Date: Fri, 3 Aug 2007 13:06:19 +0100
From: christina holloway <chrissyanne05@gmail.com>
Subject: Little Doe 4-6 (Revised)

~ 4 ~

     Faith entered her suite and found herself in a spacious and pleasantly
furnished lounge. The porter carried her luggage through to the bedroom and
when he had reappeared and given her a brief explanation of the hotels
facilities and layout she tipped him and he departed, shutting the door
behind him. Leaning back against the cool woodwork Faith closed her
eyes. "At last ... Alone at last!" she breathed with a deep sigh. For a
moment she remained motionless, savouring the silence in the room, then
seeing a small courtesy bar she pushed away from the door and draping her
jacket over a chair and kicking off her shoes as she went, she crossed over
and gratefully removed a can of diet cola from the small fridge. Snapping
the can open she gulped down several mouthfuls then, taking the can with
her, walked over to the big French windows.

     The sky was dull and heavy with the rain that had now begun to fall
and her view was soon obscured by the large droplets that began to drum
noisily on the glass panes.  Through the blur she could just make out bare
flower beds and a lawn that gently sloped down to the banks of a slow
meandering River Thames. On the other side tall leafless trees swayed
erratically as they fought against the driving wind and rain. She stared
out on the scene but without really focusing as her mind was busy, busy
analysing the encounter with Anne Wilde. Surprised at the intensity and
even more the suddenness of her sexual attraction to her, she again
mentally cautioned herself to take care. It would be disastrous to allow
even a suspicion of my attraction to be perceived by anyone let alone Anne
she thought, but as she pictured her in her mind she knew her attraction
was far more than just a passing fancy and was one that would not easily be
ignored. A rather dramatic encounter she mused with a contented sigh.
"But" she murmured quietly "what ever the outcome my little one, I
definitely look forward to seeing you again ..." and turning from the
windows she drained the can, tossed it into a waste bin and walked through
to the bedroom.

     After unpacking her cases she quickly undressed and went through to
the bathroom where after turning on the shower. She paused briefly to let
the temperature adjust then stepped into the tub. For some time she stood
appreciatively soaking under the hot spray and as she did so, thoughts of
Anne quickly returned ... Those smiling blue eyes and that friendly smile
she mused. The casual gentle guiding touch of your hand on my waist ... and
your scent ... the way you tossed you hair back when you were
embarrassed. She then recalled the electrifying moment when, as Anne nearly
tripped, her breast had brushed her arm and a shiver of pleasure slid
through her ...  God but she really is a cute little thing.

      She began soaping herself, and as her hands glided over her smooth
firm figure, ruefully she admitted that by intent or accident, Anne had
aroused her sexually far more than she earlier realised. Perhaps, she
thought as nonchalantly her hand drifted over her pubic mound, lathering
the small triangle of her blonde pubic hair, perhaps it's just that I
haven't had any sex for a while, it's been a very long time ...  She began
to work up a smooth lather within the soft blond hair and then gently, she
slipped her fingers down, down between her thighs and she began to stroke
the full softness between them. She sat on the top end of the tub and
leaning back against the cool tiled wall she sighed and lifted her leg,
placing on the side of the bath.  Delicately, but knowingly, she caressed
deeper. She closed her eyes as the pleasurable sensations began to well up
deep inside and her fingers moved with long penetrating caressing
strokes. Circling and probing, she stroked faster, then her momentum
increased more until her hand became a blur and then quite abruptly, with a
small cry she climaxed. A long low groan of satisfaction escaped her
clenched teeth as her body shuddered. Her leg dropped and her thighs firmly
locked together, imprisoning the buried fingers. Gradually, her breathing
slowed and finally she moved away from the tiled wall to stand back under
the spray.

      Reaching up she turned the shower regulator to cold and for a minute
she let the icy water stream over her body. When she finally stepped out of
the bath her skin was goosed with the coldness and she grabbed a towel and
as she walked back to the bedroom she began briskly drying herself.
Sitting down on the bed she towel dried her hair, then dropping the towel,
she set her alarm to give herself two hours rest and pulling back the
sheets slipped between them. The long wearisome hours of travel had drained
her and though refreshed from the shower and subsequent sexual relief it
was only moments after closing her eyes, that she had drifted into a deep
and peaceful sleep.

     Two hours later, almost to the minute, she awoke and reaching for the
alarm before it had a chance to ring she switched it off. Sweeping the
bedclothes back, she swung her feet to the floor and stood up. She
stretched, did a couple of loosening up exercises, then walked over to the
wardrobe. As she went to open the doors she caught sight her naked
reflection in the full length mirrors and she paused. Posing provocatively
in front them she reached up and cupping her breasts in her palms she
weighed them gently. Not bad for a thirty six year old she reflected, a
little on the full side perhaps but, well ... not too big ... They're in
proportion to my height and build and they're still firm ...

     Her hands dropped to run smoothly down across her tummy and down over
the blond haze of hair then on to slide over her hips and thighs. Turning,
she eyed her buttocks in the mirror and grinned as she recalled how Melissa
her tailor had recently told her that "everything was just an inch too much
all the way down", adding that her figure was reaching the "cuddly" stage.
She had immediately retaliated, reminding Melissa that weight-wise 195
lb. was quite acceptable considering her height and build and she swore
that there wasn't an ounce of unwanted fat on her body. "I work out
regularly" she had protested, adding that few women, or men for that
matter, could compete with her in a Gym. She knew her body tone was
generally excellent and that she was in fact, very fit. Her grin widened as
she recalled how playfully she had then grabbed Melissa, wrestled her to
the floor. After tickling her until she squealed her agreement, they had
made love on the floor of the fitting room.

     Ceasing her critical appraisal she opened the doors and taking out a
short gold coloured 'Kimono style' wrap slipped it on and on went through
to the lounge.  Retrieving another can of coke from the refrigerator she
picked up the brown parcel Anne had given her earlier and she walked over
to "Sam". Pulling up a chair and sitting down she switched the processor on
and removing the neatly typed sheets from their package began to carefully
read each page. There were six speeches, one was in English and the five
others were in French, German, Italian, Spanish and Russian
respectively. Another coke and an hour later she had finished. After
conscientiously scrutinising each sheet she had fed them into the scan
section of the processor and after minor corrections to the translations,
printed them. As the last sheet slid out of the printer she pushed her
chair back and stood up. Stretching she glanced at the clock on the
wall. 'Hmmm Six-thirty' she mused aloud, 'time I got dressed.'

     Pouring a generous measure of vodka into a tumbler she added ice and
coke and returned to the bedroom. She opened the wardrobe again and stood
mulling over her options as to what to wear. 'Informal' Anne had said. She
smiled thoughtfully. Ahhh yes, my little Miss Anne Wilde ... now you young
lady might just become a problem at this conference ... I'm going to have
to be very careful with you ... you're just far far too cute for your own
good, and mine! She selected a pair of tailored black wool trousers and a
beige V-neck cashmere pullover from the cupboard and as she recalled her
friend Sylvie's favourite expression when she saw someone she fancied she
grinned ... I would love to do real obscene things with her, really
physical and obscene things ...  she sighed softly to herself. 'Well, my
dear dearest Sylvie' she murmured quietly. 'I know just exactly what you
mean'.

