Special
Forces Christmas
Happy Holidays to everyone. This is a free read from Erosa Knowles.
This has been a great year. I’ve met and talked to so many wonderful people. As readers, you may not think the notes you send with words of encouragement don’t matter, but I can tell you all writers appreciate hearing from you. Especially me! It brings a smile to my face when you connect with a point in the story that took me numerous rewrites to create. You’ve become a major part of my inspiration and I am grateful that you take time, read my work and then let me know what you think. You Rock!!
This story revisits the characters from my first book Special Forces.
Erosa
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Copyright © December 2009 by Erosa Knowles
Published by Sitting Bull Publications, LLC
www.SittingBullPublications.com
ISBN: 978-1-937334-03-1
No part of this e-book may be reproduced, scanned, or distributed without prior written
permission from Erosa Knowles or Sitting Bull Publications, LLC.
This e-book is a work of fiction. While reference might be made to actual historical events or existing locations, the names, characters, places and incidents are either the product of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously, and any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, business establishments, events, or locales is entirely coincidental. This eBook is licensed for your personal enjoyment only.
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A Special Thanks to Karen M. for proofing this and so much more. I really appreciate all that you do. Thanks so much.
Erosa
Chapter 1
“Surprise!” Tyson yelled into the darkened foyer. Dropping his bag on the floor, he walked into the living room turning on lights as he went. “Lynay! Seth! Aunt Lilly…” he called, fearing that his surprise had backfired. No one was home. Dragging his feet into the bedroom, he inhaled wisps of fragrances his family left behind. There was a touch of Aunt Lilly’s orchids and Lynay’s lavender lotion. Heading to the kids rooms, his eyes crinkled at the scattered dolls on Brandi’s bed. His baby was growing up and he missed her. A few steps across the hall, he flipped on Seth’s lights and smiled at the race-car theme on the walls and bed. A lump lodged in his throat at all he’d missed while overseas. His children were growing up without him. Pushing aside thoughts guaranteed to bring him down, he returned to the living room to find his family.
Lifting the receiver, he dialed Lynay’s cell. It went straight to voice mail, a sure sign she had forgotten to charge it again. Sighing, he dropped onto the bed and dialed his aunt. “Hi Aunt Lilly,” he said as she answered. “I’m good, just came home for a few days and no one’s here.”
“Oh my goodness Tyson, why didn’t you call or return some of the messages we’ve been leaving you. Honestly, you need to do better.” He heard the teasing tone beneath the reprimand and relaxed. Some things hadn’t changed, his aunt would always see him as the young boy she raised.
“I will Aunt Lilly, for some silly reason I thought it might be a good thing to come home for Christmas. We only have a few days and then I’ll be shipping out again. I tried to reach Lynay, I think her cell is dead.”
“Oh, yes Tyson, Lynay and the children are spending the holiday with her cousin and their family in Florida. They’d been on her for a while to come visit after the baby was born, and when you said you weren’t coming home for Christmas, she decided to go. She wanted to come here with me to Anne’s but I told her to go see her people in Florida. I have a feeling that’s where she needs to be.”
“Wait a minute, you’re not here either?” he yelled, his frustration evident.
“No, I just told you I’m spending Christmas with Anne and Raul. Oh, Tyson you should see what they’ve done to the place, it’s beautiful. And Serenity is growing like a weed, getting into everything— “
“That’s good Aunt Lilly, but how can I reach Lynay?” He’d swear his bones were tired after humping across the globe to be with his family. He deflated as he sat in the chair, totally bummed out.
“Oh yes, let me see. I have that number here somewhere. I’m sure she left you a message with all the numbers Tyson. Have you checked your phone?”
“No, this was one of those last minute, last seat on the plane deals. I left almost everything and have been flying for over 15 hours to get here. My phone and stuff got left.” No need getting upset, he’d done this to himself. No doubt his wife expected to hear from him and he expected to see her. Damn.
“Poor baby, but I’m sure Lynay and the kids will be so happy to see you. It’ll make it all worth it. Oh here it is, got a pen?”
“Wait a sec, ok give it to me.” He wrote the numbers on the back of a kiddie magazine. Aunt Lilly rattled off the number and after a quick hello to Anne, he called Lynay. “Hello, may I speak to Lynay Bradford?” Tyson was surprised at the male voice answering the phone.
“Just a minute, where’s Lynay?” he heard the person ask. There was some rustling and running around. He could hear her coming to the phone. He sat straighter as the tension ebbed.
“Hello, Tyson?” She sounded excited and hopeful.
“Tyson, Tyson who?” he teased; pleased she automatically thought it was him.
“Tyson the father of my children, the love of my life and my boyfriend, but don’t tell my husband. He’s jealous.”
“Cute, real cute.” He deadpanned, since he knew she was right. He’d been working on keeping the green eyed monster in check, but sometimes it slipped away from him, especially where his sexy wife was concerned.
“Hold on a minute baby, let me get some privacy.” He could hear her ask someone to hang up when she got somewhere. Excitement raced through him.
“Heeeey baby,” she drawled once she was alone. Her voice tugged at him, his cock hardened immediately. “I miss you so much,” she whispered. He heard the need in her voice and swallowed hard.
“I miss you more. I need you just as much, he said hoarsely, gripping the phone tight. She threw him a kiss, a loud smacking sound, a habit they had gotten into since he returned to the field. He returned it, noisier.
“How are the kids? Where are they? And where are you anyway?” With a slow release of breath he buried the visions of his passionate grand reunion he’d planned for tonight. No touching, tasting or taking.
“Oh, they’re fine. Baby, didn’t you get any of my messages?”
“No.” He sighed. “I just took the last seat on a flight and rode like crazy to get here. I pretty much came straight from the field. The general hooked it up for me to have a couple of days off, so— ” He held the phone from his ear as she squealed. He could hear people running asking her if she was alright. She assured them she was fine. In an afterthought, she yelled for Seth and Brandi.
