We came back to the Castile de la Luna around sunset. The reason it took so long is that along the way home, I was taking pictures of the horses in various environments. Yes, I made sure that the black Andalusian that I had been riding was definitely a full stallion. I also got some pictures of Kiefer Sutherland at his sexiest, without his shirt and riding a white horse. I’d say the man was my knight in shining armor, but I’d much prefer the rogue image instead.

As we entered the courtyard, the clop clop clop of the hooves on cobblestones were the only sounds that were heard until we got near a hedge row. I tensed as a familiar sound came to my ears and the horse I was riding threw back it’s head and screamed a challenge, rearing to it’s full height on hind legs. It’s forelegs flailing to bash at the hedges in a classic attack manouver I’d only seen done once and that was in a movie. Heh. Mind you, I only saw the manouver, this was the first time I’d been ON a battle trained horse. Thankfully I’m not one to panic.

Swearing violently, I used brute force to bring the big stallion back down to four legs. As there was no bit on the Hackamore, it was just his strength against mine. Not to mention the battle of wills in the process. The sound that had set him off? The incessant clicking of 35 mm cameras. I diddnt have time enough to check on Kiefer, or anyone else. I was too busy getting my brute to settle down. In the middle of one of the calmer moments, I roared, MARCUS! LOUIS! at the top of my lungs. When I want to make myself heard in a cacophony of sound, I can. Then the reporters came boiling out from behind the foliage, screaming questions. This did not make the situation any better.

I managed to catch Kiefer’s eye, seeing as he had his horse under control. I nodded at the trail nearest to where he was and said, I’ve got to get him out of here before he hurts someone. I’ll be back in about an hour. Some of this was garbled due to the bucking monster below me. But I know he got the message. I turned the stallion’s head in the direction of the trail and turned him loose. The horse back-kicked once and I heard the impact. There is a particular noise of solid object meeting human body that always makes me wince. Then he got the idea that we could get away, and leaped for the trail I pointed him at. There’s nothing like an angry horse at a full gallop. It’s like riding lightning and feeling the thunder through your body.

Only when he started breathing heavily and foam coated his hide, did I haul him in. He fought me for a few more strides before dropping into a walk and finally stopping. I dismounted and the first thing I did was rub him down with some grass that I found and then inspect him for injuries, talking softly to him as I did so. Thankfully, he stood calmly while I did this and occasionally nuzzled my shoulder or swatted me in the face with a tail. I couldn’t find any injuries or sprains, yet I walked him in a circle a couple of times to check his gait. It wasn't too bad, but I was not going to take any chances. We were walking home.

By now, the sun was half on the horizon. The sun’s rays painted my horse a beautiful color. I couldn't help it, I had to get the shot. Slowly, so as not to alarm the horse, I reached into my vest for the digital. The one good thing about the camera I use is that it’s virtually silent. No clicking sounds, no whirring sounds, just a soft buzz as the picture is recorded. To prevent him from panicking, I walked up to him, showed him the camera, let him sniff and get used to it before stepping back a few paces. Oh some of the most beautiful shots were done that evening. One of the best shots was when the horse decided to walk towards me, looking me in the eyes. With the sunlight glinting off those dark eyes, it was stunning.

I finally packed in my camera and took hold of the reins of this beautiful beast to begin the long walk home. I had no idea how far away we were or how long it would take to get us home. But I was hoping that whoever triggered the monster mess in the courtyard was not around when I got back. No one was supposed to have known that Kiefer or myself were here at the Cordoba estate at all.

I was here to photograph horses for a client. The kicker was that Kiefer Sutherland was that client and had rigged it so that I got out and away from the paparazzi for a while. I diddnt know this until I got to the estate this morning. Up until the time he and I came back from the hidden little paradise down at the beach, it had been a wonderfully erotic time. Now, however, all I wanted to do is go hide somewhere and get the stress off my shoulders. No, strike that. I wanted to pound someone into the dirt for endangering something as beautiful as the horse that paced by my side.