     After quickly dressing she went through to the lounge, picked up her
drink, and with a feeling of contentment comfortably settled down on the
couch and put her feet up. Casually as she sipped the drink she surveyed
the room and inevitably her eyes came to rest on the closed communicating
door to Anne Wilde's room.  I think perhaps I might just try to enjoy
myself tonight she thought to her self. ... the time has come to put the
trauma of the last few months to rest and start living again ... and you my
cuddly little friend, you I think are just the one who can help me ...

     Becoming consciously aware of her "musings" she was genuinely
surprised by them. Being the chaser rather than the chased is not my scene
at all she thought. I know with my height, physique and strength I'm
expected to be dominant but for those very reasons I'm inclined to be the
opposite ... and in the field of courtship? ...  well I almost go to the
other extreme of being shyly submissive ... and I guess that's why I get
walked over and taken advantage of so often she thought ruefully recalling
Sally's philandering and final 'desertion'. She took another sip of her
drink and thought more of her attraction to Anne. Perhaps, perhaps now I
should do what I want to do, not what I think I should do or what others
expect me to do. Surprised again at her line of thought she grinned and
shook her head to bring back reason. God what on earth am I thinking
of. I'm here on business and there is no way I can risk a liaison with a
stranger here in the hotel, let alone the conference co-ordinator! And,
much more importantly, there's no way anyone in this hotel is to discover
that I'm a lesbian ... No way Hozay! She rested her head back in to the
cushions then smiled again. No, but I can start to enjoy myself again. I'll
flirt a little bit with her, just to see, to search out and maybe lay the
foundations for another time and another place. I'll be sensible though
... sensible but friendly, very friendly ... She sighed then looked up at
the clock on the wall. Seven ten. Anne said she would call me at seven
thirty ... now, should I wait or should I call her ... I don't want to seem
to keen and frighten her off ... but after a slight hesitation, she picked
up the phone.

     "Hello, Anne Wilde." Anne's instant answer caught Faith by surprise
and her heart beat quickened at the sound of her voice.

     "Anne, Anne it's Faith. Faith Hollings. There's no rush but I thought
I'd give you a call to let you know I'm up and about and I'm ready to go
down when ever you are.  I've finished the translations." She spoke
nonchalantly but was very aware that the sound of Anne's voice had stirred
her emotions and that she was very much looking forward to seeing her
again.

     "That's great, I'll be with you in a minute then Faith. Unless of
course you'd like to come through to my room." Anne replied then went
on. "The communicating door is open on my side and I am nearly ready."

     "Well thanks, I will Anne. I'll come through now." and putting the
phone down she quickly slipped on a pair of smart black loafers and after a
final check in the mirror, walked over to the communicating door.

     As Anne had said it would be, the door on the other side was open and
on entering Anne's suite Faith found herself in an almost identical lounge
to her own. Except of course for that delicate sensual fragrance she
thought, and without thinking she inhaled to savour the scent and at that
moment Anne appeared at the doorway to her bedroom.

     "Hi!" she called smiling at Faith. "I won't be a minute." and pointing
at the drinks cabinet said "Please, if you would like a drink do pour
yourself one, I already have one ....they are on the house as well!" she
added with a giggle. She was barefoot and giving her a quick appraising
glance Faith mentally confirmed her original estimate.  Just a tad over
five foot at the most ... and she is truly adorable ...  Scanning the
closely fitting cocktail dress her eyes were drawn to the gentle swell of
Anne's small breasts. The tiny 'button' imprint of her nipples was clearly
outlined against the smooth silk and recalling the contact with her arm
earlier that afternoon a lustful little shiver slid through her. "I have a
drink but I left it in my room thanks." she said hastily. "I'll go and get
it. Excuse me for just a moment I'll be back" and with a laugh she added "I
forgot the papers as well!"

      "Oh, before you go Faith this is the receipt for your envelope and
passport."  Anne said, quickly reaching down and picking up a slip of paper
from the table.

     As Faith took the receipt from her their eyes met and held and for a
moment Faiths heart beat quickened. "Thank you." she said quietly. "I'm
grateful." and quickly turning away she hurried back to her suite.

     "God but your a sexy little thing," she breathed as she entered her
lounge "this is not going to be as easy as I thought, you're absolutely
adorable!" With small smile she retrieved her drink and picking up her
papers took a deep breath and as she turned and headed back to Anne's suite
muttered quietly. "Okay then little wabbit. Let's just see what this
evening has in store for the two of us!"

     When she re-entered Anne's suite Anne was returning from her bedroom
and with a smile she motioned Faith to a chair. "Nearly there Faith," she
chuckled. "make yourself comfy!" She was having a problem fixing the clasp
of a thin gold chain necklace and as she spoke she purposely tilted her
head down and to the side to sneak a discreet brief but searching
observation of Faith. As she did so Faith stooped down to place her papers
on the low table between them and Anne caught her breath. In the V neck
opening of Faiths pullover the alluring swell of Faiths breasts and sensual
dividing cleavage beckoned. A trace of cream silk lace edging caught her
eye and she groaned silently as the base of her tummy tingled and churned
... Oh God she murmured softly, I'm sorry Helen ... you're so very very
wrong on this one being Butch ... they don't make women more fem than this
one ...

     "May I help you?" Faith asked as she straightened up and in a moment
she was behind her. Anne felt Faiths fingers part her hair and take the
clasp and as Faith manipulated the clip she felt the feathery touch of her
fingers brush the bare skin on her neck, and at the same time she was
suddenly aware of the firm pressure of Faiths thighs briefly pressing
against the cheeks of her bottom. She shuddered as adrenaline pumped
through her veins and her heart quickened. Relishing the contacts she
swallowed thickly but all too soon it was over. "There" Faith muttered
snapping the clasp shut and stepping back "all done!"

     "Th-Thanks" she stammered and again, as Faith bent to retrieve her
drink, she gazed unashamedly at the repeat view of the voluptuous swell of
her breasts.  They were stood close to each other, very close and looking
up she met Faiths steady gaze.  Those eyes she thought, they are exactly as
they appeared in the photo ... grey green and ... and bewitching. Her
nipples had suddenly hardened unbearably and she felt the familiar a warm
tingling sensation between her thighs. Oh God, she's done it again she
thought, I'm wetting and she has only been here two minutes! As she pulled
her eyes away and picked up her drink she felt weak but at the same time,
very excited and elated.

     "Cheers!" Faith said quietly raising her glass in mock salute. "Here's
to an enjoyable evening and more to the point, a successful conference!"

     "Cheers to you too Faith, please sit." Anne smiled indicating a
chair. Faith sat down and amusedly watched as Anne backing away to sit down
her self caught her foot on the table leg and nearly tripped. She quickly
recovered her balance but her face flushed with embarrassment as she meekly
seated herself on the settee. 'Oh my God here I go again' she murmured
silently 'little Miss Two Left Feet on parade.  Can't I do anything right
with this woman around?'

     "Tell me." Faith said with a disarming smile, "I don't want you to
think I'm being rude, but you have a slight accent Anne, its foreign isn't
it. May I ask ... you know ...  oh dear, I am being rude aren't I. I really
do apologise ..."

      "Of course you're not being rude Faith," Anne giggled. "please, lots
of people have had a problem trying to trace my origin and I find it quite
fun. Sometimes I make a game of it," She smiled at her as she settled back
in her seat, curling her legs up beneath her. "You want to play? I'll give
you three guesses!"

