//-------------------------------------------------------// Bonding Time -by KingdaKa- //-------------------------------------------------------// //-------------------------------------------------------// Bonding Time //-------------------------------------------------------// Bonding Time For one who had become such a traveler in recent years, the beautiful young woman who now looked towards the world just the other side of the window could only be left awed by the view. The rolling slopes of brilliant colors that cascaded down like waves to the deep valley below her, only to swiftly ascend miles away and transform into tree-marked mountains that jutted into the sky even higher than she had already climbed. The clouds that hovered in the skies above seemed only a slightest stretch of the hand away; just out of reach of fingers that could trace through their thin vapors and mold them into a new shape. Fluttershy had seen mountains and valleys and trees before. But for some reason, this landscape that passed by before her eyes was something uniquely beautiful. Maybe it was the way it passed her by, the steady speed of the ascending train that allowed her to bask in the glory of this natural wonderland. Perhaps it was the lushness of the vegetation, the early fall turning the once-uniform sea of green into a painting of yellows, golds, and reds that encompassed all shades. Or instead, it was for the reason why she was here to see any of it at all: a vacation. She felt the presence of weight beside her shift and the gentlehearted beauty turned and saw her mother, curling up a bit tighter and burying herself into the corner of the seat where sunlight couldn’t reach. She’d had to travel a few extra hours just to reach the Ponyville station where her daughter had joined her; it wasn’t hard to believe that Posey was a bit more tired than normal. It was a gorgeous view outside, yes, but Fluttershy decided to let her sleep on. They’d have plenty of time to continue catching up later. If she were truthful, Fluttershy would have preferred the trip being her idea. It hadn’t been her intent to grow distant from her family- being an Element Bearer hadn’t exactly been part of her future plans. And the more her life had gone on the wilder and adventurous it had become, until she was constantly occupied with returning to her old life or some other crisis that threatened her home. The fact that had her mother had decided to reach out during a period of momentary quiet was a relief; a chance to actually get away and take a respite in the depths of nature. Posey had booked a quiet cabin in the mountains for them to use, a small little place where mother and daughter could just relax in each other’s company without interference from the outside world. There would be hikes through nature, patio views of the valley below, and quiet chats by the fireside- everything she could ask for in a little vacation with her mother. And then there was to be a small confession of sorts. But one thing at a time; arriving at their stop was the first task handed to her. Even as the train reached the top of the incline still not did it regain speed, but instead continuing to slow, the once-powerful stride across the wilderness now becoming an easing crawl as the sound of steam and braking metal came to meet Fluttershy’s ears. A quick glance outside gave notice to the movement of people and parcels alike, the station clearly alive with activity in the brightness of the cool morning. “Mount Verdant station, Mount Verdant station!” Came the call across the intercom by the conductor. “All passengers for Mount Verdant station, thank you for traveling with us. All other passengers, please remain seated to allow local travelers room for departure.” They’d arrived here rather quickly; used to traveling on her feet than by any other means, Fluttershy had expected at least another hour of travel time. She turned to her mother and gave a small nudge, goading further when all she received were murmurs. “Mom, wake up,” she said in a voice that was meant to be firm, “We’re here. Come on, it’s time for us to get off the train.” “Mmm… hmm?” Posey had always been something of a heavy sleeper and thus she was slow to wake from a clearly comfortable nap. “Oh goodness, are we there?’ “Yes we are. Ready?” “Ooh, most definitely,” Posey murmured, her drowsy expression slowly waking and becoming a smile. “Let’s not wait. I know you’ll love the cabin I picked for us.” Fluttershy smiled, enthused by her mother’s excitement. The trip itself was an exciting possibility on its own, but to spend it alongside such easygoing company was going to make it all the more pleasant. And even how the trip itself began was a wonderful experience; their small weekend bags of clothing and necessities strung across their shoulders, mother and daughter found themselves heading along the well-trodden trail to their awaiting cabin, the vastness of the mountain’s wilderness all about them in its late morning glory. The sound of birdsong filtered through the trees alongside the gentle breeze, small rays of sunshine filtering through leaf and needle. Even the air itself smelled crisp and pleasant, the fragrant scent of pine well-meshed with the coolness of the season. For Fluttershy, it was a place of such beauty that she could have easily let herself stand there and be momentarily lost in its peacefulness. “That should be ours… just ahead,” Posey said, pointing to the slowly revealed rooftop of a dark oak cabin that sat just ahead, positioned just at the side of the hilltop and overlooking the valley below. It was not the largest available in the area, but instead a cottage-sized home and made for a quiet retreat. “Does it- do you like it?” “It looks wonderful, Mom,” Fluttershy assured her. “You did fine, don’t worry.” Internally, the gentle woman had to suppress a giggle; the idea of her telling someone not to worry! “There’ll only be one bed, from what they told me,” Posey added. “But- there will be a couch, too, I think. Or at least a lounge chair. If you’d-” “Mom, of course you can have the bed to yourself,” Fluttershy interjected. “I’ll be perfectly fine on the couch, I promise.” Posey gave a somewhat shamefaced smile. “I hope it’s not too simple for you. I know it’s a little more rustic than what you and I are used to.” Fluttershy shook her head, still enamored by the sound of the wild world about her. “I love it.” The door opened with a weakened creaking as the two women entered their cabin, finding a small but charming interior awaiting them within. An open fireplace with a pile of logs beside it, left for them to use; gathered about it were a pair of chairs and a cushy loveseat, a large coffee table nestled within the center. The cabin seemed to be bereft of doors and instead was dominated by the openness of rooms to make up for its more diminutive floor space. It was not the most elegant nor the most decrepit, but a plain sort of pleasantness that spoke of warmth and comfort. “Do you mind helping me set up the place, Fluttershy?” Posey asked, setting her own personal bag beside the door. “If you could put the kitchen together, and see the cold things put away…” The two women promptly set about to seeing their vacation home prepared and made all the homier by their arrival, small trinkets and items put away for later use as they settled in; perishable food was thrown in the fridge and ice box, dishes stacked in the cupboards, and a bathroom prepped and made clean. Fluttershy, when finished with her own efforts, came to see what aid her mother needed and found herself greeted by the sights and