After the Pain

by Gia Riley

  Unfortunately, our smooth sailing comes to an end when we get held up going through security. Once again, I breeze right through and am slipping my sandals back on when I notice Sean walking through the metal detector over and over. I watch him hunting around his shorts for anything that could be setting it off. Finally, the guard gives up and ushers Sean off to the side to be frisked. I try really hard to keep a straight face, but when a guy resembling Weird Al Yankovic takes out his hand held detector only to shove it between Sean’s legs, I completely lose it.

  “That your boyfriend over there?” an older woman asks me as she removes her belongings from the plastic bin on the conveyor belt.

  “Sure is.”

  “That’s a sin. Poor fella losing all his dignity, but you can’t be too safe these days.”

  “You’re right about that.”

  “Have a nice trip, dear.”

  “You too.”

  Another few minutes go by and the security team gives up on figuring out why Sean is still making the sensors go off. They thoroughly checked him and even scanned his entire body deeming him safe for travel. Slowly, he walks over to me looking like he is working on some relaxation techniques of his own.

  “You okay?” I ask cautiously.

  “Do I look okay? If that asshole hit me in the balls one more time with that detector we wouldn’t be going anywhere right now.”

  “You mean, Al? He’s kinda hot.”

  “I don’t know you at all if you find that beast attractive, Hallie.”

  “Calm down. I’m just joking. Maybe you have a metal plate in your body or something.”

  “Remind me to ask my mom when we get back. Let’s go find our gate.”

  Sean begins to loosen up as we wander around the airport in an attempt to waste some time before finding the boarding gate. We each grab a few magazines, some iced coffee, and I find some Swedish fish. Sean’s munching on his Doritos as I sit and hum Gangster’s Paradise. Coolio did the original but Weird Al did a crazy parody that is stuck in my head now. Ever since I saw the lookalike in security I can’t stop thinking about it.

  “You think you’re clever over there?” Sean asks.

  “Sorry. I can’t get it out of my head.”

  “You’re gonna pay for that when we get to Vegas, you know.”

  “I figured,” I say as I pop another gummy fish into my mouth.

  “Nervous?”

  “Excited!” I reply which makes Sean laugh and kiss me with his cheese covered lips.

  My nerves are still relatively in check despite the war going on inside my head every time I let myself think about the plane. I take a glimpse outside to watch a few planes take off. From my seat next to the window I have a pretty clear view of the runway. I’m working on thinking every Zen-like thought possible. We will not crash. This will be an enjoyable flight. Vegas is worth floating above the clouds. I will not fall from the sky and splatter onto the ground. Okay, that last one didn’t help the situation at all.

  Before I can let my mind conjure up any other dramatic circumstances, it’s time to board our plane. I take one last peek out of the window to check the plane for any structural damage. Feeling positive about my observations, I scurry back into the line with Sean.

  “What were you looking at?” he asks with a quizzical look on his face.

  “The plane.”

  “Does it meet your expectations, Captain?”

  “Shut it, Sean. It’s part of the process.” I adjust my purse strap on my shoulder and hold my head up high. He will not make fun of me for being thorough. I hear him chuckle next to me which earns him a warning look.

  “Sorry, babe. Thank you for making sure we won’t crash.” He’s still laughing but he just said the one word you never, ever, ever say before boarding, at least not out loud. Addressing it makes it seem inevitable. I never said my thought process made sense.

  “Please, stop!” I’m starting to panic. My hands are shaking and my chest feels tight. Sean pulls us out of the line letting the other passengers go ahead of us.

  “Hallie, look at me.”

  I’m so embarrassed for freaking out in front of other people. I take a deep breath and look into his calming blue eyes. He holds both of my hands in his and wraps me up in a hug. I hold onto him for dear life as I struggle to catch my breath and calm my racing heart. The attendant at the boarding gate announces the final boarding call.

  It’s now or never.