Three quarters of the way back, I encountered Markus and Kiefer. With them were what appeared to be the entire stable staff and at least two uniformed police. Spotting me coming down the trail, someone let out a yell. But this time I was ready for the stallion’s nature and kept a tight grip on the reins and talked softly to him. By the time he had calmed down, Markus had reached me. I smiled and said quietly, Sorry about the here again gone again routine, Mr. Cordoba. That got me an arched eyebrow, But I think it would have been better than having a frightened horse still out of control in the courtyard.”

Understanding lit his eyes as he nodded. I am grateful for your quick thinking, Diane. I am also sorry you had to go through that unexpected mess in the courtyard. Let’s get you both home and make sure nothing like this ever happens again.”

I handed the reins off to a groom that came for him and patpatted the big horse on the neck. You never told me his name. I looked over at Kiefer who was practically dancing in place to get to me, but was trying not to make too many moves that would frighten the stallion. As much as I needed to go to him and assure him I was okay. The horse came first in this instance.

Markus grinned, Did I not tell you that? he rubbed a hand over his face and grinned. It is La Sombra. In English it would be The Shadow. he winked. When it’s total dark out, he cannot be seen, even if he is moving. he’s that black. Leaning forward, he whispered for my ears alone. I’ve got you and Kiefer packed away into the far guest room, surrounded by my own security. This will never ever happen again, I swear it.”

I had to smile then, then patted Markus on the shoulder. Then I’m going to disappear with Kiefer to the guest house. I said quietly. Can you handle the gendarms or do I need to make a statement? He shook his head. Go. Kief knows the way. And don't bother to worry about dinner. I’ll have it sent over. Let tomorrow take care of itself. With that, he turned his attention towards the horse, the cops, and the rest of the staff. He was handling them like a conductor in an orchestra. Better, in fact.

Turning, I walked over to Kiefer and wrapped my arms around his waist. The moment my hands touched his, reaction shakes set in. Are you all right? came the voice from somewhere above my head. Arms gathered me closer into his embrace. Yeah. I said through chattering teeth. Just a tad bit shaky. Adrenaline crash. I tilted my head back to look at those stunning blue eyes above me. Just get me to the guest house and into that jaccuzi and I’ll be fine. Right now, I cant stop shaking.”

Not waiting for anything else, he scooped me up in his arms and carried me most of the way to the guest house. Several times he paused to set me down on my own two feet to just simply hold me. I think it was his way of catching his breath and relaxing for a bit. Finally, however, we made it to the guest house located back a ways from the main buildings. I never thought a building could be in such an open area, yet be so secluded. Yet, there it was.

Not stopping, Kiefer undid the door and carried me into a beautiful room. I had enough time to register the native stone walls covered with tapestries, the fireplace, and the plush throw rugs, before I was whisked through a door and into paradise. I couldn't help but gape at the jaccuzi room. Huge, square cut timbers formed a framework over the bubbling water in the center of the room. The rest was nothing but glass. I hadn't believed him when he said that you could see a canopy of stars while you soaked, yet here it was.

I looked up at him as he set me on my feet, I think you underestimated the beauty of this place. I grinned. It’s more than words can describe. He sighed and looked up and said, You know, you’re right. But then again, everything looks more stunning with the right person to share it with. When he looked down at me, there was such beauty and tenderness reflected in those eyes, it made me want to stay in his arms forever.

At this point he set me down on my own two feet. I was still shivering slightly, but I managed to calm down enough to shed the vest and put it somewhere safe. After that, Kief brushed my hands away and lovingly stripped off every vestige of clothing that I had on my body. Not stopping there, he picked me up and gently lowered me into the soothing heat of the water before undressing himself and stepping in. By this time, thankfully, the shakes had stopped and I was simply content to drift and let the bubbles do their work.

Kiefer moved so that he was behind my head as I floated on my back in the water. Not a word was said as he gently massaged my temples with his fingers. I sighed in relief as my whole body finally was caressed by the jets of water that was coming from all sides. I reached a hand and caressed the strong forearm that was attached to the hands. My mind was sort of blank as I just let myself feel. His skin, the jets of water, the caress of his strong fingers on my temples. Amazingly, it was comforting. There was nothing sexual about it.

After a few moments I looked up and watched the stars through the glass. I saw a few constellations that I recognised. I had to smile. I remember staying up late as a kid and watching the starts move across the sky. I thought it was one of the most magical things in the world. I sighed. But now, I’ve found something better. I winked up at him.