“Ohmigod, Baby you’re coming home. I’ve got to get there. When will you get home?”
“Lynay,” he said slowly, grinning at her expected reaction. “I am home. Alone, looking for you. I want to taste you. I need to feel you. All night long I dreamed of taking it slow and giving you what you need. I rushed home to take care of you, but you’re not here.”
Lynay screamed.
He laughed. He loved that woman.
“I’m on my way, sweetie, just let me find a flight.” He chuckled. Vaguely, he heard more commotion and then.
“Daddy?”
Tyson closed his eyes savoring the tenor of his son. “Hi champ, how’s my main man doing?”
“Daddy! Mommy daddy is on the phone!” Seth yelled, causing Tyson to pull the phone from his ear.
“Hey Seth, I miss you. What have you been up to?”
“I’ve been playing with my new cousins. We played basketball and marbles. I rode the tricycles and I want to ride Roger’s bike, but he said I was too small. But, I’m not daddy. I’mma big boy, you said so.”
Tyson smiled as Seth talked a mile a minute, giving him a blow by blow of his day. He’d missed this. As Seth wound down, Tyson asked about his sister who was crawling and getting into everything.
“Mommy told her no-no, but she wouldn’t listen. I said oh, oh. Mommy picked her up and made her stop, and she cried. I told her she'd better listen to the no-nos,” Seth said with all the wisdom and experience of an older brother.
“That’s right, make sure you give her all the tips. Is your mom around, I need to talk to her.”
“Okay, Daddy.” And then yelled, “Mommy!” Tyson cringed as the noise reverberated in his ear.
“Hey baby, I was looking online for some flights tonight or first thing in the morning. There’s nothing. The soonest I can get home is Christmas day around four pm! That’s two whole days!” she whined. “I don’t want to wait that long Tyson. You’re going to be leaving right after that, right?”
“Pretty close, I don’t have a definite departure date yet.” He paused. “Let me do some checking and see what I can do. I’ll call you back. Charge your phone, I’ll need to, uh, talk with you privately later on, and I don’t want to censor it.” He smiled at her giggles.
“I love you, Ty,” she whispered.
He felt her words all the way to his core. It always humbled him how she could love him so freely. “I love you more.” His voice cracked. “Give me a few, and get somewhere private, I need to be alone with you.” He reminded her before they hung up.
Tyson looked around the room. The house had a beautiful Christmas tree in the family room and holiday decorations were in every room. Even so, it didn’t cut it when his family was missing. He needed them for Christmas to be real and meaningful. Sighing he made some calls and an hour later he took his shower, pleased with his plans.
Chapter 2
Tyson stepped off the plane in Ft. Lauderdale and knew something was truly wrong in the world. How could it be so hot and humid here and cold in North Carolina? The flight hadn’t been that long. He stepped into the ticketing area when he heard a scream.
“Daddy!! Daddy!” Seth ran and jumped into his arms. He whirled his son around, ignoring the curious onlookers. He closed his eyes enjoying the feel and smell of love. He kissed Seth on his cheek, smiling like a goof ball. His eyes locked with Lynay’s, hers watery as Brandi wiggled in her arms. He reached for them, pulling them into a group hug thanking God for his family and this opportunity to hold and enjoy them again.
He offered Lynay his lips. She took more. Seth laughed and Brandi complained at the close quarters. They broke apart with a heated promise in their eyes. He smiled and licked his lips.
Lynay watched his tongue wet his lips and shivered. It had been six long months. She stood back and drank him in. He was healthy and whole, right now that’s all that mattered. He’d been spared and came back to them. She inhaled and breathed a note of thanks to the Almighty. Tyson picked up his bag as they walked out toward the parking garage.
“Like I told you last night, I got us a place near Disney for Christmas. We can spend a little time today with your family, well your cousin’s family, and then we’ll leave and reach there this evening.”
Lynay nodded, looking in the rear view mirror at the kids playing. Seth had finally settled down and stopped plying Tyson with information. He picked up her hand and placed a kiss in her palm. The look he gave her made her melt. It was as if she was the only woman in the world.
Slowly, she took his hand, turned it over, licked, nipped and sucked it. Tyson’s face reddened, she bit it again, pleased when his cock jumped.
“What?” she asked demurely when his hand clenched the steering wheel as she laid her hand on his thigh.
“You’re being bad.” He smiled and blew her a kiss.
Hell, he hadn’t seen how bad she planned to be. Leaning back against the headrest, inch by inch she pulled her skirt up allowing the breeze from the car’s fan to cool her heat. Shivers ran up and down her spine as the air kissed her wet lips. She smiled at Tyson’s audible gulp and placed his hand on her shaved pussy. She knew she was pushing his limits, but it’d been too long and she needed to feel the warmth and heaviness of him, his hand would do for now. Taking a peek toward the backseat, she noticed the kids had drifted off to sleep. Lynay turned the music up a tad and touched Tyson’s chin.
“Eyes on the road.” Her voice dropped an octave, deliberate in its promise to mess with his mind as her other hand guided his fingers to where she wanted, no needed them.
Tyson slid his finger down her slit, the rough pad sending jolts of pleasure through her. She widened her legs and pulled his hand closer to her wet heat.
“Ummm,” she moaned as he stroked and rubbed her clit. He played a minute around her entrance, making short forays inside, before bringing his finger to his mouth and licking it clean. He pulled her skirt down as a truck passed them. Lynay smiled. Her man hadn’t changed, and she was glad. She reached over to play with him, but he placed his hand over hers to stop her.
“No baby, I can’t take it. I-95 is nothing to play with. Let me get started with my appetizer, and I’ll let you play later I promise,” he said smiling at her pout.
“I want to taste you.” Her fingers wiggled in his grasp.
“I know. And I thank God every day that you do. I’m a lucky man, you love me and have no problems showing me how much you want and need me.” He kissed her greedy fingers. “Believe me,” her murmured against her hand. “I’m glad you’re hot for me. I promise to feed you this cock all night long, but I’ll fucking explode if you take him out to play right now.”
