Old Time Religion ~ A Love in the City Romance by Dellani Oakes – Part 1

"....Lead us not into temptation...."

"Father! Father Randolph!" the shrill voice of the church secretary broke through his prayer.

Muttering the last few words, he rose from the kneeler bench, pushing it into its upright position.

"Father! Oh, there you are." Mrs. Bannister waved at him from the door to the narthex.

Moving somewhat stiffly, having been in prayer for the better part of an hour, he walked over to her. "Yes, Lorna?"

"Important call for you, Father." She handed him the cordless phone from her desk.

"Who is it?" he asked, his hand over the mouthpiece.

"Didn't say."

"You didn't ask?" this was not an uncommon occurrence, and annoyed him. Today, of all days, he didn't need her flightiness.

Mrs. Bannister blinked, looking like an owl behind her round, black glasses frames. Without another word, she returned to her office.

"Hello? Father Randolph here," he snapped more than he intended.

There was a hesitant pause. "Did I catch you at a bad time?" the woman's voice trembled.

Pulling himself together, he took a deep breath. "No. I'm sorry. Who is this, please?"

"You don't know me, I'm actually a member of St. Blase Church."

"Did you need something specific, Miss—" he waited for her to fill in the blank.

"Whitley."

"How may I help you, Ms. Whitley?" the irritation was descending once more. Taking another deep breath, he headed to his office. Closing the door behind him, he opened a bottle of water, the phone awkwardly positioned between his ear and shoulder.

"It's a bit embarrassing, actually. I do apologize. I'm the acting secretary here, just filling in for the regular one, who's on emergency medical leave." Taking an audible breath, she paused. "I'm calling because we have a parishioner in the hospital, and Father Charlie has come down with the flu, himself."

"Is the parishioner sick with the flu, too?" He rubbed his nose with thumb and index finger. A headache threatened to break through, he tried to pray it away as he listened.

"Um.... no," she laughed nervously. "But I was told to call the area churches and ask if another priest could go visit."

"Which hospital?" He grabbed a pen and paper on his desk.

"You'll go?"

"Certainly. I'd be happy to."

"She's at.... Oh, bother."

There was a scrabbling sound, paper rustling, and the phone fell.

"Sorry!" he heard at a distance. "Okay. So sorry about that. I'm really bad at this job."

"How did you get it?"

"She's my mom," she replied, as if that explained it.

"The woman in the hospital? Or the secretary."

"Both."

"I'm sorry.... Who am I going to see?"

"My mother is the one in the hospital. She's the secretary here. I got handed the job, when she went in for emergency surgery last night."

"Is she all right?"

"Yes. It was an appendectomy. They caught it before it ruptured—just."

"I'm glad to hear that. Which hospital?"

"St. Mary's – Metro?"

"Aren't you sure?"

"I'm from out of town. But that's the name. I wrote it down."

"Certainly. So she's in the surgical wing?"

There was another pause. "I guess? I wasn't here when she went in. I was on my way to the city, when I got the call. Instead of going to the hospital, I went home. Mom called this morning and asked me to step in, to find someone to cover for her, and to get a priest. I'm not usually this disorganized, Father." She laughed a little.

"You're lucky. I find myself foundering a good half the time. Yes, I'd be delighted to go see her. What is her name?"

"Wanda Whitley. She's in room....420," she laughed a little. "Insert Marijuana joke here. Oh, gosh! I shouldn't have said that to a priest!"

He chuckled. "It might surprise you to know that I've had my bad boy days."

"Whew! Thank you so much. I'm heading up there shortly. Mama wants me to bring her lunch. She says that the hospital food doesn't pass muster, so I've got instructions to pick up Thai food. Where do I get Thai food?" her voice broke and she sniffled.

"Ms. Whitley, are you all right?"

"I'm just—this is a lot, you know? I have no idea what I'm doing, where I'm going...."

"Why don't I stop and pick up something for all of us? I'll head over and meet you at the front door. We can go in together. I'm there a lot."

"That would be—just great!" she gasped. "Thank you. Mama's very demanding.... This is—it's—"

"It's always difficult when someone has emergency surgery. At least you're here. My parents are six hours away. I can't imagine what I'd do if either of them got sick."

"It's terrifying. I'm at the church office, but I'm taking a cab to the hospital."

"Why don't I come get you? I don't mind, and it's on my way. We can pick up the food together, and head over. That way, you aren't trying to get there on your own."