His eyes gleamed and he leaned over to kiss my forehead gently and then gather me to him so that I was sitting across his lap. You keep saying things like that and I’ll be forced to have Markus widen the doorway to fit my ego. he smiled. But thank you. Are you okay now? What happened? All I know is that suddenly La Sombra reared and hit the bushes before the photo scum came out.”

I ran a hand over his chest. There’s a distinct clicking and whirring noise that comes with a non-digital camera. The horse heard it seconds before I did and reacted. I don't know if he’s been subjected to the noise before, but I definitely know that having strangers run up and screaming questions around ANY animal is going to get you a very negative reaction. I closed my eyes and cuddled closer, Rather than have a bunch of bodies to explain, and seeing as you had yours under control, I turned him to the trail next to you and let him run. It was the safest thing I could think of at the time. I tensed slightly, What happened to the guy that La Sombra kicked?”

A rumbling chuckle and a tightening of his arms around my body was what I got. A Mr. Joseph Hamilton was escorted to the hospital with a broken jaw. His camera and equipment has been confiscated. Apparently, the man was in the lead of the pack trying to chase you down and stop you from getting out of there. I managed to get Solaris in between the rest of the group, but that little bastard was more intent on you than me. And he paid the price for it. He sighed, The gendarms got the rest of the papariazzi rounded up and trucked off for trespassing and a few other little charges that will keep us safe from them for a while.”

I nodded and sighed. I hate it when stuff like this happens. I looked up at him with a smile. Tho I did get you your photos of the stallion that you wanted. ran a finger along his ribcage. So you owe me. I did it deliberately to break the somber mood. It was making me a tad bit depressed. I was rewarded by a chuckle and a sigh.

“Agreed, you little wench! If only to keep the snoops out off the beaten track. with that, he tickled me back and the whole thing evolved into a tickle fight in the middle of the jaccuzi. By the time we were done, everything seemed to be completely wet and gleaming with moisture.

Who won? I wouldn't know, because I looked up one moment at the dome and gasped. That noise caused Kiefer to look up as well and admire the view of the half moon glowing at the very peak of the glass. It was almost magical, I think. Almost, because my stomach took this moment to announce the fact that it was starving. That set off his stomach, which set us off laughing again.

We got out and cooled off under a lukewarm shower. Getting out, and wrapped in towels, we found that our host had provided everything we could ever want for the rest of the night. A delicious smelling meal was on a low table near a roaring fire. The whole room was done in native stone. The floors were covered in throw rugs and fat pillows. A soft fur rug was laid out in front of the fireplace along with several reclining pillows. It seems that this was more of a persian style guest house than the rest of it.

As there were no chairs in the room, we sat by the fire and ate a delicious meal, topped off with baklava. The taste of melted honey on my tongue was pure bliss. I rolled away from the table with a groan. No more. If I eat another bit of food, I’m going to explode. I said with a smile.

Kiefer chuckled and handed me a glass of wine to relax with and then sat behind me and began to massage my shoulders. Why don't you lie down on the rug and let me work those tense muscles for you? He leaned forward and licked the healing bite mark on my neck just below the ear, causing me to shiver. Darts of hedonistic desire shot down my spine as I found myself on my stomach, using the head of what turned out to be a polar bear as a prop for my head.

There was a brief pause while he went to find some massage oil. While he was looking, I undid the towel around my body and laid back down to sip my wine. Sighing I watched the fire as it popped and crackled to itself in the fireplace, wishing this dream would never end. Everything has to, so I was determined to enjoy the rest of the time with Kiefer.

My handsome and sexy man came back from his foray with a bottle of vanilla scented oil. Kneeling beside me, he poured some into his palms and began to rub the delicious smelling stuff into my shoulders and back. To make things easier, I scooted off the bear’s head to lay completely flat on the floor.

Ladies, if you’ve never had a massage by a naked and handsome man before, get one. There is no other pleasure in the world than have someone work the knots and tensions out of your body while being totally naked. It’s pretty wild. Especially the anticipation of hot sex afterwards. Or maybe it’s just the delicious, scintillating sensation of naked flesh touching naked flesh. Who knows?