“But I miss him.” Her voice forlorn as she stared at the hard bulge in his pants.
“He misses you too. But we need to get someplace where your screams won’t scare the children.” He laughed when she swatted his shoulder.
“I missed you.” Her voice was ragged, weighed down with a wealth of meaning in those three words. It wasn’t just the physical need for him pulsing through her, but also his voice, his taste, his touch. The camaraderie they shared, the comfort of being with someone you knew loved you. Someone who had your back no matter what. She missed being with him and her heart grew heavy with the knowledge of the shortness of this special time together.
“I missed you too.” His thumb caressed her cheek. She was surprised at the moisture from her tears.
“Don’t cry, Baby. This is a happy time.” He cupped the side of her face with his palm, the heat warmed her.
“I’m sorry,” she sniffed turning into his hand and placing a kiss in the center. Now wasn’t the time to think of him leaving, she needed to refocus her energies on the right now. “I’m being a brat.” Leaning back she stared straight ahead at the road and pulled the hem of her dress down. Tyson stopped her by replacing his hand on her thigh. She closed her eyes as his calloused palm moved upward in miniscule degrees until his fingertips grazed her puffy lips.
“You’re so wet for me. I love that,” he whispered, the sound wrapped around her heart and burrowed deep.
“Always.” Her head flung back as his fingers worked their magic. She moaned and writhed in the seat. He kept her on edge with shallow thrusts. Lynay was certain she was losing her mind.
“Tyson…please.”
“Wait for it, you know you like it better that way.”
“Not today. I don’t want to wait.” She thrust her hips, trying to take him deeper.
When they came to the beach exit, he allowed her to take what she needed. His fingers played deep as she joined him, exploding over both their fingers. Glancing down, she noticed a small wet spot from where he leaked. The kids were fast asleep, and her husband had the hard-on from hell.
####
Tyson turned into the gated community in Coral Gables. “So who are we going to see?”
“My cousin Rashid and his wife Gayle.” Lynay looked at him as she pointed to the house with all the cars in the driveway. “I told you she was pregnant, right?”
“Yeah.”
“Well, she’s Japanese and Black. This Christmas she’d promised her Japanese grandparents that she’d visit them. She begged me to come as support so we came down for a few days.”
“Rashid, that’s the cousin in Colorado. The one you went to see when you left me?” He parked behind a late model black SUV and looked at her.
“Yeah, I stayed with him and Gayle that time you put me out. Don’t get the facts twisted like I don’t remember what went down. You have an unreasonable streak, Mister.” Her finger stabbed his chest.
He grabbed her finger and sucked it, long and hard. “I also have a jealous streak, it almost matches my loving you so hard, it hurts streak.” He smirked as her frown widened into a smile.
“I love you.” She moved forward and kissed him, deep and hard with lots of tongue.
They broke apart, chests heaving. He looked in the back, his children were still out of it. For the thousandth time he wished he was alone with his wife. “Are they going to be upset that you’re leaving?”
Lynay snorted and rubbed his lower lip. “Everyone knew that was out the window the moment you touched American soil. It wouldn’t have mattered where you were, we would’ve been there.”
“Your luggage is in the trunk, so why are we here?”
“I have some manners, you need to meet my family before I say goodbye. I figured we’d eat lunch and then leave, Seth wanted to play some more with the other kids.”
Tyson nodded, opened his door, and took in the street. He hustled to Lynay’s side, opening the door, he pulled her out and into his arms. In the middle of the day, in front of some stranger’s house he kissed her with all the pent up passion within him. Lynay shivered in response. She pulled him closer and held on tight. They held each other in a tight embrace, trying to catch their breath.
“I want some,” he whispered, squeezing her ass cheeks tight.
“Me too” she said, as she kissed his chest.
He opened the back door and they woke Seth and Brandi to go inside. Inhaling, he put his game face on. He didn’t want to make nice conversation with strangers, he wanted to finish what they’d started in the car.
Lynay released Seth’s hand as they walked up the driveway toward the house, she leaned toward his ear and whispered. “It’s taken years for her grandparents to accept the fact that their darling son married a black woman. He died in a car accident a few years ago. They aren’t that close.”
“Is her mom here?” He remembered Lynay’s account of the advice the older woman gave her and he’d like to meet her.
“No. They don’t like her at all. She’s on a cruise with a friend and encouraged Gayle to spend the holidays with her grandparents, they’re getting old.”
Tyson held Brandi. Lynay and Seth walked next to him as they strolled up and rang the doorbell. Gayle answered the door. Her eyes lit when she saw Lynay and pulled her inside. Lynay stopped and looked back at Tyson. He stood at the door, looking around warily, this home was a showplace, with expensive looking furniture and artwork. It was not kid friendly. He looked meaningfully at Lynay.
“Gayle, this is my husband, Tyson.”
“Tyson,” They both said his name at the same time. Lynay looked at Gayle, who was glancing towards the hallway. Belatedly, she offered a weak smile at Tyson, who held onto a squirming Brandi and fidgety Seth.
“It’s nice to meet you and thanks for allowing Lynay to stay for my baby shower. I really appreciate it. I had no idea they were going to spring it on me like this.”
“What baby shower?” Lynay snapped, looking at Gayle as if she’d lost her mind.
“Damn Lynay, why do you bother having a cell if you aren’t going to use it. I left you a message about the surprise shower I am having.” She spoke sideways, watching the hall.
“Sorry, I didn’t get it,” Lynay said. “My mind’s been in tunnel vision today. But, I am not staying long. As a matter of fact, where’s Rashid? I want him to meet Tyson and get that package I left, and then we’re out of here.”
Gayle grabbed her arm. “No Lynay, you can’t leave me. They’re unreal. I need you, just for a couple of hours. I promise I’ll… I’ll let you and Tyson have a room upstairs for an hour, and I’ll watch the kids, if you stay for another hour. Please, please, please,” Gayle begged.
