Can't Crush The Boss

I couldn't be happier that I was going to spend my day off with Harry, and our first stop was to his gym. I’ve never given much thought to working out aside from what was required at gym class. I do try to go on a jog every now and then, but it’s not my weekly ritual or anything. Maybe it was a good thing that Harry liked to stay fit, hopefully it would rub off on me.

I put on a pair of black spandex shorts and a long blue racer top. Looking at the clock I saw it was almost eleven in the morning. Harry drove up and said hello to my parents before we left. I kept glancing over at him as we drove away, he also wore black loose shorts and a white sleeveless shirt. I don't need to remind you how nice his arms looked.

"Are you ready to do my routine?" He announced.

"Huh? You never said anything about a routine."

"Don't worry it’ll be easy and fun. Trust me," he winked.

Oh boy, what was I in for?

When we got there, I felt my shyness resurface. Walking into a vast room of heavy equipment and tough sweaty men wasn't my idea of a romantic date. I stayed very close to Harry as we continued to the back.

"Hey man!" said one of his friends.

"Nick! Hey I want you to meet someone. This is my girlfriend Chloe."

Girlfriend? He introduced me as his girlfriend? Nick shook my hand.

"Girlfriend huh?" I couldn't resist.

"Yeah, did you like that? I thought you would."

Of course I did! This was only my first boyfriend ever! My boyfriend, I loved repeating that.

Harry taught me how to spot him, but he really didn't need my help. He lifted those barbells like if they were foam tubes. It was very impressive. He then got me a very light pair of dumbbells and demonstrated the correct position versus the wrong one.

This was a good opportunity to see other qualities in him I hadn't been exposed to yet. Like the fact that he was a great teacher; he had a lot of patience and kept a soothing voice while he explained everything. Not once did he make fun of me for doing it wrong.

I was surprised at how much fun I was having. I was doing my exercises well and the music they blasted through the speakers was pretty good too. I liked how Harry would fix my posture very cautious of where he would touch me. Still whenever his skin as so much as brushed on mine, it would send little shock waves through my body, each time without fail.

He was up to his last exercise on one of the bigger machines, so he took me towards the treadmills to get started on a thirty minute walk or run. The treadmills faced a long wall of mirrors. I could see everything behind me; from the creepy gawkers to the television monitors to Harry taking off his shi…rt. Oh… my! Because I faced my reflection I was able to quickly catch my reaction. What a sight!

I just realized I've never seen him so serious for such a long period of time, so focused on his sets and repetitions. I respected how much work and discipline it took to do this so regularly.

I started jogging at a faster pace I could maintain, and inevitably my skin glistened from the light sweat. When Harry came back, he stood right in front of my treadmill, still serious, wiping off his forehead. He looked at me, gave me another wink and walked over to the next one. Concentrating on my breathing, I didn't want to sound like I was all over the place as I tried to impress him.

Before he began his run he leaned over to whisper something in my ear.

"You look very hot by the way."

I smiled and shook my head. Normally when he said something like that he meant it in a playful way, which made me want to hit him or push him aside. Yet this time, the seduction in his voice gave me goose-bumps.

It must have been all the endorphins taking over because I was running like never before. Harry and I had our eyes locked on each other through the mirrors, smiling every once in a while but mainly just staring.



"You did very well today," he said as we walked to the car.

"Thanks, boss."

"Hey hey, none of that!" He laughed.

When we plopped in the car, his sweaty arm slid against mine. In disgust, I wiped it off and then wiped my hand off my shirt.

"Really? You did NOT just do that," he said in disbelief.

"It was gross; your arm feels all slimy."

"How about this then…"

He pulled over and began hugging me and rubbing his wet face all over my neck and cheeks. I sat frozen as I felt the tingly cool sensation of his sweat on my skin and salt on my lips.

"Ha ha!" he mocked.

"You … you better watch it! I'd sleep with one eye open if I were you, buddy," I took his damp towel and attempted to dry off my arms and chest.

"Are you threatening me? Because, if you're planning on coming over to my room while I'm sleeping… I don't know, isn't that crossing the 'line'?" He smirked.