I don't know what it was, but Kiefer had the most talented hands that I’ve ever felt. No matter how knotted the muscle was under the skin, he managed to coax it back into place without too much pain. By the time he got to my calves, I was a relaxed pile of goo in human form. Just the feel of his strong fingers working their magic was soothing.

Just one problem was intruding while he was massaging me. I kept falling asleep. The rigors of this morning, combined with the stress of the paparazzi were bad enough. Then add the relaxing Jaccuzi and the meal. I just couldn't keep my eyes open. Kiefer must have sensed it as well and chuckled softly. I never felt him gather me in his arms and take me to bed because I was happily ensconced in dreamland.

The next morning, I was awakened slowly to the feel of someone running their hands over my body. Stretching, I found that Kiefer’s body was spooned against my backside, his hard cock wedged in between my ass cheeks. The sensation of that and the fact that one set of fingers were pinching my hard nipples and the other was already fingering my clit was driving my waking body wild. I turned my head slightly to capture his mouth with mine and groaned deeply.

Slowly, as if I were the most precious thing in the world, he rolled me over onto my back in the middle of the bed. I gazed up at him as he slowly began to worship every inch of my body with his tongue with agonising slowness. It was driving me insane with wanting, needing really, him. I reached up and ran my hands through his hair as his mouth reached my completely soaked pussy. At first, I couldn't feel anything except his breath on my sensitive skin, then he began to slowly lap at the outer lips as if to savor each drop of fluid that came out.

I was about to scream from the boiling agony that seared my veins with need when I felt his tongue insert itself inside my outer lips and brush the clit. I gasped at the sensation, spreading my legs farther apart and arching my hips into his face. Taking the hint he dove in, slowly feasting on my greedy sex. Slow, sensual, oral sex was sheer torture. He’d bring me to the brink of orgasm, then nip and lick the outsides of my thighs, then head back down to feast again to prolong the pleasure. The last time, however, he hit every sensitive button I had. I couldn't even scream as my body went completely rigid as I hit the top end of the orgasm, riding Kiefer’s face until he had to hold my legs for me. Then I fell back to earth with soft, mewling moans of absolute ecstasy.

When I had control of myself I looked down at him and smiled quietly. His eyes were still smoldering as he kissed a line up to my bellybutton, up through my tits to cover me with his hard body. His eyes locked onto mine as his cock slid all the way into my hot pussy without stopping. His heated gaze held mine as he began to slowly make love to me. Slowly, sensually, he took his time. Eternity came and went as we lost ourselves in the pleasure of slowly moving our bodies to an age old rhythm.

Kiefer’s blue eyes never waverer from mine as I was rocked through one orgasm after another. I knew it couldn’t last forever, even though I desperately wanted it too. He groaned and leaned forward to lick and kiss my neck over the place where he had bitten me, then frantically began raining kisses all over my face. His thrusting began to get harder, faster, as he captured my lips with his and reached down to grab my ass cheeks to drive himself deeper into me. Within a few moments, he groaned loudly into my mouth and thrust hard, one last time before he came.

The feel of his twitching cock inside me set off another orgasm on my part. Together, we gasped and shook as one. Even our heartbeats synchronised for that one, priceless moment in time before we came back down to earth. And the sound of a cel phone ringing.

It wasn't mine because I had shut mine off. So Kiefer climbed out of bed to answer his while I went to the shower to rinse off and actually take the time to look human again instead of a lust bunny who just cant seem to keep her clothes on. I had to smile at that. I was still smiling when I came out, wrapped in a towel to find Kiefer scowling out the window at the radiant sunlight that was gleaming off the water on the horizon.

“You look like a thundercloud, Kiefer. What’s happened? I asked

He turned to look at me and sighed. I have to go back to LA. It seems that one of the scenes we need to film in the Rockies has to be done now, while we have the window of opportunity. The people who run the ski lodge up there wont give us any other time due to the last part of the ski season. Meaning the snow was melting and there wasn't time to get a later date. He shook his head and grumbled. Even the shoot here at the ranch has to be postponed for at least six months!”