     Faith thoughtfully eyed Anne over the rim of her glass. She was sat
straight backed on the settee immediately opposite her, her hands clasped
together in her lap holding her drink. Faiths eyes were drawn again, as if
by a magnet, to the outlines of Anne's petite figure. Pensively she studied
the small pert breasts with their sharply defined nipples still accentuated
against the material of the dress, the slim waist, the slash of smooth
thigh that now blatantly showed through the widened vent in her dress and
without thinking she licked her lips. "And what" she asked quietly "is the
prize if I get it right?

     "Ah well now." Anne chuckled, smiling cheekily at her. "I think that
is very unlikely to happen but let us say the winner can choose their
prize! I think the choice will be mine anyway!" As she gazed back at Faith
she thought wryly "God but you can have me body and soul as the prize or
any time you gorgeous woman, win or lose"

     "You forget that languages and their accompanying dialects and accents
are my speciality Anne." Faith replied jesting lightly. "But let us
see. You have a beautiful petite figure and you're very graceful but, but
by European standards you are short."  She paused for a moment in her
audible thinking to take a sip of her drink then went on. "You don't have
any obvious Oriental or Asian physical characteristics but I suspect
... that thick dark hair and the slight tan, it looks natural but, but blue
eyes ...  that just doesn't match up and your facial features are Western
or European ... but nooo, I'll say a mixture of American or Australian
perhaps and Asian or, no I'll say further East, Far East in fact."

     Anne warmed at the complements and smiled at her. "I thank you for
your complements Faith. You are very kind and since we are on the
complimentary vein, I think you are very attractive and graceful too." and
silently she added, and I also think you're drop dead gorgeous and I've
never wanted anyone so much in all my life. She sighed and grinned at
her. "That was your first guess and well yes, you're not totally wrong,
you're half right. Though I have never been to the Far East there is an
Eastern connection as you put it, my mother was Chinese but you are wrong
on the other part."

     Having been given the affirming Oriental clue Faith immediately
identified the slight inflexion of preciseness in Anne's voice and was
surprised she had not picked it up before. She sipped her drink and stared
at her thoughtfully ... she truly is delightful and that giggle is totally
enchanting ... and those big blue eyes. Suddenly she became aware that
their eyes had locked. Overcoming the impulse to quickly look away she
consciously forced herself to hold the gaze that was already long long
passed the "polite look" limit and it was Anne who ultimately looked
away. Beat you Faith chuckled silently and was amused to see a faint flush
of colour rising up Anne's neck to her cheeks. She realised that she was
finding herself more and more attracted to her and sighed
contentedly. "Okay" she said gently. "So your mother is Chinese. In which
case I suspect from your accent, that your father is probably South
African. There's definitely a twang somewhere there. I'll go for
American. You are half American and half Chinese!"

     "Wrong!" Anne sang, and she again giggled quietly. Her eyes were
smiling as she chuckled to herself and she went on. "Now you have just one
last try and that's it!"

     Faith felt her pulse quickening. She is teasing me the little Minx
... damn it she's she is almost flirting with me ... "Okay Miss Wilde." She
announced. "I reckon then ...  I reckon your father South African then, I
also reckon you grew up in the States.  How's that!"

     "My father is Dutch so you are very close and though I did go to
school very briefly in America I grew up here in England." Anne answered
with a grin. "I have my mother's physique but have many of my fathers
features."

     "That accounts for the blue eyes I guess," Faith replied. "and if I
may say so, the end result is very appealing!" For a moment she thought
she'd gone too far but instantly reflected that she didn't mind if she
had. It wasn't a remark that could cause offence she told herself and after
all she's being extremely friendly towards me so why shouldn't I be the
same!

     "How kind. I thank you and I assure you Faith, flattery will get you
absolutely anything!" Anne laughed. She was finding Faiths steady gaze
pleasant but very unnerving and in a strange way, almost hypnotic. I
wonder, does she really find me appealing? or was she just being polite
... why can't I end all this by just coming out and saying what I
feel. Just say Faith, I think you are the most gorgeous woman I have ever
met and I want to go to bed and make love to you!... She smiled and with a
sigh, uncurled her legs, she stood up. "May I get you another drink?" she
asked walking over to the bar cabinet and placing her empty glass on it and
turned back to face Faith.

     Faith had watched appreciatively as Anne walked to the bar, enjoying
the smooth subtle flow of her movements and the repeat glimpse of bare
thigh as she passed had been an added bonus. "Thank you but no. I would
like another but the night is yet young and I don't want to end up smashed
on my first night here!" she chuckled and she to then stood up.

     Anne watched as Faith began to walk towards her. She truly is
magnificent she thought, the last word in grace and ... Suddenly she froze
and held her breath. Faith had reached her and was leaning down ...  My God
she's going to kiss me ... Oh my God! Without thinking she tilted her head
back, offering her lips and half closed her eyes. Then, she realised that
Faith had in fact casually reached behind her, placed her glass on the
cabinet and then turned away. Oh Jesus, she groaned gulping for air, for
one blinding moment ... Totally overcome she stood transfixed, holding on
to the cabinet for support. Oh Faith, that was so unfair, whether that was
intentional or not that really was unfair...

     "Well." Faith said scooping up her papers from the table. "It's a
shame but I guess we had better get these photocopied and you young lady,
you can think on what you would like as your prize for winning our little
competition!" She chuckled aloud and walked quickly across the room to
stand in front of the wall mirror where she fiddled with her hair to cover
her emotions. For one moment, she thought, for one crazy crazy moment you
nearly put your arms round her and kissed her for Gods sake! In the
reflection of the mirror she saw Anne looking at her curiously and this
time she was the one who looked away. "Deuce" she murmured and clearing her
throat she turned back to face her. "Would you show me round the hotel
Anne? I've never been here before and I'm sure I'll get lost without you."

     "But of course Faith." Anne replied. "Let me put on some shoes and
we'll go." and taking a deep breath she stepped away from the cabinet and
walked quickly though a little unsteadily to her bedroom.

     Her heart pounded as she stood by her bed and she breathed in deeply,
struggling to get her composure back. You sure lost it there for a minute
gal ... you were doing fine then crash bang wallop! When she walked up to
you and put that glass down you nearly wet yourself, and feeling the
suspicion of moist warmth in her groin she grinned. Oh dear me, there's no
nearly about it honey, you did wet yourself ... you've had lovely little
pre-cummie wet ... and with a deep sigh and smile she turned and retrieved
her shoes. Determined to take control again, she reminded herself that it
was Faith who was the one behaving normally and it was she who was getting
all up tight, and excited. Back to plan A she muttered. TLC, TLC, loads of
TLC is what she needs so let's go for it baby, give it your all!

     Returning to the lounge she crossed over to where Faith still stood
and casually slipping her arm round her waist she said with a giggle "Come
Miss Hollings, the Williamson awaits us!" and gently she motioned her
towards the door.

     "Okay," Faith acknowledged and placing her arm around Anne's slight
shoulder she gave her a friendly hug. "You're the boss, you lead the way!"
The both laughed and only when they had reached the lift and the doors
began to open did Anne release her hold.



~ 5 ~


     The lift was crowded with hotel guests who obligingly moved back to
make room for the two women to enter but, as the doors began to shut behind
them, another guest suddenly appeared.

     "Room for one more?" he queried cheerily and without waiting for
approval pushed his way in.