“Daddy I want to go play,” Seth said into the quiet. Tyson looked at Lynay, who nodded. He released him and Seth took off running. Tyson lifted Brandi into the air. Her eyes crinkled as she hooped and laughed. He blew raspberries on her cheeks. She giggled and laughed as she pulled his short hair. Tyson kissed and talked to her, oblivious to the small crowd that surrounded him as he played. Gayle’s grandfather interrupted the moment with a loud belch.
Brandi froze at the sound and then burst into laughter causing everyone to join in.
“These are my grandparents, Mr. & Mrs. Iwazaki.” Gayle introduced the short man and woman standing near her. Her face had reddened and her slanted eyes squinted as she nodded in their direction.
Tyson nodded a greeting.
“This is Major Tyson Bradford, Lynay’s husband and father to her two children,” she spoke to her grandparents who nodded. Her grandmother offered a smile; her grandfather looked between Lynay and Tyson, threw up his hand and stalked off. Gayle’s face became a brilliant red as she opened her mouth and closed it, repeatedly.
“Rashid,’ she yelled, as she balled her fist. Lynay didn’t know if she should be angry at the slight or call 911 for Gayle. This level of stress couldn’t be good for her and the baby. Before she could make a move her cousin came barreling around the corner. He could move fast for such a large man.
“I am not staying in this house another minute with that racist old man. Get our bags and let’s get the hell out of here.” Gayle turned to Lynay, and on the next breath. “I am sooooo sorry he is such a bigot. Please forgive his horrible manners.” Turning again without giving anyone a chance to say anything, she continued her rant. “That rude little man blew Lynay and Tyson off after I introduced them. Can you believe that?” she asked her husband, who was rubbing her back. Gayle had threatened to leave every day she was there, but this was the first time she had tears in her eyes. Lynay hated to see Gayle upset, and didn’t want her holiday ruined on their account.
“Gayle,” she called out softly, interrupting the tirade. She grabbed Tyson’s hand. “Don’t be upset on our account. We’ve seen and heard worse. It makes us no difference as long as it’s just words or actions at a distance. We don’t care. We made a pact when we got back together, that it was us first against everyone or anything else.” Releasing Tyson’s hand, she walked over to Gayle, placed her hand on her shoulder and smiled. “It’s his lost Gayle, not ours. Don’t be mad and let him ruin your Christmas.”
“That’s just it Lynay. My baby will be mixed, like me. I was a teen-ager before they accepted me. I don’t want that attitude around my baby. He will be loved if he comes out striped. I wanted to accept them and my father’s heritage, but not at the cost of the racist beliefs. They barely speak to my husband. He doesn’t care. However, that bothers me Lynay. I love this man, and he is the father of my baby. How the hell can I be alright with them tolerating the best part of me. Fuck this, I tried it, it didn’t work, and we’re out of here.”
“Ok baby, whatever you want to do. But, uh, what about the baby shower?” Rashid asked.
Gayle looked at Lynay.
Lynay shrugged and pulled Tyson closer to the hall. “No matter what Gayle, you’re my girl, but we are leaving in a little while. I need some quality time with my man. So I will not get into any drama.” She walked past Gayle with a wink, as she and Tyson walked into the living room area. There were quite a few people scattered around the large room that opened onto a large lanai and pool area. Turning to get her bearings, Lynay tried to remember which room she had used last night. Remembering a hall, she began moving to the right. As they passed by an open door, Tyson stopped, gave her Brandi and went into the bathroom. Lynay hefted her daughter up and walked to the room down the hall. It was empty. She moved quickly and pulled a small box from under the bed, shook it and left the room. She had just reached the bath room door, which was still closed when Mr. Iwazaki stopped her.
“What you do over here?” he asked.
“Oh, I left something this morning in the room and needed to get it before we left.” She could hear the flushing sounds and knew Tyson would be in the hall any minute. She hoped this man didn’t get stupid. Her husband had little patience with stupid.
“No, No… you steal.”
Her eyes widened at the insult as he continued his unfounded rant.
“You no leave nothing, we clean after you go. You steal. Give me,” he hollered trying to take the box from her.
Brandi started screaming, and Lynay backed away causing her to hit her back against the wall with a loud thump. Lynay knew the moment her husband opened the door he’d be livid at the sight of this man reaching for her. Sure enough Tyson picked the smaller man up by his shirt.
Mr. Iwazaki yelled as he swung at Tyson. Tyson shook him slightly and released him in the opposite direction from Lynay and Brandi.
Gayle’s grandfather stood shakily, raising a fist and speaking some foreign language at Tyson, as he checked on her and Brandi. Lynay heard the footsteps and didn’t want to be stuck in the hall. They were getting away from this crazy place.
“We’re leaving.” Tyson’s jaw was tight as he spoke.
She nodded in agreement.
It was Christmas and she wanted no part of this foolishness. Lynay and Tyson made their way to the living room, and looked for Seth. Gayle and Rashid were in a heated conversation. Lynay was buttoning up her daughter, still calming her down. Tyson walked back with Seth, who was laughing at his dad’s funny faces. The living room was quiet as they walked to the front door.
Gayle and Rashid followed behind them with their bags. Tyson swore. There were two cars blocking them in.
“Could you check and see who owns these cars, see if they’ll let me out?” he asked Rashid. Rashid nodded after he placed their bags in their rental car. A few minutes later two men came out and moved the cars, Tyson thanked them as a police cruiser pulled up.
“Sir,” the officer spoke to Tyson as he got out of the car. Tyson nodded and stepped away from his car door and closed it.
“We got a call of a theft and assault at this address. We were told the thief was trying to leave the scene with the merchandise.” The police officer was speaking to Tyson, but looking at her and the children in the car. Another officer got out and walked to Lynay’s door.