He looked so upset, I went and wrapped my arms around his waist and leaned against his back. So you need to head home? I got those pictures you wanted. So I guess my job here is done as well. He turned his head to look at me, a spark of interest lighting his eyes, I quashed his though with, But after that fiasco yesterday, I think it’s best if we make our own ways back to the states. You’ve got enough on your hands to deal with without having to explain me. I winked. I’m good at being unobtrusive and in the background.”

He sighed and nodded, but diddnt look too happy about it. My agent said Now. So I’d better pack it in. he turned in my arms and wrapped me up in his own, hugging me close. I don't want to leave you here, but I have to. he looked me in the eyes. Stay as long as you want with Markus, then come home. His mouth descended onto mine one last time before he left to get dressed and go back to his work, leaving me standing there in the middle of the bedroom, alone.

After Kiefer had left to appease the Gods of Entertainment. I tried to get a few more disks full of pictures for the photo shoot. I even rode La Sombra back down to that hidden paradise and relaxed under the wide palm fronds where our first tryst took place. I even swam naked in the cool waters of the mediteranian.

My heart just wasn't in it. I wandered around for a bit, taking the odd picture now and again but it was no use. The only thing that broke the spell was the night Markus knocked on the door to the guest house and asked for my help. One of his mares was having difficulties giving birth and he needed a spare hand in getting the foal turned in the right direction.

Nodding, I tossed on a pair of pants and a tank top. Racing with him side by side, we hit the stable door at the same time, heading for the stall that had all the lights on around it. I looked at Markus. You’re going to have to talk me through this, I’ve never done this before I said as we both edged into the stall.

“Just talk to her, pet her. You handled La Sombra when most of my people would have panicked and gotten someone killed. I have faith in you, Diane. You can do this. he stared into my eyes with his gold flecked green ones, then he grinned. Tomorrow I’ll even let you get photos of these two for Kiefer’s collection. he winked.

And so it went. Using my softest voice and the most gentle of touches, I managed to keep the mare distracted while they turned the foal and got it started in the right direction. Two hours later a healthy blood bay colt was born. Markus handed me a towel to clean him off and rub him down. Then he started speaking softly, telling me how to clean the nostrils and air ways. When it took the first wobbly steps to his first meal, we both backed out of the stable to let mom and son have their bonding time.

Markus looked at me and said, You have a way with horses that I’ve never seen before. he walked me back down the path back to the guest house. Thank you for your help with El Sol. And when the sun comes up. You can take all the pictures you want of the two.”

I smiled quietly after wiping my hands off. Then I looked at him. I’ve always had a thing for horses. But I never considered myself to have a way with them. I shrugged. I think I have some disks left in my bag. I sighed and looked at the door to the guest house. Don't take this the wrong way, Markus. But. and he put his fingers to my lips, silencing my next words.

“Your heart is with Kiefer. Without your heart, all that should bring you joy is faded and things are dull without him. Yes? He smiled and traced a finger over the scar on my face. I saw it in his eyes the moment he caught you looking at him at the pool hall. he chuckled. He looked like a stunned ox when he saw you across the room. I think he still bears some guilt for not acting quickly enough to keep from having this happen. the finger still touched the scar.

I raised my hand to his cheek and smiled. You’re a good friend, Markus. You’re like a little old man in a young body. You’re like a big brother in some ways and a huge mischief maker in others. I grinned a bit, then sighed. You’re right tho. It’s like nothing is fun anymore. When Kiefer told me he had to go right then and there, I was ready to chew on someone for interrupting his vacation.”

I turned and looked out towards the cliff and the ocean below it. I think he wanted to take me back to LA with him and I told him no because he had too much to do without the hassle of having me along for tongues to wag about. I winked up at him, Besides, I take a certain sadistic delight in becoming invisible to the paparazzi. that earned me a chuckle. Seriously, tho. I would like to head home tomorrow evening if possible after I get those pictures you promised.”

He nodded. Your hotel bill is paid in full and everything is ready for you to be on a plane at 6 pm tomorrow evening. The shock must have shown on my face because he laughed and said, Kiefer suspected that the busybodies may have your old flight number and time of arrival three weeks from now. So they wont be expecting you back until then. If we get you on that plane tomorrow, you’ll be home two weeks earlier than planned. Now, get in there, go hit the jaccuzi, and get some sleep. You’ve got a busy day tomorrow. With that he gently pushed me in the door and closed it.

