Caitlin was up early. In fact she did not know at what time she eventually fell asleep, for she was like an excited kid going on an excursion. She was ready and waiting although there was still half an hour to go. She was too excited for breakfast and fruit juice was all she had. At five to nine there was the knock on the door. Caitlin took a deep breath before she opened the door. To her surprise Justin was the first to greet her, throwing his arms around her legs.
'Hey, how are you?' she dropped to her knees to hug Justin and the rest of the boys.
So he'd fetched the boys first so they did not have to be alone.

'Did you miss me Caitlin?' Justin was demanding and before she could think of responding, he went on, 'Are you ready to go now? Who do you think is going to win the series? he continued unabated'

'Which question should I answer first?' she laughed at him.

Justin shyly tucked his arm around Nicholas' leg, without answering. Finally she plucked up the courage and drew her eyes to Nicholas'. He was gorgeously togged out in khaki shorts that revealed well toned sexy calf muscles, a black polo shirt clung to his muscular frame and black loafers.

'Good morning,' she greeted him cautiously.

'Hi,' he smiled politely, no trace of anger, or any mocking.

Caitlin tried to forget the humiliating way he walked out on her the last time he was there.

'Would you like some to drink before we go?' she asked hesitatingly.

'No thanks.' he declined.

Wow don't be so enthusiastic to have a conversation with me!

'Can we go now?' the boys pleaded, not really picking up the tension in the air.

'I have something for you guys before we go,' she smiled at them.

'What is it!' they were all excited. Nicholas folded his arms patiently, his eyes curious. She picked up a pack of replica shirts of the South African national team and gave each one, according to his size. The boys squealed with delight, national pride at being able to dress in their teams' colours. Caitlin, picked up the last one and gave it to Nicholas.

'There's one for you as well,' she murmured.

'Thank you,' he accepted pulling off the polo shirt over his masculine shoulders. Caitlin momentarily caught her breath when he unhesitatingly took off his shirt giving her a perfect view of his gorgeous chest, the fine dust of curly hairs like a carpet, almost tempting her to touch him.

Oh gosh look elsewhere, anywhere!

Caitlin hastily turned around to help Justin, who in his haste to put on the shirt, had forgotten to open the buttons, now his arm and his head, were jockeying for position. She went down on her knees again to assist him, glad to have something to do, whilst Nicholas was without fanfare exhibiting his delectably fine torso.

'Thank you,' he said again, looking at the boys and seeing the delight on their faces. 'Do you have a lot of experience buying clothes for the opposite sex?' he jibed, for his shirt fitted perfectly as if it was tailored on him.

'Educated guess,' she responded, wounded by his snide remark.

'Shall we go?' he enquired.

Caitlin nodded as Nicholas locked up, leaving his neatly folded shirt behind. He'd arrived with a mini bus that had the branding 'Knightsbridge House' on it. It could comfortably seat about eight people. Nicholas opened the front passenger door for Caitlin. The boys slid in through the side door and all talking at once, giving their predictions on the result of the game. Nicholas checked to make sure they had secured the lock on the sliding door, and climbed into the driver's seat.

'Okay, are we ready for the game?' he smiled to them looking over his shoulder.

'Yes!' they agreed in unison.

'It should take us about twenty minutes to get there, think you guys can manage that long?' They all nodded speaking at the same time, urging Nicholas to get there before the first ball was bowled. Nicholas put on his seatbelt, looked to help Caitlin and saw that hers was on already. Their eyes clashed, awareness flared dangerously,and then he looked away starting the engine. She was a bundle of nerves, excited to be with Nicholas, yet apprehensive at the same time. He indulged in polite conversation, enquiring if she knew how the game was played. To which she answered in the affirmative, being an avid fan, and followed the national teams' games.

'I wish they weren't called the Proteas, otherwise they have my allegiance,' she offered conversationally.

'It's a pity we can't all say the same,' he quipped.

She glanced his way, 'Patronage has to be earned!' she retorted, not prepared to allow him to ridicule her.

'So do you think we can pull this one off?' he responded, changing tack.

Caitlin knew there were five games to this series. Four had already been played. The Australians had won the first two, and South Africa fighting back won the third and fourth. Now it was down to the wire.

'I think we can, if we bowl first, and then bat. We seem to have a good record of winning, when we chase a target,' she commented.

There was a sea of green shirts, wherever one looked. Some had the South African flag tattooed on their cheeks or foreheads. In some quarters, there were some brave men, who had on Australia jerseys. Surprisingly it was Caitlin's hand that Justin held tightly onto. Nicholas walked a step behind Caitlin, ensuring that the boys all stayed together. He got them seats under the pavilion, with a bird's eye view of the crease, and the seats they had, had comfortable soft cushions.

Caitlin knew he would have access to an air conditioned box office suite, but he was perceptive to the boys' preference to be close to the field. The atmosphere was electric around the stadium. There were drum rolls and music belting out from a loud speaker system. Both the captains were on the field with the referee, they were tossing a coin, to see who would bat first.

Caitlin was unsure of the seating arrangements. Was she and Nicholas to be flanked on either side of the boys? She glanced nervously in Nicholas' direction. He smiled easily, cupping his hand at her elbow then assisting her to a seat. He seated the boys to his left side and then took the seat next to her. Caitlin was extremely thrilled about that.
Justin, chose to sit on Nicholas' lap. Nicholas was pointing to the South African captain, telling Justin that South Africa had won the toss and elected to field first.
'You got it right,' he smiled at Caitlin, 'Think you missed your vocation?" he teased amidst all the noise.