  “You’re okay. Just breathe. I’ll keep you safe. I promise.” I’m not stupid; I know he has no control over what happens once we’re in the air. For some reason, just knowing he understands how I’m feeling makes me feel a little better. I can do this. I want to do this. I let go of his body and take his hand. “I’m ready. We have to hurry.” Sean gives my hand a reassuring squeeze.

  Surprisingly, we taxi down the runway and have a smooth takeoff. I don’t even feel any turbulence or shaking of the aircraft. We dip a few times and my stomach drops, but I hold on tight to Sean’s hand and once we level off at our cruising altitude, I feel half decent. I release my death grip and smile. “I did it.”

  “You’re adorable. I’m very proud of you. The offer still stands though. Whenever you want to become an official mile high member, I’m game.”

  “I’m ready now,” I say with a completely straight face. I’m trying so hard not to smile my face actually hurts.

  “What?” he asks slightly shocked with my answer.

  “Just kidding.”

  “I’ll add that to your list of infractions for when we get to Vegas, Hallie. You have no idea what you’re in for.” He’s trying very hard to be serious, but I know he’s only messing with me. At least I think so. The more I think about the possibilities that lie ahead, I kind of hope he isn’t kidding.

  I forgot to mention our seats happen to be at the back of the plane right in front of the bathroom. It’s not the most ideal location with people going in and out next to us, but at least it’s close in case I need it. There will be no risky business though. I’ve had myself so worked up the entire morning I actually feel kind of tired. We were lucky enough to get a direct flight so I only have to go through the take-off and landing process once. I’m a much bigger fan of landing though. The moment the flight attendant gets on the intercom and announces we are beginning our descent is always my favorite.

  To waste some time, Sean and I browse through Skymall Magazine laughing at the ridiculous products they have for sale. I’d love to know who decides they suddenly need to buy a floating table tennis game mid-flight. When we finish laughing at all the crazy things we won’t be purchasing, the flight attendant lets us know we have a few movie options. I pull out two pair of ear buds from my purse and Sean looks surprised.

  “You really thought of everything haven’t you?”

  “I like to be prepared in situations I can’t control.” I shrug my shoulders like it’s no big deal. I am who I am and make no excuses.

  “Well I happen to like your organizational skills,” he says. “But maybe next time you can put your handcuffs away before Alex comes over.”

  “I still can’t believe he found those.” I smile at him and drape my sweater over my body like a blanket. I angle myself so I can rest my head on Sean’s shoulder while we watch the movie.

  “You cold?” he asks.

  “Just a little.” I don’t complain because I’d rather be cold than hot any day of the week. You can always put layers on, but you can only take so much off. Well, legally anyway.

  “I know how we can stay warm.”

  I shake my head back and forth. “No way, dude. Keep it in your pants.” He’s really into this sex on a plane thing. I stop laughing when he moves his hand under my sweater and places it between my thighs. I’m pretty sure my eyes bug out of my head from his bold move. “Sean!” I whisper yell, trying not to draw any attention to what he’s doing. Thankfully nobody has a direct view of us sitting back here in the last row. Maybe Sean did plan this spo
t on the plane for a reason after all.

  He leans over and whispers in my ear, “I can’t wait to get you naked.”

  I have on a very thin maxi dress so I can feel every inch of what he’s trying to do to me. I’ll give him credit, I’m not thinking about my fear of flying at all right now. His methods of distraction are unconventional yet extremely effective.

  I rest my head against my headrest and squirm around. I shouldn’t be into this at all but holy hell. I wouldn’t put it past him to try to tease me the entire flight. Deciding to tempt him in return, I cross my legs and angle myself even closer to his body. It appears we’re just cuddling as I use my cardigan to hide my hand and give him a taste of his own medicine. Before I can even get remotely close to my final destination, he grabs my wrist. “Babe, if you touch me right now I will seriously blow. You have no idea what you do to me.”

  Okay then. I change my plan of action resting my hand on his abs, and my head against his bicep. I guess we’ll cuddle after all. I smile at what I’m capable of doing to him. It makes me feel sexy and bold.