scents of what she knew to be home. Wherever her mother went, so did that tangible comfort. The thought gave the woman pause; she was in a good humor, and her mother was of a similar mind. Perhaps this was something she should take advantage of? Actually tell her mother the little revelation about herself she’d discovered? Fluttershy’s heart beat a little faster at the thought, made nervous by the idea of confessing such a thing. But maybe it would be better, she thought, to see the truth come out before they became too well-nestled. If the reception was poor, it would be better to return to the station in daylight hours rather than the dead of night. She’s your mom. She should know. Not the best argument she could have made, but Fluttershy had already made up her mind. The longer she waited, the worse it would become. To the balcony she went and found her mother setting a tablecloth atop a log table, occasionally pausing to enjoy the scenic view that was offered to them across the open treeline; it was a glorious sight, an easy thing to be lost in. Fluttershy could have easily set aside her new task and just enjoyed the view with her mother in silence. “Well,” Posey said, “how does the kitchen look?” “Everything’s ready,” Fluttershy replied. “I put the skillet on the stovetop for tonight, and the chicken is thawing out. Do you want me to cook tonight?” “I’ll certainly not say no to being served dinner,” Posey said, taking a seat and motioning for her daughter to join her. “Well, we’ve been both caught in up in traveling and getting the place ready, I almost forgot to ask… how have you been, Fluttershy?” It was a perfect question to help segue into her intentions. Fluttershy smiled and answered, “I’ve been doing well, Mom. I’m sorry I haven’t been able to keep in touch as well lately. The girls and I have been busy helping Princess Twilight, and it’s been… well, a rush.” “You’re fine, dear. Really. I’m just glad you could take a few days away from home to spend them with your old mother,” Posey said. “Parents understand, Fluttershy. We both have our own lives, and yours ended up being a busy one. It’s alright to not talk all the time.” “Thank you, Mom,” she said, a genuine smile in reply. “I’m glad I’m here with you. It’s nice to get away for a bit.” “And I’m glad to be with you- and in such a lovely place! I don’t believe I’ve ever been to the mountains before,” Posey declared, turning to bask in the unblemished view of the natural world that surrounded them in its coat of sunshine. “Have you ever been in such a place with your friends?” “Not like this, no,” Fluttershy admitted. “But we have gone to other mountains before.” “Did you like them then? The mountains, I mean?” The memory of a massive beast that had been the threat to their home shook in her mind. “Not really, no.” Fluttershy could feel the confession lodged in her throat. It pushed, begged for release from the prison of her mind. She certainly wanted to be free of its weight, but still wasn’t quite sure how to begin saying such a thing. It was more intimidating than she certainly wished it would be! “Fluttershy,” her mother slowly said, “does- your brother wanted me to ask… does Rainbow Dash ever mention him?” “Umm.” Fluttershy bit her lip in the hopes that her smile would not grow too wide. Yes, Rainbow mentioned her brother from time to time, in the foulest iteration of curses and denouncements and horror stories she could conceive of. But maybe saying so out loud was not to be the kindest thing she could do right now. Posey, scrutinizing her daughter’s struggling expression, split her face in a grin. “She still can’t stand him, can she?” “Oh no.” At last she could be free and laugh aloud, the two women able to be freely amused by their kin’s hapless, boorish, yet still well-meaning advances on a most unwilling Rainbow Dash that still did not give enough of a hint. “She got a letter from him the other day, actually.” “It didn’t go well, I’m guessing.” “She didn’t say anything about it, at least,” Fluttershy said, deciding that further details weren’t at all necessary. “So, umm… Mom, there was- there was something I wanted to tell you. About me.” Posey’s mirth paused, noticing the tensing form of her daughter. “Alright,” she said. Fluttershy, still struggling for a course of action to take, started slowly. “So a few months back, uh- a friend of mine- and me, we- I told her I had a crush on the schoolteacher back home, and I was thinking about maybe asking her to go on- on a date. But I was a bit nervous about it and so I asked if she’d help me- you know… practice a little.” Posey at first was left a little mystified by her daughter’s tremulous confession, but her quizzical expression soon gave life to a small amount of surprise as the pieces fell into place. “Oh. Did you ask Rainbow, or was it another of your friends?” Her mother was acting fairly even, despite Fluttershy’s obvious bungling of the matter. “Uh- no, it- it was Applejack. She’s- she’s nice, and she wouldn’t laugh or make fun of me, or a-anything if I asked her to help me practice kissing with… with a woman. And so we did, and it was…” A small gulp, the real deep breath before the plunge. “And I really liked it. And when I went on a date with Cheerilee, I- we didn’t end up staying together for very long, but I really liked her. And wanted to just be with women for good.” Posey regarded her daughter, still seemingly surprised by the confession but yet to give her verdict on the matter. Fluttershy waited with bated breath for her to say something, good or bad; at least it would be done and over with and she could go on to deal with either fallout or acceptance. She’d been stewing over this moment for ages, wondering how on earth she was supposed to tell her parents. They’d always wanted grandchildren eventually, and her brother more or less didn't seem the type to manage even a simple pickup line without getting slapped in the face; how was she supposed to deliver this last knockout blow to their hopes like this? Posey took one last moment to mull over her thoughts, then simply gave a shrug as she smoothed out the few remaining wrinkles on the tablecloth. “OK,” she said. “Well, I’m sorry it didn’t work out for you, dear, but I’m glad you brought yourself out of your comfort zone.” Fluttershy had expected a more potent reaction than that, for reasons her now more rational mind couldn’t quite fathom. Her mom wasn’t exactly the kind to be an extreme reactionary, why had she worried about an intense condemnation? “So you’re OK with it?” “I’m more surprised that you put yourself out there like that,” Posey admitted. “I mean, I’m glad that you tried, but I’m still surprised. You never were very romantic; I guess being around your friends has really helped you come out of your shell.” Fluttershy, relieved at the loss of the weight in her words, managed a bashful grin. “I- well, I didn’t do too well. We only lasted a few months before we broke up.” “Not every relationship last for a long time,” Posey reminded her. “Sometimes they just stay surface level and never go deeper. If you don’t mind me asking, what happened?” Fluttershy’s smile softened as she gave a small shrug in defeat. “I was inexperienced, I guess. And she had a busy life, working at a school. It was a bit difficult to make it work easily, so we just decided to let it go. She was very nice, though.” “And now you know what you’ll want to do next time,” Posey said assuredly, reaching over to give her daughter’s hand a small squeeze. “Thanks for being so brave for me, Fluttershy. I hope you didn’t think I’d be mean to you.” The thought that