She smiled back shaking her head, 'Let's hope we use it to advantage.' Caitlin found it testing trying to concentrate on the game. She could feel the heat deflect from Nicholas' body in her direction. His bare leg was leaning closely against her jeans she longed to place her hand on his muscular thigh. It took every inch of discipline to still her hands. She tucked them in between her knees. Occasionally she risked stealing a glance at Nicholas. He was smiling, speaking in Justin's ear.

Caitlin looked at the graying clouds to her right, seeing that there could be some rain in the afternoon. She hoped the South Africans would wrap up the game before the rain came. These Highveld storms were most frightfully unpleasant and unpredictable. She was engrossed in the game again, when Nicholas put his arm around her shoulder, wanting to know if she was hungry. Her body reacted as if being drawn by a magnet. She looked into his eyes and saw amusement there. She swallowed sharply, she wanted to say no, but knew boys got hungry all the time, and nodded. Nicholas got everybody hotdogs and cool drinks as well as a chocolate bar for Caitlin. She gazed into his eyes when he gave her the chocolate bar.

'I've tried to rack my brain trying to figure out, what you'd like to eat, and since I haven't seen you eat much, I don't quite know what your preference is,' he shrugged. That was his longest speech for the day so far.

'Thank you, this will do just fine,' she accepted politely. By now, she was a bit hungry, the tasty hotdog went down well.

'Enjoying the game then?' Nicholas smiled seductively.

Not as wonderful as being with you! she nodded, not trusting her voice.

'And the company?' he teased, his eyes trained on her lips.

'You and I should have company all the time, then we won't get into arguments,' she murmured softly.

He lowered his lips close to her ear, 'You're over twenty one, still need to be chaperoned?' he gave her that too sexy smile.

Her heart was doing acrobatics, she was sure he could see it doing a display for his benefit.
'I don't resemble a "misguided youth" any longer? she asked provocatively.

'I'm very, very pleased to know you're over twenty one, for reasons I'd rather divulge when we're alone,' his mocking eyes taunted.

Caitlin felt her cheeks colour profusely to a bright hue of pink. 'Is that all that's ever on your mind?' she whispered, aware that Justin was within earshot.

'Where you're concerned, it's become a consuming pastime,' he confessed, holding her eyes. Caitlin gazed into his eyes identifying with his admission. He lowered his head and his lips lightly touched hers. It was enough to unleash her desire, like floodgates being opened. His sensual kiss could not have been more than three seconds long, but it stirred her desire like a raging wildfire. Caitlin groaned inwardly, looking away.

A vendor was selling ice creams, and Nicholas got some for the boys, Caitlin did not want one. Nicholas indulged in one himself. He was enjoying his ice cream when Caitlin stole a glance at him, watching his lips and tongue enjoying his ice cream. She knew she should look away, but her eyes could not be dragged away. As if willed by the same force, he looked her way, and caught the burning desire reflected in her eyes. Smiling, he put his arm around her neck and forced her to bite into his ice cream. Giggling, she bit into it, looking up at him. He angled his head, reaching for her lips again. Caitlin tasted the strawberry flavour on his chilled lips. She was loving this time with him being carefree, no fights, just the pleasure of his wonderful company.

The clouds were starting to look really menacing now, Caitlin started to get weary, she hoped the vicious Highveld storms would just abate, she greatly feared the aggressive thunder. She kept a constant eye to the west, where a rain cloud looked dark and ominous. The game was nearing the end. One run was needed, but the batsmen hit a six, enabling the South Africans to win the match by five runs. The boys were celebrating jumping, and slapping high fives.

'So we win the series!' Nicholas smiled, slapping a high five with the boys. The crowds thronged onto the field celebrating the series win against the Australians, for they were worthy opponents.

The dark clouds had waited patiently enough now, the notorious Highveld storms were about to come out in full force. A vicious bolt of lightning ripped through the sky, followed by roaring thunder. Caitlin screamed and threw herself into Nichols' arms as the roaring thunder growled and reverberated across the sky, sounding as if a mega bomb had violently detonated in the air. Nicholas looked firstly confused then with concern when he saw the state she was in.

'I'm sorry,' she whispered shivering violently and breathing heavily, trying to wish the roaring thunder away. The spectators were scurrying in all directions trying to take cover. Nicholas wrapped his arms around Caitlin, softly trying to calm her down. She hated these electrical storms ever since she was a kid. In her penthouse she was safe, for it was well insulated and no harm could come to her. But here, out in the open, she felt exposed, vulnerable, she did not feel safe. After some awkward moments in Nicholas' arms, she lifted her head to peek at the sky, the storm had abated, the sky was starting to clear.

'Please can we leave?' she pleaded.

'Are you okay Caitlin?' Justin asked concerned.

'I am now, although I'd feel better if we leave,' she offered a brave smile.

'Can we please have cheese burgers?' Seth asked, 'I'm hungry.'

Nicholas looked at Caitlin.

'Yes,' she conceded, 'that's fine.'
Oh! She felt like an idiot, why did this have to happen in front of Nicholas, and his was the first arms she thought to dive into. Well there was nobody else's arms she could seek protection from!

Tucking into their cheese burgers, the boys were unaware of Caitlin's turmoil. She refused to eat, just wanting to be by herself.

'I will drop the boys off, and then take you home,' Nicholas suggested.

'No! __. Do you mind dropping me off first __please,' she requested, keeping her head down.

'Okay,' he reluctantly conceded. Stopping outside her penthouse, he opened it up for her helping her in, and asking, 'Are you sure you want to be alone?'

'Yes, I'll be fine, thank you for today.'

Nicholas nodded, shut the door and left.

You little baby!