Five days later, I was walking through the crowds at LAX after a long and emotionally exhausting flight home. I was like a zombie going through the motions of getting back to my apartment. I even overtipped the cabbie after he stopped in front of my place. I had a sense of de javu as I walked in the door to an empty room.

This time, however, I was lugging all my gear that I had brought home. Included in the stuff were a few things that Markus gifted me with. Tapestries for the rooms, the polar bear rug. A bottle of very dusty, and very old wine. And, suspiciously enough, a wooden box made of olivewood. It was elegantly carved in some ancient spanish scrollwork design and about as big as a breadbox. I was not to open that until I managed to be alone.

It took me two trips from the front door to get everything up into the apartment. I had to smile at the rug, tho. Customs had a fit when that came through. But Markus made sure I had the appropriate permits to have it and a bill of sale from him to smooth the way. So now it was in my empty bedroom.

I was too tired to do much else other than to double lock the front door, shed the clothes, and collapse to sleep. Let tomorrow’s hassles come tomorrow. I was sleeping and damn the first person that called or pounded on the door. Sleep sucked me under before I could think too much longer on the has beens of life and wh at tomorrow was going to be like.

I woke up around noon the next day. I was tired, gritty, sore and my mouth tasted like someone had superglued gunk into it. Blech! It was time to get cleaned up and refreshed. I ignored the bleakness of my surroundings and went to the shower for a long soak. I was determined not to let depression rule my life and by god I was going to work myself to exhaustion today to prove it.

After the shower, I rummaged around and found the oldest pair of pants and a brown T-shirt to put on over my wet body and a pair of well-worn sneakers on my feet. Generally speaking, I go barefoot around the apartment, but not today. I was going to be busy redecorating. I couldn't very well leave all those boxes of stuff laying out in the middle of my apartment, now could I?

I went into the kitchen and started some easy finger food, then got busy with the tapestries. Those were easy to put up and they added a wonderful splash of color to the otherwise bare walls. There were even a couple of them that went into the empty bedroom. I say empty because before I met Kiefer Sutherland that fateful night. I had just broken up with the current boyfriend. It wasn't pretty and the resulting legal action had him taking everything that wasn't nailed down.

The only reason I got to keep some of the stuff is that I could prove, aka had the dated receipts for, that I had them before I met him. That left me the cameras, computer equipment, a futon and all my clothes. And very little else. Before I left for Spain, this place was nothing but pastel blue walls, hardwood floors, and windows with towels for curtains.

Now, however, there were earth-tone colored tapestries hanging from the walls. In the bedroom were deep blue colored ones. Matching curtains hung from windows and throw rugs were covering the floor. The precious polar bear rug was the centerpiece of my bedroom. Heh. It wouldn’t fit anywhere else. And it was too precious a memory to have it laying out where everyone could stomp on it.

I stopped for a lunch break and hit the answering machine I had hooked up to the phone. It was full of tabloids, news crews and the sleeze guys wanting interviews. There were one or two messages that I took the numbers down, one was from Fred. My manager, friend, and contact. Oh, did I forget to mention he was my brother as well? Anyways, most of the numbers I took down, other than my brothers’, were basically the utilities and at least one from a lawyer saying that he got his fees paid and thanked me for my patronage.

The next task that took up most of my afternoon was all the photos I took. For the first time since Kiefer left me standing in guest room in Spain, I had found something that occupied all of my concentration. It was the only thing that would make the world beyond the computer system go away until I was finished. I wanted the layout and the presentation to be just perfect. Or as perfect as my computer could make them.

There were one or two photos that I would be keeping to myself instead of presenting them with the rest of the set. Those would be hung in the bedroom for my eyes only. The rest, as I said, would go into Kiefer Sutherland’s private photo collection. I even added a couple of the best pictures of the new colt. I managed to get the entire setup printed out in glossy photographic color before I realised what time it was. Midnight.

Stretching I felt my back pop and snap, relieving the pressure that always happens when I spent too much time at my computer. I finally got up the guts to go look at my E-mail basket and answer messages from that area. Same garbage, different tune. People wanting exclusive, wanting me to confirm or deny rumors about things. I hit the delete button so many times I got a cramp in my finger.

