South of Heaven

by Ali Spooner

  Kendra’s hips rocked in motion with Lindsey’s fingers as they drove her wild with need. “Faster,” she groaned, and her moans echoed in the shower.

  Lindsey’s fingers picked up speed as Kendra’s moans grew louder, and with a scream of pleasure, Kendra grabbed the back of Lindsey’s head, holding her in place as her orgasm raced through her.

  Kendra lowered herself to her knees, her arms resting on Lindsey’s shoulders as she caught her breath. Her eyes glowed with excitement as she leaned forward and kissed Lindsey. Tasting herself on her lover’s lips made her heart skip a beat.

  Lindsey parted her lips, and pulled Kendra close for a deeper kiss.

  When they broke the kiss, Kendra smiled. “We better hurry and bathe before we lose the hot water.”

  †

  Lindsey tended to Kendra’s wound and then led her lover to the bed. They spent the rest of the morning there, making love and talking.

  “This has been wonderful, having you all to myself, but what happens when we return to the real world?” Lindsey asked.

  “That depends on you.”

  “Why me?” Lindsey asked.

  “Are you comfortable being out as my lover in front of the crew?”

  “Yes, I have no problem with that. What about your dad?”

  “He thinks you will make a great partner for me.” Kendra smiled.

  “What?”

  “He noticed our attraction to each other before I did.”

  “So he’s okay with us?”

  “He’d be very proud to call you the newest addition to his family.”

  “I wish my family was that accommodating,” Lindsey replied with a frown.

  “Give them some time. I’m sure they only want you to be happy.” Kendra smiled, and kissed the frown from Lindsey’s face.

  They snuggled until Kendra’s stomach growled. Lindsey chuckled. “I think your stomach’s telling us it’s time to eat.”

  “I hope Susan is resting well and is reunited with her girlfriend.”

  “Do you find it ironic that she crashed into our boat? As big as the bay is, why did she crash into us?”

  Kendra frowned. “Does seem a bit odd, doesn’t it, but I’m glad you were able to save her. You’re such a handsome hero, my love.”

  Chuckling at the remark, Lindsey kissed the top of Kendra’s head.

  “Let’s go outside to check the weather, and then find something to eat,” Kendra suggested, and offered her hand.

  †

  They stepped out into the first sunshine they had seen in days.

  “This is spectacular,” Kendra said as they walked around the deck.

  “If we didn’t know better you’d think we’ve had perfect weather,” Lindsey remarked as they walked over to the rail.

  There was activity on the deck of the other shrimp boat that suggested they were making plans to leave the protected harbor. “Looks like someone is preparing to leave for home,” Kendra stated.

  Disappointed that their time alone together was coming to an end Lindsey looked into Kendra’s eyes. “What about us?”

  “Nope, we’re staying put until tomorrow, unless you want to go back today.”

  “Hell no. I want every minute alone with you I can get.”

  “I was hoping you’d say that, so I took steaks out of the freezer last night. I think it’s time we had a meal topside tonight.”

  “Fantastic, but what do you need to hold you over?”

  “Will you make us sandwiches and chips while I set up out here? Later we can work on dinner together.”

  Lindsey kissed her tenderly and stepped back. “I’ll be waiting for you inside.”

  “See you soon.” Kendra watched her disappear into the galley.

  Kendra removed the grill from storage, and checked to make sure there was gas and that the racks were clean.

  She would grill some link sausage as an appetizer that they could munch on while watching the sunset, and then grill the steaks.

  Lindsey made them a plate of ham and turkey sandwiches then pulled out a bag of chips from the pantry, before pouring glasses of tea. She surveyed the contents of the pantry and freezer for items to accompany steaks for dinner. She placed several potatoes and onions on the counter. There was a bag of corn on the cob in the freezer that she could wrap together with sliced potatoes and onions in foil to cook on the grill.

  She turned to see Kendra walking inside and washing her hands in the sink. “I’m starving. Those sandwiches look great.”