"You know what I meant! Stop twisting my words! Either way, I'd bend the line just to get back at you!"

"Oh, so now it's a flexible line? See I didn't know that. Because if I would’ve…" he continued in a sarcastic tone.

"You would what?" I asked intrigued.

"Well… I'd just explore the line," he had such a cocky grin, even though it was a sexy one.

"What are you talking about?"

I was lost. Were we still talking about the so called boundary line we had established? Did I say something to remove or cause question about the 'line'? Was he still kidding? No matter all the questions I had, time had run out as he pulled up to my driveway.

"Will you call me later to let me know what you want to do?" he suggested.

"Sure," I replied and waved goodbye.


Coincidentally, my parents had to leave for a conference on Monday morning; they planned a special evening with a hotel reservation and all the works. Meaning they were about to leave in an hour, which also meant I would be home alone tonight.

Before my shower, I sent Harry a text of our possible plans.

I propose that you bring some movies over and I'll cook us an early dinner.;)–Chloe

Aww sweetie, you're going to cook for me? How nice:) Is it going to be a family dinner? What can I bring?-Harry

Just bring the movies, it will only be us. My parents are leaving shortly out of town. –Chloe

Hmm… dinner and a movie it is! And you’re sure they're okay with me being there?-Harry

Well they know I'm going to hang out with you again later.:)–Chloe

Sneaky sneaky girl. I won't get closer than two feet from you, I promise. –Harry

Good! :p See you later;)–Chloe

I was glad that we could just hang out here. I dressed comfortably in a pair of white beach shorts and a pretty coral tank top that hung loose with a white sports-bra underneath. I washed my hair and had it in a messy bun; I was planning on letting it dry that way so when I let my hair down it would be full of waves.

I went into the kitchen to figure out what to make for dinner. It was two o'clock and I had two hours before Harry would come over. I decided on Spanish rice with vegetables and seasoned chicken. This was my favorite plate to make and I knew it all too well. For dessert we had premade flan custards. Score!

My parents approached the door with their hands full of luggage and briefcases.

"Hey mi nena, what do you and Harry have planned for later?" asked my mom.

"We are going to eat and see a movie," I said with certainty.

"Don't stay out past ten o'clock. You know you have class tomorrow. We don't want you to sleep in and miss your bus. Like other times."

"Yes dad, I know."

I gave them both hugs and kisses then watched them load up their car. I gathered that they understood I was going out to the movies and I know I was being dishonest for not making it clear that we were staying here, but they knew he was coming over for dinner and plans do change. . . I’ll stop trying to justify it.

Watching my parents leave the driveway left me anxious. There went my family, my security and safety. I was left alone and the thought of Harry being here in a little while made me feel nervous, scared and excited all at once. As harmless as dinner and a movie sounded, it was the feelings and thoughts I would entertain throughout the evening that shook me. Sad part was, I trusted Harry completely, I just doubted in myself.

Wishing I could settle my nerves or take a muscle relaxer, anything. Dinner was ready and just in time as I saw a black car come up my drive way. I heard a gentle knock on the door; I quickly let my hair down and checked it in the mirror by the entryway.

When I opened the door to what I swore was the most captivating image I could feast my eyes on, his face looked younger and smoother. His hair had an ‘I just rolled out of bed but still look good’ messy style. He looked like he stepped out of a surfer's ad, wearing a teal blue shirt that brought out his eyes and his tanned cut off shorts that showed his not so hairy legs. Nice!

"You look like a beach bum with those flip flops," I said while closing the door.

"You mean beach … stud!"

He raised his arms to flex them off, but not even he could hold a straight face as he threw them down laughing. We strolled into the kitchen where I gathered some plates and silverware.

"I made a special stop to bring you this."

He took out a pretty bottle, yet I couldn't make out what it was.

"This my dear is your favorite Apple Martini mix," he finished.

"Nice touch!"

We lounged at the table with our meals and drinks having the whole afternoon and night ahead of us. I had a list of random questions building in my mind, so I thought what better time than now to ask them.

“You called me your girlfriend today . . . I can’t get over that,” I smiled. “Are you happy with me?”