I almost deleted the one from Markus until my bleary eyes noted the name and where it originated. Smiling, I opened the message. Basically it was a message saying the usual. That I got home okay, was everything fine, did I need anything?. That usual stuff. Until I got to the very end of the letter. It read:

Diane, the colt is doing wonderful thanks to your help in giving it life. To honor this occasion. I would like you to give LaSombra’s son his own name. You took the pictures and know what he looks like. See what you can come up with. Just don't wait too long because I need it for the lineage papers. P.S. No, you can’t name him Kief either. So get that silly thought out of your head!*

I had to laugh and shake my head. He already knew me too well for words. I hit the reply button and picked up the photo of the newborn colt that had just finished printing. I looked at it from all angles, at least the angles I could see and it hit me. I typed a reply really fast, telling him that I’m fine, weather’s great, thanks for the gifts, etc. At the end I wrote: The colts name is Red Dawn.

I signed it and sent it back to him with a grin. After finishing with my computer, I shut it down and glanced at the clock. 3 am in the morning. Sheesh. I had been working my tail off for almost 24 hours. No wonder I was yawning so much. I showered the dust and dirt off of me from the day’s work and slipped on an old T-shirt that hung to my thighs.

I wandered around the apartment one final time before checking the windows. Smiling, I spotted three of the reporters right off the bat. It took me a few more moments to spot the rest of them. I must be really important if I can get six reporters all in one place at one time. But, just to be on the safe side, I grabbed the digital with the long telephoto lense. I got pictures of the photographers, the vehicles they were driving and even the license plates. Yes, I am that good and my equipment is even better.

That done, I went into the bedroom and laid down on the bearskin rug, letting myself finally relax. But, then again, I couldn't. There was the faintest hint of vanilla oil that reminded me of that night. I ran my hands over the the white fur and moaned. My fingertips started to tingle with memories. I sat up, pulled off my t-shirt, and laid back into the soft caress of polar bear fur.

I let my mind and my hands wander over my naked flesh. In my mind’s eye, it was Kiefer who was touching me. Watching me silently as his fingers caressed my nipples to rock hardness. I began to squirm as his/my other hand moved down between my legs and began slowly moving fingers in and out of the inviting wetness. It was his eyes that stared intently as one hand continued it’s ministrations on my nipples while the other inserted a third finger and began using a thumb to caress the clit. Thrusting hard against those fingers, the orgasm burst over my skin like a starburst over the water.

I don't know if I screamed or yelled or not. All I know is that when I opened my eyes. I was alone in my room with three fingers between my legs and a hand roughly pinching one of my nipples. Disappointments was like a knife in my body and I rolled over to curl up in a ball as tears rolled out of my eyes and soaked into the fur. I went to sleep like that. Alone, and with only the smell of vanilla oil and my sex to keep me company.

This routine was the pattern for the next several days. It took my brother, Fred, coming over and pounding on my door to break me out of the doldrums that had plagued me ever since I got back. My brother is about 6 ft 2 and is a pretty handsome guy. At least, according to the women who have seen him. To me, he’s just an overly obnoxious brother who is also my manager. Go figure.

“Gimme that layout and take Little Brother for a ride! he growled the first thing as he stepped in the door. You’ve been hiding out here long enough and those reporters are not going to go away. He paused and looked around the room. Wow, sis. What in hell did you do during your trip to Spain?”

I had to smile at him. Just about everything you can imagine, Fred. But I’m allowed my little secrets as much as you. So don't bother trying to pry. I winked at him, knowing that my teasing irritated him most of the time. But I couldn’t help myself. I turned around and handed him a package. This is for the client that wanted the photos of the Andalusian horses. Included in the whole package is the black Andalusian he wanted. You can collect on the bonus. I managed not to grin idiotically or have trouble speaking. See? I can act normal when I need to.

Fred took the package gently and eyed me intently. I mean it, sis. Get the hell out of dodge for a while. I’ll cover for you. Officially, you’re now unavailable for anything. If I have to make up a deathly ill story to go along with it. He then set the package aside and drew me into a brotherly embrace. He grinned. By the way, you look good on a horse, you know that, don’t you?”

