In order to really understand where I'm coming from, you need to read Discovery, a fantastic story in its own right, which can be found at the S:AAB Fan Fiction Archives. Many, many thank yous to Karen Evans for Tracy and Tiffany. The Reverend Smithson, Miranda, and all of the revelers are mine.

ICEQUEENS:
New DISCOVERIES
by
Gabrielle Bessey



Tiffany Fairgate McQueen strode purposefully across the platform, smiling at the Harvard President as she accepted her diploma. As she switched her tassel, she looked out into the crowd, smiling at her mother and father. When her eyes landed on Cooper, the smile that crossed her face would have melted the wings of a Hammerhead. She finished crossing the platform and returned to her seat to fidget until the ceremonies were over.

Sitting in the bright sunlight of a September morning, Tiffany stared down at the diamond solitaire that graced her left ring finger. Stroking it, she remembered the day Cooper placed it on her finger.


18th birthday party
Tiffany stared out the window, anxiously watching the cars roll past.

Tracy walked through the foyer, shaking her head. "You know how these training missions are, Tiffany. Staring out the window won't get him here any faster."

Tiffany plopped onto the sofa and sighed. "I know. I just want him here, with me, on my birthday."

Tracy dropped on the sofa beside her daughter. "I know." She grabbed her daughter's hand. "Come on, you've got one more present to open."

Tracy pulled Tiffany into the kitchen and placed a dress box in front of her. Tiffany pulled on the bow and pushed the ribbon out of the way. Pulling the top off, she opened the tissue to find a white peignoir nestled there. With gentle fingers, Tiffany lifted it out of the box and held it against her. A tear slipped down her cheek as she held it against her, then reached over to hug her mother.

"Mom, it's breathtaking. Thank you."

Tracy stroked Tiffany's hair. "You're welcome. I know the wedding is a couple of years away, but I saw it last week and I knew I had to get it. There wouldn't be anything like it when the honeymoon actually gets here."

Laughing, they separated, their giggles masking Ty's footsteps.

"What's going on in here? I could hear you in the study." Ty stopped short when he saw the lace nightgown held against his daughter's body. He never said a word, simply quirking an eyebrow at his wife. Tracy shrugged, then winked at her husband.

"Look, Dad, isn't it beautiful?" Tiffany twirled around a few times, then carefully placed the filmy nightgown back into the box.

"Yes, it's beautiful."

The sound of a car pulling into the driveway almost made Tiffany drop the box. She jumped up and ran for the front door.

Ty wrapped his arms around Tracy. "And where did she get that gift?"

Tracy rubbed her body against his. "It's a mother's duty to make sure her daughter is properly attired for her wedding night."

Ty shook his head. "Please don't remind me." He cocked his head. "I wonder if that was Cooper?"

Tracy chuckled. "Of course it was, or Tif would have been back here in no time, looking as if she'd just lost her best friend."

When Cooper arrived at the McQueen household, he sat for a moment in the car, gathering his courage. He patted his pocked, then got out of the car. He barely made it up the steps to the porch before Tiffany launched herself into his arms. She wrapped her arms around his neck and pressed kisses on his cheeks as he carried her to the glider.

"Happy Birthday, Tiffany."

"It is now." Tiffany snuggled into Cooper's arms as they settled onto the cushions. "How did the training mission go?"

"Pretty good. Those SA-50s are sweet machines." He looked into her eyes. "You don't really want to hear this, do you?"

Tiffany stroked his cheek. "If it's important to you, it's important to me. Besides, you get this incredible look in your eyes when you talk about flying."

They sat in silence for a few moments. Cooper shifted and started to speak. "Tif...um."

"Spit it out, Cooper." Tiffany leaned back as she stared at him.

Cooper released the breath he was holding and stood up, walking over to the railing and looking out into the yard. She almost fell over when he turned around and walked back to her, kneeling on one knee in front of her. He pulled a small, black velvet box out of his pocket and opened it. He held it out to her. "Tiffany McQueen, will you do me the honor of becoming my wife?"

Tiffany gasped when she saw the ring, her hands pressed against her cheeks. With tears in her eyes, she nodded, a husky "Yes" coming from her lips.

Cooper removed the ring from the box and placed it on Tiffany's ring finger, his hand shaking as he did it. When he looked at her, she smiled through the tears, then leaned down to cup his face and kiss him.

"I love you, Cooper Hawkes, and I can't wait to be your wife."


Tiffany was startled back to the present as the students around her stood and tossed their mortarboards into the air, signaling a freedom from classes. Making her way out the crowd, she found her family. Ty swept her up into his arms, hugging her tightly.

"I'm proud of you, Tiffany."

Tiffany kissed her father on the corner of his mouth. "Thanks, Dad."

Tracy wrapped her arms around both of them. "You made it, Tif."

