#MOMENTS IN THE TRAGIC SHOW YOU CAN'T HELP BUT SAVOUR IT. YOU GET HOPEFUL

[pensivespacepirate]

AM I IN FUCKING ESKEW AGAIN

[sillyrabbit81]

Her Heavy Cross

Summary: Three years after tragedy hits, Lana she decides to start dating again. She meets Will through a dating app and they begin an online romance. After months of constant requests, Lana relents and agrees to meet and go on an irl date with Will. But is Will who he says he is? Lana is quickly pulled into an intense relationship forcing her to confront her tragic past. Will Lana face it or will she close her heart forever?

Pairing: OMC x OFC

Word Count: approx 3.8k

Warnings: swearing, smut, masturbation

Authors Note: The story started as a Henry Cavill fanfiction but I changed it to be an original character, but shades of Henry are still there. Hope you enjoy the story and thanks for reading.

Part 16 Part 18

Part 17

We got back to Liam's a couple of hours later. I felt exhausted by the time we got back. Finding the right shoes had been a nightmare. I have wide feet and struggled to find something I didn't feel like I was spilling out of.

In a surreal moment, I had found myself debating on whether I should get the Blahnik's or Louboutin's. The prices were unreal, and considering the most expensive shoes I had before those were my Dr Marten's Made in England 1460s, I was out of my depth.

This shop assistant in the shoe department was amazing. He said to go for the Louboutin's because "every woman should have at least one pair in her collection." He made me laugh and was helpful, so despite my misgivings on spending even more on the shoes than the dress, I got them.

The bag had been an easy purchase after that. I got a silver glitter Jimmie Choo clutch. It was half the shoes' price and felt like a bargain.

I hung my dress up, put my shoes and bag in Liam's dressing room and went downstairs to eat lunch with Liam.

"Thank you so much for today. I feel a bit better about the whole thing now that I know what I'm going to wear. One less thing to worry about," I said after we had eaten and packed up. I put my arms around Liam's neck and kissed him.

"You're welcome, Sweetheart. You looked so beautiful in that dress." He kissed me back. "Do you want me to get Ryan to organise an alteration?"

I scoffed, "No, he's probably got enough to do taking care of your shit." I winked. "I can do that tomorrow. I'll also get Jen to do my hair and makeup."

"Riza's wife?" Liam asked.

"Yeah, she does hair and makeup for weddings and formals, so she knows what she's doing."

"Tell her to bring Riza when she comes here, and I can meet them both."

"I'm getting ready here?"

"Yeah, I thought you would. Otherwise, you'll have to get from your place to here all dressed up. And you'll have Perrin with you."

He had a point. "Ok, so next week I'm staying at your place from Thursday until Sunday? Then going to David's and what? Will you stay at mine on Sunday night? Then you come back here on Monday?" Oh, this was complicated.

"Yeah," Liam said like it was no big deal. When you live half your life out of a suitcase, things like that aren't a big deal. Liam looked at his watch. "When do you have to leave?"

"I've got to be at Dave's in a few hours."

"That's just enough time."

"For what?" I asked.

The only warning I got was Liam's bloody twitchy lip. My eyes went wide, and he hoisted over his shoulder again. "For me to have my way with you."

He ran up the two flights of stairs to his bedroom with me giggling at his feat of strength and fitness. I was let down gently on my feet.

I expected Liam to rush me, but he didn't. He brushed my hair from my face as he looked at me with a gentle smile. He seemed so sweet and open that I couldn't help but smile back. I held his hand to my cheek, relishing its warmth, then kissed his palm.

Liam expelled a breath with a short laugh, and his smile grew larger. "I got you another present," he said. "I was going to give it to you on Thursday, but," he rubbed my earlobe, "I can't wait."

"You're very impatient."

Liam nodded. "Wait here." He went to his dressing room and returned with a small jewellery box. Real small. Ring sized small.

I took a step back. I felt cold, sick and my guts churned. Surely, he wasn't that stupid.

Liam looked at me, confused. "Lana, are you ok? You've gone white." I didn't look at him. All I could look at was that little black box. I shook my head.

Liam followed my gaze and must have finally realised why I was looking so sick because he chuckled and said, "it's not what it looks like, Lana." I looked at him, and his eyes twinkled in amusement.

I felt the colour return to my face and covered my face in my hands. "Thank God." I felt a little sheepish.

Still grinning, Liam pulled his hands away from my face and said, "one day, Sweetheart, I certainly hope it will be. Today, however, it's earrings." He opened the box, and inside were two perfect white pearls below a black onyx and diamond setting. They were beautiful. "I know you were joking when you said you needed matching earrings." He shrugged, "I couldn't help myself."