“Ma’am, I’m going to have to ask you to step out slowly. I need to ask you a few questions please.” The female officer had a hand on the handle of her gun as she watched Lynay open the door. Tyson watched and looked into the car at the kids. Turning, he motioned to the officer, speaking loud enough so she could hear.
“Can I have our cousin get our kids? I don’t want them sitting out here long.” The officer glanced into the car and nodded. Tyson looked around and motioned at one of the kids outside. Before they could respond, Rashid and Gayle flew out the door.
“Oh shit, what has the mentally ill fool done now?” Gayle screamed. “He called the cops? What’s the charge? Last I checked it was not a crime to be married to someone outside your race!”
“Gayle, calm down. It’s not good for the baby,” Lynay said.
“Could you do Lynay and I a favor and take the kids inside til we get this cleared up? It shouldn’t be long. Okay?” Tyson asked. Out the corner of her eye, Lynay watched Rashid and Tyson look at each other and nod. Rashid looked over at her, his jaw clenched as he opened the door and unbuckled the kids.
“Come on guys; let’s get you something to eat before you get to Disney, alright?”
“I want some ice cream,” Seth said. Brandi bounced in Rashid’s arms as they returned to the house.
“Now, could someone tell me what is it we stole?” Tyson asked the police officer.
“According to a Mr. Iwazaki, a black female was leaving one of his bedrooms with a box in her possession. He claims she stole it. He also claims a big white male picked him up and threw him down.” The officer’s looked at them both. Lynay sighed as she looked at Tyson. She explained the entire situation, starting how they came to be in Florida, her husband’s surprise, her being in such a rush this morning she left his gift under the bed she had slept in last night, her retrieval of the gift and the blow up in the hall.
“Aw Baby, we didn’t have to come back here for a gift. We could have gone straight to Disney. I just wanted to be with you and the kids,” Tyson told her after she finished.
“I know, but when I saw this in Bayside at one of the shops, it spoke to me about us. That’s why I wanted to get it.” She turned to the police officer. “It’s in that bag there. I have the receipt for it in my wallet. Mr. Iwazaki has some problems. The pregnant lady that came out earlier, well that’s his grand-daughter, he still hasn’t gotten over the relationship with his son’s marriage.”
The police officer picked up the box out the bag. Lynay pulled her wallet and showed her the receipt.
The two police officers looked at each other. “Hold onto this ma’am. We are going to talk to Mr. Iwazaki. Please don’t leave. We’ll be back in a few minutes.”
Tyson nodded as he walked around the car to Lynay. He pulled her into a tight embrace. You do realize I am going to spank your tight ass for this later right?” he murmured.
She looked into his eyes and chuckled. “Hmmm, it has been a long time. Are you saying I’ve been naughty baby?” she whispered.
“Yep, just think we could be halfway there by now if we hadn’t come all this way for a gift. I could be that much closer to unwrapping my Christmas present.”
“Tyson, we’re going to open gifts on Christmas morning.”
“No baby, all I want for Christmas is standing in my arms. I need to eat you up for breakfast and love you down all day. I intend to camp in my pussy once I get you in bed. You are all I need.” He leaned forward, nipping her neck, causing her to moan in need.
Lynay trembled as he described his intentions. “Baby, are we going to make it? I need you so bad. Maybe we can make a stop halfway and get there…”
“You may be right. I may have to make a couple of calls,” he murmured as he pulled her closer, rubbing her against his hard cock. He moaned as he took her mouth again. She pulled him closer, wrapping her arms around his neck, forgetting to breathe, forgetting her name, forgetting she was outside in front of someone’s home.
“Lynay, Lynay – damn girl, let the man breathe. Get off him, you guys are in public, folks are getting jealous and bothered.” Rashid teased as they slowly broke apart. Neither broke eye contact as Tyson leaned against the car, pulling her to him. They held each other, eyes closed, taking in the sounds of the day.
“Anyway, I came out here to tell you they’re almost done. Considering no one knew what the old man was talking about, and you were a guest last night and slept in that room. Shit, he’s crazy and giving my woman all kinds of grief. We are leaving; she won’t stay for the baby shower since it’s in his house.”
Lynay laid her head on Tyson’s chest, fascinated with its steady rhythm. Her hand reached up, playing with the buttons on his shirt and then began teasing his nipples with her fingernails. He trembled and grabbed her hand. Leaning back she laughed at the grimace on his face, and kissed his chest again as she snatched her hand away.
“Uh, Lynay… Lynay!” Rashid called again. “I feel like I’m watching an X-rated romance.” He chuckled. “Listen, Gayle wanted me to ask if it was alright with you guys if we came up to Disney with you for the next few days. We have this time off and Christmas is all about family and stuff…. So is it cool with you?”
Lynay had felt Tyson tense initially and then relax. She knew it was up to her. Rashid wasn’t her blood cousin, but they had been raised together. He was more a brother than anything. There really was no choice. They were family.
“It’s fine with us,” she said. “Baby, give Rashid the hotel information, so he can get a room. As soon as this is done, we’re leaving. And so you know, we are not waiting around.” He laughed, after giving Tyson a salute.
“Here’s the thing,” Tyson said turning toward Rashid. “We’re staying in a vacation house I rented. It’s supposed to be a big place near Disney. You bring groceries, help watch the little ones while Lynay and I talk, and we’ll call it even.” They all laughed when Tyson tripped over “talk” and agreed.
Within an hour, they were on the road. The police had walked out shaking their head and told them they were free to go. It took a couple of minutes to corral the kids, get them locked in and get moving. Tyson typed the address into the GPS and was on open highway. An hour later, the kids were sleep. Lynay’s phone vibrated. Removing her hand from Tyson’s hair, she pulled out her cell. Frowning, she called out the number to Tyson to see if he recognized it. Tyson laughed and took the phone.
“What the hell are you doing calling my wife asshole?” he barked into the phone.
“Why won’t you answer your cell fool?” Blue shot back at him.
“Man I left it with my gear. I hopped straight on the flight and left a lot of stuff. Someone was responsible for securing it. I was so wiped, I can’t remember who.”