     In silence everyone edged together and in the confined space, to her
delight, Anne found herself facing Faith and quite firmly pressed against
her. Her boobs are level with my nose she chuckled silently staring for a
moment at the beautiful swell just inches away from her face. The lift
started to descend and quickly placing her hand on Faiths waist to steady
herself she became aware of the soft, yet at the same time sensual,
firmness and warmth of Faiths body. The sentience was overwhelming and she
could not resist responding by minutely moving against her. She recalled
with amusement a crude expression a friend had once used at a party. '... I
pressed against her and looking in to her eyes my pussy turned to vanilla
...'  So much for the swimming and the showers she thought and looking up
at Faith she gave her an apologetic smile but at the same time silently
thanked 'the late arrival' for joining them in the lift.

     Faith, feeling Anne pressed against her and the gentle touch of her
hand, glanced down at her. Anne was smiling up at her and quietly she
sighed to herself.  Those so invitingly slightly parted lips, so very close
and so very tempting ... Anne Wilde, you definitely far too close, far far
too close ... and as she gazed down into the deep blue eyes she smiled back
at her. You're safe this time my little one she mused, there is safety in
numbers ... but another time, another place, and alone with you?  Well you
might not be so secure.

     The lift stopped and doors opened and as every one emptied out into
the Foyer Anne reluctantly pulled away from Faiths side. "Sorry about the
crush." she whispered and giving her a coy smile added. "Come, your public
awaits you!"

     Faith was thoughtful as they walked through the foyer. Anne's
behaviour she decided, both before and during their short trip in the lift,
had been friendly to say the least. I enjoyed the neighbourly touch of her
arm round my waist on the way to the lift ... but in the lift ... that
gentle almost imperceptible movement of her body against mine ... it was
delightful and I enjoyed every moment, and it seemed quite acceptable
really I suppose considering the congestion but, but on reflection was it
not just a little strange that she was the only one who actually made
physical contact with me ... and did I imagine that I felt her hand give my
waist a little caress ... and that bold smile and the steady eye contact
... was that all part of just being genuinely friendly or was she flirting
with me... Well if and when I'm convinced there was an offer there I'll be
delighted to reciprocate, but perhaps, perhaps it's just wishful thinking
on my part ...  all the same though, she is being extremely friendly.

     When they reached the Reception Desk Anne, raising a flap in the
counter, beckoned her to follow and they passed through and entered a small
office. A woman was seated at a computer and on hearing them enter turned
to them and immediately stood up and smiled a greeting as Anne hurriedly
made the introductions.

     "Helen, Faith Hollings our interpreter for the conference. Faith, this
is Helen Welling, Helen is our Head of Reception. She is very efficient and
very helpful and" she chuckled "she is very sweet but her sense of humour
sometimes is reckoned to be a rather warped!".

     "How do you do Miss Hollings." Helen said reaching out to shake
hands. "I hope Anne is looking after you. If I can help you at all you must
let me know and she by the way is the mad one. Very sweet, but totally
irrational and very unpredictable!" she smiled then said "but, on a serious
note, do you mind if we talk business for just a moment?"

     Faith returned the smile. "Not at all." she said shaking the offered
hand. "Go ahead and please Helen, call me Faith." Helens openly friendly
smile was reflected in her dark brown eyes and her hand shake welcoming and
Faith felt happy in the knowledge that she had made another friend.

     "Thank you Faith. What I would like to know is exactly what languages
you speak.  I understand it is several but it would be a great help if we
knew which ones. I realise that you don't start work officially until
tomorrow but if ..."

     "No problem Helen I understand. My speciality language is Russian
though I do not have total fluency in some of the dialects as there are
rather a lot of them. So many and so varied in fact that it can on
occasions be akin to a Cornishman in the south trying to converse with a
Geordie in the north! Apart from that, I am reasonably fluent in most
European languages. I guess I have a pretty good comprehension of all the
main ones anyway. I also have an understanding of a couple of Asian and
Eastern dialects. but ..." She looked at Anne and grinned. "But I would say
my ability to converse in them was barely adequate and certainly I would
not say I was fluent in them."

      "Wow!" Helen laughed. "We could do with you here permanently!" and
with a chuckle asked. "Can you be rude in any of them?"

     Faith grinned. "Well, actually yes I can! I can in fact be down right
obscene in most of them if the mood takes me. I think the first lesson in
learning a language, particularly if you are going to visit the country, is
learn to respond to insulting behaviour! Mind you, I don't often get
insulted! A lot of bad language Helen is pretty universal wherever you
are. Let's face it if you tell someone to "F off" no matter what country
you are In you will probably be understood!" She smiled then added hastily.
"But of course, being a lady I would never stoop to such behaviour!"

     She looked down again at Anne who was stood silently gazing at her in
open awe.  Their eyes held again and Anne felt her heart sink and turn and
looking away she swallowed and spoke to Helen. "Could you have these
photocopied for Faith please Helen? They're for the conference delegates so
she'll need them for tomorrow morning." and turning back to Faith
asked. "How many copies will you need Faith?"

     "Seven will be fine thanks. There are only five Russian delegates that
I know of.  Six copies plus the originals will be fine. One set if you
could arrange it Helen, is for Mark Howard. He will be arriving first thing
tomorrow morning I believe. Of course, they are confidential so please look
after them ..."

     "Okay, I'll put them in the hotel safe when they are done and you can
collect them whenever." She took the folder and as they turned to leave the
office she added.  "I'll see you later I hope at the reception?"

     "Certainly Helen, I look forward to it!" Faith replied and as she and
Anne left and walked across the foyer she said. "She seems very pleasant."

     "She is" Anne replied. "I haven't known her long, just since I have
been here in fact but she and I have got on very well. When you're brought
in for special events you can meet resistance from the locals as they
resent strangers sometimes. Helen however has been very helpful and
friendly."

     "So you don't work here permanently then?" Faith queried.

     "Oh no, I'm strictly free-lance. I was brought in just for this
conference. Mike, Mike West who you will meet in a minute, he is in charge
of security and he's been brought in just for this do as well. We're the
part-timers!"

     "And I am too don't forget!" Faith reminded her with a grin.

     "Well yes of course, and you too!" Anne acknowledged as she guided
Faith into a long wide corridor. "We will go through now to the conference
hall if it is okay with you. I think everything has been set up properly
but you can check it out and I'll introduce you to Mike. As I said he's
Head of Security and he is also I'm glad to say, a very close friend of
mine." and in a confiding whisper she added. "He er ... he is a bit of a
ladies man and has a thing going at the moment with the housekeeper here!"

     She led the way and Faith following slightly behind shamelessly
observed her as she walked in front of her. Her figure she mused, as
appreciatively she eyed the smooth undulating swing of Anne's trim little
hips and the gentle curve of her buttocks that showed delightfully under
that snug fitting silk dress, is delightful. That is truly one gorgeous
little butt and she recalled her feelings when the Customs Officer had
viewed her own backside earlier at the airport and wondered if Anne too
might be conscious of being scrutinised. In fact, Anne was and had made a
point of walking as seductively as possible!

     They rounded a corner and halting in front of a set of large double
doors framed either side by heavy velvet curtains, Anne placed her hand on
a glass panel set in the wall and quietly spoke her name. After a brief
pause the door opened and the tall heavily built man stood on the other
side smiled a greeting at them. "Anne me darlin' lovely to see you!" he
exclaimed and looking at Faith added politely "and this must be the famous
Faith Hollings!" He wrapped an arm affectionately round Anne and kissed her
on the forehead whilst openly surveying Faith.