He looked at me with convincing eyes.

"I am very happy with you. And while I know I haven't made the smartest choices in my past relationships, with you, I feel like I'm starting afresh. I've been given the chance to take care of my very own princess."

"Is that what I am now . . . a princess?"

"Yes. You don't know how honored I feel to be the first guy to kiss you and know there were no other boyfriends before me. That's so unheard of!"

"So you like that I have no experience whatsoever, it doesn’t freak you out?"

"Are you kidding?!" he seemed shocked. "But seriously, you know how much I like you with or without the experience factor."

"While we are on the subject, and be honest, does it bother you that I don't want to have sex?" I guess I should have warned him since it was the first time I actually said that word. Poor thing almost choked on his food.

"We are getting the cards right out on the table, aren’t we?" He chuckled. "No, I respect your decision. Why do you ask?"

"It’s just, I hear everyone talking about it, between my coworkers and classmates. It seems like it's to be expected in every relationship. So . . . you've never thought about it?"

"I'd be lying if I said I hadn’t, but that doesn't mean I'm going to act on it. I know how important it is to you, and there are relationships that aren't solely dependent on sex . . . Where is this all coming from, are you ok?"

"Yeah, I’m fine. Just been thinking about some things, and other than with Trisha, I really don't get to talk about it much."

"Do you feel comfortable talking about it with me?" He questioned in concern.

"Yes, but . . . I feel a little embarrassed. I don't want you to change the way you see me."

"Nothing you say or do can change that. It would only help me get to know you better . . . Is there something else you want to talk about? You look like you're holding back."

"We can talk about it later," I insisted.

"Are you sure?"

I nodded and got up from the table to get the desserts.

"This is amazing by the way! You should invite me over for dinner more often,” he winked.

"Yeah sure, just bring me the groceries," I snickered. "What movies did you bring?"

"I picked Independence Day, Happy Gilmore and Titanic; a little something for everyone."

It seemed like the perfect time to start our movie marathon, considering that it was getting dark out.

"Do you mind if you start the movie while I quickly put the dishes in the washer?"

"Oh I can help you with that…"

"No no, I got it! I just thought you could start if you wanted to so you didn't have to wait. I'll just be 5 minutes."

Rushing, I practically threw the dishes in, not caring much about them. I just wanted a moment to gather my thoughts. I struggle with being such a planner, always having to contemplate my next move. I wanted to just "go with the flow", but was afraid I wouldn't get to the degree of satisfaction I wanted … without going too far and being unfair to Harry. This is what I found so hard to tell him.

I could hear the music from the previews fade in and out. One in particular caught my attention; I leaned against the door-sill and watched. With a perfect view of both the television and Harry, my eyes chose to spy on him instead. Even his profile was hypnotizing.

He sneaked a smile or two, amused by the trailers. Then he casually glanced my way.

"What are you doing over there, we’re not at work. Come, sit next to me."

But I was enjoying myself, studying his mannerisms, admiring his looks that I can't ever seem to shut up about now. He glanced again and this time came over. Leaning on the wall beside me, he began to caress my arm with his hand in worry.

"What's the matter?" He asked in a low voice.

I felt so childish to even try to explain it. In my mind it made sense, but I worried about it sounding over-dramatic. I just wanted to kiss him, it had been so long since I had a good kiss, like the one in his car that night.

I slid closer, in between him and the wall, and that's all it took for him to know what to do next. His lips formed a curve as he leaned in, nose petting against my cheek.

"If you wanted me to kiss you, all you had to do was say so," he whispered.

"I really want you to kiss me."

As soon as he heard those words, he leaned in even closer and felt my lips with his. I could smell his sultry after shave, adding on to my euphoria. I also imagined him shirtless as he pressed upon me. Adoringly, I cupped his face in my hands while he held on to my waist. His kisses were consistent and guarded, but I wanted more.

I insinuated more aggression and tongue, sensing a hint of shock, but he rapidly mimicked my approach. In time I could feel his uncertainty, whether to pull away or not as he clenched up my shirt in his fists. He slowly brought our kiss to a halt, leaving me with small gentle pecks.