had once seemed so intimidating had been rendered silly once faced with reality. “I… sort of did,” the sweet-faced woman admitted. “In case you felt let down about me having kids someday, or just- anything, I guess.” “It’s alright. I’m just glad that you feel better about yourself.” Posey’s smile was so warm and genuine that her daughter could only echo the action, adding her brightness to the mix as she smiled once again. Fluttershy felt airy and light, free of her fears that had now been rendered foolish by her mother’s gentle love. “Well, now that we’ve gotten you feeling better,” Posey said, “How about we take a little walk? I saw a lovely trail nearby when we were on the way; we could take a small hike before coming back and making dinner. Does that sound alright?” Relieved of her worries and offered a chance to roam freely through a nigh-untouched paradise of nature, Fluttershy felt herself beaming at her beloved mother’s suggestion. “I’d like nothing more,” she said happily. The evening came before the beautiful woman of the natural world was willing to rescind her place amongst the mountain's denizens; hours well spent in the midst of both flora and fauna now seemed time too little, not enough to quench her overflowing love of this newfound splendor in which she currently dwelled. Far from the fiery and vicious beasts of mountainous lands far away that could strike terror in her heart, Fluttershy instead could enjoy the quiet and serene world of the forest hills to her heart’s content. These were simple creatures, often timid and little more than silhouettes that slipped through trees and undergrowth so as to move on with their day; a pair of rabbits darting through the brush was a sight to behold, a doe and her fawn standing motionless alongside the trail a marvel. All about her were the sounds of birds and being unseen, yet near enough to let their sound and movements echo in her heart and make this place a treasure to ever cherish. More unwilling than her maturity would like her to admit, Fluttershy acquiesced to her mother’s plea to return to the cabin before the skies began to darken, the tired but contented pair of women crossing through the front door just as the last rays of light were beginning to flare their final beams along the horizon. Though their leisure had been well-spent, the lack of movement let her stomach’s growls at last reach the rest of her senses. “I guess we made it back just in time,” Posey teased. "Is it OK if I help you get a little dinner ready?” Not at all unwilling to spend further time with her mother, Fluttershy set to the kitchen with fervor alongside Posey, the two working in a smooth, occasionally playful tandem as a small meal of healthy, flavorful greens with glazed chicken was prepared by their joined hands; too hungry for something complex was daughter, and mother in no mood for richer fare after such a long walk. Through their efforts they bounced about the cozy kitchen, and oftentimes against one another in an action that would bring about laughter and life. Despite their many years apart in their own individual lives, Fluttershy wondered if they had ever really been closer. “Now, everything’s ready,” Fluttershy declared, looking down at her vegetable medley with satisfaction and no small degree of hunger. “Not quite,” Posey said, reappearing from back in the bedroom and carrying an elongated item in her hands that was concealed by a small cloth. “Would you grab a couple of glasses, Fluttershy?” “Mom,” Fluttershy breathed, knowing just exactly what it was her mother now held in hand. “I didn’t know you brought anything like that along!” “I may have asked your father to buy it for us,” Posey murmured, pouring out the freshly popped champagne into a glass for both she and her daughter. “I figured we might like something to help the evenings pass by.” In all her time back at her parent’s home, she had never once seen them drink. It wasn’t an uncommon habit for anyone to partake in, but she would never have guessed it of her mother- so light and slender, Fluttershy had always assumed she would be too much of a lightweight. “I’m just… a little surprised, that’s all,” she replied. “Thank you, it looks so very lovely.” Posey suddenly smiled, a cheeky sort of grin that had never once been seen by her daughter’s eyes. “I can’t always be predictable. It was a nice way of keeping the girls on their toes when I was about your age.” Now that was a strange thing to say. Fluttershy eyed her mother as they walked over to the nearby table with plates and glassware in hand, setting down to eat and at last enjoy the fruits of their labor. “Mom?” Posey let herself sample a bite of food before reacting to her daughter’s query. “Mhm?” “What did you mean by that? About keeping girls on their toes?” A sip of champagne and that strange grin again appeared on Posey’s sweet face. “Well, if you must know, dear… you aren’t the first woman in this family who liked to be intimate with other women.” And to think that her own private revelation had been something she’d considered colossal. “Mom!” Fluttershy gasped, left temporarily dumbstruck at her mother’s sudden remark- and a little confused. “Are you- but you’re married to Dad!” “Oh, I eventually settled down, of course,” Posey admitted, “When your father and I first started dating, we did break up for quite a while. And in between, I… may have enjoyed myself a little. I never thought of myself as a lesbian like you do, but I did spend a few months with a lovely lady named Opal. And a small tryst with a model a bit after.” The idea that her mother had been anything but her father’s demure little girlfriend-turn-spouse was an earth-shattering thought to Fluttershy, now having to cope with the fact that her mother had once been something of a wild child. “I- I never knew,” she whispered. “What, umm- why did you stop? Did you just not like being with women?” “I did. Opal was lovely, and Serene –that model- was a wonderful girlfriend, but we just eventually went our separate ways,” Posey said as she swallowed another mouthful. “Not everything works out, and I eventually reconnected with your father. And I’ve been happy ever since.” “Does- I mean, does he know? Dad?” Posey nodded, a small giggle escaping her lips. “He’s always been a bit embarrassed by it, actually. He was scared that they’d been better in bed than he was!” “Mom!” The entirety of this conversation was leaving Fluttershy reeling, from one blow to the other. To think her mother could be so blatantly risqué, even more than she’d been! Posey at least did blush a faint pink at that reprimand, though shrugging her shoulders in reply. “I hope it’s not too awkward for me to say, Fluttershy. What with you saying you liked girls, I wondered if maybe I could tell you of my own little adventures.” “It’s just- it’s just a surprise, that’s all,” Fluttershy replied, wondering if that was an understatement. “Did- do you regret it? Going back to Dad at all, or anything?” Posey shook her head as she took another sip of champagne. “Oh, no. I’m happy with your father,” she said. “It was fun to be- well, a bit wild. Adventurous- women do feel so much different, and softer. But your father was the right fit for me. Sometime it’s about compatibility, you know, and not what feels the most fun.” It was almost a wistful, morose thing to say. Fluttershy regarded her mother as a little more of her glass was drained and wondered if perhaps there were a multitude of what-if’s were now streaming through her mind from days and memories long gone, yet resurrected by her daughter’s liberation. “… Mom?” “Mhm?” “Are