“I hear you. I just got stateside and the General told me you got the house in Orlando first. I had big plans for that my man.”
“Really? What kind of plans? Were you taking someone special with you?”
“Fuck you man! Of course I was going to take someone special with me. You remember Tameka, from Seattle?”
“Naw man, I’m not trying to be funny. But I really don’t.”
“Oh well, she’s nice, clean, nice ass, smart, big tits. Check this out; she’s an engineer for some large company. We’ve been talking and I asked her to spend the holidays with me since I got a week off.”
“Whoa, you got a week off? How the hell did that happen?” Tyson demanded.
“The General said we wouldn’t be going back out this year. I figure that’s a week at least. Anyway, mom and pops are at some retreat, and I knew you would be wrapped up with your family. So I thought the vacation house would be perfect.”
“Yeah, it will be – for me, my family and Lynay’s cousin,” Tyson bragged, biting back a laugh.
“Lynay’s cousin? What’s up with that?” Blue asked.
“Lynay was spending the holidays with them, and it blew up. Since I changed all that and Lynay was leaving, they asked if they could come along. They’re going to help watch the little ones and food detail. It was a win, win. Besides the General said the house had four big bedrooms with private baths. Family room, living room, pool and all that shit.” Tyson glanced at Lynay. “I guess with your cousin there we can’t skinny dip huh?” He teased her.
“Yes we can baby, that’ll make it more fun,” she told him, causing him to blush fiery red.
“Woo hoo,” Blue called out. “Lynay you my girl, that’s how you keep your man at home. I told you man the sistahs know how to handle their business.”
“Oh really, is this female you spending Christmas with a sistah?” Tyson mocked, knowing Blue preferred Latino and Asian women.
“Actually, she is.”
“Wow… for real man. I mean you don’t normally…. I don’t think I’ve ever seen you with a black woman.”
“I know, but I like her man.” Blue sighed.
Tyson was speechless. They had been best friends since the Academy, and he’d never heard Blue sound serious about a woman.
“She’s different, it’s hard to explain, but… I just like her.”
“Hey man, that’s good enough.” Tyson wasn’t good with this personal feely stuff. Blue had been there for him when he almost lost his wife. Tyson wanted to return the favor. Looking at Lynay and then the road, he told Blue. “Look man. Why don’t you and your friend join us in Orlando? The house is big enough. I ordered a tree for the kids, as long as you guys help with food, we’ll be square. Is that good for you?” Lynay nodded her agreement; he squeezed her hand in thanks.
“You sure man? We can stay at a hotel or something and just come over on Christmas day,” Blue threw out.
“That’s cool too man. Whatever you want, according to the GPS, we should be there in another two and a half hours.”
“Great, our flight will be hitting down near that time. I’ll see you at the house, thanks for the invite. We’ll take care of dinner tonight.” Tyson rolled his eyes and laughed over how he’d been played. “Yeah, Tameka and I will shop for food tonight and breakfast in the morning, since you guys will just be getting in. See you in a few!” Blue chortled and disconnected.
“You got played!” Lynay laughed as Tyson handed her the phone.
“Pretty much, why is it getting harder and harder to spend time alone with my family, I wonder?” Who’s next? Aunt Lilly?” he questioned as the phone vibrated. They both looked at each other and laughed.
Chapter 3
The house was in a gated community. The guard had been alerted of their arrival and gave each car a temporary gate pass. The area screamed money. Tyson drove slow, allowing Lynay and Seth, who’d awoken, to take in the sights. The decorations and lights appeared professionally created. It was like a small Christmas village. They were all delighted. Gayle and Lynay talked over their cells, giggling like school girls at each house. Seth was properly awestruck.
Blue and Tameka threw down. The house smelled of serious cooking, which got stomachs to growling. Everyone introduced themselves to each other and checked out the house. The kids stood in front of the large decorated tree. Their eyes and mouths opened wide. Brandi scooted forward, pulling up on everything she could get her hands on. Lynay looked at Rashid, her brow arched.
He sighed long and wore a longsuffering expression as he bent down.“Come on Brandilly. Play with Uncle Rashid while mommy and daddy get settled.” He threw an evil eye in Lynay’s direction which she ignored. Tyson pulled Lynay behind him as they explored the bedrooms. Blue knew not to push it and had left the master suite for them. Tyson put their bags in the rooms and chose the room closest to them for the kids. Blue and Rashid had the other rooms on the other side of the house.
Smart planning, Tyson thought as he went to the bathroom. Lynay unpacked the kid’s clothing, and placed their toiletries on the dresser and left. Opening their bedroom door, Tyson stood gloriously naked in the middle of the room. He grabbed her hand and began stripping her clothes off, dropping them on the floor.
Neither spoke. Tyson’s eyes had become a turbulent grey. Lynay reached for him and jumped. He caught her and held her in place by cupping her ass. She kissed him as he walked into the bathroom. Lynay didn’t notice the marble tile, the large shower with multiple shower-heads or the step down Jacuzzi. When the water hit her back she moaned as she attempted to move up and impale him. Tyson groaned at her movement and tightened his hold. Lifting her slightly he surged upward, home. They both sighed at the exquisite feeling of being connected again.
She moved.
He tried to contain her.
Lynay wasn’t having it; she shook her head as she bounced on him. This time he let her have her way, assisting her to deepen the strokes, pulling her closer. Tyson placed her against the tile, turned the jet so it hit her clit and slammed into her, causing her to lose her breath. For a moment, he watched her mouth open into a silent scream as she tightened around him.
“So good, so fucking good baby, I love this pussy.” He kept drilling into her, encouraging her to take everything he had.
“Oh yes baby, your pussy, awwwwww,” Lynay babbled, before she screamed. Her legs tightened and then shook around his waist. Tyson pumped through the clenched muscles, causing him to explode right after her. He lowered her onto the floor of the shower, laying prostrate with her on top as the water beat on them both.