"Oh, could you? That would be—that would—" she sobbed.

"I'm on my way. I'm about fifteen minutes away. I drive a red Ford Explorer."

"Okay. Thanks. I'm going to go wash my face, and try to look respectable."

"I'm sure you look fine. I'll be there shortly."

"Thank you so much! Thanks."

"You're welcome. See you soon. Goodbye."

"Bye."

©Dellani Oakes 2023

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Fly by Night is over

 

I hope you enjoyed it. When I wrote this story, it went directions I didn't expect. I originally planned for the guy who helped her to be the one she fell for, maybe he was a ghost? I don't know.

I was going to tell you the inspiration for this tale, but looking back, I realize I did that already. Hmmm.... I guess I'll have to write a bit about the next story I plan to share. However, right this minute, as I type this, I have absolutely no idea what that is going to be. Since I want to get this post ready to go up shortly, I'll have to leave you in suspense – which you know I write – so we'll see where this goes. I have a variety of interesting tales to choose from. I have to ascertain which ones I've already shared, and which are begging to be read. I have so many finished novels, I doubt I'll get them all published in my lifetime, so I enjoy sharing them here.

Please check this space on Tuesday, March 9, 2023, to find out what I'm going to share! Until then, happy reading!

~ Dellani

Okay, I figured it out! I decided on my one and only attempt at a Christian Romance. It isn't exactly, but it hasn't got any sex scenes, and very little cursing. The characters endeared themselves to me, and I hope to use them in other tales yet to come. Please join me next time, when I introduce you to Old Time Religion.

Fly by Night ~ A Love Under the Sun Romance by Dellani Oakes – Part 57

They dropped Dr. Waverly at the hospital. Elam drove Blythe to her parents' house so she could borrow a car and do some errands.

"I'll be done around five," he said.

"Great. Come straight home," she said. "I have a surprise."

"Oh, really?" He raised a curious eyebrow. "Sounds like fun." He kissed her before getting back in the car.

After a short chat with her mother, Blythe drove to the nearest hardware store. She got copies of her keys made for Elam. A quick call to his mother assured her she was free for a visit. When Blythe arrived, Katrinka greeted her with hugs and kisses.

"Let me look at you," the spiritist said. She gazed deeply into Blythe's eyes. "My son is good for you."

"He's wonderful. I'm so lucky to have found him."

"Are the nightmares better?"

"Yes." She related the two dreams and how Elam had brought her back. She also told Katrinka of the experience with Malachi. "Do you think I'll continue to dream now?"

"I think so, but you mustn't worry. I can train you to handle what you see. Do I think you'll keep dreaming of car accidents and death? I don't know. But with Elam there, you'll be all right. He's far stronger than he likes to admit. We all have unique skills, which I would love to explore with you, if you'll let me."

"I would be delighted and honored. There's so much in the human mind that can't be explained. I'd like to look into it."

"I think that your friend, the doctor, will also be interested in our explorations. I see a book in our future," she said with a grin.

Blythe wasn't sure whether to believe her or not, but saw no reason not to. "I think that sounds wonderful."

They talked a little while longer, then Blythe headed back to her apartment. She started dinner, waiting for Elam. The keys were in a special box in the bedroom. Of course, the presentation would be made there.

He arrived by 5:30, happy and smiling. Sweeping Blythe up in his arms, he kicked the door shut as he kissed her, already carrying her to the bedroom. His clothing ended up in a heap, as did hers. Hungrily, he kissed her, enjoying her enthusiastic response. Their lovemaking was a celebration. Malachi was awake, she was well and they were together. Their romp was lively and satisfying. Afterward, Blythe rolled over to the bedside table.

"I told you I had a surprise."

"I thought we just had the surprise portion of the evening." Elam grinned, teasing her lips with the ends of her hair.

"Nope. Here." She handed him the box, waiting expectantly as he opened it.

Inside, there was a heart shaped keyring, with the keys to her apartment. "I want you to be able to come and go as you want. Sometime, when you're ready, I want you to move in. I know that's a big step," she rushed to say. "But you already mean so much to me. I feel like I've known you forever—"

Elam captured her mouth with his, kissing her deeply to thank her and to stop the babble.

"Thank you." He chuckled, grabbing his pants off the floor. He pulled out a small, paper bag. "I didn't have time to do this up all pretty, but open it."

She unfolded the flap and tipped the bag upright. A set of keys plopped into her hand.