     "Faith - Mike West, Mike - Miss Faith Hollings," Anne managed as she
disengaged herself from his embrace. "Our Interprite Speciale Mike and
she's my personal responsibility so for Gods sake be nice to her or we
part-timers might be out of a job!" and reaching out she affectionately
touched Faiths hand and giggled.  "How's my French pronunciation Faith?"

     "Not bad, not bad at all." Faith laughed. "and I told you Anne, I'm a
part-timer too remember?" Deliberately she had taken hold of Anne's hand
and she gently squeezed the fingers. The pressure was light but it was firm
and unmistakable and lasted a moment longer than Anne expected. Faith saw
her flicker of surprise and then saw that, though only very slightly, she
was blushing again. Amused at how easily she blushed, she gave the fingers
another gentle squeeze then releasing her she took the hand being offered
by Mike West.

     "Hello Mike." she said. " Delighted to meet you."

     "As I said earlier Faith, Mike is Head of Security. Needless to say
security is a pretty big headache here right now. I've known Mike for a
couple of years now and he's quite a nice man but is a bit of a one with
the ladies so watch him! He is by the way temporally spoken for as his
current better half is Amanda the hotel housekeeper, not that that will
stop him flirting with you but really you're quite safe!" The brief
touching of Faiths hand had been intentional as part of her TLC strategy
but when she had felt Faith retain her grip and then the light pressure of
her fingers her pulse had flipped. A mixture of mild embarrassment and
pleasure swinged through her body as she realised that for the first time
she had actually received a positive physical response from Faith. Oh my
she sighed silently, she deliberately squeezed my hand ...  and it was
beautiful!

     Returning Mikes hand shake Faith had watched with amusement as his
eyes slid over her. It was not an obscene or leering scrutiny but it had
been very thorough and as their eyes finally met she decided that she liked
Mike West.

     "I bid you a very sincere welcome Faith. It is a real pleasure to meet
you and don't you believe a word Anne says. I admit I love women, you all
fascinate me but in fact Faith, I'm really a virgin if the truth be known!"
He laughed boisterously, intentionally ignoring the feigned look of shocked
disbelief on Anne's face and following him at his request, they entered the
conference hall proper where after climbing a small set of steps they found
themselves on a wide stage. Barely visible in the dimmed lighting were rows
of seats and Faith could see that it was quite a large auditorium.

     "Sorry to be a pain Faith but may I ask you to go through a quick
security formality for me?" Mike asked. "I'm sure you have been through it
all before and I know that it is quite unnecessary in your case but I do
have to verify the ID of all personnel. Furthermore, unaccompanied access
to this hall out of hours is only gained if the computer likes you. Your
details have already been fed in but they now have to be confirmed by your
own personal ID. Would you mind?" His voice, with a broad Welsh accent, was
gentle yet authoritative and Faith formed the immediate impression that he
was a man who could be a very good friend but also, should the occasion
arise, an extremely unfortunate enemy.

     "Of course not Mike, lead the way." she replied and together they
followed him into a small office at the side of the stage entrance.

     	"Right then Faith." he said cheerfully turning to her. "If your
hand and voice print doesn't match up here now all hell will be let loose
and it's The Bloody Tower for you, for life!" Pointing at a large black box
with a smoked glass panel set in its centre on a table against the wall he
went on "If you would be kind enough to place your right hand on the glass
panel Faith and when you press that red button speak your name in your
normal speaking voice ..."

     Faith did as she was bid. There was a short buzz and a dim barely
noticeable blue flicker beneath the panel. A Security Officer on the other
side of the room who was watching a monitor turned to Mike and nodded.

     "Great! All done then! From now on Faith all you have to do to gain
entry to the theatre is press your hand on the glass panel by one of the
doors outside, speak your name and Security can let you in. They will still
observe you via the CCTV cameras to ensure you have no nasty little green
men or the like with you but if the computer is satisfied, he can open the
door. Until the conference starts proper, Security in fact can't open the
door without the matching of your voice and hand print. Unless an override
code is used of course from the inside and for that I or my deputy have to
be summoned. Also, you would not have noticed it when you entered but when
you came in you passed through a detector frame. Had you been carrying a
firearm or weapon of some sort our alarms would have registered the fact,
silently to avoid panic of course, but they would have alerted us. And
whilst I'm on the subject I have to ask Faith, are you likely to carry a
firearm or any form of weapon at all whilst you are here?"

     Faith looked at him curiously and then with a smile said. "A strange
question Mike, why would you think I would carry a weapon?"

     "I have read your Foreign Office file Faith. I noted you have the
clearance to do so ... it's my job I'm afraid ... Major Faith Hollings!"
Mike smiled.

     "Ahhh, I see ..." Faith smiled then nodded. "Well, I can assure you I
am certainly not carrying and do not intend to carry a weapon here. I'm
here strictly as an interpreter and as a Miss, not a Major and anyway, if I
run into trouble I usually try to talk my way out if I can.  I've done a
bit of self-defence training as well since I got into this profession as I
figured that with journeying to foreign parts I should be able to put up at
least a token physical resistance should the need arise, but I don't
anticipate a problem here!"

     Anne, silently surveying Faith with a mixture of admiration and awe
for the umpteenth time studied her figure and immediately thought
differently. You're telling Porky's Faith Hollings, that body is a lethal
weapon in its own right. Physically and sexually!

     	"Ah yes," Mike chuckled. "We did er, we noted you credentials
Faith. I would say you are capable of far more than just a token physical
resistance but we won't go into that!" Pointing at the Identifier box he
continued. "Before I forget Faith, if you wish to you may witness the
deleting of your ID details at the end of this conference!"

      "That won't be necessary Mike, I trust you to do the necessary!"
Faith answered.

      "You can bank on it Faith, you have my word. And now, now that the
formalities are over, what can I be doing for you two lovely ladies?"

     "I'd like to show Faith the facilities we have set up for her during
the meetings."  Anne said turning to Mike. A vision of Faith in action in a
Gym had reminded her of the firmness and hidden strength she had sensed
coiled beneath Faiths shirt when she had put her arm around her waist
before and again during their trip in the lift and another lingering look
from Faith sent her mind whirling and heart racing again and finding
concentration difficult she was grateful that Mike continued to dominate
the conversation.

     "Follow me and all will be revealed!" he boomed striding off up the
aisle between the rows of seats. Obediently they followed and when they
reached the back of the hall he opened a door that had been concealed by a
heavy curtain. A small room was revealed that contained a low coffee table
with coffee and tea making facilities, two easy chairs and a desk against
the wall with an office type swivel chair. On the wall was a telephone and
looking out of the window over the desk Faith clearly saw the auditorium
and realised that the mirror she had seen on the wall outside was in fact a
one way observation panel.

     "All the auditorium headphones, they are connected to here ..." Anne
confided but again she was unable to continue as Mike interrupted her.

     "... and this is where the gentle dulcet tones of the lovely Faith
Hollings will come from to distract all the men" and glancing meaningfully
at Anne he gave her a sly grin and went on "and a couple of the women too
if the truth be known.  Translating God knows what into God knows what in
that low sexy voice of hers and ..."

      "You big smoothie!" Faith laughed giving him a playful dig in the
ribs and seeing Faith turn again to look through the window Anne glared at
him. Very aware that he had been teasing her with his reference to
"distracting the women" she stuck her tongue out at him and deliberately
stubbed his toe with her heel then, as Faith turned back she innocently
smiled up at her.