“Welcome home baby,” Lynay whispered. Leaning up she looked into his eyes. “I love you so much Tyson Bradford. Keep coming home to me.” He pulled her down, squeezing tight as the water from the shower washed away the tears that fell from his eyes.
Lynay placed the gifts under the tree. They had a wonderful day. As different as they all were, they seemed to get along well. Lynay and Tyson put up with the most teasing for missing supper last night. Tyson informed them he had eaten and eaten well. Lynay punched him as the guys called him gross. The day had been light-hearted fun with games, last minute shopping and swimming. Lynay was shocked to discover her baby, Brandi, was a natural fish. The heated pool kept them occupied most of the day. The kids were in bed, and the adults sat with drinks, talking about their year.
“I am going to be a father next month. I’m looking forward to it.” Rashid spoke out, rubbing Gayle’s back.
“You’ll make a great daddy. You are so good with Seth. However, he is great and makes it look easy,” Lynay said. Everybody groaned and rolled their eyes. Looking around innocently, she snickered. “What? Rashid is great with Seth. And of course Seth is great!”
Tyson pulled her close, tickling her neck. “Of course Seth is great honey, he’s my son.”
“Ha!” Blue laughed. “Why ya’ll bragging on Seth and not that demon seed Brandi? She is the one they wrote stories about. That little girl is every father’s nightmare. She’s beautiful and deceptive. How is it at nine months, she understands the con of getting her way?” Everyone laughed. It was true. Brandi was a terror. She had no fears and was stubborn. She and Lynay were knocking heads already.
“I take exception to you calling my child a seed from a demon,” Tyson said, with a menacing sneer. She is my seed and I’m no demon. I can be certified death in your face MF, but no demon.”
Blue threw a finger in his direction and snuggled closer to Tameka, who smiled.
Rashid returned to the lanai with a drink for Gayle. She opened her mouth and then closed it. Then opened it to thank him for the drink and grunted instead.
“Hmmm?” Rashid asked.
“Cramp,” she breathed out.
“Did she say cramp?” Blue asked Tyson, who looked at Lynay. She disengaged from Tyson’s lap and moved towards Gayle. Tameka had moved to stand next to her.
“Gayle, tell me what’s happening? What do you feel?” Lynay asked, her voice low, soothing.
“It hurts… I think my water broke, I…. wet…”
Rashid backed up. Lynay reached out, grabbed his arm. “Rashid, I need you to go get a small bag together for Gayle to take to the hospital. Her personal things like you guys have at home. Can you do that?” she asked, barely glancing at him. Her attention was on the grimace on Gayle’s face, who was in pain.
“Yeah, uh huh… I can, I can do that. But, the baby’s not coming now. He’s supposed to come next month.”
“Well just in case he decides to come a little early, let’s be ready. If not, no harm – right?”
“Yeah. A small bag. Got it.” He said as he ran from the pool area.
“Tyson, find the nearest hospital; plug it into the GPS, so we can get out of here.” He nodded, kissed her forehead and left. Lynay stooped beside Gayle. “Well, we are going to the hospital and see what all the fuss is about. You ready sweetie?” Lynay wiped Gayle’s forehead and pushed her hair from her face. Gayle grimaced as another contraction rolled over her.
“The car is out front, Baby, whenever you are ready,” Tyson said walking in. Rashid nodded and picked up his wife. Turning he walked toward the car.
Tyson and Lynay looked at each other and smiled. Tyson had the keys.
“Tameka, I know we just met, and I hate to impose, but my babies are upstairs asleep. Could you and Blue watch over them for us?” Lynay asked following Rashid. She knew Blue would without question. But, the polite thing was to ask. Tameka rewarded her with a big smile, hug and pushed her toward the front door.
“We have them. Hopefully, you will return before they wake up Christmas morning. If not we’ll hold everything until you come back. Don’t worry, I have three younger siblings and Blue will shoot anything that gets by me.” She pointed in the scowling man’s direction and chuckled.
Blue shot her a hot look and laughed.
At three am, Gayle delivered an 8lbs, 5oz baby boy. Another child born on “the day”. Rashid cried. Gayle let out a long sigh of relief and popped him on the head. Afterwards, they fell asleep.
Lynay and Tyson left with the promise to return later that day. On the ride back to the house, Lynay touched Tyson’s hand, gaining his attention.
“Merry Christmas baby,” she said softly, handing him a box. They stopped at the light and kissed. The house appeared dark when they walked in, holding hands. Tyson waved at Blue, who was on the sofa and pulled Lynay to their bedroom, after a quick peek to the sleeping kids. Sitting on the bed he looked at her as he un-wrapped her gift to him. He froze, awestruck at the workmanship of the pendant with a large gold ring. There were four family members attached individually inside.
The inscription read, “Love = Separate, not Separated.”
Tyson’s eyes filled as he pulled her close, lying on top. He peppered her face with kisses. He knew she got it. She understood his personal demons, his cheating mom, his weak father and all the baggage he carried because of it. He rested his head on her breast and held on for a few minutes. Appreciating and cherishing this wonderful woman.
“I love you so fucking much,” Tyson whispered as he pulled her tighter.
Lynay stroked Tyson’s head offering comfort. He was an Alpha male, always looking out for others. It was her job to look out for him. This Christmas, she wanted him to know that no matter where he was in the world, they were one, wrapped in a continuous circle of love. She would not leave him, how could she? He held her heart.
A few hours later, Seth ran into the room screaming about the gifts beneath the tree. “Daddy, Santa’s been here, he found us and left presents under the tree. Come see, come see!” He shook Tyson while Lynay smiled and rolled over content to allow her husband this tour of duty.
Tyson yawned and stretched, somehow his hand smacked her bottom as he stood to get out of the bed. “I’m coming.” He left the room, she heard him talk to Brandi and assumed he had both kids.
