Consequences

above her lean, blossoming body. With a raspy voice he inquired, “Claire, what do you want?” She looked in his eyes again, still so light and real. He had never asked her what she wanted. He kissed her neck, her back arched and pressed against him. “I want to hear you, no forcing, no directions. What do you want?” His desires were clear and rubbing across her thighs.
    “I want you.”
    That wasn’t enough, Tony wanted to hear more. “Tell me what you want. I need to know you want it as much as I do.”
    “Oh god, Tony, I want you. I want you inside of me.” Her body was on the brink of explosion. “Please. Please take me.” She closed her eyes as he did what she asked. Grabbing his shoulders, she wanted every bit of him, every inch, and now that he was there she lost control. Her body responded to his every movement; no consciousness, only carnal desire. More than once he elicited earthshaking convulsions. There was no question this was consensual. Claire was getting what she asked for and wanted more.
    Tony drove to and from the Simmonses. This time they took the Mercedes. It was a great ride from the back when Eric drove, but it was even better from the passenger’s seat, smooth and quiet. Tony tuned the satellite radio to a classical station. The warm car, soft music, and smooth ride almost had Claire napping. Her energy wasn’t at its preaccident level, and her eyes began to close. Catherine told her one time to not act tired, but she wasn’t acting. Tony noticed. “It is all right. Why don’t you lay the seat back and I will wake you when we arrive.” She did.
    They had a good time with Brent and Courtney. Courtney told Claire a thousand times she needed to gain some weight. The unfortunate accident in the woods had left her too thin, but she quickly added that she was still beautiful. After the delicious dinner they retired to the lower level, the Vikings and the Packers were playing. Apparently, Brent and Tony were Vikings fans. Claire wondered how she didn’t know that.
    While they watched the game and argued with the television, Claire and Courtney chatted. It was nice to talk to someone else. Courtney made Claire feel warm and secure. She didn’t pry, but wanted to know about Claire’s accident and recovery. Apparently, Brent had told her how upset Tony was. He couldn’t believe something like that could happen on his land. Did they ever find out if someone had been out in the woods?
    The football game didn’t turn out like the men wanted. Undaunted they all sipped red wine and played cards. Claire hadn’t played a game in so long. It was truly enjoyable. They left the Simmonses’ home after eleven. Courtney hugged Claire, “Now you promise to eat.” Claire nodded. “We’re so happy you’re feeling better.”
    On the way home Tony praised Claire for all she did and said. He also informed her that he needed to be in New York the following week. It was up to her if she joined him. However, she may not realize Thursday of next week was Thanksgiving. He couldn’t promise he would be back. He may have to stay until Friday. He would like her to join him if she was up to it. Claire knew the intense therapy of the last two days had helped revitalize her. “I may need naps, but I want to go.”
    During the week between the Simmonses and New York, Claire made strides in her recovery. It was like a black veil had been lifted. For weeks, even months, the entire world had been gray. The release of suppressed emotions and Tony’s promise removed the veil. The trees were still leafless and the grass still lacked color, but the world was once again alive.
    Instead of sleeping to get energy, Claire began moving. First she walked around the house, then swam in the indoor pool and enjoyed the hot tub. She even ventured to the theater room and made herself watch a movie. It was a musical, “Hairspray” with John Travolta. She smiled. It was her first trip to the theater room since Tony had taken her there.
    Monday evening they flew to New York watching the sky grow dark as they headed east. Eric drove them directly to Tony’s apartment, and Jan waited for their arrival with dinner. From the spectacular view of the seventy-sixth floor the city vibrantly glistened with lights and activity. They ate in the dining room and watched little cars drive on busy little streets far below.
    That night, exhausted from traveling, they settled into Tony’s bed and he handed Claire a black velvet box.