She mocked herself. She felt like an idiot falling apart in front of Nicholas. She was also disappointed to have ruined the boys after game celebration. She ran upstairs to her shower, needing to keep occupied. She scrubbed herself thoroughly, washing the dust off her hair. Slipping on a pair of long satin pajamas, and her hair draped in a towel, she shut all the curtains and turned on every single light in the entire penthouse. She cringed thinking of the spectacle she had made of herself in front of Nicholas, as she poured herself a glass of brandy.

'He must think I'm like an insecure infant!' she groaned softly. She just did not know how to deal with this phobia of the thunder. The electrical storms and the lightening she could take, but the reverberating onslaught of the piercing thunder, just seemed to rip through the inside of her, making her feel as if her insides were being ripped apart.

There was a knock on the door and Caitlin cried out just wanting to be left alone.

No go away. I don't want anybody to see me now.

But the knocking went on relentlessly. Dragging herself to the door, she opened it to find Nicholas standing there. He had also showered, and changed into black corduroy trousers, a fresh, clean sweater, concern in his eyes.

'Nicholas, I __ I'm not good company right now,' she murmured softly, avoiding his eyes.

'That's okay, I'm not here for company. I did not want you to be alone.

'No, you should go, we always end up fighting when, __' she did not want to say, 'when I'm in your arms.'

He ignored her protests walking inside. 'Caitlin why did you not tell me?' he asked softly. 'We could have left before the storm started.'

'I did not want to ruin the boy's game' she answered. 'I'll be fine now that I'm inside.' she told him.

'No, you're not, Caitlin. You're all keyed up. Like you've seen a ghost, and have you seen your eyes in the mirror?'

'Nicholas, I am fine, now that I'm indoors. It was just outside, __' she shivered.

He put his arms around her, removing the towel and gently drying her hair. He just held her to him, letting strength go from him to her body. He noted all the drawn curtains, and the house lit up like a lighthouse.

'Would you like me to light the fire for you?' he murmured against her ear.

'Yes please.'

Nicholas got to work, and before long, the effects of the warm fire, was making the room less cold. Caitlin handed Nicholas a glass of red wine.

'Have you eaten?' he asked.

Food was the last item on her agenda. A drink and her duvet was her preference right now.

She shook her head, knowing he had obviously not eaten either. 'I will put some chicken to grill ' she started to walk to the kitchen.

'No, you get comfortable there at the fire, I will put something together.' Nicholas inspected the refrigerator, found some juicy looking steaks of hake and put it to grill. He made quick work of some frozen mixed vegetable, quickly tossed some salad bits together.

'Grilled hake steaks, vegetables, with a green salad, should be ready in ten minutes,' he smiled, observing her sitting near the fire, her eyes starting to look a bit normal again.

'Thank you, Nicholas', she smiled appreciatively offering him her glass for a refill. He brought it to her, sitting down next to her, planting a gentle kiss on her lips and tasting her brandy. Gently he ran his fingers through her hair trying to comb it dry near the fire. 'You look so beautiful,' he murmured, 'the fire lighting up your gorgeous eyes, it makes you look so sexy.'

'Nicholas please__.' She was remembering how the last intimate session ended.

'Sssh! No fighting tonight, we agree to a truce okay,' he declared, clasping her fingers into his. Caitlin happily nodded, she was ecstatic that he had called a truce. So no matter what, tonight there would be no arguments.

He served them dinner at the fireplace, teasing her gently and making light conversation.

Oh I could get quite used to this.

She smiled into his eyes, thanking him, for spoiling her so. She saw Nicholas inhale deeply, something flicker in his eyes when she smiled at him. He turned to the fire to adjust the logs, probing about her childhood, and the source of her phobia. She related a story of when she was about six, playing in the garden, when an electrical storm ripped through the thatched roofed playhouse, her dad had built, setting it alight, burning the wooden structure down to the ground, but not before she ran in to rescue her favourite teddy by the scruff of its arm. Sometimes during storms like today, she could still hear the lightening and the roaring thunder of that day as if whipping through her body, and the sound unleashing the fear in her.

'Did your mom and dad know how this affected you?' he enquired.

'Yeah' she sighed, 'for many years they tried to help me overcome it, and as I grew up and there were less instances of the storms, I seemed to work through it, and when I left home, they just assumed I'd outgrown the fear. There have not been many instances of such freak storms, or otherwise I was indoors, and seemed to handle it.'

He'd cautiously switched off most of the lights. They were relaxing on the fluffy carpet, only the fire providing light, which they seemed not to be concerned about.

'It's been a while since I have seen one like today,' she shivered, remembering its effect ripping through her reserve.

Nicholas pulled her into his arms, adjusting her body against his chest, planting a kiss on her still damp hair. 'Do you know that you will be fairly safe, if you are indoors, not near water or any electrical or metal objects?' he softly, comforted her.

'Yes, dad explained all of that to me, he gave me a lot of reading material, and made sure I understood all about safety during storms. It's why I try to get indoors as quickly as possible.'

They were quiet for a while, not needing any conversation. Caitlin thought this was what heaven felt like, being in Nicholas' arms, basking near the fire.

'I could be content staying just right here with you all night,' he echoed her sentiment against her throat. Gradually she turned looking up into his eyes, the reflection of the fire danced on his pupils. He groaned softly bending his head, to cover her lips with a soft sensual kiss, his eyes gentle, warm, so tender. He'd called a truce, earlier on, so she knew he was here just to provide unobtrusive comfort.

'You want to spend the night right here? It will be cold and uncomfortable,' she reluctanty tore her lips from his.

'With you for company it would be heaven!' he murmured gruffly.