you… sure?” she asked, albeit hesitantly. “Do you think sort of settled for something safe?” Posey actually took pause to consider the question now before her, letting silence take its place as she struggled over the proper answer. “I… perhaps I did, just a little,” she said after a time. “I do love your father- I promise I do. But it was… nice to be able to just- be with someone just because I wanted to. And approval of such things wasn’t quite as kind back then.” As she took notice of her daughter’s sympathetic and somewhat downcast expression, Posey made sure to smile and fight against the gloom. “I’m happy with the decision I made. I have a comfortable life, a peaceful marriage. And if I hadn’t married your father, I wouldn’t have had you; that’s something I’m very grateful for.” She still felt a twinge of sympathy for her mother, but the compliment was rewarded by a smile in return. “Thanks, Mom.” Again, despite all her growth and years of change, Fluttershy found her mother there to cheer her up in a way no one else could. “I’m happy that you’ve made up your mind, at least,” Posey remarked. “I hope you don’t mind me asking, but what do you look for? In a partner, I mean.” A personal question, even if well-meaning. The burst of nervous giggles that came alongside a red flush on Fluttershy’s face were unbidden. “Ah, umm… I guess a few- specific things,” she began in a stammer; a heady gulp of champagne to help loosen her tongue, and perhaps alleviate the bashfulness. “Is it bad if I say I want her to be pretty?” Posey shook her head. “If you don’t find them attractive, why would you pursue a relationship with them? I completely understand, dear.” “Well, then… that she’s pretty,” Fluttershy admitted. “And someone kind. And patient, because I’m not very good at being- romantic, you know. Or things like that.” “Do you have to be?” Their intimate discussion continued on well after their meals had been fully consumed; Fluttershy and Posey slowly continued to slake away thirst with the dwindling remnants of the champagne bottle before moving over to the couch where greater comfort was offered. Perhaps their tongues a bit loosened by alcohol could be considered, but Fluttershy gave greater weight to the sense of relief that came from discussing the matter. Her mother, an unexpected source of wisdom when it came to the affairs of love, was a source of comfort; the sweet woman was able to ask question after question unabated by a filter or shame. For Posey, it was a welcome surprise to be able to speak with her daughter so openly. Not quite a means to relive days gone by, but it did turn memories once thought of as bittersweet into something more tangible and meaningful. She could speak of past relationships without outside jealousy or inward guilt, but instead give her own recollections of romantic encounters to an eagerly listening audience; it was something of a delight to be able to take days that she thought of as rather rebellious and instead now be constructive. Her daughter wanted to pursue deeper relationships with women? Then perhaps she had wisdom to share that could make things easier, particularly for one who was inexperienced and unconfident. The night was growing long when it was universally decided that the rest of the champagne would have to wait for another night. With Posey too much a lightweight to need much and Fluttershy content with her fill, the glasses found themselves deposited in the sink and made empty alongside the other dirty dishes where they would likely await cleaning until the coming morning. As mother and daughter returned to the couch with intent of sinking further into relaxation, the lightness in their hearts was something made all the easier to acquire. Fluttershy found herself a little less embarrassed, and slightly prone to giggles than her usual norm; Posey’s voice had at last reached her daughter’s more robust tone and continued to recall stories of her romantic adventures, with daughter as a rapt audience. “I never would have believed it of you, Mom,” Fluttershy remarked as Posey’s last story came to an end- then an immediate gasp of regret as she realized what her words could mean. “I’m sorry! I didn’t mean for it to sound like that, it was-” “Oh, you’re fine, Fluttershy,” Posey said with a wave of her hand. “You’ve always known me as your quiet, demure little mother. Of course you wouldn’t think of me as being someone who enjoyed the risqué.” “Well… yes, that’s true,” the younger woman admitted. “I’m- it’s nice that you feel like you can tell me.” Posey smiled. “And I’m glad you’re willing to listen to an old woman’s ramblings. I haven’t been able to talk about Opal, or Serene in years. I know I must seem silly.” “It’s not silly. They sound like they were very lovely,” Fluttershy replied. “How- was it nice? To… you know… be intimate with them?” Posey cocked her head. “You mean the sex?” she asked. “Oh, I enjoyed every second. I swear, Opal knew exactly what I wanted to feel whenever we were together. And Serene… oh my, did I know how to drive her batty. You should have seen her whenever I got things hot and heavy!” “Hot and heavy- you!” Fluttershy gasped, laughing at the thought of her innocent mother being someone seductive. “Goodness, why couldn’t you have passed that down to me? I never have a clue of what to do, I was such a mess with Cheerilee.” “Why would you say that?” Fluttershy blushed and turned away. “I could never get super comfortable. I really liked her, but- all I liked doing was- well, kissing. She wanted to get physical, right away. I wasn’t really ready for that just yet.” “Aw, why not?” Posey asked, seemingly disappointed by her daughter’s hesitancy. “It’s by far the loveliest part. And there’s so much that goes into being physical, it’s more than just scissoring, you know.” A rather pregnant pause, Posey taking the moment to quietly reminisce as Fluttershy allowed the weight of her mother’s words to actually sink in and take effect. Whether it was her mother’s strange brazen attitude regarding something so personal or the fact that she was being offered a chance to inquire further had left the poor woman more than a little flustered. “Oh. Umm-” Fluttershy played with her hair for a second as she tried to compose herself. “I’m… I’m not sure what you mean.” “Well, you said you like kissing, for example. The foreplay should be just as enjoyable as the act itself,” Posey suggested. “And even before that… how do you tempt someone in? Who takes the lead for specific moments, how do you go about after? It’s not just about sex and how you do the act, but also enjoying the time with your partner.” “How did you do that?” “Hmm… Opal and Serene were both so different,” Posey mused, her mind temporarily leaving the present and gazing back upon treasured memories. “Opal was a little older than me, and much more comfortable, so she’d often be the one taking the lead. She was sweet, so I learned a lot of what felt good for me because of her. Serene-” she paused to laugh and let the memory be reveled in. “Oh goodness, that poor girl! She was so used to having to put up appearances that she loved to be submissive. I’d tease her endlessly, always try to drive her wild. If she could keep her hands off of me then I wasn’t trying hard enough.” Fluttershy couldn’t imagine it, much less know how she was supposed to emulate such a behavior. Just admitting to herself that she liked women had been hard enough, and trying to pursue a relationship with one had been grueling. But to be dominant or sensuous-! “I wish I could be like that. At least sometimes,” she said. “I really did like