked at one another and Tally could see the silent exchange they shared. There doesn’t seem to be any animosity or distress, she noted with relief. That’s a good sign. Lord knows I can’t handle a repeat of the trouble I caused them back in college. Lex leaned over the breakfast bar to grasp Ishkode’s hands and the happiness emanating from him was palpable. Then again, we’re all more mature and the world accepts relationships like ours with more tolerance then they used to.
“Yes,” Ishkode finally said. His gaze remained locked on his husband even as he lifted one of Lex’s hands to his lips. The tender kiss made Lex’s visual joy turned to intense love. “That is what you want, right, Lexi?”
“
I think it’s what we all want. What we’ve all wanted all along,” Lex replied, glancing between Tally and Ishkode for confirmation.
“And you don’t feel like you did after we made love in college, right?” Tally had to be sure. “I mean, you’re my best friends and I couldn’t bear to –”
Releasing one of his husband’s hands so he could clasp Tally’s, Lex turned his brilliant smile toward her. “We were children then, and I, like most young adults, had self-esteem issues.”
“That’s true,” Tally agreed. It didn’t help that he’d just come out either. “And your father’s reaction to your life choices only compounded things.” I wonder how he’ll take the news about the three of us. “He’s never made anything easy.”
“You’re right, but none of that matters now,” Lex stated nonplussed. “The only thing that matters now is that we’re finally a family, right?”
Tally gave him a look of incredulity. “We weren’t before?”
Back-peddling, Lex stammered, “well, yes, but –”
“Relax, babe,” Ishkode ordered as Tally chuckled, relieved at least one of the men understood her joke. “She’s just busting your balls.”
Lex blushed as his hand covered his mouth. “Oh.”
Maybe it’s too soon to tease, especially when my humor was somewhat in poor taste, Tally thought as she read her friend’s embarrassment. I probably should’ve felt things out more; been more considerate. “Sorry,” she apologized. “I guess that was insensitive of me.”
“No. No,” Lex professed. “I’m just being emotional.”
“Are you okay?” Ishkode asked, concern etched in his features as he rose from his seat. He quickly closed the space between him and Lex, immediately drawing his lover into his arms. “You said this was what you wanted.”
“Yes, it is, and I’m fine,” Lex assured him, waving away his worry. “It’s just, things are so new and I’m not sure what it all means, you know?”
Ishkode nodded as Tally responded, “Yeah. It’s kind of weird, right? I don’t know, maybe you guys have, but I haven’t thought past the idea of having a baby together. I mean, where do we go from here?”
Flawed Perfection: A Collection of Winter Wishes Page 23