"I stopped to get those made on the way home. I know you haven't even been to my place, but I want you to come and go as you want. And some day soon, I'd love to move in here, and make a home with you."

"Thank you."

They kissed a long time, only stopping when the kitchen timer went of. Laughing, Blythe ran to the kitchen to take dinner out of the oven.

After dinner, making love, and a shower, they sat on the couch munching on late night popcorn while they watched Dirty Dancing together. Blythe's phone rang, it was Jessamine.

"Hey there! How's everything?"

"Great. They're letting Malachi go home in a few days. Of course, they want lots of tests and therapy, but we can go home and be a real family."

"I'm so happy for you, Jessamine."

"And I have more news. We're getting married Christmas Eve. We want you, Elam and Dr. Waverly there. I'll send an invitation next week."

"Absolutely wonderful!"

"Great! Will you be maid of honor? With Elam as best man? Micah would have been—"

"I'm sure he'd be honored." She held the phone to her chest. "Would you be Malachi's best man?"

"Sure! I have experience," he quipped.

"He says yes. You can count on us."

"Excellent. Thank you again. Who knew that a little rainstorm would do so much?"

Blythe giggled. "Yeah, my car is toast, but I don't care. I woke a man from a coma, and found my soul mate. I'm gonna have to write a book."

"You should," Jessamine said. "Call it Dream Window."

"I just might do that. I'm really happy for you, Jessi."

"Me too—for you. Thank you again."

"You're welcome. Talk to you later."

They hung up.

"I can't remember a time I felt so good," Blythe said. "I'm so happy, I want to dance and sing."

"Go for it, babe. Can I watch?"

"No. I want you to dance and sing with me."

"I can do that," he said, turning up the TV.

It had just gotten to the last dance. Jennifer Warnes and Bill Medley's voices blended in perfect harmony. Elam hopped up, holding out his hand. She stood, not sure what to expect. He swung her into a dance. His hips moved against hers, as they dirty danced together. Not only that, he sang along with Bill Medley, as he spun her around.

When the song was over, they collapsed, laughing, on the couch. Breathless, they gasped for air.

"I've had the time of my life," he sang softly. "And I owe it all to you."

"I never knew I could be so happy," she said, kissing him. "Alec—"

"Talking about the dead husband spoils the mood," he whispered.

"Just this once."

He nodded.

"Alec never made me so happy. He never did the things that you do. I'm so sorry he's dead, but I'm so glad I found you."

"Me too," he murmured.

She ran her hands over his body, exciting him more. Her mouth left his and she raked her teeth down his neck to his shoulder, licking the spot where she'd bitten him. "Yippie-ki-yay!"

Elam shivered, laughing. "Oh, you kinky darling."

THE END

Fly by Night ~ A Love Under the Sun Romance by Dellani Oakes – Part 56

"No. But then, I didn't tell him about it, not specifically." She paused, sensing that Elam was growing alarmed with her long absence. "We have to get you out of here, Malachi."

"Yeah, no kidding. I want to hold my son and kiss my woman again. Do you know how long I've been without sex? Jesus."

Blythe laughed, that was very like something Elam would say. "At least a year," she said with a smirk.

"Has it really been a year? Doesn't seem possible."

Elam walked over, putting his hand on her shoulder. She could feel him, and hear him speaking, though his words didn't make sense. His voice sounded very far away.

"You can't stay here," Malachi said, suddenly worried. "Or we're both going to be stuck in this tiny little room. It's not big enough for us both." His crooked smile was tinged with worry.

Kneeling beside her, Elam took her hand. "Blythe?" His voice sounded hollow.

Blythe squeezed his fingers, feeling herself drift back to her body. She clasped Malachi's other hand, yanking hard. "Come with me. Now! You don't need to stay here, either."

He stepped forward, diving through a gap that opened in the floor. Blythe felt herself falling, but strong arms held her, catching her before she could fall very far. Gasping, she clutched at Elam.

Beside her, Jessamine laughed. "Malachi?"

"Hey, babe. Cute kid," he said, touching his son's tiny face.

"Malachi?" His mother rushed forward, his father right behind her.

"Mama, Poppy. Good to see you."

His mother took his hand, holding it to her face, kissing it. His father patted him on the shoulder. Two nurses and an aid came in the room to see what the commotion was. When they saw Malachi awake, they hugged one another.

"May I have a look?" Dr. Waverly said. "I'd hate to come all this way and not even examine the patient."