     "If you press this button here, the curtain slides over to conceal the
door from the outside. Oh and you can also of course lock it from the
inside." Anne smiled.

     "The headphone socket in here, I assume it is a universal fit and also
that the input is direct from the stage microphone as well?" Faith queried
though she knew the answer would be affirmative.

     "Yes to both" Anne replied. "I presumed you had your own equipment but
if you wish us to supply headphones and a microphone we certainly can."


     "No thanks, I do have my own set. An ear-piece with a built in
microphone but I'm sure it will be okay here. This couldn't be better." And
glancing round the room she said. "I would like to do a test but that can
wait till tomorrow."

     "No problem,." Anne replied. "I've already done one actually but we
can do another in the morning."

     "Well then I thank you both for your time." Faith said beaming at the
two of them.  "I am grateful."

     "No trouble at all me dear." Mike said. "For what it is worth consider
this your own private little retreat. It is soundproof and in here you are
cut off from everything and everyone. Under the desk top there is a panic
button should there be a problem but I think you will be okay in here. You
can collect a key from Helen in reception who I assume you have met ...?"

     "I have one here already!" Anne exclaimed interrupting him and
producing a key held it out to Faith.

	"Well thank you Anne." Faith said. As she took the key from her
their eyes again met and 'accidentally' Faith let her fingers trail
fleetingly across Anne's palm.  "that's very kind of you ... and yes Mike I
have met Helen."

     "If you need me you can bleep me." Mike told her. "Just pick up a
phone and dial 955 then your extension and I'll get right back to you
... and so there we are you two, you can now consider yourselves both safe
and soundly under my personal protection.  Your wish is my command though
with your track record Faith, I don't think you need my protection and on
second thoughts Anne, sleeping next to Faith should eliminate your fears
too ...!"

     Faith grinned and looking at Anne was surprised to see that she was
again blushing, and this time quite profusely! When she saw Faith looking
at her she lowered her eyes and coyly nibbled on her lower lip. How lovely
she is when she's embarrassed Faith thought and she felt a sudden
overwhelming urge to put her arm round her and cuddle her but suppressing
it she turned instead to Mike and asked.  "Are you expecting trouble Mike?"

     "Oh no me'dear, not really. But as you know only too well you can
never be too careful these days. Our security guys are here 24 hours a day
and as you see, no one gets in or out without proper authority. It is by
some standards a small conference but the hotel has very recently been
scanned, inspected and literally redecorated. The spring-clean lasted two
weeks. We, and the police, went through the building with apparatus the
capabilities of which you couldn't imagine. Actually you probably could
Faith but if anything nasty was here I assure you we would have found
it. Since then we've been here all the time and I assure you, anything that
shouldn't come in won't and hasn't. Even you Faith, you and your luggage
went through a scan when you checked in earlier and needless to say the
prints you just gave were instantly checked and confirmed as yours. I'm
pretty confident we are on top of everything at the moment ..."

     "OOP's!" Anne exclaimed quietly. "Excuse me but my vibrators gone
off!" Mike and Faith looked at each other then stared at Anne who seeing
their expressions, and immediately comprehending their thoughts, began to
giggle uncontrollably. "This!"  she said producing a slim pager from a
pocket. "It vibrates when I am wanted!" and glancing at the two of them
added, still giggling and blushing. "You really are dirty minded buggers
aren't you!"

     Faith grinned at Mike then looking at Anne said good-humouredly. "I
guess your vibrator must be going all the time then Anne."

     Anne gave her a demure smile and said quietly. "Come, I'll take you to
the reception!"

     "Well that's broken the ice somewhat." Mike joked as together they
left the control room and began walking back down the aisle. "I didn't
expect vibrators to be a topic of conversation this early in the evening!
Nice to know you have a sense of humour Faith, you need it here!"

     "Oh I guess I have a reasonably open mind on most things now days!"
Faith chuckled and again she looked at Anne. Casually she put her arm round
her shoulders and gave her a friendly hug. "Sorry we teased you," she said
quietly "but we couldn't let a comment like that pass could we?"

     They all laughed and Anne waggled a finger at her. "I forgive you but
I'll get my own back, just you see!"

     Reaching the exit Faith turned to Mike and they shook hands. "It's
been a pleasure meeting you Mike and I thank you for your hospitality. I
guess I'll see you later at the reception?"

	"Wouldn't miss it Faith and that's a promise and Faith, try to keep
that little one out of trouble, she really is a walking disaster at times
..."

	"Beast!" Anne protested. "I'll definitely talk to you later! Come
Faith, before I get violent with him!"


~ 6 ~

      Despite the light hearted banter, walking back down the corridor
Faith felt a twinge of uneasiness. She was acutely aware of her physical
attraction to Anne and now she was very conscious of her nearness. Those
affectionate exchanges in public she thought, if that was what they had
been, were fine but now we're alone, there are no people around.

     "Is it okay if I sit in with you tomorrow Faith." Anne asked
cheerfully. "When the speeches are on and you are translating I mean. I
promise to be quiet and not disturb you."

     "But of course, if you wish. That would be nice!" I have serious
doubts as to the "not disturbing me" bit being conceivable she thought with
amusement, particularly as we will be alone in a rather small room ... but
pleased Anne wanted to be with her she said. "I would like that Anne, very
much but I should point out that it will probably be very boring for
you. I'll be talking English when the Russians are talking and Russian when
the others are talking. We won't be able to talk much, if at all in fact!"

     "I won't be bored, honest!" Anne replied. Not if I'm with you she
added silently and again she boldly circled Faiths waist. TLC, TLC lots of
TLC she muttered to herself and glancing quickly at her watch she
said. "Eight-thirty Faith, we have timed it just right, here we are at the
reception. I'll take you in but then you'll have to excuse me for a short
while. There are some things I must do and I know I'm wanted at Reception."

     Oh yes my little friend, and not just at Reception Faith reflected and
giving her a mock serious look she said. "Fine with me but don't you leave
me alone too long ..."  and putting on a soft Southern American drawl she
added. "Y'all come back to me you hear!"

     "Now would I leave you all alone," Anne exclaimed with a grin "after
all Miss Hollings you're my responsibility now!" They both laughed and
moments later turning a corner they arrived at a small reception room. At
the entrance, accompanied by a very attractive hostess holding a tray of
glasses filled with champagne, stood two very large Security men.

     "Good Evening Ladies, would you like champagne or may we get you
something different?" the hostess asked and much to Anne's annoyance, gave
Faith a more than sociable visual body check and very friendly smile.

      "I'd prefer a vodka and diet coke if it is not too much trouble, ice
with no lemon?"  Faith said politely, returning the smile.

     "Why yes Ma'am! I'll organise that for you immediately." The hostess
gave Faith another obviously appreciative glance then turned to Anne who
declining a drink motioned Faith to follow her. They descended the steps
into the room and she said. "I must go in a minute Faith but I saw that
Helen is over at the bar so I'll take you over to her and you can meet my
temporary boss man, Brian Hilden. He is the General Manager of the hotel
and I see he's with her now!"

     When they arrived at the bar Helen beamed at them both. "Faith, nice
to see you again, is every thing okay? Let me get you two a drink ..."

	"There is one on the way for me thank you." Faith replied and
before she could continue Anne quickly interrupted.

	"Excuse me folks but I have to go for a few minutes. Helen, would
you do the introductions and look after Faith? till I get back?"

	"Of course!" Helen answered and Anne turned to Faith.