At my confused look he pulled out a tabloid that showed me on LaSombra as he was bashing someone’s jaw with a hoof. I groaned. Crap! I diddnt even bother looking at the captions or anything, it was clear that Kiefer Sutherland was off to one side. I facepalmed and shook my head. If I ever get my hands on the asshole that thought up the idea of prying into people’s lives, I’ll strangle him. I looked at my brother who was grinning like an idiot. And I can just tell you’re enjoying the hell out of it.”

He started laughing outright, Actually, sis. It isn't funny, but your reaction is. he grinned, then made shooing motions with his hands. I reserved a cabin for you up in the rockies at a tiny resort. No paparazzi, no depression, nothing to remind you of anything. Consider it my bonus to you for putting up with me for forever. he grinned. Oh, and just to keep you on your toes? I’ve arranged for you to get snowboarding lessons while you’re up there. He laughingly handed me the reservation stuff , then danced out of the apartment just as a flying pillow hit the door.

I looked out the window just in time to see him get mobbed by the reporters. I sighed, then tossed the tabloid in the trash. I was pondering things when I glanced at the box that Markus had given me. I was alone, or as alone as I was going to be. so I took it down and sat ont he futon and made myself comfortable. I hated surprises, but I trusted both Markus and Kiefer to keep from giving in to any really nasty surprises.

I opened the box and peered inside. In the light of the lamp behind me, nestled in a crushed black velvet lining were several things. First thing that came out was a pair of pewter goblets. You know, the types that when you put them side by side, the dragons around the stems form a heart? Yep, those types.

In a small pouch off to one side was a keychain made out of braided horsehair and seashells. I could just see Markus grinning like an idiot when he made this. I diddnt have to be psychic to know which two horses gave a bit of their tail for this item. I immediately attatched my harley keys to the new keychain and patpatted it down.

Curiously, there were a pair of well worn gloves in the bottom of the box. They seemed to be purposefully holding something in their cupped palms. With gentle hands, I withdrew the gloves and the item out of the box. I slowly opened the gloves and gasped as I saw what was held in the palms. It was a rose carved out of a large chunk of red tigereye. No stem, just the head of a fully bloomed rose.

I smiled with joy for the first time since i had gotten back. Right then and there, I decided to take my brother’s advice and get going. The place was up in the Rockies somewhere. The packet he left gave directions. Not wasting anymore time, I packed the saddlebags, and dressed up in full leathers for the trip. I packed the goblets and the gloves, only then taking a good look at them.

They were well worn rodeo gloves. But the difference was the name that was newly embroidered on the backs of each glove. The right was my name and the left was Kiefer’s. I just shook my head. Those two were impossible. Almost as if I had two men as lovers instead of one.

I locked up the apartment and waved at the landlord, telling him I was gonna go hit the road for a few days. I handed him the rent for the next six months and winked. Think you can keep these camera happy idiots happy while I escape, Joe? Joe was a retired cop and took great delight in giving interlopers a really hard time. He laughed and said, Anything for you, sweetie. The gleam in his eyes told me that there was going to be mayhem happening in a few minutes.

“Just get them to concentrate on you and I’ll take little brother out the secret entrance. I said, Then you can get them arrested or whatever you want.”

He nodded. They all need ot have their asses kicked. he reached around the door for the paint ball rifle he kept around for the gangers. I laughed and watched him open the front door and start firing. Hideous pink paintball splatters hitting humans and vehicles alike. I took advantage to slip out the back and get myself and Little Brother out of there the back way.

The harley started on the first kick, which made me a happy lady. I pulled on the gloves and my helmet, then decided to go one up on the photographers. I rode up to the next street, turned right, then turned right again and paused. I was watching the fun from where I was sitting. Chaos would be too kind of a word for the things that were happening.

I spotted Joe and beeped the horn at him. When he looked up, I gunned the engine and held the brakes for as long as I could. Sensing what I was about to do he stopped firing and yelled something. I don't know what it was, but it made everyone look up at me. It was too perfect. With a wild, ululating warcry, I turned loose of the brakes and screamed out of there doing a wheelie at 80 miles an hour.

It was going to be a good vacation.