  Two movies later, we’re descending and still in one piece. It’s only when the tires hit the runway that I can officially exhale. The final test comes while we wait in baggage claim for our luggage. When I see my purple bags work their way around the conveyor belt, I’m officially on vacation. Bring on the sun, casino and drinks!

  TRANSPORTATION TO THE RESORT IS complimentary thanks to the conference. The van is nothing spectacular but I’m glad we don’t have to find our way on our own. I’ve also noticed the roads are nothing to write home about. People pay no mind to the speed limits with cars zipping in and out of traffic on the poorly paved roads. I’m relieved when we pull through the resort gates only to have my senses assaulted by the lush tropical vegetation surrounding me. The lawn is manicured to perfection with vibrant flowers and sculpted shrubs lining the driveway. I’m a little surprised they can get all this foliage growing in a dessert climate. Someone on staff must have a deal with Miracle Grow.

  Sean helps me out of the van. My toes barely hit the concrete before a waiter is holding a tray full of sparkling champagne in front of me. I’m sure they prefer their guests intoxicated so they go blow all their extra cash in the casino. Regardless of their intentions, I gladly accept one of the flutes. I haven’t eaten much so I take small sips of my chilled treat. After confirming our reservation with the check-in clerk, we make our way to the elevators never having to touch a single piece of luggage. I just got my bags back so I’m a little apprehensive about parting with them so soon.

  We’ve only been in the resort for a few minutes, but what I’ve seen is very swanky. I was briefly bummed to learn we weren’t staying directly on the strip, but this place continues to impress me as I begin to see more of my surroundings. Crystal chandeliers, sparkling marble floors as well as the black and white décor make the lobby feel opulent and rich. But it’s our home away from home for the next week that has me hooked. Sean has us in a Villa Suite which comes with its own private pool and patio.

  It’s spectacular — unlike any place I’ve ever stayed before. The four post bed in the bedroom immediately catches my attention. I run over and flop onto it, sinking into the plush bedding. It has to be a California King with a thread count on the sheets only a princess would be accustomed to. The white fabric draped from the posts ensconces me inside the romantic love nest. I hop up just as fast as I laid down when I think about what the bathroom must be like. I scurry past Sean who is standing by the doorway watching Hurricane Hallie fly around the suite.

  Holy shit! The tub alone is big enough for a few people. The entire room is covered in marble from floor to ceiling. There’s a separate steam shower with a rain shower head, lighted makeup mirrors, his and her sinks, and two LCD TV screens. This bathroom is nicer than my entire house. I’m still a little curious why you need a television next to the toilet, but hey, I’m not about to argue.

  I zip back to the living room which they have elegantly named a parlor and take in the large bar area, pool table, dining area for ten, expansive couches and the largest flat screen TV I’ve ever seen. When I peek out the sliding glass door, I completely lose it all over again. We have a few plush lounge chairs to sunbathe on, another dining table, an outdoor couch and a private pool. I can hardly believe what I’m seeing. I’ve never stayed in such a luxurious place in my life. The Marriott is about as fancy as I’ve ever experienced. This feels more like the Four Seasons.

  I feel Sean’s sexy body come up behind me, my back to his front. “Sean, the view is amazing. Look at all of this!” I can see the canyons in the distance from our windows. The scenery looks like something straight out of a calendar of beautiful landscapes.

  “The view is pretty spectacular.” He squeezes my ass and wraps one of his arms around my belly, holding me firmly against his growing erection. I would love to let him toss me on the bed, but I’m dying to get in the pool. I deserve it after the long plane ride.

  I turn around and wrap my arms around his neck, standing on my tip toes to reach his mouth. I kiss him long and hard. He starts pulling at my dress, working the material up high enough to get his hands underneath the fabric. When he grabs my panties and starts tugging them down, I realize the pool will have to wait. I yank his shorts open so quickly the button flies off, clattering against the polished wood flooring. “You brought a few pairs of shorts I hope.”