	"I must go Faith, I'm being paged again!" She grinned and held up
her pager.

     	"I understand. Completely!" Faith replied with a meaningful smile
and as Anne turned away and headed for the exit. Faith felt a pang of
regret as briefly she watched her retreat but then she quickly turned back
to Helen who promptly introduced her to Brian Hilden.

     	"Faith this is our General Manager Brian Hilden. Brian - Faith
Hollings."  Faith reached out and they shook hands.

      "I trust all is well Faith, do you have everything you need?" he
asked with a friendly smile.

      "Yes thank you Brian and I've been made very welcome by everyone
especially Helen and Anne!" At that moment a waiter emerged with her drink
which she took and raising it up to them both she said. "So, Cheers! Here's
to a successful and hopefully uneventful conference!"

	"I'll drink to that!" Helen and Brian chorused in unison and they
all raised and clicked their glasses together.

     Faith looked casually around as they talked and saw that the room was
filling rapidly. Already there were considerably more than the "couple of
dozen" or so people Anne had led her to believe were to be expected but she
saw no familiar faces and soon, in the hopeful expectation of seeing Anne
return, she found herself glancing in the direction of the entrance.

     "Faith, you said you were 'working' now, may I introduce you to two of
the conference delegates?" Helen suddenly asked gently touching her on the
arm. "They are both Russian and to be honest they don't seem to speak much,
if any English. I'd like to just let them know that if they need anything
we're here to help."

     "Surely, just lead the way." Faith replied. She nodded to Brian and
Helen manoeuvred them through the throng to a corner of the room where by a
large buffet table a couple were stood slightly apart from the rest of the
delegates. The couple were silently surveying the mingling crowd and Faith
thought as she and Helen approached them that they looked rather out of
place, and very solemn.

     "This is Miss Hollings. She speaks Russian!" said Helen in a raised
voice and the couple turned and stared at Helen then at Faith. Why oh why I
wonder do people always raise their voice when they speak to foreigners
Faith asked herself for the millionth time as politely she shook hands
first with the man and then the woman.

     "I am Eran Koros and this is my associate Evania, Evania
Malatinove. So, you speak Russian?" To Helen he was talking complete
gibberish but Faith understood perfectly. Muscovites she thought,
immediately conscious of the give away accent.  She smiled at the couple
and fluently confirmed that she did in fact speak their language which
sparked an instant reaction from them both. Their faces lit up into broad
smiles and both began talking rapidly with much back patting and hand
shaking. Smoothly Faith answered their deluge of questions and Helen, with
a grateful smile, politely retreated and left them.

     As they talked Faith observed the couple with continued amusement. Now
she, she thought admiringly looking at Evania, really is something
else. She is an Amazon ...  taller than me ... taller by at least one,
maybe two inches and ... and she really is quite stunning ... She noted the
piercing "ice blue" eyes and the long blonde hair that was pulled back
severely into a pony tail that reached her waist. That black dress looks as
if it has been sprayed on she reflected, it is very well cut though,
expensive and it shows off every detail of what I have to admit must be a
truly magnificent body. A body that I suspect is probably as solid as a
brick wall ... she is a lady who I suspect would be a more than an worthy
opponent in the gym ...

     Eran on the other hand was short and a bit on the plump side and had a
pronounced beer belly. Though almost totally bald he had a very large and
impressive moustache that he continually stroked. He stood beaming at her
as they talked, or rather Evania talked as he had given up trying to get a
word in, and Faith noticed with amusement how his eyes kept dropping to
stare at her breasts. She smiled to herself as she realised that despite
his efforts she was far too tall and that his efforts to ogle her cleavage
were totally in vain. Evania however, most certainly was tall enough and
made no secret of the fact that she liked what she saw. Her eyes initially
had washed swiftly over her, quite obviously undressing her and, after
circling her arm around Faiths waist and pulling herself to her side, she
with more than casual friendliness rested her hand firmly and intimately on
Faiths hip.

     Oh dear Faith thought with a sigh, we have a problem Houston
... Politely she tried to edge away but Evania, and the hand, stayed and in
fact moved down and round to rest at the base of her spine almost on her
buttock. It was with genuine relief therefore that moments later across the
room as if on cue she saw Anne accompanied by a couple. Through the crowd
their eyes met and she warmed inwardly at the visual contact and seeing
Evania for a moment looking away to speak to Eran, she mouthed a "Help" and
grinned. Anne smiled and moments later she was at her side.

     "Miss Hollings - Mr and Mrs Kanovich. Miss Hollings is our linguist!"
Anne said smiling at the couple. "Mr and Mrs Kanovich are from Russia" she
added. Faith shook hands and then in Russian introduced them to Evania and
Eran. As soon as she had done so Anne, taking Faith by the hand announced
loudly with mock seriousness.  "The Italian delegates organiser wishes to
see you immediately Miss Hollings. Please, you will excuse us?" and before
Evania knew what had happened Faith, smiling courteously, had moved from
her side and they quickly left.

	"We meet again soon yes? Very soon yes?" Evania called after them
in broken English.

     "Ahh! So, she does speak a bit of English then! We meet again soon,
yes! Very soon yes!" Anne chuckled mimicking Evania as they walked away
then looking up at Faith with a mischievous grin she added wryly. "My but
we certainly made a hit there didn't we Miss Hollings! Is caressing a
woman's bum a Russian way of greeting people?".

     "Very funny ha! and you're very observant aren't you" Faith chuckled
and grinned at her. "But thanks anyway for rescuing me!" Faith smiled at
her then went on. "You mentioned the Italian delegates Anne. As I recall
that they all speak perfect English, I ...!"

     "Of course they don't want you. Well a couple probably do in the
biblical senses knowing Italians as I do ..." Anne cut in and stopping
abruptly she turned to her and looking serious she said. "But if you want
to go back to Evania ..."

     For a moment Faith thought she was serious. "Anne! You don't think I
..." then, seeing the twinkle of amusement in her eyes and the faint smile
she laughed. "You little minx, don't you dare tease me like that again and
you know perfectly well I don't want to go back to her. I'm not the least
bit interested! Not in the way she was in me anyway. I think you saved me
from a fate far worse than death there Anne, I owe you one !"

      "That's okay," Anne giggled. "but that's two you owe me now and
Faith, I always claim my winnings!" and giving her a quizzical look she
raised her eyebrows questioningly and said. "I am not sure about you and
Evania though. To the best of my knowledge she hasn't stroked anyone else's
butt this evening. Are you sure you didn't encourage her?"

     "Anne Wilde ..." Faith said sternly with mock indignation but before
she could continue Anne, grinning mischievously, interrupted again.

     "You said a fate worse than death, so did the fact that she was
obviously a lesbian and obviously wanted you disturb you then?"

     "Good heavens no!" Faith exclaimed showing surprise at the
question. "Her sexual inclinations are her business!"

     "So lesbians don't frighten or disturb you then." Anne asked quickly
and almost holding her breath, she awaited Faiths answer.

     "Nooo ..." Faith said slowly. "Certainly not. Do lesbians disturb of
frighten you then Anne?" Their eyes held for a moment and Anne was
immediately sorry she had phrased the question in the way she had. Damn it
she muttered under her breath. Her answer had been honest and to the point
but it tells me nothing. Nothing of her views on lesbian relationships or
anything ... and she has turned the tables on me ... if I push the subject
it might seem odd to her so now I'll have to leave it till another time ...