My sentiments exactly!

She could not remove her eyes they were fixed on his.

'Will you allow me to stay?' he asked, hopeful.

'Is the autocratic Nicholas Brenthurst asking permission?' she raised her eyebrows teasingly. 'What happened to "he takes what he wants"?' she taunted him.

'I see a reputation that does not hold me in good stead, precedes me,' he feigned a mock wounded expression.

'I'm not offering you anything,' she warned, yet thrilled to have the opportunity to spend an entire night with Nicholas with no strings attached.

'If you show me where the bedding is, I could make it comfortable here,' he suggested.

'How about we raid the guest bedroom, it's closer.'

He nodded, and the both of them set up a comfortable bed near the fire. Nicholas opened a new bottle of wine, and they basked in the comfort of each other's company.

'Do you mind if I take off my shirt?' he asked, 'I know no strings...' he prompted further.

Cautiously and very slowly she inhaled, 'Yes, that's fine,' she whispered, then stole a glance at his attractive, masculine torso. A soft sigh left her throat at how close his beautiful bare chest was to her body. Caitlin could feel the heat of his body through her satin night shirt. Nicholas placed his arm around her as she lay with her back against his chest, her hair beginning to dry from the heat of the fire.

'You can fall asleep on me' he murmured. 'I won't mind.'

How can I even try to sleep when my body is crying out for you? her brain screamed.

Caitlin turned her head around to face him, 'So at some future date, will you be relating a story of how I passed out on you the first night I was in your arms?'

'I'll be a gentleman and not tell,' he spoke softly his eyes teasing. Caitlin looked into his eyes, inhaling deeply. Boldly, she slowly lifted her palm to his face, her fingers running the length of his cheeks, caressing the rough hairs against her finger tips. She traced her fingers around his lips, observing his sharp intake of breath.

'I like it when you don't shave,' her lips parted enticing him.

'Caitlin.' he groaned, hoisting her onto his lap. She reached out to meet his lips as he hungrily took possession of hers, his tongue wrapping around hers seductively. Caitlin was aroused at the feel of his rough stubble against her cheeks. It was caressing her face, and doing dangerous things to her. Her hands moved up around his neck, pulling him closer. Nicholas lifted his head to look into her eyes. He wanted to drink in the beauty of her, and the desire reflecting in her eyes. His mouth covered hers again, he dropped onto his back, lowering her onto him, his lips not leaving hers, his tongue searching, entwining, causing tantalizing sensations to flow through her body. Nicholas slipped his hands under her night shirt, his finger tips caressing the soft flesh over her shoulder blades. He traced his fingers down her spine, sending erotic shockwaves through her. She lifted her head, her eyes locked with his. Her soft hair caressing over his face, he could smell the fresh herbal scent of her shampoo. There was consuming desire in both their eyes. Nicholas traced his finger around her lip. Caitlin moved her mouth seductively, trapping his finger between her lips, the tip of her tongue caressing his finger sending erotic sensations through Nicholas' body. He lifted her up, laying her on her back, his tongue tracing a path with hot kisses to her breast, lapping over the aroused tips. His moist lips caressing first the one the soft pink peak, then moved to the other. Caitlin purred her delight. He allowed her fingers to experiment over his body, on a voyage of self discovery experimenting how to pleasure him. She applied pressure on his chest, forcing him to lie on his back. Her lips planted soft kisses on his nipples, her tongue tracing a path to his navel. He groaned his delight, his palms expertly cupped her firm upright breasts, closing his eyes he filed to memory the sensation. Pulling her down, he pushed apart her shirt, so he could feel her flesh against his chest, as she lay over him. Caitlin gasped quickly moving away as she felt his aroused erect manhood underneath her.

'Now do you know the torture you subject me to?' he whispered, his palms on the sides of her face, trying to tuck her hair behind her ears.

'I'm sorry,' her face was all flushed and embarrassed.

'Will you just lay on me Caitlin, I'll will my body to exercise some restraint.'

'I __I don't want to. I'm all embarrassed now,' she groaned, wanting to look away from him.

'Don't be,' he whispered, gently guiding her face to rest on his chest. He hugged her, planting a kiss on her head. Nicholas massaged her back and shoulders, trying to relax her nervous body.

'Oh that's so wonderful,' she purred her delight, snuggling up to Nicholas again, and before long, she was becoming sleepy. 'I think, I am going to pass out on you,' she mumbled sleepily.

'Goodnight darling,' he kissed her cheek.

Caitlin jerked her head up to look into his eyes, but they were closed.

He called me "darling"

'Nicholas!' she urged, hoping he'd open his eyes.

'What,' he murmured refusing to be baited.

'Open your eyes,' she pleaded.

'If I do, I'm going to make love to you, and I won't let you stop me,' he threatened.

She punched his stomach.

'Ouch that's wicked to punch a man, when he's down!'

She giggled, hugging him again, snuggling up to him again. So content was she that she soon fell asleep in his arms, her head laying on his shoulder, holding onto him tightly. She did not know the agony he endured, holding her in his arms, exercising the discipline he instilled over his body.

It was the early hours of the morning when she stirred. She found she was sleeping with her back to Nicholas, his arms holding her tightly, his leg carelessly flung over her. She grinned at his possessive hold, even in his sleep. Caitlin was disappointed that the night seemed to have ended so quickly. At some stage in the night, he'd taken off his trousers. He was in his shorts, still asleep, his breathing now soft and gentle.