"You got these today? When?"

"I have a confession." Liam's smile was mischievous. "I didn't have to buy a shirt."

I shook my head at Liam, grinning, "you cheeky bastard." I got on my toes and kissed Liam on the cheek. "Thank-you. They are beautiful."

"Will you wear them now?" I nodded and started to take my earrings out. "Let me," Liam said.

Sweeping my hair away from my ear, Liam took my small gold hoops out and put his gift in my ears. He smiled a brilliant smile, revealing just a hint of his teeth. "Perfect," he said, leaning down to kiss me all too briefly. "Go look in the mirror, tell me what you think."

I looked in the mirror in the dressing room, and they were perfect. I played with the earrings. They had such a beautiful yet simple elegance to the design. I felt silly wearing them in my jeans and Joy Division t-shirt.

Going back to Liam, I hugged him again. "Thank-you." I looked into his eyes, so blue and open, and I felt my own tearing up. "You've made me feel special today."

I don't know why I cried. I just knew I felt a warmth in my body, my stomach quivered, and my heart felt like it was trying to escape my chest. I was confused by my feelings. They made me ache, they made me scared, but I also felt happy and safe.

Liam cupped my face with his hands. "Lana, you make me feel that way every day." Using his thumbs, he wiped my tears away.

My next words took us both by surprise. "Make love to me, please?" I didn't mean to say it. The words just fell out as I was swept up in the moment. But it was what I wanted. I wanted to feel love from him, have him hold me again like he had yesterday morning, have him break through my defences, help me tear them down. But more important than what I wanted was what I wanted to give. I wanted to hold him, kiss and caress him, show him how I felt about him.

Liam's face took on a series of changes, moving rapidly from one to another. First, his eyes widened, then he smiled, then his eyes hooded. Finally, he nodded and licked his lips. He leaned down to kiss me, and I closed my eyes. Tenderly, he kissed me, each kiss feathery and light. The ache between my legs was sudden and intense. I kissed him back, matching his mood.

I held Liams head while I got on my toes and kissed his neck. He let out a short groan as I trailed my kisses to his throat. He threw his head back, exposing his whole neck. His hand went to my head, holding me to him. I kissed under his jaw, and his stubble felt sharp on my lips and tongue. I moved down his throat, over his Adam's apple and into the shallow hollow at the base of his neck. Liam ran his fingers through my hair as I went.

I put my hands under his shirt and lifted it, pulling it off with Liam's help. His bare chest made my breath catch, and I reached out to touch him, pausing just short as I had the first night I met him. I smiled at the memory and looked at Liam as I let my fingers sink into his furry chest, his curly hair enveloping them as they did. For a moment, I just let myself feel his warmth through my fingers.

Sliding my arms around his waist, I kissed Liam's shoulder. I felt Liam's hands on my hips, but he let me kiss at his chest as I liked, not hindering me at all, not hurrying me, letting me take my time, allowing me to take control. I travelled across his chest with my hands, mouth and tongue, heat spreading throughout my body as I went. Liam's breath was shallow and rapid as I kissed him. I savoured his smell, texture and taste, hoping to hold onto this moment until I saw him again.

Wanting to feel Liam's skin against my own, I took my shirt and bra off. I embraced Liam as he slid his arms around me, his hands feeling their way up my back. I put a hand to his head and lead his lips to mine. I kissed him slowly, leisurely, enjoying his soft lips while I licked and sucked.

I brought my hips close to Liam's, and we both gasped as we touched.

"Lana," Liam pleaded, rolling his hips into mine, his movements slow and deliberate. "Please, Lana. I need you."

Kissing Liam again, I reached for his pants, undoing his belt. He grabbed for mine, and we undressed each other. Our kisses continued, neither of us wanting to break away. Liam kicked off his shoes and socks and stepped out of his pants. I tried to take mine off, but bloody skinny jeans and Doc's are not easy to kick off.

Liam chuckled when he saw my difficulties. My face warmed. He kissed me as he put his hands under my bottom and lifted me, carrying me the few steps to his bed and sat me on the edge. He got down on his knees and undid my laces, and took my boots and socks off. He pulled my pants and underwear off. To complete the replay of our first night, he held my ankles in his hands before he ran his fingers up my legs, making my skin break out in gooseflesh and my spine shiver.