“Mommy, mommy,” Seth called. “Come on, we need you.” Groaning, she peeked at the clock, they’d only gotten three hours of sleep. Rashid was at the hospital and Blue was probably still asleep. There was no one to run interference. Stretching, she rolled out of bed and put on a robe.
“Mommmeeee.” Seth hopped from one foot to the next in front of the tree, his eyes wide as he sung out her name.
“I’m here, Sweetie.” Tyson smirked at her as he kissed Brandi’s cheek.
“I wanna see what Santa Claus brought me,” Seth said reaching beneath the tree.
“I know, but we always give thanks for the day first, remember?”
Seth pouted and stepped back. “Yes’m.” He looked at his parents on the sofa and spoke. “I’m thankful today for my daddy being here, I miss him while he’s gone. I miss talking to him every day and seeing him. Thanks for that. I’m thankful for my mommy who’s always here. I’m really happy about that, I would miss her too much. And I’m glad I have a little sister to help, even though she don’t listen and do what I tell her.” He glanced at the tree. “I’m really glad Santa found us over here, I was scared he might get confused since we went to so many places. Thank you.”
Tyson opened his arms, Seth ran to him even as he pulled Lynay closer. He held all three of them tight. “Ditto,” he whispered.
Lynay laughed. “Ditto is right.” She kissed his cheek and then took Brandi from him as he helped Seth dig through the presents under the tree. Pretty soon small stacks of gifts were in front of them. Seth wasted no time opening his and began playing with his remote controlled truck. Brandi played more with the wrapping paper than the toys she’d received and Lynay sat shocked at the diamond necklace she’d received from her husband.
“It’s…it’s, ohmigod, Babe, it’s unbelievable.” She fingered the diamond pendant suspended on a fine gold chain before looking at him. “Thank you,” she whispered as she leaned forward and kissed him.
“My pleasure,” he said his voice low and sexy.
“Put it on me.” She handed it to him and turned around. He placed it around her neck and secured it before kissing her shoulder.
“I take it you need us to watch the kids for you this morning.” Blue and Tameka walked into the room holding hands.
Lynay leaned back against Tyson, comforted by the solid thumping of his heart. “No, we got this. Christmas is the one day of the year when you gotta press forward, no matter how tired you are.” She smiled as Seth called for Tyson to play with him.
“I’m coming.” He placed another kiss on Lynay’s shoulder and went to play.
“Thanks for helping with dinner,” Lynay said to Tameka. She had to give the woman her props, Tameka was an excellent cook.
“No problem, I enjoy it. I don’t get a chance to do much at home, with work. Besides, it’s hard to cook like this for just me.”
“I hear you. Aunt Lilly and I split things up at home, don’t let those small bodies fool you, my kids throw down every day, all day.” She chuckled as they left the kitchen. Tyson, Seth, Blue and Brandi were outside playing with Seth’s remote controlled trucks.
Tameka laughed at how serious the men were in their maneuvers. “Do they never stop competing?”
“No. I think that’s how they relax.”
Tameka looked at Lynay. “I don’t think so.” She had a wicked grin on her face.
“You’re right, that’s not how they relax.” Both women laughed aloud drawing attention from the men outside.
“Yours too?” Tameka asked sitting on the stuffed chair in the living room.
“Yeah, I’m his stress relief.”
“Me too. I’m sore. Blue’s like one of the batteries that keeps going, and going.” She smiled, it was obvious she liked what he did. “I’m not complaining, I’m just sore.”
“Treasure it,” Lynay said sobering. She glanced toward the lanai. “Every touch, every word, everything, lock it up to bring out later. You’ll need it for those long stretches of silence.”
“Yeah. It’s hard isn’t it.”
Lynay snorted. “Hard? I don’t think that’s the right word. Try debilitating or devastating. I stopped watching the news, they never say anything good. I believe I’ll know inside if something’s wrong, or Aunt Lilly will get an inkling. Some days I wake in a cold sweat, unable to breathe, scared out of my mind that I’ll never see him again. Can you imagine that?”
“No. But this last time when Blue left, I experienced a little of it. That was one of the reasons I didn’t want to get too close to him. But he’s so sweet and stubborn as hell, I just fell for him.”
“Blue’s a trip, but he’s all heart.” Lynay sat quietly reflecting on her life. “I wouldn’t change anything,” she said softly. “It’s who he is, I fell in love with all of him. Don’t get me wrong, I’m scared shitless that he’ll leave and not come home, but I don’t focus on that. While I’m with him, I wring every bit of joy out of each and every moment, because when I have those nightmares, I fight back with my memories.” She looked at Tameka. “It’s how I make it when he’s away.”
Tameka nodded. “Thanks, I wanted to talk to you about that, but didn’t know how to bring it up.” Pulling her legs beneath her, she sighed and glanced outside. “My cousin’s husband died last month, he was twenty-nine. A car hit him as he crossed the street from his job. They have three young children.” She inhaled and looked at Lynay. “Life’s weird like that. No guarantees no matter what you do or who you are.” She topped her head in Blue’s direction. “I really like him. I’m not sure where we’re going, but right now I’m glad he’s in my life.”
Lynay stood, smiling at this smart woman who she hoped would be her friend. Blue needed a strong woman in his life and she had a good feeling about Tameka. “Good, like I said, he’s a good man and they are hard to find.” Lynay walked to the sliding door and watched the men and kids play. A second or two later, Tameka joined her. “Love him. He needs someone to love him hard,” Lynay whispered linking her arm in Tameka’s.
“Will do,” Tameka choked out.
“Those are two special men out there, doing a spectacular job, placing their lives on the line for what they believe in. I believe in Tyson. He’s mine and I need him like the air I breathe.” Lynay spoke through a meatball sized lump in her throat. She returned Seth’s wave and blinked back tears as she watched her family laugh and enjoy the day. Pulling herself together she squeezed Tameka’s arm. “Let’s enjoy the rest of Christmas.” They walked outside together, faces clear of their innermost fears and held court with the people that meant the most to them.-The end-
Merry Christmas, from Erosa Knowles and Family