     "Of course not!" she retorted. "I was just joking. I have no axe to
grind on any ones sexual preferences, c'est la vie is I think is the French
expression isn't it?"

     "Very good Anne, I'll make a linguist of you yet!" Faith smiled but
further discussion on the matter came to an immediate halt as they were
joined by two of the delegates who by coincidence, turned out to be
Italian. As they talked Anne was not surprised to find that Faith soon
became the centre of attention. Rapidly they were joined by more delegates,
mainly men and after several minutes of conversation she was paged
again. She turned to Faith and with a small smile she held up her pager.

     "Have to go again Faith but I'll be back soon!" and quickly rising up
on her toes she leaned against her and Faith felt the soft pressure of
Anne's breast again on her arm as she whispered. "But just you behave
yourself now, no flirting okay! I can't always be here to rescue you!"

     Faith grinned back at her but before she could reply Anne, quietly
chuckling to herself, turned away and was gone. Her heart beating, Faith
caressed the spot on her arm then turned back to the delegates.

     For some time she chatted with the group but when they were finally
joined by more of the wives and secretaries she was able to cordially
disengage herself and leave the throng. The evening progressed uneventfully
and though enjoying herself, after having spent what she figured as ages
but was in reality only about three- quarters of an hour chatting and
acting as translator for various dignitaries, she began to feel bored and
became conscious that she was more than a little weary. What I really would
like to do is just switch off and put my feet up she thought, but there is
no where here to sit and the only people I know are not around ... and
where is Anne anyway ... She looked round the room in the hope of seeing
her and for the umpteenth time Evania caught her eye and gave her an
exaggerated and provocative wink. A very obvious invitation to join her and
she decided it was definitely time to leave.  Smiling she shook her head
and turned away.

     I did want to see Anne again she thought, but perhaps an early night
might not be so bad an idea ... if all this affection and friendliness
continues I can't guarantee my ability to resist over reciprocating ... I
might just weaken and then where would we be ... Nevertheless, the thought
of not seeing Anne before leaving prompted her to stay on a few more
minutes but when finally she had finished her drink and Anne had still not
appeared began to ease her way through the crowd. As she neared the door
however a deep quiet voice, which she immediately identified as that of
Mike West, spoke quietly in her ear and she felt a firm pair of hands close
on her waist.

     "And where is the lovely Tasha Yar off to then?" he asked with a
chuckle.

      She turned and sure enough it was Mike West and her heart lifted as
to her delight she saw Anne by his side. He had a broad grin on his face
and as he casually draped an arm around Anne's small shoulders he
affectionately wrapped the other round Faiths waist. "Come, the night is
yet young! Not leaving us without saying good night were you then?" he
joked hugging her gently and looking down at Anne and then back to Faith he
added mischievously. "Found this one wandering around the corridors and
thought I'd better bring her along see. Thought perhaps you could handle
her better than I, especially if she decided to start playing with her
vibrator again. So if you are going then I think you better take her with
you see!"  Mikes Welsh accent added to the humour but Anne was aghast. She
glanced round appalled and visibly blushed.

     "Mike for heavens sake shush ...!" she gasped and seeing they were
unobserved again stubbed her foot firmly on his shoe. "You are a Great Big
Bully!" she said quietly and Mike laughed and with exaggeration, feigned
pain.

     "She wouldn't do that sort of sort of thing in public would she Mike
surely?"  Faith teased. "The vibro bit I mean!"

     "For heavens sake you two someone might hear you!" Anne protested
again quickly glancing around in alarm to see if they were being observed
and Faith and Mike grinned at each other triumphantly.

     "Okay, no more teasing," Faith chuckled. "but what's this Tasha Yar
bit Mike?"

     "Oh that! That was my suggestion and Mike agrees." Anne declared and
seeing her look of confusion she added. "You know, the woman officer who
used to be in Star Trek. You know Star Trek? the TV Science fiction
programme? We reckon you're her double." then almost as an afterthought she
added. "She has left the series now but she was gorgeous!" then realising
what she had said added hastily. "Like very attractive I mean."

     "Ahh ... I see!" Faith replied nodding her head thoughtfully.

     "Security Officer on the Star Ship Enterprise to be precise" Mike
beamed. "and if you want to be on my Security Team Faith, you're on! I
would stress by the way that the Tasha Yar bit was Anne's suggestion though
I do agree with her, you really could be her twin. Though of course you are
definitely the better looking one!"

     "Smoothie again!" Anne giggled.

     "I see." Faith replied. "I'm with you now and yes, it has been
mentioned there is a slight similarity in our looks. An actress by the name
of Denise Crosby is I believe the lady to whom you refer but I think you
will find that she is no where near as tall and hefty as I am. Considerably
more gentile I suspect! However I'll assume that you made the comparison in
a complimentary vein and I thank you ..." and looking at Anne she thought,
so you think she's gorgeous do you ... well I find that very interesting,
very interesting indeed ... She bent forward and lowering her voice
whispered. "And as for you young lady, I haven't forgotten or forgiven you
for your insinuations about my behaving badly and encouraging that, that
Russian woman!"

She waved an admonishing finger at Anne as she spoke and Anne immediately
taking the opportunity, grabbed and held the finger with her free hand.

     "Ohhh I love it when your dominating!" she giggled squeezing the
finger gently but she caught her breath and her chest tightened as the
finger moved lightly within her grasp. Suddenly, the finger felt very warm
and very very sensual and she stared at her hand in disbelief as a shiver
of ecstatic pleasure shot through her. For a moment she was speechless. She
looked up at Faith and slowly, and reluctantly, released her
grip. Swallowing, she licked her lips and taking a deep breath she said. "I
was just teasing honest. Though I think I had better keep an eye on you. I
certainly can't allow Evania to take over my role!" and then with another
coy smile and a small tilt of her head she added. "May I get you another
drink Miss Hollings?"

     "Thank you Miss Wilde, and for your information, I would not allow
that to happen, of that I can assure you." Faith grinned and quickly
dipping down to her ear again she whispered "but just you stop your
teasing, I always get my own back and don't you forget, we're neighbours,
remember?"

     Feeling the soft brush of Faiths breath against her hair and neck Anne
groaned inwardly and bit her lower lip to keep silent as another shiver of
desire swept through her. God but you'll be the death of me she thought.

     "You're a big bully too!" she said looking up at her. "Just 'cos
you're bigger than me!" She paused and stared steadily back at her for a
moment then licking her lips nervously she said very quietly "and I haven't
forgotten we're neighbours. Who do you think put you in the room next to me
in the first place?" She raised an eyebrow as she inclined her head
inquiringly then with a smile said "I'll go get us some drinks."  and
quickly she turned and disappeared into the crowd.

'Oh Jesus!' Anne muttered to her self as she hurried away. 'Where in hell
did I get the courage to say that ...' and as she edged her way through to
the bar she chuckled to herself. The allocation of Faiths room to be next
to hers had been her doing but she had done it long before she had even
heard of Faith Hollings, let alone met her. Still, she thought, Faith
doesn't know that ... and having reached the bar she ordered their drinks.

     Faith meanwhile was pensive. Cheeky little Mite she thought cheerfully
as she watched Anne retreating through the crowd. Comments like that could
well be misconstrued Miss Wilde, just you be very careful I don't start
making some risky assumptions ... and she sighed contentedly, suddenly
pleasantly aware that for the first time, for a very long time, she was
happy.