Caitlin turned around to study him. He looked so peaceful and content. Impulsively, she placed a gentle kiss on his lips. Seeing they spent the night together, she thought it afforded her the boldness to indulge further. Her fingers slid over the mat of hair across his chest appreciating the strength of his muscular chest, and the flat board of his stomach. 'I'm not ready to wake up,' she heard his sleepy voice complain, as he pulled her into his arms. Caitlin smiled to herself and snuggled against his chest. She recalled how sexy he'd looked in his shorts, when he came to collect her. Her fingers trailed down over his rippling muscular thighs. She caressed her palm along his thighs, relishing the pleasure of knowing the feel of his beautiful body.

'Can you discipline yourself to lie still for perhaps half an hour,' he begged.

'Kiss me first,' she boldly negotiated.

'You little Minx,' he effortlessly hoisted her over his chest, his lips capturing hers. Caitlin slipped her hands under his neck, her lips gliding over his stubble, nibbling on his chin.
'Are you going to be merciless again?' he groaned, passion simmered in him, hot, deep and dark. He ought to be nominated for sainthood, for his self discipline last night. Surely it would constitute a crime against humanity, if she tortured him a second time this morning. Caitlin blushed, remembering the torture she put him through last night.

'Why should I have any compassion for you,' she could not resist, 'I don't get any sympathy from you when you torture me,' she challenged seductively.

He opened his eyes slowly looking up into her teasing green ones, a sea of blatant provocation. He was not enjoying being at her mercy.

'You want to punish me?' he pinned her underneath him, tickling her in the waist. He had her giggling mercilessly.

'I give up Nicholas!' she begged, caught off guard. 'Please stop.'

He lifted his head to look into her eyes. 'Give up so easily? Why Minx you generally put up a much stronger defense!'

She raised her hands to cup his face, 'Not this morning,' she smiled, feeling vulnerable. If she could freeze frame time, this moment right now, was what she would want to capture forever.

He looked into her eyes, holding hers mesmerized. 'You are so beautiful,' he whispered.

'So are you, when you're not sulking,' she teased.

'Oh!' he groaned, his lips coming down over hers.

Caitlin wrapped her arms around his neck, pulling him over her, her moist lips hungry, teasing him, drawing him to respond to her desire for him. She forced her tongue into his mouth.

'Caitlin,' he groaned, his desire matched hers, hungrily responding to her demands, yet his body cautioned her to slow down, his lips planting soft kisses on her throat as he tried to exercise some semblance of control.

'Can I go shower instead?' she offered perceptively, suppressing a grin.

'No,' he spoke gruffly, 'stay here, I want you next to me for a little while.' He lay on his side, closing his eyes, holding her tightly. Caitlin placed her cheek against his chest, her fingers absently playing with his hair, while she waited patiently for him to rouse.

Her thoughts running away imagining herself in his arms as Mrs. Brenthurst.

Where did that thought come from?

'Good morning,' he said some twenty minutes later.

'You're awake now?' she spoke softly.

'Evidently,' he murmured, gazing into her beautiful face. At the risk of repeating myself, you look so beautiful in the morning,' he complimented.

Her faced coloured a bright red, 'you're rather irresistible yourself,' she whispered shyly.

'Mmm, I noticed, you were trying to attack me while I was still asleep!' he teased, planting a kiss on her lips. Caitlin blushed at the thought of her amorous behavior earlier.

'Thank you, Nicholas,' her eyes conveying a message to him. He kissed her lips again knowing, her thank you was for his companionship through the night, and more importantly that he did not abuse her position of vulnerability.

'I can do it again tonight, if I get an invitation,' he quipped.

Caitlin rolled her eyes.

Lordy Lord, I need your help!

'Now can I shower?' she questioned, not responding to his comment.

'Yes, and while you're there, I will get an overnight bag, I have in the car and shower in your guest room.'

She raised her eyebrows her imagination going into overdrive.

'It's a habit I have, you never know where you will lay down your head,' he teased.

'Spare me the details,' she sulked, leaving him, a pang of envy, pierced her heart. She wondered how many other women spent evenings or an evening like she did with him last night. It rated as one of the most beautiful nights of her life, and the morning after even more so.

Oh be careful my poor heart.

When Caitlin came down some thirty minutes later, she could smell his cologne all over the air. He was at the fireplace in a pair of faded jeans, and no shirt on, with a refuse bag gathering the spent wood. Caitlin stood inhaling deeply, and admiring his attractive torso. She recalled how sensational it was to be in his arms the last night. Her fingers tingled, remembering how his body responded to her touch. And they had not argued once she reminded herself. He looked so gorgeous, taking her breath away, his broad muscular frame so adorable. His hair still wet clinging onto his skin. She longed to just walk up to him and wrap her arms around him but lacked the nerve to do it. A wild passionate desire stirring in her ached for him to make love to her. He turned around as if aware of her presence, to find her admiring his body. Caitlin blushed at being caught out.

'Hi,' he said smiling broadly, pulling her into his arms.

Her fingers were clenched into fists at her sides, she did not know what to do with them, seeing he had no shirt on.

'Hi,' she whispered, looking away.

'Are you all shy again after we spent the night together?' he teased making her go scarlet.

She could smell toothpaste on his breadth, 'you make it sound like we ___.' She could not finish her sentence.

'Like we slept together?' He was having a field day.

'You know what I mean,' she spoke softly.

He threw his head back laughing.

Oh, what a beautiful sound!

He wrapped his arms around her tightly, 'Oh Caitlin, my heart is in serious danger, when I'm around you,' he complained, in her ear.

'You have one?' she could not resist.

His eyes were mischievous, as he looked at her.

'Okay, I take that back,' she backtracked.

'Mmm, quick thinker, I like that,' he grinned, looking into her eyes. 'Hold me Caitlin,' he urged.