Smiling at my response, Liam covered his body with mine, and I wrapped my legs around him. Slipping an arm under my waist, he lifted me off the bed and moved me up until my head lay on the pillows. Liam held his weight above me, his powerful arms out outstretched next to my head. He looked so beautiful above me, muscles taut, skin lightly tanned, his face sincere and genuine.

Liam let his body rest on mine, his arms sliding around my shoulders. He let some of his weight onto me, asking, "I'm not too heavy, am I?" I shook my head and nuzzled into his shoulder, sliding my hands under his arms to pull him closer.

Liam made a slight noise of discomfort and rearranged himself before holding me again. I moved my hips and felt myself effortlessly slide against him. A moan escaped my lips as I felt his sex rub against my folds and my point of pleasure. Flares of heat came with each passing, and my mouth sought him, needing his lips, his tongue like I needed air. He kissed me back, and I felt the same need from him, the same desire, the same hunger.

Moving his hips, Liam positioned himself to enter me. He lifted his head and looked at me, his eyes searching for confirmation. I nodded, and he watched my face as he slowly entered me, stretching me, filling me.

It felt like I was whole for the first time in years.

Holding himself still, Liam asked, "are you ok?". Not trusting my voice, I nodded. It didn't help, and the tears came anyway. Liam went to pull out, but I held him with my legs, locking my ankles together.

"Please, don't." My voice was a whisper. Putting a hand to his cheek, I kissed him, my lips firm and my tongue needy. He kissed me back a moment but then stopped and looked at me again.

"But you're crying." He said.

"I'm happy, you idiot," I said softly, smiling at him through my tears.

Liam let out a short laugh. He kissed me again and said, "me too, Lana." He held me tight against him.

We moved with each other, our bodies rocking slowly together. We sometimes kissed, we sometimes just closed our eyes and enjoyed the sensations. Mostly we looked at each other, small smiles on our lips.

"I'm close, Lana," Liam whispered to me.

I smiled at him and nodded. His gentle thrusts became harder now, and I looked into his eyes, watching his expressions change until he called my name, and I felt him release into me.

He let his head fall into the crook of my neck, his deep breaths tickling me. I stroked his hair and caressed his back. We stayed like that, holding each other. It seemed neither of us wanted this moment to end.

I felt Liam's whole weight fall on me as I heard soft snores start in my ear. I chuckled to myself, the poor guy was all tuckered out. I looked over at the bedside clock. I had a bit more time before having to leave, so I stayed holding him until his breaths where long and he had fallen deep into sleep.

I waited until the last possible second before I wriggled out from under Liam and went to have a quick shower. Liam had let me out from under him in his sleep and rolled over. I didn't want to wake him, so I showered upstairs instead of in his ensuite.

I dressed quietly, got my stuff together, went over to Liam, and kissed him on his forehead. He had hummed and tried to grab hold of me in his sleep, but I stepped away, and he relaxed back into sleep.

On the way out, I patted Cole and said goodbye. Cole, being a gentleman, walked me to the garage.

Perrin was happy to see me when I got to Dave's. He dawdled over to me and gave me some licks. It seemed like the kids had worn him out.

The kids weren't tired, though, and begged me to play on the trampoline with them. I rolled my eyes and said to Perrin, "I feel your pain."

Dave, the smart-arse, said to the kids, "I think your Aunty Lana had a big weekend, guys." Smirking, he continued, "she's probably had a lot of exercise."

"You're a dickhead." I said back to him.

The kids giggled their heads off, laughing that "Aunty Lany said a bad word!" I made my eyes go wide and smacked myself on the hand. They laughed and went to play, pulling Perrin along with him.

I said hi to Lucy, who was grinning like a crazy woman but trying hard not to. I laughed at her, blushing furiously. "Stop it," I told her. She just shook her head.

"Come on! Why didn't you tell us? Is he as nice in real life as he seems? Oh God, is he as hot? What's he like?" Lucy gushed.

"Oi," Dave said to her. "Ease up." Lucy just laughed and brushed him off.

"Yeah, he is as nice, really sweet. Funny, exciting and yes, very hot." We giggled.

"Awww," Lucy sighed. "Lana, I'm happy for you. I didn't even know you were dating again."

"Well, yeah, I only started a few months ago. Liam's the only one I had any real interest in."

"How'd you meet him?" Lucy asked. Dave nodded, also wanting to know.

I told them about the Will/Liam thing. They didn't seem to think it was as big a deal as I had thought, but I guess they weren't the ones who went through it. I told them a bit about what happened when we meet, how we had spent the last two weekends together. I left out all the gory details. I also told them about the plan for this week, the premiere, and asking Liam if he wanted to spend Easter Sunday with us.