Tiffany's hand circled around the back of her mother's head to hold her close as she kissed her cheek. "Thanks, Mom. You helped a lot."

They embraced for quiet moments, then Ty and Tracy let Tiffany slip out, watching as Cooper lifted her into the air and spun her around. Tiffany wrapped her arms around Cooper's neck as he slid her down his body, stopping him when she was level with his face so that she could kiss him. After a soft kiss, Cooper let her slide down the rest of his body.

"You did it. I'm very proud of you, Tiffany. I love you."

Tiffany hugged Cooper close. "You gave me strength to get through it, Cooper, not to mention a lot of coffee during finals."

He laughed. "I did have an ulterior motive."

Tiffany stared into his eyes. "I know. Only one more week, then I'll be Mrs. Cooper Hawkes."

Cooper lifted his hand and tenderly stroked the hair out of her eyes. "I thought it would never get here." He leaned down to brush another kiss against her lips.

Ty and Tracy watched them, and Ty realized that they reminded him of he and Tracy--which meant things were going to be very interesting for the two of them.


The next week passed in haze of busyness. Trying to finalize the wedding plans took every ounce of patience Cooper possessed. Three days before the wedding, Cooper had gotten up and walked out of a consultation with the caterer. Tiffany stared after him, shook her head and smiled, then finished talking with the woman about the placement of the wedding cake on the table. When she was finished, she escorted the woman to the door and headed for the backyard.

Whenever Cooper needed to get away, he headed for a little gazebo tucked back into some trees on the edge of the McQueen property. Tiffany had found him there many times in the past, even when he hadn't *technically* come over. Ty had told him that he was always welcome there, and Cooper had used the gazebo as a refuge from the world.

Tiffany found him staring into the garden. As she stood watching him, she remembered their little talk about sex. In her mind, she could still see the blush that rose up on his cheeks.


10 months earlier
Tiffany leaned back against Cooper's chest as they watched dusk fall. He wrapped his arms around her, and his arm brushed her breast. Tiffany smiled, glad she was wearing a thick t-shirt so that he couldn't see how much that little brush affected her. Even though they were engaged, Cooper had been very careful not to go too far with her. Tiffany wondered if he ached as badly as she did when he left her.

"Cooper."

"Hmmm." He took one of her hands in his and rubbed the skin on the back of her hand.

"Do you want me?"

He stopped stroking her hand. "What?!"

" I mean, you never try to get me into bed or get my clothes off or anything."

Cooper turned Tiffany around to face him. "I'd like to live long enough to show up at the wedding." He grinned.

"It's not that I don't love you or want you. I've had to take so many cold showers that I'm beginning to think that hot water is unnatural. For a long time, it was because you weren't even 18. Then it was because I wanted to wait until we got married--wanted our first time to be as man and wife. There are times when I just have to step back because standing next to you makes me hurt."

Tiffany ran her finger over his lips, loving it when he licked the tip of it. "What happens when the cold shower doesn't work?"

Cooper nipped her finger, blushing a little at Tiffany's question. "Then I take care of it."

She nodded, then leaned back against him.

"What about you, Tif? What do you do?"

Tiffany smiled to herself. "I take care of it."


The gazebo
Tiffany walked up behind him and wrapped her arms around him.

"Hi."

Cooper brought his hand up and enveloped Tiffany's in his. "Hi."

He turned to look at her. "I'm sorry I bailed on you in there. It's just so...overwhelming sometimes."

Tiffany laughed. "I understand--it is crazy around here. You'd think a member of the royal family was getting hitched."

Cooper chuckled. "In a way, she is."

Tiffany nodded and laid her head against his shoulder. "Who knew that the wedding of the daughter of the Assistant Secretary General and a member of the Joint Chiefs would be such a big deal."

They sat in silence for a few more moments, then Cooper stood. "Well, I guess we'd better head back to the trenches."

They walked out into the gardens, holding hands and smiling as they made their way to the house. Cooper stared down at Tiffany's head. "What are you doing tonight?"

Tiffany smiled. "I think it's a lingerie party, but I have a feeling they may have hired a stripper or something. Knowing those girls, it won't be tame."

He nodded. "Yeah, the guys have something planned, but they won't tell me."

Stopping for a moment, Cooper turned to Tiffany and took her chin in his hand. "Just don't touch."

A wicked gleam appeared in Tiffany's eyes. She slid fingers into the belt loops of his jeans and pulled him close. Kissing him, she whispered against his lips, "Just remember what you've got waiting here for you."


Cooper stood at the back of the club, nursing a beer, and watched as his friends surrounded the stripper, pushing money at her so that she would dance for them. Ty slipped up beside him and stood with him as they watched her.

"Not interested in improving her financial situation?"

Cooper grinned. "If I said yes, would you kill me?"