She slowly lifted her hands over his bare chest, then held her fingers bunched lightly in a fist on his shoulders, not knowing where to put them, and finally wrapped them around his neck. He held her eyes to his and taking his time he let only his lips brushed hers, teasing her. Caitlin wanted to be kissed, but he held his mouth at a distance. She reached out, but he denied her. She groaned softly, lifting her heels up to reach his lips. Eventually his mouth came down on hers, fulfilling her hunger, his tongue wrapping itself around hers, drawing it into his mouth hungrily. She clung to his body hugging him, drawing strength from him, savoring the delight of being in his arms. She did not want his kisses to stop. It sent a searing quiver throughout her body awakening and arousing every sensuous part of her. His eyes were teasing at her hungry response to him when he eventually released her. Caitlin groaned aloud, dragging herself away to fill the percolator.

Taking two mugs, she filled his only with the black liquid, added sugar in hers and handed him his. She looked into his eyes, as if seeing him in a different light for the first time. 'What are you thinking about?' he prompted, seeing her deep in thought.

'I was thinking, perhaps you and I should start every day agreeing to a truce,' she replied,' looking into her coffee.

He remained silent, not offering any response. She looked up again, his eyes were polite and smiling. She could not read the response she would have liked to have seen. Instead he commented, 'how about we go out for breakfast, it's such a beautiful day to stay indoors.'

Disappointed but knowing when to fold her cards, she replied, 'Sounds wonderful,' and smiled her agreement. She wished he'd stop being an exhibitionist, and put his shirt on.
I'm not made of stone you know!
A cynical smile played on her face.

'And that smile?' he probed.

'Private joke and I'm not sharing it with you.'

He looked so devastatingly handsome, if only things could be normal between them.

What is normal? Her heart cried out.

Unable to stop herself, Caitlin went up to him, putting her arms around him, and hugged him tightly. He raised his eyebrows questioningly.

'Moment of weakness,' she murmured.

I'm going to wake up tomorrow and realize the last twenty four hours was just one beautifully, heavenly dream!

'You are full of surprises, Caitlin Sinclair!' He pinned her in his arms, his mouth covering hers.

'Breakfast,' she reminded him.

'How about we skip breakfast?' His intention rather unmistakably clear.

'Technically speaking,' she said pulling away from his embrace, 'If your truce was valid for twenty four hours, you're in breach.'

'It's a new day, can't you waive the breach?' he negotiated.

She picked up his keys, throwing him his shirt.

'Let's go,' she said.

'Are you driving?' he asked.

'No, I don't like to. So you will be a gentleman.'

'And that's the way I like it,' he replied, kissing her on her forehead, and opening the door of his Porsche for her. She expected nothing less from Nicholas, he would always be a gentleman, and she knew, he set himself the highest standards, and lived by it, in all areas of his life. She witnessed that first hand last night. Her feelings for him grew in leaps and bounds in the last eight hours.

Caitlin felt in good spirits, and on top of the world. Nicholas had chosen a beautiful restaurant for them to breakfast at. They walked in together, fingers entwined. Nicholas was teasing Caitlin about her attacking him while he slept, making her blush, people looked admiringly, at what a beautiful couple they made. He held out the chair for Caitlin, and took his seat opposite her. Their coffee arrived, and Caitlin asked Nicholas to order for the both of them. He must be starving, for he ordered a full English as well as a continental breakfast.

'You must be ravenous!' she exclaimed.

'I have to take advantage because when I'm with you, you don't feed me,' he accused.
That's right, she thought, the last two occasions they had a meal together, he had prepared the meals.

'Don't expect me to prepare meals for you, when you make unannounced visits,' she teased. 'If I invite you, I'll make sure to do the hospitable thing,' she quipped.

'I won't hold my breath,' he teased.

Their food arrived, and there was a wonderful spread of bacon, grilled tomatoes, scrambled eggs, sausages, braised mushrooms, chocolate muffins, and croissants with fresh cream and strawberry jam, cocktail size flap jacks, toast, and fresh seasonal fruit.

Caitlin helped herself to some of the scrambled eggs, bacon, sausages, the grilled tomatoes, a little of the fruit, she could not resist the croissant and cream. Nicholas ate like there was no tomorrow. Caitlin drew him into conversation about his parents, his childhood, other career aspirations that he cherished. She steered clear of his love life. There were some things she would rather not know.

'When you marry, Nicholas Brenthurst, make sure one of the questions you ask the candidates is if they are able to cook to satisfy your appetite.'

'Want to put in an application? he teased.

'Don't think I will qualify.' She responded, making Nicholas throw his head back with laughter. Caitlin remembered a similar conversation with Tommy, and the litmus test Tommy failed. Caitlin sighed, thinking how beautiful the last twenty four hours with Nicholas had been. Her eyes became sad, she knew it would be a matter of time, when the sparks would fly again.

'Why do you look so troubled suddenly, Caitlin?' he probed. He seemed to be able to read her so accurately, she thought. She looked into his eyes not trusting herself to speak, then looked away.

'Talk to me Caitlin,' he pleaded, his hand reaching out for hers. She always had to fear that like a volcano at any given moment, discord between them would erupt.

'I wish we did not fight as much as we do,' she whispered, not looking at him.

Nicholas stood up, going around to her, and lifting her into his arms. Caitlin blushed, she could sense people glaring in their direction.

'Caitlin, we can't do anything about the past, we can certainly make today better,' Nicholas smiled into her eyes, 'Let's enjoy today, shall we?'

Today was all he would commit to. No reference about the future. Dejectedly Caitlin nodded.

'Will you slap my face if I dare to kiss you now?' he probed.