"That was intense," he said as he stepped back.

"Why did you stop?"

"Because you’re too intoxicating, I know my limits. I mean . . . I understand the whole boundary thing but once you start certain things it's a little hard to slam on the breaks. Know what I mean? Not that I wouldn't stop the second you felt uncomfortable. It's just too risky."

We walked over to the couch and I saw the TV screen stuck on the main menu of the disc. I doubted his willingness to follow through with my wishes, but I wanted a little more.

"So if I wanted to continue, would you still shut me down?"

Harry looked confused and turned to face his whole body to me.

"Okay, wait a minute. Are we on the same page here? I'm following the specific rules you established as far as where our physical limitations stood, but I'm getting the feeling that . . . has something changed? . . . You have to tell me what you want. I don't mean it to sound rude, I just want you to communicate these things, even though it's hard and embarrassing for you."

"I know you're not trying to be rude, it's just hard to explain when I’m not a hundred percent sure.”

"Try," he spoke softly while reaching for my hand.

"First off, I feel like such a hypocrite. I couldn't stand my coworkers because all they talked about was sex or jokes relating to it, and now I feel like I've betrayed myself. You've opened this door to all these new feelings and sensations that leave me more curious each time. And it's not like you did it on purpose, it's just the impression you've left on me." I felt completely exposed as I shared my thoughts.

"I wish you would have communicated that sooner, I can understand how it's troubling and confusing, especially if you've been bottling this up. So what would you like me to do? Do you feel like you need a break to think things through or…?"

"Oh no, I love spending time with you," I smiled.

"Yeah, I feel the same way. However, you really need to tell me what you want."

I took a deep breathe and mustered up some courage to finally be upfront.

"I want to enjoy you. I know at first I gave off the impression that I was too shy to try anything . . . but I enjoy fooling around. It's such a drag when we stop just as I'm getting into it, even though I know it’s right. I'm not saying I want to have sex, but I don't want to simply hold hands with you either. I must sound so confusing right now. Does this make any sense?" I rambled in frustration.

Harry had an endearing smile; sitting closer, he put his arm around me. Still holding my hand, he snuggled next to me for that instant. Not that I didn't enjoy this, but I was still expecting to hear his input on things.

"I get you. I believe I know what you're trying to say. I want you to enjoy me, heck enjoy me all you want! I was only trying to respect your wishes. Other times when I had slightly gone further you were so quick to react offensively, I didn't know your feelings had changed."

"They did, recently, not at first," I confirmed.

"Okay, see that's why you have to communicate these things to me, and not just about this but all the other little things that you wouldn't necessarily mention. That's why it's called a relationship, it takes two. . . I’m glad you opened up, you were actually blushing the whole time."

"So you're okay with the new terms?"

"You say go and you say no. Don't worry about me, I can handle it," he assured me and winked.

At last, we got to play the movie. I realized how less complicated I needed to be. All that fuss could have been easily avoided. I was still learning about relationships, communication, Harry's caring nature and my true self.

After the action flick we watched the comedy. I laid on the opposite side of the couch with my feet next to his lap. At one point Harry raised my feet to scoot closer and lay them over him. When I turned my head, he simply flashed a warm smile. He began rubbing them, though I was already so relaxed. I feared I might fall asleep and I did, unaware of how long judging by the progress of the movie. When I opened my eyes again, the movie credits were showing.

"Ugh, did I sleep through the whole thing? What happened?"

"I'm not telling," he laughed.

"Come on, no fair!"

"No, no fair was you falling asleep."

"You should’ve woke me up!"

"I didn't want to. I thought this would be the only chance I'd get to see what you looked like asleep, but I'm thinking I should probably go."

"It's not even nine yet,” I scowled.

"Sweetie you look tired. We had quite the work out today remember? And I don't want to take too much advantage of you being home alone. I know myself, normally I would have played my best card to stay and …"

"And …?" I instigated.

"You're not going to seduce me are you? Something tells me there was more behind that conversation earlier."

"Hmm … maybe."

"What did you have in mind?"

Notes

Voila, an update! Hope you like it... fun sweet and flirty chapter next :) xoxo