  “What would you like for dessert tonight?”

  “You did well last night, so surprise me.” Kendra sat at the table for lunch, took a sandwich, and bit into it.

  “I can do that.” Lindsey crunched on a chip. “Will we go back out on Monday?”

  “I’d like to, if nobody has major storm damage to deal with. I’d like to make the most out of every outing this season.”

  “I’m sure you won’t get any argument from the rest of the crew. We all enjoy getting those nice paychecks.”

  “It’s great to see everyone so pleased.”

  “Are you all set up outside?”

  Kendra smiled. “I’ve got one more thing I need to do.”

  “You need some help?”

  “Nope, I’ve got this.”

  “I thought you could grill some vegetables to go with the steaks.”

  “Potatoes, onions and corn,” Kendra asked?

  “That’s what I was thinking. I’ll wrap them in some foil, add some butter and seasonings.”

  “If we slice the potatoes and boil the corn a bit they’ll cook faster.”

  Lindsey smiled at her. “I was thinking that too. I’ll get that started while you finish outside.”

  “Would you like a salad to go with the meal?”

  “Oh yeah, sounds great,” Lindsey replied.

  †

  Kendra walked into the small storage area and located the two lounge chairs she hoped were still useable. It had been a while since she had them out, but they appeared in good shape. She carried the chairs to the front of the boat, and returned for a small table to place beside them. Tonight would probably be the last opportunity for them to have some privacy on the boat, and she wanted the night to be special. After dinner, they would take a bottle of wine, stretch out, and gaze at the stars until they were ready to retire.

  She smiled, pleased with her idea, and returned to the galley to help prepare dinner.

  “I thought I’d grill some sausage for us to munch on while we watch the sunset.” Kendra showed the package she’d taken from the freezer.

  “I’m all over that.” Lindsey smiled.

  Kendra whipped up some honey mustard for dipping while Lindsey chopped the potatoes, and boiled the corn. “I can put the veggies on while I cook the sausage. That should give them plenty time to cook.”

  “I can taste them already.”

  Kendra left the galley for a few minutes and returned with a bottle of wine and two glasses. “Can I interest you in a glass of wine?”

  “Please.” Lindsey wiped tears from her eyes caused by slicing onions for the grill.

  Kendra poured their wine and placed one beside Lindsey, then leaned against the counter next to her. She grinned at her lover. “What do you think about turning this boat into a pirate ship, and the two of us heading out to sea?”

  Lindsey chuckled as she picked up her glass. “That would be fun.” She lifted her glass. “To the booty,” she toasted.

  Kendra grinned back at her and tipped her glass. “I’ve already found the best booty.”

  “You say the sweetest things for a pirate captain,”

  “I must admit, you bring out the best in me.”

  Lindsey sat her glass on the counter and took Kendra in her arms. “A part of me wishes this day could last forever. I’ve enjoyed our time together.”

  “We’ve only just begun,” Kendra promised and kissed her. “Umm, this wine tastes even better on your lips.”

&
nbsp; “I’m surprised at how romantic you are. Pleasantly though.”

  Kendra felt her eyes watering. “You make me feel so…unbelievably good. I want to share everything I am with you.” A tear slid down her injured cheek. “What I’m trying to say here is, I love you.”

  Lindsey used her thumb to gently wipe the tear from Kendra’s cheek. Her eyes sparkled with excitement. “I love you, Kendra. I’ve never told anyone that before, because until you, I never knew how good it could feel to constantly crave someone’s touch and smile. And the way you kiss me just melts my insides.”

  Kendra grinned so wide at Lindsey’s admission that she winced.

  “Pretty sore today, huh?”

  “Yes, but worth every ounce of pain to hear you talk that way.”

  Lindsey took her hand and placed it over her heart. “I hope you know my words come from here.” She tapped her chest with their joined hands.

  “We better stop there or I’m going to be a blubbering mess.” Kendra leaned in to rest her forehead against Lindsey’s as her hands encircled Lindsey’s waist.