Cheerilee, I just- I guess I wasn’t really comfortable yet.” “You can always get to that point, it just takes getting out of your comfort zone a little bit,” Posey replied. “Here’s an idea, why don’t I give you a little idea of what I used to do? Whenever Serene would come back, I loved to be there waiting for her as a special surprise.” “A surprise?” Posey thought for a moment. “Wait here,” she said, tottering off from the couch and leaving her daughter fairly well flummoxed. Fluttershy turned to where her mother had disappeared and uncertainly waited. Was- was she supposed to follow after and watch? But if she was supposed to be sort of playing the role of her mother’s ex-girlfriend then maybe she was supposed to just sit here and wait. It was a nice feeling, even if it was only imaginary. The idea of someone waiting for you to get home and ravish you, desiring you and wanting to satisfy you. It would be nice to experience, and maybe even do for someone else sometime. But that was a long way off, and not something she could just do all so easily. Still, to have a girlfriend and be able to be sexy and fun and tempting for her- “She’d never hear me coming, either.” The words that came from her mother’s lips were a decadent purr, and enough to rouse Fluttershy from her inner musings. As she turned about to see what had transpired, all she could do was gasp. “Oh wow!” Posey smirked, an already elevated confidence now heightened by her daughter’s starstruck reaction. There she stood in brilliantly beautiful lingerie the color of snow, so soft and silky to the eye, a string of pearls about her neck that shimmered in the soft light of the nearby fire. Fluttershy suddenly understood why women had lusted after her mother, especially if she was once even lovelier than she was now: those stockings fit with a perfect snugness about her legs and trailing up to soft thighs, white dinner gloves adding a trace of sensuous elegance to the overall appearance. Large –wonderfully large-! breasts lay hidden behind a small corset top, allowing Posey’s stomach to have the slightest pooch above a flowery-white pair of panties. Yes, there was a spare bit of plushness here and there, an extra bit of weight that simply came with time, but it was not even anything close to a detraction; if anything, it only made the older woman appear all the more potent and pleasurable, as if her body bespoke of her experience and wisdom. “I always liked to surprise Serene with something like this,” Posey said as Fluttershy came over to further marvel at this lacework portrait of beauty. “She’d be desperate for me to start taking it off, but I’d just tell her to enjoy it for a bit- and then start undressing me herself.” Fluttershy seemed hypnotized, unable to resist taking a few moments to let her hands feel the culmination of her mother’s efforts. The lingerie and corset were silky smooth to the touch, and her skin just as wonderful. Was this the effect a tempting woman was supposed to have? No wonder it was something to imitate- who could resist? Even a small feel of her mother’s breasts in her hand seemed like the correct course of action, an action that wasn’t at all unsatisfying. “And- wow, just… then what would you do?” “Oh, I never minded letting Serene just enjoy me for a little while,” Posey said. “She’d run her hands over me and tell me how beautiful I was. Sometimes she’d get lost in it and just keep going like she was starstruck. The poor thing always did get distracted so easily.” “But- but if you were wanting to do more,” Fluttershy said eagerly, “then what’d- how’d you bring her back?” She was half-attentive now, not sure of whether or not she was supposed to pay attention to her mother’s words or her figure. Both sounded perfect at the moment. “Oh, I’d get her attention when I was ready,” Posey purred. “Sometimes a word would do the trick. But, personally, I had a preference of going in for the kiss-” And without a moment’s wait she leaned in and ensnared the unsuspecting and awaiting lips of her daughter, Fluttershy and Posey bound together at the mouth; the sweet-faced young woman closed her eyes and allowed herself to slowly swoon in the midst of the moment as she felt so desired, so comfortable in the embrace of this attentive, guiding beauty. Posey’s lips were so smooth and warm, perfectly plied against her own and she begged for the moment when this kiss would end and be succeeded by another, then a flurry of them as she made love with her- And then she realized what had just happened. The once-timid woman pulled back instantly, embarrassed and amazed that she had even had the daring- or had the will behind their suddenly passionate union been her mother's? Fluttershy could only blush a fierce crimson and gape at Posey in shock. “Mom!” “I'm sorry!" Posey’s hands flew across her lips, barely able to look beyond her fingers at the daughter she had just left freshly kissed. “I didn’t mean to, it was the- I just- I...” The two women eyed each other for a little while longer. Then, as if both gave action to the same idea at once, they let their tongues find one another and dance together in a mingling of saliva; the barest brushing of flesh, yet still so open and decadently passionate. Their sapphic meeting lasted only for a moment, but a moment was all it took to see mother and daughter knowing that such a sensation wasn’t unsatisfactory in the slightest. They latched onto each other and found lips pressed against lips as they held one another close, a sweet sigh melting into the air as relief of deeply-bound pressure finally came to pass within their hearts. “That was wonderful,” Posey mewed, flushed red and utterly delighted at the feel of her daughter’s mouth united with hers. “Fluttershy-!” “Mom... do-” Fluttershy disappeared temporarily into a small fit of giggles. “Do you want to have sex?” “With you?” “Please!” “Oh, baby,” Posey said sweetly, clutching her daughter's face with her gloved hands, “I certainly do.” As those hungering eyes met her partner’s gaze they became soft, a warmth like candlelight within them as she brought in those delectable lips for another kiss, this one of an exquisite flavor; behind it was longing, desire, and not even a drop of restraint. All the years that had once separated from younger days were now gone, memories now renewed as she met her sweet, feminine partner in an embrace. Her lips had been left unkissed for too long, her heart skipped beats as she took in the loveliness of her daughter’s mouth; every romantic act she had so dreadfully missed saw its chance to be reborn in this new, wild act of passion. For Fluttershy, it was a strange sort of marvelousness that now occurred within her. She knew it was scandalous what she now shared, but the thought only seemed to invigorate her spirit all the more. Hesitancy that she had once felt was left behind in the dust, allowing herself to fully experience this new, tempting pleasure. Her mother kissed wonderfully, and felt even more so- by instinct of her own subconscious desire, her hands went to her mother’s concealed breasts and lay gently across them, the feel of them in her hands adding to the pleasurable sensation. This was a woman of confidence, of experience; she wanted to enjoy it as best she could. “You’ve too much clothing on you, dear,” Posey said as their long kiss found its conclusion. “But we don’t need to stay standing to get there; shall we get comfortable?” “Please,” Fluttershy said, giggling wildly as she was guided by her mother’s hand to the darkened quarters of the bedroom, finding a cozy mattress adorned by a plush comforter; perfect