"Sure, Doc," Malachi said. "I've seen you before," he said. "That head trauma awhile back."

"Nearly eighteen months ago," Dr. Waverly said with a smirk.

"I've been kind of out of it."

"I've never seen anyone come out of a coma so suddenly and completely," she said, shaking her head. "I'd like to do some tests, but I don't think they'll show us a damn thing. Besides, I imagine you'd rather go home."

"I would, yes."

"You'll need therapy to get your muscle tone back. Your doctor will make the final decision, but they'll want the bed for someone who's sick."

"I can't go now?"

Dr. Waverly put her hands in her pockets. "You've been in a coma for a year, and just woke up. Do you think they're going to let you just get up and walk out of here?"

He laughed. "No, I suppose not. Thanks, Doc."

"I didn't do anything. It was Blythe."

He turned to face Blythe, who was now sitting in the chair by the bed. "Thank you. I don't know how you did it, but thank you. And, buddy," he said to Elam. "Thank you for what you did for Micah. I know you tried, man. But he was gone before you arrived."

"He was the first one I ever lost," Elam admitted.

"You didn't lose him, he was already gone. I could tell when he died. He's been here, keeping me company. I think I kept him here, but I wonder if he didn't kind of keep me here, as well. I wanted to die—truly did, but he talked me out of it."

"Is he still here, my Micah?" Mrs. Garafolo looked around expectantly.

"No, Mama. He's gone. He was a hell of a guy, my little brother. I'm sorry he's dead."

"We should go," Blythe said. "And let you all have some family time."

"Are you sure?" Mrs. Garafolo tried to convince them to stay, but Blythe was insistent.

Malachi sat up in bed, holding out his arms to Blythe. She walked over, taking his hands and he drew her to him. They hugged a long time, then he tenderly kissed her cheeks.

"Thank you for giving me my life back," he said. "If it hadn't been for you, I'd be trapped in that box forever."

"You would have found your way eventually."

He shook his head. "I wanted to die. Honest to God, was ready to give up. You gave me faith."

"And I got mine back, as well." They hugged again.

After their goodbyes were said, Elam, Blythe and Dr. Waverly went back to the front desk.

"I'll have Dr. Spiner call you," Sarah said. "He's out of town at a conference in Miami, talking about coma patients. Y'all come back any time."

More hugs and kisses all around. They got back in the car, Dr. Waverly once again insisting on the back seat.

"Do you think I'll have anymore dreams now?" Blythe asked her.

"I don't know, Blythe. I'd like to say no, but who can say? At least you know it's not because of something wrong in your brain. If you do continue to dream, I hope that they aren't so terrifying as they've been."

"I'll just have to have Elam with me," Blythe said, smiling at him. "He keeps me safe."

©2022 Dellani Oakes

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Fly by Night ~ A Love Under the Sun Romance by Dellani Oakes – Part 55

"And who are you?" he griped as the walked back in the room.

"This is the doctor who wanted to see Mal. This is the young man who helped him when he was hurt. And his lovely girlfriend, who sees him in her dreams. I told you all this, Abraham."

Her husband nodded tersely, shuffling away from them. He wouldn't look at Jessamine and the baby.

"May I hold him?" Mrs. Garafolo asked.

"Of course." Jessamine handed over her son.

Mickey grabbed at the string of pearls. Jessamine disentangled the tiny fingers, but he grabbed it again.

"Not to worry," his grandmother said. "It's triple strung. Your daddy liked to grab it too," she told little Malachi. "One day, he pulled so hard, it broke, and he swallowed one of the pearls."

"She was a wreck that day," Abraham grumbled. "So sure it would kill him. I was more worried about the pearl." He chuckled. "All perfectly matched. It was a wedding present from me."

"It's beautiful," Jessamine said. "I'm so sorry, Poppy," she sobbed. "I was foolish and didn't know what I wanted. I was afraid I'd lose something important. And I did." She rushed to him.

Abraham put his arms around her, holding her close. "But you're back. And maybe now my son will come back to us. Talk to him, Jessi."

The rest of them withdrew to the far corner. Dr. Waverly stood closer, to observe Malachi's reactions. Jessamine took the baby, holding him in her arms. She sat next to Malachi on the bed, smoothing his hair from his face.