Ty smiled. "No, but Tiffany might."

Cooper laughed. "Yeah, she would. You taught her well."

Ty looked at him for a moment, then nodded towards a table. They moved out the center of the club and sank into the chairs. Ty cleared his throat and Cooper looked at him.

"Cooper...uh...you know Tiffany's never been with anyone, right?"

"Yes, sir." Cooper looked puzzled, unsure where the conversation was headed.

"I just want you to be..." Ty shook his head, "What the hell am I trying to say."

"Gentle, sir?"

"Yeah, gentle. She's my daughter and I love her, I just want what's best for her--for her to be happy." Ty gazed at Cooper. "You make her happy."

Cooper held out his hand to Ty, who shook it firmly. "I will be gentle, and I will do my best to make her happy."

"That's all I ask."

They turned back to watch the rest of the Marines in their party shout as the next girl sashayed onto the runway.


There were squeals of laughter as Tiffany kept opening the boxes. There were massage oils, colored condoms, edible panties, how-to books, and lingerie strewn all over the living room. Tiffany and Tracy howled as each of her friends gave her something they thought she would need for her wedding night.

Tiffany knew she was in trouble when she heard the music. A beautiful blonde man, with a body sculpted to perfection, slipped through the French doors and gyrated towards Tiffany. For 15 minutes, he moved among the women, brushing against them as he removed his clothes, then returned to Tiffany. The women laughed, clapped, and swayed as he entertained them. When he finished, he bowed, kissed Tiffany's hand, then disappeared back into the hall.

Tiffany shook her head. "You guys are so bad. Thank you for everything. It's been a blast."

A voice in the back piped up. "But not as wonderful as your wedding night is going to be."

Tiffany laughed. "You got that right."


The rehearsal and the dinner were a blur. There were so many people, so much conversation, that Cooper and Tiffany were never sure of exactly who they were talking to and what they were saying.

Around 11:30 p.m., Cooper walked Tiffany up the front walk to the porch. Tiffany stood on the steps so that she was level with Cooper and draped her arms around his neck. Nuzzling his ear, she whispered. "Just think, in 24 hours, I'm going to have you all to myself, and we won't have to stop with just kissing."

Cooper wrapped his hands around Tiffany's waist before sliding to her hips. He licked her lips, then slid his tongue inside when she opened them. She groaned as she felt his tongue caressing hers. Cooper broke the kiss and stepped back, breathing heavy.

"I've got to get out of here, now."

"Good night, Cooper. I love you. Sweet dreams." Tiffany backed up to the porch.

"I love you, too."

Cooper turned and almost ran for the car. Tiffany watched as he zipped the car out of the driveway and sped down the street.

She opened the door and slipped inside, leaning against the door as she locked it.

"Cooper get off okay?"

Tiffany jumped at the sound of her father's voice. "Probably not as much as he would have liked." She grinned when she saw the shock cross her father's face.

"C'mon, dad. I am 20. I know what sex it, where everything goes, and what can happen if you're not careful." She headed for the kitchen. Ty followed her, watching as she got out stuff to make cocoa. "Besides, I've heard you and Mom for years, so I'd have to be pretty dense not to figure out what's going on."

Ty sat down at the kitchen table, shaking his head. "Somewhere, somehow, you grew up on me."

Tiffany came over and hugged her father. "We all do, Dad. The WildCards...me. It'll be okay. Before long, you'll be playing with grandkids."

Ty hugged Tiffany then looked at her. "Grandkids?"

Tiffany laughed as she finished making her cocoa.

Ty swatted her as he walked by. "Don't stay up to late."

"I won't. Goodnight, Dad. Love you."

"Love you, too, Tif."


Tiffany stretched as morning sunlight filtered through the lace curtains in her room. She heard a light tap on her bedroom door and sat up as her mother came into the room.

"Hi, Mom."

"Hey, Tif. How are you feeling this morning?"

Tiffany took the cup of coffee from her mother and scooted over so Tracy could sit on the bed.

"Nervous, excited, tingling all over."

Tracy laughed. "Sounds about right."

They sat in companionable silence as they drank their coffee. Then, Tracy gathered the cups and stood up. "Can I help you with anything?"

"I think it's all done. Nothing left to do but say the vows. What time do you think people will start arriving?"

"Well, it's 9:00 now. Wedding's at 1:00, pictures at noon." I think people will start showing up around picture time."

Tiffany held out her hands, amazed they weren't shaking. "I can't believe it's finally here."

Tracy looked at her daughter. "Tiffany, I know we've talked a lot about sex in the past--is there anything you want to talk about...anything you want to know?"

Tiffany smiled and winked at her mother. "I think Cooper can handle any remaining questions I have."

Tracy leaned down and kissed Tiffany's forehead. "I think you got a good one, girl. Don't let go."