for bodies laid bare, and just enough room to be comfortably close. As she was settled atop and lain back against the cushion of the pillows, her heart began to pound within her chest as excitement streamed through her; this was really happening. She was about to make love with her mother, this delicious beauty of a woman- how could she stand the wait? “Comfortable?” Posey took to her knees before her daughter, perfectly relaxed and clearly enjoying the slow rhythms of this lustful dance. “You’d let me know if you didn’t want to keep going, wouldn’t you?” “Please don’t stop!” Fluttershy pleaded, left surprised even by her own hungering. “But- Mom, I- well, I already told you…” Posey smiled, leaning forth and laying atop her daughter as she slithered her body forward before planting a single wet kiss on Fluttershy’s lips, tongue slipping forth and tracing along the mouth just as she retreated. “I’ll do exactly what you want me to,” she whispered. “It won’t be fun if you don’t enjoy it. So tell me, sweetheart… do you want it here-” Her hand went beneath the hem of Fluttershy’s dress and found underwear, tracing a solitary finger across the line of folds that tremored at the touch they received and made Fluttershy gasp- “Or there…” the hand that had teasingly played along the wet creases now moved further beyond and found a petite bottom; a small knead, then a quick prod into deeper places. The thought of it! It was a swooping sensation that came in reply, but also a lurch. It felt nice, but it was a little too much. What had come before felt so much better… “My- the first one, please,” Fluttershy said, albeit ashamed. It wasn’t very adventurous of her. “Ooh, I’m not surprised. You always did love tradition,” Posey said. “Now, how about we get rid of your dress? It just might get in the way.” More sheepish than she wanted to be, Fluttershy did her best to quickly unravel herself from the confines of her clothing, the knee-length dress discarded onto the floor as she was made all but bare save for the tan bra and underwear that still clung to her form. She’d never done something like this, always too hesitant or fearful to try. But her mother wasn’t being pushy; this felt strange, but a little safer and less judgmental. “Oh my. Dear Fluttershy, you really are exquisite,” Posey murmured. She came in close and took away the shy woman’s brassiere and found supple breasts awaiting, not quite as majestic as her own but still shapely and lovely. They deserved their own little reward, a few tender kisses that peppered breastflesh before attending to the areola; a small lathering of her tongue about the nipple, then a slow, lingering press of lips against them. “How did that feel?” “Really good,” Fluttershy breathed. “Mmm, that’s good to hear. Then I think you’ll like this next.” “But what’re you-” “Trust me, dear,” Posey whispered, marking her trail southward with soft, gentle kisses against bare flesh that traveled from the breast to the navel, temporary pauses as she made sure each new destination was well cared for. A kiss on the right thigh, and then the left- then a firm press into the concealed folds between, a fiercer pressure so as to get a reaction, one that came in the form of a shuddered gasp. “I think these are in the way…” Fluttershy felt her heart pound. It was happening, it was really happening! Those beautiful pearls gleamed in the rays of moonlight that filtered in from the window, turning her mother’s skin and lingerie into something luminous. As she felt that last article of clothing be brought down her legs and cast away, all she could focus on was the beauty of the woman before her. This lovely, moonlit angel was to deflower her. The first sensation was strange, new, and yet wondrous. She knew her mother was kissing her folds, but the act of it was something still tender. Posey was pressing upon them with pressure, yet still just gently. She wanted her presence to be known, felt- but not overwhelming. The newness of this feeling was strong, but not at all unlikeable. Unfamiliar, yet she enjoyed the feeling of a heat below, and the dampness that came along with it. Fluttershy enjoyed the sensation, and wanted it to continue. A sigh escaped her lips as her mother continued with her cavalcade of tender presses against her slit, the kisses lasting on as she decided this act was most assuredly pleasurable. “Oh, Mom, that feels good-” It was as if her words were a cue. Those soft rhythm of kisses halted- and then a plunge! A long, snaking tongue dove deep within and plundered her, Fluttershy taken aback by the suddenness of the act. And the ferocity! That had been an unmistakable moment, something in a class all its own. Her dampness was now a flood, an intense rush of feeling at the might of the sensation. How had Posey managed that? It felt wonderful, and she needed more of it! “Oh, again!” Posey’s restraint ebbed away the more the act continued, each new sound that her daughter made a new call to intensify the assault. She licked and lathered, she pulled and nibbled. How was one supposed to not enjoy this? It was intentional love, an act of meaning that Fluttershy wanted more of. She couldn’t help but let the coo turn to a moan, even a breathlessness behind it that spoke to her pleasure. How was anything supposed to feel this good? Surely it was too good to be true- But then a sudden climax, a whirlwind of feeling as her unsuspecting body began to rock. Fluttershy gave a small gasp, and then a cry as a forceful, creeping orgasm struck like lightning and made her fall back in a heap. She could feel her body rushing, feel the flow pour forth from her as ecstasy flooded her fair form. It was excellent, it was wonderful, it was perfect! She hadn’t known something could feel this good, a pleasure unrivaled in all her days. She rode the wave for as long as she could, letting the tide of contentment push her along until at last she came to shore. It had all happened so fast, and not lasted long enough. Perhaps she should have tried to hold on, but how was she to have known? It had struck her so suddenly… Yet there was still movement below. She could still feel that soft, wet lathering of her mother’s tongue working its way through her folds as though nothing had changed; had what just transpired been nothing to her? Fluttershy had stimulated herself a few times before, and knew the end result. If she was a mess down there, why was Posey still licking away? Did she like that sort of thing? Was there a flavor to it, a texture that she enjoyed? It wasn’t something the innocent young woman had ever considered before. But now she did, looking down below at the dutifully working mouth of her mother that continued to lather its salivating coat of praises upon her freshly deflowered folds. She was licking up her juices, drop by drop. She felt a new tremor, and a smile; it was new- and sexy. This skilled woman craved her, wanted to taste her, and continue in her devourings. The thought was more than just a little stimulating, it was intoxicating- no, overpowering! This slow crawl to a crescendo was even better than the first overwhelming bout, her senses not so swift to succumb. This needed to continue, it had to continue. And poor, desperate Fluttershy could not do anything but cry out her hunger; she wanted everything her mother could give her. A smooth, long lick across the outer edges of the labia, then a quick slither from top to bottom. Was it supposed to feel this good, even after the first great wave had already taken her? Was this normal treatment from another woman? Fluttershy didn’t know, but as she felt the next