"Hey, it's Jessi. Honey, I know you're in there somewhere, wanting to come out. I'm so sorry, all that I said. I was so stupid and wrong. I was scared, because I thought I might already be pregnant. Turns out, I was right. This is your son. I named him after you and Micah. I'm so sorry about your brother. He was such a great guy. And so are you."

She sniffled, her tears falling as she laid the baby in the crook of Malachi's arm. "I love you so much and I want Mickey, our son, to have his father around. You'll be such a great dad, just like Poppy and my dad. The two greatest fathers in the world." She swallowed, sobbing. "Come back, Mal. I need you to come back. I can't raise our son by myself."

Jessamine rested her head on Malachi's chest, sobbing. Mickey had fallen asleep in his father's embrace, sucking one tiny fist.

Blythe couldn't pull her gaze away. She had so hoped that Malachi would wake up when he heard Jessamine's voice. She had a strange sensation on her neck, as if someone stood behind her, blowing on her skin. The hairs ruffled, standing erect. No one else seemed to feel anything, they were too focused on the bed. She shivered, moving closer to Elam. Someone tapped on her shoulder. She felt it very distinctly. Glancing at Malachi, she couldn't see any change in him, but she knew he was trying to communicate with them. She could feel it. Rushing to the side of the bed, she took his other hand. She sat on the edge of the bed, closing her eyes. He stood in front of her, arms crossed over his chest. They looked like they were in a little glass room, hovering over his head.

"Took you long enough," he said. This was the first time he'd spoken directly to her. "Do you know how long I've been looking for someone to help me out?"

"I'm sorry. This is all new to me."

"It's not exactly common for me either," he said, gazing at Jessamine. "Why didn't she come sooner? I've been trying to talk to her for months."

"Your parents were angry."

"So, I've got a kid, huh? He's a cute little fucker."

Blythe laughed. It was something so like Alec would say. "Yes, he's named after you and your brother. I'm really sorry about him."

Pain crossed his face. "I couldn't save him."

"He died before help arrived. Elam, my boyfriend, was one of the ones who saved you."

"Oh, yeah? This is weird, Blythe. I don't know how to come back. I've been trying, but I can't. I feel like I should just open my eyes and wake up. But every time I try, it's like someone is sitting on them. I can't move."

"Where is your brother?"

"Micah? He's dead. Why?"

"Did he cross over?"

"Don't give me that spiritual mumbo-jumbo, Blythe."

"I'm serious, Malachi! Look at us. We're in a glass room hovering over the head of a man in a coma, talking like this is common. Have you ever done this before?"

"Shit, no."

"How did you find me?"

"I sometimes follow Jessi around, especially when she's driving long distances. I don't know how I do it, I just find myself with her. When you wrecked and she stopped, I was there. When you could see me, I knew I had to find a way to get help."

"Did you send the other dreams?"

"I don't know. I've spent a lot of time remembering accidents. I'm sure there's something really Freudian about that...."

"But the accident with Brian and Rose. You weren't there."

"Nope, but homeboy was. Didn't he tell you he responded to that one?"

©2022 Dellani Oakes

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Fly by Night ~ A Love Under the Sun Romance by Dellani Oakes – Part 57

They dropped Dr. Waverly at the hospital. Elam drove Blythe to her parents' house so she could borrow a car and do some errands.

"I'll be done around five," he said.

"Great. Come straight home," she said. "I have a surprise."

"Oh, really?" He raised a curious eyebrow. "Sounds like fun." He kissed her before getting back in the car.

After a short chat with her mother, Blythe drove to the nearest hardware store. She got copies of her keys made for Elam. A quick call to his mother assured her she was free for a visit. When Blythe arrived, Katrinka greeted her with hugs and kisses.

"Let me look at you," the spiritist said. She gazed deeply into Blythe's eyes. "My son is good for you."

"He's wonderful. I'm so lucky to have found him."

"Are the nightmares better?"

"Yes." She related the two dreams and how Elam had brought her back. She also told Katrinka of the experience with Malachi. "Do you think I'll continue to dream now?"

"I think so, but you mustn't worry. I can train you to handle what you see. Do I think you'll keep dreaming of car accidents and death? I don't know. But with Elam there, you'll be all right. He's far stronger than he likes to admit. We all have unique skills, which I would love to explore with you, if you'll let me."

"I would be delighted and honored. There's so much in the human mind that can't be explained. I'd like to look into it."

"I think that your friend, the doctor, will also be interested in our explorations. I see a book in our future," she said with a grin.