Lucy squealed and jumped up and down. Dave rolled his eyes at her and agreed it would be good to meet him.

"You know Mum will be there, right?" Dave said.

"Yeah, I know." I scoffed. "Maybe Liam will be the guy to meet her expectations finally."

Dave laughed at that, "Yeah, well, he's got money, so she should be happy about that. He's not a CEO, though, so you still might be in trouble." He was probably right.

My phone rang then, and it was Liam. I must have had a massive smile on my face because Lucy made an "ooooh" noise at me. I hushed her and went outside.

"Hey," I said, my voice was already breathy.

"Hi, Sweetheart," Liam sounded a bit groggy.

"Did you just wake up?"

"Hmm, yes. Sorry. You should have woken me up. I didn't get to say goodbye." He sounded like he was pouting.

"Yeah, I know. But you just looked so sweet laying there, snoring like a chainsaw."

"I do not snore like a chainsaw." He paused, "do I?"

I laughed, "No. You do snore, but it's pretty soft."

He laughed. Then he asked, "are you at your brother's house?"

"Yeah."

"I will let you get back to it then. Call me later tonight?"

"Yeah, I will." I paused, building up the courage to say what I wanted to say, but Liam beat me to it.

"Thank you, Lana."

"For what?"

"For forgiving my bullshit and for pushing you. For letting me get close to you. For letting me be with you. For trying to fit into my world when I know it scares you. For being you. For everything."

For once, I didn't feel like I had to make a joke or change the subject. But I also didn't know what to say. "Thank-you." It was all I had.

"Call me tonight, Sweetheart?" Liam asked again.

I agreed, then hung up.

After dinner, Perrin and I went home. I didn't feel like staying later. The kids were disappointed, but I was tired. I knew it would be a big week, and I wanted to try to get a good night's sleep.

I called Riza on the way home, and we talked a bit about the weekend. She told me a bit about her work and her arsehole boss. I asked her if I could speak to Jen for a minute.

"Sure, but why?"

"Well," I said dramatically. "I'm going to a premiere on Thursday evening, and I need someone to do my hair and make-up."

"Jen, get over here!" Riza yelled, and her voice was so loud through my car speakers that Perrin barked.

"Christ, Riz."

She laughed and said, sorry. Before she handed me to Jen, she said, "Thanks Lana, she will be so happy."

"Why will I be happy?" Jen asked. I told her, and she was quiet a minute. "Really, Lana?"

"Yeah, who else would I get to do it?"

"Can I put it on Instagram? Like a picture of you two all ready?"

I knew she would ask that. She did it for most of her clients. "Yeah, but don't mention anything about it before then. Just after I'm ready, you can put a picture up. I don't know if Liam will want to be mentioned or have a picture, but I'm happy for you to ask him."

"Oh, Lana, thank you! This could boost my business."

"I know, that's why I'm ok with it. I mean, there's going to be photos out there of me anyway, so I hope it will help you get some more work."

Jen and I talked about what I was wearing and how I wanted my hair. I told her I had no idea, so she got all excited and said she knew exactly what to do. Before I hung up, I gave Jen the address and time and told her Liam asked if Riza could come because he wanted to meet her.

"Wow, Lana. You guys are serious, huh?"

"Yeah, Jen, I think we are." We hung up not long after that.

Later that night, I called Liam, and I told him I'd sorted Jen to come over and told Dave he would come for Easter.

He seemed pleased, and we talked a bit about Riza and Jen before I told Liam I was tired and wanted to go to sleep.

I was tired, but I couldn't sleep. My brain wouldn't shut off. I kept thinking about being at school tomorrow and seeing the parents. Then I started thinking about Thursday and what Myra and the others would think of me. What it would be like to do that walk down the red carpet. I know a lot of the press will just want photos of Liam, so I'll have to stand there looking like an idiot while he poses. But worse will be when I have to stand with him. I could just imagine pictures of us, Liam looking dashing and me looking like a deer in headlights.

I started Googling how to pose on the red carpeting even got out of bed and tried a few before feeling like a total dag and getting back into bed. I wanted to back out. I didn't want to do it. I couldn't believe I had said yes to it. But I remembered Liam's face when I said I would go, and I knew that's why I had said yes.

I thought about how sweet Liam had been to me all day, how beautiful he had made me feel,  how he had tried to make the whole thing easier, how he had kissed me and held me. How he had whispered my name as we made love.

I felt the heat between my legs grow. I tossed and turned a bit, trying to make it go away. I felt hot, so I took my pyjamas off. I tossed and turned some more. I tried to ignore it but I couldn't.