teasing pull send a hot jolt of feeling through her body, she didn’t care. If Posey was trying to set a standard, she would gladly keep it; she’d never be able to be satisfied with any other partner if they didn’t feel this good, and she felt so good… Unlike the last sudden rush that had deftly handled her passions prior, this buildup was a slower and more tangible feeling. She could feel it growing within her, an explosive set to rocking and awaiting the lit match. As Posey’s continued excellence streamed out is symphony of pleasures, the more she struggled- how could she not wrap her legs about her mother, keeping her tightly bound to the exquisitely treated folds that demanded even more? It wasn’t something that went unnoticed; her mother delved all the deeper and ceased in her efforts on the outside layer. There were places to plunder and explore, a slit that needed thorough examination by only the most premiere of tongues. One jab, then another- and then a slow, deep lathering in the very depths that made poor Fluttershy shudder. She wanted to speak, say something about how good it felt, but the efforts this perfect temptress continued to give were delightfully agonizing; not a word could escape her lips when every sound she made was transformed into a hurried gasp. It was getting harder to keep breath in her lungs, the fire within her form eager to ignite yet again, this time in a manner far more thunderous. Flutterhsy knew what came next, and holding off was becoming an impossible task. Just a little further was all she asked of herself, just a bit more so she could truly enjoy this- Posey, however, had other ideas. A slickened plunge and her tongue wiggled about, finding that one sweet spot that made her daughter absolutely squirm. When she felt the shudder immediately after, the experienced woman returned to the revealed pleasure point and plundered it in full- “Aah! Aah…” Fluttershy held back for only a moment, seeing stars and pinwheels as she clutched this climax, at last releasing and letting it flow freely from her. This was a slower decline, gentler, yet had come from a high point even more wonderful than the first. The anticipation had made it all the better, and the ability to truly let the moment unfold had been a delight. As her mother surfaced from in between her legs, she marveled at the skill that had brought it all about. Posey had been a maestro of the sapphic, and it left Fluttershy in awe. “How did that feel?” Posey asked, her face glistening and left radiant by her smile. “That was so good,” Fluttershy whispered, “thank you so, so much…” “Prove it,” Posey teased. “Would come here and kiss me, pretty please?” Fluttershy wanted to hesitate at first- Posey had just eaten her out. But those lips beckoned her, so naturally plump and their smoothness still fresh in her mind; daughter embraced her mother and nearly toppled them both over as she raced to gift such passion with a kiss, the two wrapping about one another and letting their fervor transform yet again. Posey still led the affair, a youthful confidence brimming within her, but Fluttershy’s needs had now been seen to. This was her time to demand a pleasure of her own, and that first came from the lips of her beautiful daughter. She was inexperienced in the art of lovemaking, but Posey found herself pleasantly surprised by the delicacy of skill that was now employed against her lips by this once-shy woman; Fluttershy had a softness to the motion, a natural smoothness with which she kissed. Her lips found themselves in all the right places, a tranquility that belied the passion beneath. She didn’t mind if this lasted for a little longer, perfectly at ease in this embrace that so perfectly plied her feelings. But then it ended! Fluttershy suddenly pulled away, staring at her partner and asking, “Does- do I feel OK? I know I haven’t done this much, and-” “You are decadent, dearest,” Posey said huskily, displeased that their union had been halted by such a flawed perspective. “Oh, I hope you don’t mind keeping it up for me.” A beaming smile. “Well, if it’s OK,” Fluttershy said, “I’d like to suck your tongue.” So she liked it sloppy. “You naughty thing,” Posey purred, yet swiftly complying with her juicy morsel for her daughter to devour- and devour she did, utterly trapping it within the grip of her soft lips and ravishing it! Her tongue was tended to as though it were a prized piece of candy, thoroughly suckled and enveloped by this lovely woman’s romantic affections. When was the last time she had been so openly desired, so wanted? She felt as though she had gone backwards in time to younger days, free to be as passionate and wild as she had always wished for. With each new stroke that she felt, the more she was transported by her bliss; eyes became half-lidded as she chanced a glance at the young woman tending to her and was left thrilled by the sight of Fluttershy happily sucking away, her own gaze held closed by the sheer pleasure of the action. A long, deep suck as the once-shy beauty took her mother’s tongue in full, followed by a slow retreat back; the salivating smoothness of it could only elicit a steamy sigh from Posey, entranced by the sensation. This couldn’t end, these kisses couldn’t stop- they had to continue, their pleasure be emphasized. And as a keen memory lit in her mind, the lustful woman knew exactly how to achieve it. Her hands found Fluttershy’s and took them from their place upon her breasts, a sensation she had found so comfortable that their kneading absence was rather displeasing; but no matter, considering where they were to be put to use next. As Fluttershy’s next kiss was met with a slippery thirst by her own pink morsel, experienced hands led their partner’s downward to flowery garments and slid in between flesh and cloth. Just at the edge of her senses did they now rest, enough to make the intent clear without initiating it herself. Fluttershy’s breath became swifter, more sudden whether by nerves or excitement- a sound quickly drowned out as her mother’s mouth planted firmly against hers so as to plunder their depths with her tongue. As eager eyes met an anxious gaze, Posey gave a small nod for assurance: she could indulge herself and please them both, if her daughter so wished. Fluttershy blushed, but found her confidence once again when she graced her mother’s lips with another kiss. This one remained firmly sealed, their salivating tonguework bound from view by pleasured lips. And then came the first plucking of the strings; tentative, hesitant. She wanted to please, but was more fearful of failing to do so. She needed encouragement. A quick nibble of her daughter’s lips, and Posey swiftly returned to keeping Fluttershy’s voice ensnared. She wanted this, and she wanted it from her. Another delicate fingering, followed by a slow slide into the depths- at last! Posey gave a muffled mew of happiness at the mere feeling of their arrival, the delicate plundering of those fingers within her a joy long gone unfelt. It was still hesitant, yes, but still good. She could spur this on by sound alone, and she wanted it to intensify. Posey begged for this feeling to continue- in force. Another small mew, struck away by a plying stroke against her tongue. But Fluttershy was still keen enough to know that what her performance was well-received, and a third finger slid in to aid in the cause. A trifle here, then a plying touch there. She was getting herself used to the act as best she could, becoming more comfortable. For Posey, the sensation was a delight; inexperience be damned, she felt like a young woman all over again! She