'No,' she grinned.

'Thank you,' he kissed her briefly on her lips, but sensuously enough to set her pulses racing. He helped her into her seat again and kissing her on the temple before returning to his seat. Caitlin was overwhelmed emotionally by his public exhibition of affection. Nicholas had risked her potentially embarrassing him, just to reach out and comfort her. Her heart was doing acrobatics. She felt heady fulfillment, and such intense joy__.

Sudden realization hit her like a ton of bricks. There was only one word to describe such an intense emotion. Caitlin groaned inwardly, all these months she was so busy fighting the attraction, she forgot to guard her heart. The emotion was just cemented in the last twenty four hours. Her heart ached wondering just what he felt for her. She wondered if any attempt of a relationship could be pursued, over and above his casual desire for her company whenever the occasion suited him. Their coffee arrived. Nicholas suggested they visit an art exhibition that was hosting the work of some international artists.

'Dressed so casually?' she queried.

'Yes why not? You look gorgeous enough to forgo any required protocol.'

'And that should suffice!' she asked.

'Yes, now let's go.' he urged. He settled the bill, placing his arm around her waist, as they walked out. Caitlin looked into his eyes. He smiled, placing a kiss on her lips again.

Please don't break my heart Nicholas Brenthurst. You're the first man, the only man to have taken possession of it!

Caitlin had no reason to feel underdressed for almost all the people were casually dressed. Being a Sunday, men were casually dressed, without ties, and the ladies were equally casual. They looked around, studying some of the abstract designs. Caitlin loved abstract art. Somehow she seemed to identify with the complex temperament of the artists, who must certainly be of a high caliber, for the prices were not to be sneezed at. There was one particular painting that arrested Caitlin's attention. At first glance, it looked like the artist was having a temper tantrum and the emotion filled the painting, but upon finer inspection, one discovered two figures intertwined in the centre of the painting and the outer theme was the conflicting emotions of the figures that governed the explosive relationship. Caitlin gasped, when she had revelation of the abstract. Red flames heated her cheeks, just identifying with it.

'Would you know anything about those emotions?' a voice asked behind her.

Caitlin swallowed and turned to look at the owner of the voice. It was a young man in his late twenties, skinny as a rake, but with the most expressive and passionate eyes, that she had ever seen.

'Excuse me?' she asked her eyes mesmerized at the picture.

'I have studied the people, viewing all the paintings, they would just walk by, and no light comes on when they look at this, but you, a light is still glowing in your eyes.' He studied her intently, 'I'm Pierre Tresscott,' he introduced himself smiling, his eyes unashamedly admiring the strikingly beautiful lady in front of him.

'Tresscott' she repeated, making the connection between him and the name on the bottom of the picture. She smiled offering her hand, 'Caitlin Sinclair,' she introduced herself.

'There are only three people today who identified with my abstract, the silver haired gentleman there, he indicated to a man with his fingers clasped under his chin, admiring some other abstract work, yourself, and that gentleman there he pointed. Caitlin followed his gaze to Nicholas, who had one hand in his pocket, and the other was tracing the texture on some African art.

'So what's the first thing that comes to your mind, when you look at my painting?' he challenged.
Caitlin swallowed, her mouth opened, but no sound was forthcoming. She closed her mouth lifting one finger, hoping it would aid her speech.

'I've never seen something so expressive, so beautiful.' she murmured, unable to take her eyes away from the two figures locked together magnetically.

'What do you see?' he persisted softly.

'It's an ever fixed mark that looks on tempests and is never shaken...' she quoted from Shakespeare's 'What is Love' sonnet.

'Amazing!' he exclaimed, his eyes staring into hers that she was able to grasp his thoughts when he painted the abstract.

'Why would you sell this?' she asked, 'It should be your insignia.'

'I feel that way about every painting I do, he smiled, 'I will be poverty stricken, if I hoard everything.' That brought laughter to both of them.

'What's taken your fancy?' Nicholas smiled, placing his arm possessively around her waist.

Not the artist for certain, she thought, if Nicholas' possessive grip around her waist was trying to make a statement. Caitlin dragged her eyes away from the art and glanced across into the eyes of the artist. His eyes narrowed with an understanding, as if he knew exactly why she was able to identify with his abstract art.

'I'm done now,' she smiled at Nicholas placing her palm on his chest, 'we can leave if you like.' Nicholas nodded at the artist, had a word with him and they walked away. Caitlin looked casually at another scenic painting with a three dimensional effect of an Amazon like forest. It had huge tropical trees that seemed to climb to the sky. A cascading waterfall that looked almost real.

'Beautiful,' she murmured absent mindedly, although her thoughts were still entranced by those twin figures. As they were walking out, a package was given to Nicholas in a designer brown handled bag.

'Something take your fancy?' she asked him curiously, as she slid into the car.

'I will show you when we get to your place,' he promised, placing his lips near hers, his warm breath setting her pulses alight.

'Has the truce reached expiry time yet?' he asked impatiently.

'You've been so good, I think you deserve to be rewarded,' she murmured, tilting her head, her eyes on his lips. His mouth came down hungrily over hers, forcing her lips apart, his tongue demanding, needing her, urging her to respond ardently to his kisses, her arms wound around his neck, she delighted in his kisses that held her body in thrall.

'This car is not designed for making love!' he groaned.

Caitlin smiled looking out the passenger window.

Nicholas opened the door to her penthouse inviting her to precede him.

'It's for you,' he smiled, handing her the package.

'For me!' Caitlin was curious.

He nodded.

She hurriedly ripped through the packaging, glaring at the frame.