I went to my draw and got out my rabbit-style vibrator. I touched myself, and I was ready for it. I closed my eyes as I slipped it inside. I thought about Liam as I did. He was thicker than my slim vibrator but just as long. I positioned its ear against my clit and put it to the setting and speed I liked.

I held it there. I thought of Liam's gravelly voice in my ear and could almost feel his breath on my neck. I let my free hand wander over my body, remembering watching as Liam touched me. I thought of how he looked at me sometimes with a small smile, his eyes dancing with amusement as his lip twitched.

As I got closer to the edge, I thought about earlier that day, the way he held me, how gentle and tender he was. I remembered how it felt as I kissed his chest and his hairs tickled my nose. I remembered his smell, earthy and masculine, like the bush after it rained. I fell over the edge when I remembered how he had called my name as he orgasmed, my own rippling through me in waves as his voice rang in my ears.

Not long after that, I finally fell asleep.

Part 18

[sillyrabbit81]

Her Heavy Cross

Summary: Three years after tragedy hits, Lana she decides to start dating again. She meets Will through a dating app and they begin an online romance. After months of constant requests, Lana relents and agrees to meet and go on an irl date with Will. But is Will who he says he is? Lana is quickly pulled into an intense relationship forcing her to confront her tragic past. Will Lana face it or will she close her heart forever?

Pairing: OMC x OFC

Word Count: approx 3.6k

Warnings: smut, swearing

Authors Note: The story started as a Henry Cavill fanfiction but I changed it to be an original character, but shades of Henry are still there. Hope you enjoy the story and thanks for reading.

Part 13 Part 15

Part 14

Liam helped me get ready for bed. I was nearly asleep standing up by this stage. He undressed me and got my nightgown out of my bag. The white satin shift was far too sexy for how I felt, but it was all I had brought with me for bed. Liam said nothing about it. He didn't try to touch me inappropriately either as he undressed me, even when he took my bra off. I was thankful for that. He looked, though. A lot.

"Do you want to sleep here with me, or would you rather sleep alone?" He asked.

I was hurt for a minute and then thinking about all the horrible things I said to him, I understood why he asked. "I didn't mean those things I said to you."

"Yeah, you did. I deserved most of it."

"Yeah. I suppose you aren't that attractive." I joked.

"That's my girl." He said chuckling. Then he stopped, realising what he had said. "You were right. I am pushing too hard. I keep calling you my girlfriend and ignore how you feel about it."

"I am, though. Your girlfriend." Liam looked surprised at my admission. "You were right about that. If I didn't want to be, I shouldn't have acted like I was." I took his hand and said, "I acted like I was because I wanted it too. I didn't want to admit it to myself." I tried to smile at him but yawned instead. "Come to bed with me?" I asked.

He raised my hand to his lips and kissed it. "Always, Sweetheart."

We got into bed, and I laid down in Liam's arms. I don't even think I said goodnight to him before I fell into a dreamless sleep.

I woke up feeling stiff. It seemed like it was barely dawn. The room had only a faint glow of warm light. I stretched out, my muscles were tired. Liam was still in bed, and his hand was resting on my hip. I rolled over to look at him and found him looking back at me, a lazy smile on his lips.

"Good morning." His voice was gentle.

"Morning," I said, reaching out to caress his cheek, enjoying the feeling of his sharp beard against my skin.

"How do you feel this morning?"

"I'm glad I stayed." I was. Waking with Liam felt good. I felt stupid acting like I had last night. I had fought so hard against getting too close to him despite how natural it felt, how good. I had to stop punishing myself. But it was hard to turn off three years of carefully built barriers around my heart.

"Me too." He said. I thought he would hug me, but he didn't. So I hugged him. I pulled myself in closer until our bellies touched, and I wrapped a leg around his hip. I felt his sex hard against me, and I tightened my leg pulling him closer. He made a face of pain and moved his hips away.

"Sorry," I said. "Are you still upset about last night?" He shook his head, giving me no more than that. "Tired?" I tried again. Another shake of the head. "Does my breath smell?" He chuckled and shook his head a third time. "You don't want to?"

"I do. I really do."

"So what's the problem?"

"I don't know if you'll want what I want."

"It can't be that bad."

"It's not bad at all."

I was getting frustrated, "just tell me!"

"I don't want to fuck you. I don't want to hurt you, or smack you or bite you or any of those things." His lip twitched, "Well, I do, but not right now. Right now, I want to hold you and kiss you. I want to be slow, take my time, make love to you. But I don't want to scare you off." I looked away. "See, you don't want to. And that's ok. I'm not going to push you anymore. I'll wait." He did hug me back then. Just gently, keeping his hand on my back, away from anywhere sexual. "I'm happy, just like this."