  They stood together for several minutes.

  “I guess I’d better start making our salad now.” Kendra stepped away from Lindsey.

  “I’ll finish getting the veggies ready to go.”

  They worked together in the kitchen, and after Kendra placed the salad in to chill, she took a sip of wine. “I’m going to get the grill going. I’ll be back shortly.”

  †

  They shared the wine and sausage appetizers while watching the sunset. The robin’s egg blue sky was cloudless after the storm, and the setting sun lit the horizon with beautiful hues of red, gold, and orange.

  “Does it seem strange that the sky is so beautiful after such a harrowing storm?” Kendra asked.

  “I know we’re still out on the water, so we don’t know about damage on shore, but it’s hard to believe a hurricane just came through the area.”

  “I guess we should be grateful we didn’t experience any more problems on the boat. It certainly could have been much worse.”

  Lindsey reached over to place her hand on Kendra’s, entwining their fingers. “I’m very thankful for the time I’ve shared with you. It’s been great to get to know you better.”

  Kendra returned her smile. “That won’t stop once we return to work.”

  “Maybe, but I know I won’t be able to spend the time with you like we’ve had these last two days, or kiss you whenever I want. I have to go back to sharing you.” Lindsey shrugged.

  “There’s nothing stopping you right now.” Kendra leaned over to kiss Lindsey.

  “You know what I mean.”

  “I do, and I promise to make as much time for us to be together as possible. Would you feel comfortable sleeping in my cabin?”

  “I’d love that, if you don’t think it will cause problems with the crew.”

  “I don’t think they will care one bit.”

  Lindsey smiled and picked up a slice of sausage and popped it into her mouth. “This is good, but I can’t wait for the steaks.”

  “I can take a hint, are you all set inside?”

  “I’ve got to finish dessert, but other than that, yes, I’m ready.”

  “Will you do that while I grill the steaks?”

  “You betcha,” Lindsey said and followed Kendra into the galley.

  “I don’t know what you’re cooking up, but it sure smells good in here.” Kendra took the steaks from the refrigerator. “See you soon.” She kissed Lindsey and left the galley.

  †

  After finishing dinner and a delicious dessert, Kendra took Lindsey by the hand and picked up the bottle of wine.

  “Come with me,” she requested, and led Lindsey to the loungers. She sat the bottle on the table. “I thought we’d relax and enjoy some star gazing tonight. It may be the last truly relaxing night we get for a few days.”

  Lindsey stretched out on the lounger and took a fresh glass of wine from Kendra. “Thanks.”

  The lack of artificial light made the stars sparkle across the sky. A cool breeze blew and the lapping of the water against the boat was the only sound.

  “It’s so peaceful.” Kendra reached over and took Lindsey’s hand.

  They enjoyed the serenity of the night and finished the wine before retiring for the evening. Lindsey snuggled into Kendra after they made love, content to be in her arms. Kendra kissed the top of her head. “Sweet dreams, my love.”

  “You too, Kendra,” Lindsey said with a sleepy voice, and she burrowed under the covers to sink into the warm bed.

  Chapter Fifteen

  Lindsey joined Kendra in the wheelhouse after cleaning the kitchen, and Kendra guided the boat through the narrow pass. As the beachfront homes came into view, the presence of blue tarps secured to roofs began telling the story of the damage that Dani had left in her wake. Several of the homes had evidence of water damage from the storm surge, and the dunes had taken a beating, showing significant signs of erosion.

  Concerned for her crew, Kendra reached for the phone to call Harvey. “Hey, Harvey, how did everyone survive the storm?”

  “No major damages, Captain. A few downed trees and the town is still without power, but the generators are doing their jobs. I went by your home and, other than some broken branches, the house seems to have fared well.”

  “Do you think we can get back on the water Monday?”

  “Monday may be pushing it, but Tuesday should be a go.”

  “That will give us time to restock supplies.”

  “Great. Several of us are going out to Charlie’s later today. He lost quite a few trees so we’re going to help him clear his drive. He won’t need firewood for a few years.” Harvey chuckled.