held her plush body firm against her daughter’s slender frame and moaned, waiting for the moment she felt that lightning strike. It was heavenly just to be like this, so utterly bound to another beautiful woman- Oh! That had been what she was searching for, right there! She gave a strong cry and melted into her lover’s lips, utterly sunken by that last perfect plucking. She wanted again, needed it again! As Posey felt Fluttershy return and trace over the heart of her slit, another sultry moan was the sound that met their ears. It was time for the last, pristine plunge. Fluttershy glued her mouth to Posey’s in a ferocious kiss, a deep sigh as her fingerwork began to climb into overdrive. She’d never thought it could be like this, or feel this good. It wasn’t being pleasured herself, but there was a joy to it all the same; the feeling of stroking a woman so intimately, the mewling sounds and sighs that came when she made her mark. Was this not what she wanted to achieve? To make love to a woman, and to do it well? She could only glow in pride as the husky moans of her mother continued to grow in magnitude, their tongues continuing to dance together, spilling out as saliva mingled with sweat. She was going all the faster, Posey was struggling to contain herself, even she could not help but to bring her own cries of happiness as they came closer and closer and fell into raptures-! Her mother clasped hands about her face and they fell back against the pillows once more. That luscious form became rigid and began to rock, Fluttershy knowing full well to continue even as her fingers became drenched in the flow. She couldn’t stop, nor did she want to; this was something wonderful, glorious, and she wanted to see it through to the end. Oh, it was so nice, and so passionate; it had been wonderful to experience, on both sides of the moment. As she felt her mother’s breath begin to at last slow, the sweet woman felt her own form begin to weary and become heavy. Their long, sensuous union was coming to a close. “Oh…” Posey at last extracted herself from her daughter’s mouth in a succulent spray of saliva, a thick bond still dangling between them as they pulled apart. “Fluttershy, dear, you did wonderfully- bring up your hand, quickly!” Complying, she summoned forth her glistening fingers and examined the remnants of her handiwork. A viscous substance, and it held a pungent scent that she found rather pleasant despite its strangeness. “Have a taste, baby,” Posey implored sweetly. “Go on…” It wasn’t exactly something she’d considered before, at least not thoroughly. But this was as good a time as any to be adventurous; Fluttershy took her index finger and sucked it dry, taking time to fully soak in the tang that she now experienced. It was thicker than water, but not quite as thick as honey- yet sweet, a strange sort of creaminess to the flavor. It wasn’t bad at all. “Well?” “Is that you? You taste- it’s like strawberries and cream, almost,” Fluttershy giggled. “It’s really kind of nice.” “Is that so?” Posey inquired. “Well, how about sharing?” She leapt forward and suckled her daughter’s fingers, the two soon lost amidst another rush of kisses that slowly turned all the more gentle as passionate fires became softened flames, burning just dimly in the growing night. When she first awoke, her body registered a little bit of a headache. As she awoke, and rather abruptly too, Fluttershy found herself wondering what had transpired last night to make her so. Oh. That’s right. She and her mother had indulged themselves on a bottle of champagne, that’s what had happened. Enough to make her feel it a little, but not terribly so. As for the rest of the soreness she felt upon her form… A turn to her right where she felt the weighted presence of another was all she needed to confirm her recollections. Posey still slept beside her, clothing cast aside and flesh laid bare as she slumbered on after their night’s revelry. That had happened too; and judging by Fluttershy’s weariness, the whole ordeal had been quite an intense one. Did the morning after always feel like this? Sore, yes, but it wasn’t a bad feeling. If this was the price to pay for love- well… Slowly sliding out from beneath the bedsheets, Fluttershy decided to forgo clothing as she quietly slipped out of the bedroom and pulled the door to, heading to a kitchen that had been left untouched after their evening meal. Dishes needed to be cleaned and dried, and trash disposed of properly; there were chores to do, and she was awake enough to see them done. Her body began to go through the motions of intended action, muscle memory tending to the task of cleaning so as to let her mind drift and ponder the night’s events. They all had happened, of that she was certain. She and her mother had been well entwined, if not eager to make love to one another; had she somehow harbored some secret lust for her mother all this time that had taken the chance to at last bloom forth in their midst? She’d been rather enthralled by her mother’s stories of romantic escapades, after all. But then again, they’d both been a little inebriated from the champagne. Maybe that had loosened them both up to go through with the act. As she kept pondering each individual argument, all Fluttershy could conclude was a mixture of both. She’d been mildly influenced by alcohol, had found her mother physically attractive, and had wanted to act on it. It was the best guess she could give. A plate was set to the side so as to dry, and the temporary sound of silence allowed footfalls to enter her hearing. Posey came out from the bedroom and took a place beside her daughter, a dish towel in hand she started to dry off what had already been made clean. Neither spoke for a while and instead let a buffer grow between them. Was it shame, embarrassment? Attraction? Fluttershy paused in her work and turned to look at her mother, finding Posey pink-faced and wearing a bashful smile as she gazed right back- a likely mirror for how she looked herself. But maybe that didn’t matter right now; she still saw Posey there, and still found her pretty. And if she had regrets about last night at all, they weren’t very strong anymore. The two women leaned in and found one another in a kiss, soft and made true by a small bout of quiet giggles. They liked this new feeling. “I had fun last night,” Fluttershy offered, tending to the last champagne glass. “How… how about you?” “The most fun I’ve had in a bedroom in years,” Posey replied. “Thank you for enjoying yourself with me, sweetheart.” “You’re welcome.” A pause for a little longer. “Do- do we want to do it again sometime? You know… keep practicing with each other?” “If we have the chance? I… I would like to,” Posey answered. “It’d be nice to feel so wanted like that again. And I don’t mind giving you a few pointers every now and then.” She paused, turning a little red. “I mean, if you want me to.” “I do.” As she put aside the last piece of dishware, an aroma began to take hold of her senses and Fluttershy realized that the source was herself. “I… I kind of need a shower.” “Then I probably do, too,” Posey sighed. Her hand slid down and fingers intertwined with her daughter’s. “Mind if I join you?” In the heat of the shower, lips found relief as they melted into each other once again. The weekend was long, and there was plenty of time to learn all they could. Author's Note I can't write anything short anymore. Not sure if I did too great a job on this one. Oh well, enjoy I guess. Another shout-out to the people who follow me just to downvote my stories. Not sure why this is your hobby, but hey.