We laid there, and I thought about what he said. The more I thought about it, the more I wanted it too, realising I needed it from him. I needed to let my guard down, to show him that I did care about him. I did like slow and gentle sex as much as rough and dirty. But rough and dirty didn't touch your soul the way slow and gentle did. I liked both, but only with a guy I could give both to. I had only had that with Andy. It's part of what made him special to me, that I loved it just as much when he fucked me until I couldn't walk as when he took his time, loved me and cared for me.

I didn't know how to tell him I wanted it too. After last night, the things I had said and how I had acted, I needed to know it was ok. I needed to know that we had confronted those feelings and knocked down those walls. I knew they weren't gone forever, but I needed to know we were in this together.

"I want to, Liam." He didn't look like he believed me. "I really do." I kissed him gently, my lips soft and teasing against his. He moaned and kissed me back just as soft and gentle. If I had any doubt in my mind that this was what I wanted, the warmth that came over my body quickly dispelled it.

He rolled me on my back, his weight on top of me. His mouth didn't leave mine. Our kisses seemed to last for an age. Our bodies shared air until it seemed like our breathing had become one. His hands caressed me. He didn't squeeze at me. Instead, he felt his way over my body as if he were savouring every curve, every valley and every rise.

I felt along his back, down his spine, feeling it bend and curve with his careful movements. I reached his pants and slid my fingers under the band, feeling his bottom's muscular curve. My body continued to warm. Every part of me feeling sensitive. Every touch felt like electricity coursing over my skin and into my core.

"Liam," I whispered through our kisses. I needed more. I craved more of him.

"I'm here, Lana," came his reply. "I'm here."

Liam sat up quickly and took off his pants before leaning back into me. He kissed me as he fumbled in his bedside draw. I cursed that we hadn't talked about other contraception. I had a birth control implant in my arm. But we didn't have time for that conversation now. I would take him as I could get him.

He sat up again, putting the condom on, then he leaned down and kissed my thigh. He lifted my leg and kissed me behind my knee. His stubble tickled my delicate skin, and I giggled while I  pulled away. He let me go, smiling at me and kissed my other thigh. He took off my underwear, moving them slowly down my legs. Liam lifted my shift, exposing my most private place and, for once, I didn't want to look away in shame. He ran his fingers tantalisingly slowly down my sex, parting me as he went. I was more than ready for him. He kissed my tummy near my belly button, and I ran my fingers through his curls. He looked up at me between kisses with a sweet smile on his.

My heart leapt in my throat. Liam's care and attention made me feel emotions I wasn't sure I was prepared for. His kisses trailed down to my hip bone, and he playfully licked at the crease above my thigh before Liam brought his body back onto mine.

I sighed as I felt Liam's weight, heavy but comforting. He adjusted himself with his hips until he was at my core. I held his hand, our fingers entwining as he entered me. He took his time, and each movement was almost agonisingly slow. He kissed my lips again as he fully entered me. The relief was bliss. Then he moved, and I moaned, all my senses aflame, the sensations threatened to overwhelm me.

He rolled us both over, and I was on top. I sat up, and he put his hands on my hips, guiding my movements. I moved around on him until I found the spot I wanted. I cried out his name when I did and rocked, each gentle sway of my hips finding my place. Liam reached up and pulled the tie out of my hair, my locks falling freely down my back. I moved my hands down his chest, my fingers tickled by this thick hair, damp from his sweat. I kept them there, enjoying the warmth beneath my fingertips and the texture of him.

He lifted my shift off, sitting up as he did. He went to lay back down, but I held him up, wrapping my legs around his hips and my arms around his shoulders. I kissed him, and he kissed back, more demanding now and deeper. Then he kissed my neck, his tongue licking at me, his teeth grazing against my collarbone, and he whispered my name into my skin. I arched my back, finding my place again. His arms came around my waist, and he caught my rhythm, rocking his own body into mine. Liam leaned his head down and took my nipple in his mouth, sucking gently. I watched him suckle at me, and fresh waves of pleasure rippled over me. I rode him harder, throwing my head back as I held his head against my chest.

One of his hands left my back, and I felt his thumb against my nub. I removed his hand and put it on my hip. He looked up, questioning. How could I explain I didn't need to orgasm to enjoy this? I leaned forward and kissed him. I looked into his eyes and said, "I don't need that for this to feel good. It already feels wonderful."