Blythe wasn't sure whether to believe her or not, but saw no reason not to. "I think that sounds wonderful."

They talked a little while longer, then Blythe headed back to her apartment. She started dinner, waiting for Elam. The keys were in a special box in the bedroom. Of course, the presentation would be made there.

He arrived by 5:30, happy and smiling. Sweeping Blythe up in his arms, he kicked the door shut as he kissed her, already carrying her to the bedroom. His clothing ended up in a heap, as did hers. Hungrily, he kissed her, enjoying her enthusiastic response. Their lovemaking was a celebration. Malachi was awake, she was well and they were together. Their romp was lively and satisfying. Afterward, Blythe rolled over to the bedside table.

"I told you I had a surprise."

"I thought we just had the surprise portion of the evening." Elam grinned, teasing her lips with the ends of her hair.

"Nope. Here." She handed him the box, waiting expectantly as he opened it.

Inside, there was a heart shaped keyring, with the keys to her apartment. "I want you to be able to come and go as you want. Sometime, when you're ready, I want you to move in. I know that's a big step," she rushed to say. "But you already mean so much to me. I feel like I've known you forever—"

Elam captured her mouth with his, kissing her deeply to thank her and to stop the babble.

"Thank you." He chuckled, grabbing his pants off the floor. He pulled out a small, paper bag. "I didn't have time to do this up all pretty, but open it."

She unfolded the flap and tipped the bag upright. A set of keys plopped into her hand.

"I stopped to get those made on the way home. I know you haven't even been to my place, but I want you to come and go as you want. And some day soon, I'd love to move in here, and make a home with you."

"Thank you."

They kissed a long time, only stopping when the kitchen timer went of. Laughing, Blythe ran to the kitchen to take dinner out of the oven.

After dinner, making love, and a shower, they sat on the couch munching on late night popcorn while they watched Dirty Dancing together. Blythe's phone rang, it was Jessamine.

"Hey there! How's everything?"

"Great. They're letting Malachi go home in a few days. Of course, they want lots of tests and therapy, but we can go home and be a real family."

"I'm so happy for you, Jessamine."

"And I have more news. We're getting married Christmas Eve. We want you, Elam and Dr. Waverly there. I'll send an invitation next week."

"Absolutely wonderful!"

"Great! Will you be maid of honor? With Elam as best man? Micah would have been—"

"I'm sure he'd be honored." She held the phone to her chest. "Would you be Malachi's best man?"

"Sure! I have experience," he quipped.

"He says yes. You can count on us."

"Excellent. Thank you again. Who knew that a little rainstorm would do so much?"

Blythe giggled. "Yeah, my car is toast, but I don't care. I woke a man from a coma, and found my soul mate. I'm gonna have to write a book."

"You should," Jessamine said. "Call it Dream Window."

"I just might do that. I'm really happy for you, Jessi."

"Me too—for you. Thank you again."

"You're welcome. Talk to you later."

They hung up.

"I can't remember a time I felt so good," Blythe said. "I'm so happy, I want to dance and sing."

"Go for it, babe. Can I watch?"

"No. I want you to dance and sing with me."

"I can do that," he said, turning up the TV.

It had just gotten to the last dance. Jennifer Warnes and Bill Medley's voices blended in perfect harmony. Elam hopped up, holding out his hand. She stood, not sure what to expect. He swung her into a dance. His hips moved against hers, as they dirty danced together. Not only that, he sang along with Bill Medley, as he spun her around.

When the song was over, they collapsed, laughing, on the couch. Breathless, they gasped for air.

"I've had the time of my life," he sang softly. "And I owe it all to you."

"I never knew I could be so happy," she said, kissing him. "Alec—"

"Talking about the dead husband spoils the mood," he whispered.

"Just this once."

He nodded.

"Alec never made me so happy. He never did the things that you do. I'm so sorry he's dead, but I'm so glad I found you."

"Me too," he murmured.

She ran her hands over his body, exciting him more. Her mouth left his and she raked her teeth down his neck to his shoulder, licking the spot where she'd bitten him. "Yippie-ki-yay!"

Elam shivered, laughing. "Oh, you kinky darling."

THE END

Fly by Night ~ A Love Under the Sun Romance by Dellani Oakes – Part 54

"The first night, yes. But Elam pulled me out of it. And I saw Alec's death—well, the preceding moments, from a great distance, like I was flying over it, watching. But Elam brought me back again. Then the dream ended and I slept great the rest of the night."