'How__how did you know?' Caitlin whispered, her eyes unable to look away from the twin figures that stared back at her.

His eyes seem to respond without him needing to speak.

'Thank you,' she accepted, kissing him on the lips.

'Where would you like it to hang?' he enquired.

She pointed above the fireplace.

'Pride of place,' he remarked.

'Except when I'm angry with you, then I'll pack it away,' she warned.

'Don't fight with the painting,' he grinned.

The both of them stood admiring the abstract work, the huge framed painting taking centre stage in her living room, complimenting the existing décor.

'Perfect,' Caitlin purred like a cat with a bowl of cream. She had seen the exorbitant price tag on the painting, and was taken aback that Nicholas, has so graciously presented her with it. The price was immaterial. She would treasure it because Nicholas gave it to her.

'Would you like some coffee?' Caitlin asked, filling up the percolator.

'No thanks, if it's fine with you, I need to go over some files that require my attention.'

No, it's not okay!' her heart groaned, sadly.

He pulled her into his arms, holding her to him tightly. 'Will you be okay?' he asked placing a kiss on her forehead.

'Yes,' she answered quickly.

'I want you to have an early night, seeing you did not have a decent night's sleep!' he instructed.

She had the best night's sleep ever, in his arms, why would he think otherwise!

'Did I tell you, you're rather bossy?' she teased.

'Indirectly,' he responded, avoiding her eyes, and picking up his keys.

'Nicholas __.'

'Yes?'

Caitlin was so tempted to make a confession to him. She hesitated, sighed. 'Thank you again, the last twenty four hours was wonderful.' she searched his eyes.

There seemed to be some battle going on in his eyes for a while. Finally he placed a kiss on her lips and was gone.

Caitlin felt lonely without Nicholas. For the first time in a very long time, she did not want to be alone. She walked around the living room, the feint scent of Nicholas' cologne still in the air. He'd forgotten his jacket on the backrest of a chair. Caitlin picked it up by the collar raising it to her face, she inhaled deeply the scent of his cologne, and his male scent on the jacket. She longed to have him back here, smiling, teasing, taking her in his arms, feeling his lips on hers.

'I better stop this' she cautioned herself. 'Oh Nicholas, I miss you so much. I want you.' she heard herself groan. Caitlin did not know what to do with the time. She absentmindedly hit the replay button on her telephone seeing the red button flashing.

"Hey Caitlin, It's Rebecca, I'm getting on the plane now, and hope you get this message before I land, so I'll see you at the airport. Can't wait to see you!" her crazy friend laughed.

Caitlin checked the time, to see when the message was left. It was fifteen minutes before she and Nicholas returned, so Rebecca will be clearing out of the airport in a little over sixty minutes. Okay she had enough time to get there. Caitlin was glad for an excuse to take her mind of Nicholas. She was excited to have Rebecca visit. She needed a distraction and her crazy friend, was just the right medication.

Caitlin climbed into her sports car, and headed for the airport. Her car seemed minute in comparison to Nicholas'. Amazingly she had loved her car, until she had a taste of his, but then everything in her life seemed to have painfully altered, since he invaded her quiet, structured life. She pondered on the Nicholas she encountered this weekend, he was not the image of the overbearing Lord he previously projected. Caitlin had seen a side of Nicholas, she never glimpsed previously, and if she was honest, what she felt for the Nicholas of this weekend, was a dangerous place to be, for she was sure the Lord was sure to surface momentarily. She got to the arrivals lounge of the Oliver Tambo International Airport. And Rebecca's flight was right on schedule. Caitlin waited for her friend to collect her luggage. The terminal was rather busy, people excitedly expecting to see loved ones, others rushing to connect to other flights. Caitlin looked up at the digital screen to see at which carousel, Rebecca would be collecting her baggage, oblivious of the admiring stares in her direction. She'd changed into light blue designer jeans, a toffee coloured shirt and a white leather jacket that sat above her mid drift. She looked more like an international model on a fashion ramp.

'Caitlin!' she heard her crazy friend calling her name.

Caitlin waved, smiling at her friend dragging the handle of her luggage behind her. 'Rebecca I am so happy to see you,' Caitlin smiled, hugging her.

'You look stunning,' Rebecca smiled, admiring her friend's appearance. 'Wow, you seem to have shed some weight, but you look good, absolutely good!' Rebecca went on.

'So do you,' Caitlin smiled, but noted that there was a momentary sadness in her friend's eyes.

'Can I help with the luggage?' Caitlin asked.

'No, I've got it covered.' Rebecca laughed dragging the handle, as the wheels did all the work.

'How have you been?' Rebecca asked.

'Great, just great,' Caitlin grinned.

'Yeah tell me about it!' Rebecca teased, making Caitlin blush.

I'm so glad you did not land twenty four hours ago.

'So what brings you to Johannesburg?' Caitlin asked helping to put the luggage into the boot, and hoping to steer the conversation to safer territory.

'Stuart, has to attend some event, and asked me to join him,' she smiled.

'"Stuart?"'
'Yes, we were chatting and I said I miss you, and he said he was coming up, that I could see you, and also attend this event he has to be at.

'So what's exciting in your life?' Rebecca asked. 'Any marriage offers? Are you married yet? Are you seeing anybody?'

'Slow down!' Caitlin pleaded, 'How many days do I have to put up with you?'

'Well this event is tomorrow night, so I guess I will be out of here in two days,' she smiled.

'No, you've got to stay a bit longer.' Caitlin pleaded.

'I thought you want to be rid of me as quickly as you can!' Rebecca asked with a wounded look.

'Oh shut up!' Caitlin complained.

                                                                    End- Chapter Four-