I kept looking at him, letting him search my eyes, so he knew I was telling the truth. He nodded and said, "Are you sure? I won't last much longer." I smiled and kissed him again, trying to hold him tighter. He seemed to lose his control, and his slow and gentle movement became harder. His arms suddenly crushed me as his whole body tensed and pushed me down hard against him. I cried out as thickened inside me, stretching me a moment before Liam swore and called my name, his shout of release echoed through the room. He thrust up into me with each of his final throes. I watched him as he came, his body majestic, his arms tight like thick cords around my waist as he gathered me to him.

I stroked his head when he finished. Liam laid his head against my chest, and his forehead was wet from his exertion. His breath slowed, and I climbed off his lap. He laid down, eyes closed, and I put my chin on his chest so I could look at his face while relaxed. He opened an eye and saw me looking. He closed them again and said, "What are you looking at, Sweetheart."

I breathed deeply, happy at that moment. I smiled and said, "Just looking at my boyfriend."

He smiled wide, showing all his teeth and opened his eyes. He chuckled, put his head to mine and kissed my nose. "I like the sound of that."

We went downstairs and had breakfast. Liam surprised me with a jar of Vegemite. I clapped my hands like a child and asked if he had tried it yet. He said he had, but he preferred marmite. I scrunched my nose at him and mumbled something about "stupid pommies." I made my toast because I was a freak and liked heaps of Vegemite. Like a lot. No butter either.

Liam was shocked, "That's disgusting! You put that much on?"

I nodded. I dipped the knife in the Vegemite. I scooped out a huge helping and popped it in my mouth, licking it all off.

"Oh, my God!" Liam covered his eyes. "It's not Nutella!"

"You're right. It's better."

After breakfast, Liam asked if I wanted to take Cole for a walk. I hesitated, my thoughts instantly going to more pictures and articles. I shook away the thoughts. I'd made my choice, and I was going to go for it and see how it plays out. We got dressed and headed off.

Cole was a very well-trained dog. He walked well on the lead and mostly ignored other dogs and people. A few kids wanted to pat Cole, and Liam would get down with Cole and pat him with the kids. He got recognised only once by a bloke who drove past and yelled at him, "Oi Cross, where's your sword?" He just waved at the guy who took off laughing. Part of me wished he'd grabbed his pants and yelled 'right here' as he did in the movie the guy was quoting. But I guess the internet would have a field day with that one.

"Hey, what's it like to be a meme?" I asked.

"How do you mean?"

"Like you're online, in a forum or something, and suddenly there's some person who uses your face as a reply."

"It's not bad," he said. "They're usually pretty funny. I'd much rather see that than see made up stories about me." I nodded. "Worse are the true stories. The ones I thought were private that end up in forums. We've all done stupid things or been rude to people. Most people shake it off and try to do better next time. I have to worry if there was a camera or if the story will end up going around the internet. I'm not necessarily complaining, but it's one of the downsides of people knowing who you are."

"Yup, told ya before, your life isn't normal."

As we walked, the houses gave way to cafes and small boutiques. I window shopped my way along the street. Liam noticed and said, "If you want to go in and look, I don't mind waiting."

"Yeah, Nah, it's ok. I'm just looking." I smiled at him, "we don't have a lot of shops like this out west." I snuck my head under his arm and put my arm around his waist. He put his arm around my shoulders, kissed the top of my head, and we walked side by side a few blocks before starting to head back to Liam's house.

Although yesterday's fight was awful, I had to admit that everything felt better with Liam today. My guard was lowered, and I didn't feel fear or shame to reach out and touch him anymore. In fact, I couldn't keep my hands off him. I always wanted to hold his hand or simply sit next to him with our shoulders or our thighs touching. It was like he was the sun, and I fixed in his orbit, unable to stay away. I was already sad about having to go home tomorrow. But I did miss Perrin. An idea occurred to me, and I asked Liam what he thought about it as we neared his house.

"What are your plans for next weekend?"

"For Easter? Well, we have half of Thursday and then Friday to Monday off. Then shooting starts Tuesday, so I was planning on lazing around at home with you before the crazy hours start. How does that sound?"

"It sounds great. But..."

"But what?"

"Well, on Sunday, I usually spend the day with David, Lucy and the kids. Depending on the weather, we usually go to a park and do an Easter Egg hunt and have a BBQ." I laughed at a memory. As we went back into Liam's house, I told him about the Easter it was 38 degrees and all of the eggs melted. Poor Charlie cried because he had no eggs to eat.