  “No damage to his home, though, right?”

  “One broken window and some missing shingles, but nothing we can’t handle.”

  “Do you need help?”

  “Thanks, Captain, but we’ve got this. Get some rest and we’ll be ready to go Tuesday morning. I’ll let the crew know.”

  “Thanks, Harvey.”

  She turned to Lindsey. “So, it looks like you’re stuck with me for another day.”

  Lindsey grinned. “Time for that long hot bath in your tub.”

  “That’s an excellent idea.”

  “Uh oh, we have a casualty.” Lindsey frowned, nodding toward the jetties where a small sailboat had crashed into the rocks, causing significant hull damage.

  “That didn’t have to happen. That boat is small enough to have been put in dry dock somewhere.”

  “I’d be sick if that had been mine.” Lindsey shook her head.

  “You’d have known better.”

  “Yeah, I would have. Still, such as waste.”

  Lindsey saw the relief written on Kendra’s face when she pulled into the boat’s slip and looked up the street to see her house. As Harvey had reported, there were limbs down from nearby trees, but no other signs of damage.

  Kendra eased the boat into the slip while Lindsey tossed the mooring lines onto the dock. She stepped off the deck, securing the lines as Kendra closed up the wheelhouse. She looked up to see Kendra walking across the deck, wearing a beautiful smile, and her heart melted. God I love it when she looks at me like that. She held out her hand to Kendra as she stepped off the boat. Her heart soared when Kendra failed to let her hand go.

  Lindsey looked up to see two women approaching the pier. She smiled when she recognized Susan with her arm secured in a cast and sling.

  “Well look at you,” Lindsey smiled. “How are you?”

  “Alive and kicking, thanks to you. Lindsey, this is my girlfriend, Kelly.”

  “Susan has told me how much you two did for her, and I can’t tell you what that means to both of us,” Kelly said.

  “I’m just glad we were there to help out.” Lindsey smiled at the two women.

  “Well, hey there, stranger,” Kendra said. “You’re looking good.”

  “Thanks, I�
��m feeling better too.” Susan took the two bags Kelly was holding and handed one to each of them. “I’m returning your clothes freshly laundered,” she told Lindsey.

  “You didn’t have to do that.”

  Kendra opened her bag and began laughing. She pulled out a handful of wooden spoons.

  Susan returned her grin. “The doc in the ER said the use of the spoons was nothing short of genius, but I’m afraid he didn’t save them, so we bought you new ones. Hopefully, you won’t need them for future splints.”

  “Thank you.” Kendra stepped forward to hug her. “Are you two staying in the area?”

  “No, we just wanted to take a chance and stop to thank you both. We’re heading home. I do hope you’ll keep a future visit in mind, though.”

  “We definitely will,” Kendra promised.

  “Thank you again for everything. I know you’re eager to check on your home so we won’t keep you. It’s time for some medicine and a nap while Kelly drives us home.”

  “Be safe, and call us to let us know how you’re doing,” Lindsey said as they walked Susan and Kelly back to the car.

  “Will do.” Susan exchanged hugs with them before getting in the car.

  Kendra turned to Lindsey. “Let’s go home.”

  They walked up the hill and Kendra let out a deep breath. “That’s a relief. I was afraid it would be worse.”

  “Do you have a chainsaw?”

  “Yeah, we’ve got one in the garage.”

  “I can use it to cut the limbs into manageable sections while you check the inside of the house. You can call your dad to report in.”

  “Ummm, sexy, and you can use power tools, too?” Kendra teased.

  “Oh yes, ma’am, I’m a woman of many hidden talents.” Lindsay wiggled her eyebrows for effect.

  Kendra laughed. “I’m going to love discovering those,” she said with a smirk.

  Relieved that there were only a few limbs that they would need to cut into sections, Kendra kissed Lindsey. “Be careful, I’ll be out to help as soon as I’ve inspected everything and called Dad.”