"Outstanding. Maybe Elam's the key to your recovery. You just have to sleep with her every night."

"If it means I'm getting laid, I'm in," Elam quipped.

Blythe smacked his shoulder, forgetting it was the sore one. He hissed sharply.

"Sorry." She kissed his cheek. "I bit him," Blythe told the doctor.

Elam groaned, his ears going red once more. "I'm never going to live this down. My girlfriend and my boss, discussing my sex life."

"It's okay, babe. I didn't tell her about reverse cowgirl."

"I'm going to pull over and throw you two out, if you keep this up." He made the exit to Ormond Beach.

"What he doesn't know," Blythe told Dr. Waverly, "is that I grew up around Jason and Alec, the two worst teases in the history of mankind. They were also practical jokers—at least I don't do that, except for April Fool's Day, then all bets are off. I had to learn how to fight back before they got me."

"But I'm not teasing you," Elam said as he turned left on to SR 40.

"No, but you make it so easy," she replied. "I'm sorry. I'll behave—ish."

Elam shook his head, laughing. "Babe, I've got a tough hide. I'm just one of those people who blushes. And it's not your teasing that's embarrassing me—it's what I think of after you say something."

Dr. Waverly laughed loudly. "At least you're honest, that's refreshing. This one is well worth holding onto, Blythe."

"I think so too. If for no other reason, than he's so awfully adorable when he blushes."

Ears burning, he made the last length of the drive in silence. Blythe and Dr. Waverly really bonded on the trip. Elam enjoyed hearing them talk. Both women had a wide variety of interests and shared many of them. They had a lot to talk about, not all of it, fortunately, Elam.

They spotted Jessamine in the parking lot when they arrived. Blythe had just gotten off the phone with her. She stood in the sunny parking lot, shielding her eyes, waving when she saw them. As they parked, she opened the back door of her car and reached in for something. It wasn't until she got out of the car that Blythe saw she was holding a baby.

She stopped, hand going to her mouth. Rushing over, she gazed at the little face, so like his father's. Dark brown eyes opened and he gazed into Blythe's eyes with a very knowing expression.

"This is Malachi Micah Garafolo," she said, introducing her son. "I gave him his father's name because there's never been any other man in my life. I knew what you meant, Blythe, when you said you wished you had a little piece of Alec to hold onto. I've got Mickey. But it would be so wonderful to have Malachi back." She teared up.

Elam took the carrier and baby bag from her. Blythe closed and locked the car as the doctor looked at the baby.

"He's a handsome boy. He looks so wise."

"He really does. There are times he flashes this expression, and looks so much like his daddy. Malachi has such an expressive face. I always tell him he can't play poker. Everything shows in his face." She grew silent, sniffling.

Blythe found a packet of tissues and handed her a couple.

Sarah was again at the desk. She'd been expecting Dr. Waverly to come with them, but wasn't sure about Jessamine. When she saw Mickey, she understood.

"I don't know how his mama will react," she said nervously. "She's not real happy on the subject of you."

"I don't imagine so. I was the selfish one who put my career before her son. Stupidest thing I ever did."

"You go on down," Sarah said. "If she wants to get mad at someone, she can fuss at me. A boy ought to know his daddy. And the daddy should know his son." She nodded, folding her arms over her ample chest.

Elam took her hand, kissing it. "Thank you. I do hope she doesn't get angry. I'd hate to have her yell at you."

She patted his cheek. "Ditto, sugar."

Mrs. Garafolo met them at the door. She was dressed in a simple dark purple dress that looked like raw silk. She had the same string of pearls at her throat. She clutched a black shawl around her shoulders. When she saw Jessamine, she gasped, tears bursting from her eyes.

"Oh, my child. My little one! I've been so wicked to you! Is this—is this ours?" She touched the baby with tender, loving hands.

"This is Malachi Micah Garafolo," Jessamine said, introducing her infant son. "He was born May thirtieth."

"But that's Mal's birthday! You didn't do a section?"

"No, Mama, that's just the day he came. He's five months old."

A tall, spare man came out of the room. Though he was I his fifties and gray haired, there was no mistaking his features. This baby was his grandson.

"What's all the fuss, Mama? What's she doing here?" He raised his voice.

"We need to take this in the room," Dr. Waverly asserted herself. She might be shorter than everyone, but she had a presence about her that even Mr. Garafolo wasn't going to argue with.

©2022 Dellani Oakes

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