  “I don’t give two shits about my clothing right now, babe. Although, that was a seriously sexy move you pulled.” He pulls his shirt over his head, tossing it on the lounge chair next to us. He picks me up and carries me into the bedroom where I’m playfully tossed onto the center of the bed. Sean knocks a few pillows out of the way before settling on top of my body. His smile is replaced with a smoldering look that consumes me completely. Our usual sex is incredible, but Vegas sex is out of this world.

  “Can we go in the pool now?” I ask.

  Laughing Sean says, “It’s killing you isn’t it. You don’t want to go another round?”

  “Tonight we can go as many rounds as you want, but right now, I need to check out that pool.”

  “I’ll hold you to that. Now go change so I can throw you in the water.” He smacks my bare ass as I climb out of bed. “Ouch!”

  “You love it,” he says to my retreating form.

  “Damn straight.” No use hiding it. He turns me on no matter what he’s doing. I change in record speed, still adjusting my suit as I walk out of the bathroom. “Let’s start in our private pool and then go down to the public one so we can have some drinks. I’ve always wanted to lay in one of those cabana things with the comfy bed inside.”

  “That’s your bathing suit?” Sean is standing next to the kitchen table putting some suntan lotion on his arms with his mouth in a tight line. My eyes are briefly drawn to his glistening chest before I remember he asked me a question.

  “Yeah. What’s wrong with it? I have others if this one looks bad.” This particular suit was actually my favorite, so I’m a little surprised he would think it’s ugly. The all black bikini appears simple until I turn to the side. The bottoms have two silver hoops that hold the fabric together on my hips. It makes me feel like I’m wearing body jewelry. The top is a regular triangle string bikini that ties around my neck and back. I was sure Sean would love it.

  “Definitely put on another one.”

  “Oh. Okay.” I turn around and walk back into the bedroom. Rifling through my suitcase, I dig out my red string bikini. It’s simple compared to the other but I think the color looks great with my dark hair and eyes. Hopefully Sean likes this one better because I only brought two with me. I put my sunglasses back on top of my head and try again.

  “Fuck.”

  “What? You hate this one too? I don’t have any other options!” I throw my hands in the air as I start to lose patience.

  “Didn’t you bring any one piece bathing suits? Or maybe something that covers a little more of your skin?”


  It never crossed my mind my ass was too big to wear suits like these. I’m not a twig, but my curves are sexy - or so I thought. Feeling like an idiot, I quickly cover my stomach with my arms and feel self-conscious. “It’s okay. We can just stay in here. I don’t really want to swim right now anyway.” I turn around and rush back into the bedroom to find my clothes. I hear Sean’s flip flops smacking against the floor so I snatch my clothes and hightail it into the bathroom to change. I lock the door and sit on the side of the Jacuzzi tub to collect myself. I feel like a damn fool.

  There’s a knock on the door and I hear Sean’s timid voice, “Hallie, please open the door. I know what you’re thinking and you’re wrong. Let me in, please.” He’s wiggling the door knob so fast he’s going to break it off if I don’t open it quickly.

  “Just a minute. I’m almost done.” I shout through the door. I haven’t even attempted to change yet. I just don’t want him to know I’m sitting here sulking about my cellulite.

  “Woman. You better not be changing or covering up that sexy as hell body of yours. Now open the damn door.” No longer sounding cautious, Sean is clearly angry with me. Bipolar much? Jeez.

  I get up from the side of the tub and open the door far enough to see what he wants. “Yeah?”

  “Let me in, babe.” He pushes the door open further and I take a step back. Before I can say a word his mouth comes crashing down on mine, his hands all over my body. He squeezes me almost painfully. In between kisses he says, “This sexy ass is mine.” My body instantly becomes heated from his touch. His hands wander further up my body as he grabs my thighs forcing me to jump up and straddle him. I lock my arms around his neck and once I’m secure, his hands continue to explore. We continue to kiss passionately for the next several minutes. All thoughts of my flabby ass and cottage cheese thighs are long gone. I’m solely focused on the way he’s making me feel.