Liam smiled at my story. He must be thinking of his nephews because his smile appeared to be tinged with sadness. He said, "that's okay. Can you spend Thursday, Friday and Saturday with me?"

"Well, I was wondering," my nerve left me then. Was it too soon? But I reckoned that if he was happy for everyone to know we were together, maybe he should meet my family. I took a deep breath and quickly said, "if you'd like to come with me on Sunday." Liam let Cole off his lead, and he ran to the kitchen to have a drink. Liam got up slowly and put his arms around my waist.

His fucking lip twitched. "You want to introduce me to your family?"

"No, don't worry about it," I said saltily. But, I felt my lips twitching. Had Liam given me some kind of disease that caused a tick?

"Yes, you do!" I rolled my eyes. Liam pulled me in closer until our hips met. "I'd love to, Sweetheart."

"Ok, then." He smiled broadly. I wiggled and tried to escape his arms, but he wasn't letting me. "It's not a big deal."

"I think its a big deal." Liam kissed me.

When I pulled away this time, he let me go, his mouth still held in a goofy grin. "I was thinking a few other things on our walk," I said.

"Go on then." We went into the kitchen, and Liam got us some water, and we sat on the lounge. I sat facing him, my legs curled up underneath me and my knees touching his thigh.

"I don't like leaving Perrin alone, and I can't ask Dave to have him every weekend, so would it be ok to bring Perrin next week? See if he and Cole get along? It would make things a lot easier."

"Absolutely," Then he shook his head. "You're different today." Panic gripped me. Great, I let my defences down, and five hours later, he doesn't like it. I started to move away from Liam, but he stopped me. "No, Sweetheart, it's a good thing." He took my glass out of my hand and put his glass down before he lifted me onto his lap. "You're thinking ahead, planning things for us. You've never done that before. It's always been me pushing for the next step."

"Too much?" I asked, still feeling unsure.

"Not at all."

"Good," I said. Then I smiled, trying to sound casual, "so what exactly does the girlfriend of one of the worlds most sought after actors wear to a film premiere?"

"Really?" Liam asked incredulously. I nodded, and Liam planted big sloppy kisses all over my face. I squealed and tried to pull away, but he tightened his grip. My shrieks turned into giggles as his scratchy beard tickled my neck. He eventually stopped, his face getting serious. "No? Really? Do you want to go? If you don't want to, it's fine. There will be other occasions to show you off."

"No, I do. I'm in this now. Committed. I'm willing to go because I want to be in your life, and going to things like premieres and award shows are part of that."

Liam smiled and kissed me again, sweetly this time. "Thank you."

"I have conditions, though." Liam indicated I should continue. "Other than saying we're together, I don't want you to say anything about our relationship in interviews or anything. I don't want photos of me on your Instagram. If it's for some special occasion, maybe, but I'd rather avoid it." He nodded. "Two, I know actors sometimes take off to LA or Rome or Manila for awards or premieres. I probably wouldn't go with you to those because I'm not just picking up and leaving during the school term. Outside of that, I'm open to negotiation."

Again he nodded and said, "Fair. Anything else?"

"Two more things." his eyebrows lifted at that, but he stayed silent. "Sarah can confirm our relationship if you want. If we just say we are together, people won't make as much fuss as they would if it was left in the air. If we say nothing at all, it will keep the story going longer than necessary."

"Do you know, that's exactly what Sarah told me?"

"If this teaching thing ever goes wrong, maybe I'll have a career change." I winked at Liam to tell him I was joking. Fuck dealing with celebrities and scandals all day.

"So the last thing," I said.

"This was a very productive walk."

"Yes." My cheeks suddenly felt hot. I didn't know how to say what I wanted to say.

"This will be good," Liam said, noticing my blush.

"Shut up, and let me say it." I took a deep breath. "I have a contraceptive implant in my arm. I've been using them for a while. At the moment, the one I have is good for five years, and I got it three and a half years ago. I basically don't get periods anymore. If I do, they're very short. Anyway, all I'm saying is if you are committed, we don't have to use a condom."

"Where in your arm?" He asked. I found it and got his fingers and showed him where. "Oh shit. That's great. Why didn't you tell me earlier?"

I shrugged. "I didn't know where this was going or how serious you were. I wanted STD protection. You Hollywood types have terrible reputations."

Liam chuckled, "I suppose that's true. But I am serious about you. I thought you knew that from even before we met."

I shrugged. "I wasn't sure."

"But you are now?"

I nodded. Liam hugged me tightly. "Ok, good, condoms are out." He gave me a peck on the cheek, "Hungry?" He asked.

Part 15