"I don't intend to. Thanks, Mom."


Cooper fumbled with his uniform, then cursed loudly. "What the fucking hell is wrong this?!?!?"

Ty grinned as he stepped over to the younger man. "I think it's called wedding jitters."

"Why would I have jitters?"

"It's a big step--getting married--and most people feel nervous."

"I don't feel nervous. *This* is right--I don't have any doubts about that."

Ty nodded. "That's good to hear. Are you ready? It's about time to start."

"Yes, sir. Where's Nathan?"

"Out in the hall. He's got the rings, and he's ready to go."

As Ty got ready to leave, Cooper placed his hand on Ty's arm. "I know this has been hard for you--that you weren't sure if Tiffany and I would make it."

Ty watched Cooper's face.

"I love Tiffany more than anything or anyone I've ever met--including the 'Cards. I will do *everything* I can to make sure that she doesn't regret marrying me."

If Ty had any doubts about this marriage, they were washed away by the look of pure love that filled Cooper's eyes every time he mentioned Tiffany's name.

"I know you will, Cooper. I know you will."

Impulsively, Ty pulled Cooper into a hug, startling the younger man into silence.

"I think we'd better get out there and get this wedding started, or Tiffany's going to start rolling heads."

Cooper grinned.


When asked later for his reaction to seeing Tiffany walk down the aisle, the only thing Cooper could say was that he stopped breathing.

Cooper was staring into the distance as he waited for Tiffany to make her appearance at the end of the aisle. He heard the collective gasps of the guests, then turned to face the back of the gardens. His breathing stopped, his heart stopped, his knees locked, and he was afraid he was going to pass out--a feeling of joy so intense filled him that he was afraid to move or speak.

Tiffany looked exquisite. Her dress was simple--an empire waist separated a beaded bodice from the elegant satin skirt. The bodice was covered in pearls and lace, which extended to the short, puffed sleeves. The satin train extended four feet behind Tiffany, and she wore a pearl choker and delicate pearl earrings. A pearl headband secured the veil over the tousled curls that were placed on top of her head, and the soft net of the veil hung over her face down to the waist of her dress. White and peach roses, with baby's breath, filled her bouquet. The diamond she had not taken off since Cooper placed it on her finger graced her right hand.

A nudge from Nathan startled him, and Cooper began to breathe again.

Tiffany floated up the aisle. When she and Ty stood at the end, preparing to walk toward the altar, she got her first look at Cooper. Her breath caught in her throat, and her hand tightened around Ty's arm. He wrapped his hand around hers, then urged her forward. Tiffany had seen Cooper in his dress uniform many times, but she would later swear that he had never looked more handsome than he did at that moment.

As she approached, she felt as if she were being pulled towards him--everything felt right, perfect.

When they reached Cooper, Ty placed her hand on top of Cooper's outstretched one, then stepped back.

Tiffany and Cooper smiled at each other, then turned toward the minister.

The Honorable Reverend Smithson cleared his throat and blinked as he was hit by the glowing smiles of the bride and groom.

"Dearly beloved, we are gathered here today in the sight of God and this company to join this man and this woman in the bonds of holy matrimony. Who gives this woman to be wed?"

Ty spoke up, his voice husky. "Her mother and I do." Then he stepped back and sat down next to Tracy, interlacing his fingers with hers.

The ceremony passed in a blur for Cooper and Tiffany. They weren't aware when the minister asked if anyone was opposed to the marriage--not that anyone would have lived long enough to voice an objection. They remembered to repeat their vows, never taking their eyes off each other. When the minister asked for the rings, Nathan and Miranda handed over the rings they held. The minister spoke about the symbology of the ring, uttered a short prayer, then asked Cooper to take it and place it on Tiffany's finger as he repeated his vow.

"I give you this ring as a token of my constant faith and abiding love." Cooper slid the gold band onto Tiffany's finger, then held her hand to his lips as he sealed the vow with a kiss. A tear slid down Tiffany's cheek as she smiled at him, then took Cooper's ring from the Bible.

"I give you this ring as a token of my constant faith and abiding love." She slid the ring onto this finger, then stroked it.

Turning to face the minister, they waited for the final words of the ceremony.

"For in as much as Cooper and Tiffany have pledged their vows to one another, in front of this company, so we too pledge to support them. What God has joined together, let no man put asunder. By the powers vested in me by God and the State of Virginia, I now pronounce you husband and wife." Reverend Smithson smiled at them.

"You may kiss the bride."

Cooper and Tiffany turned to face each other. Slowly, gently, he lifted the veil and folded it back over her head. Stepping closer to her, Cooper placed his hands on her face, stroking her bottom lip with this thumb, before gently pressing his lips against Tiffany's mouth. She wrapped her arms around his waist, pressing close to him.

They separated, staring at each and smiling, then turned to face their guests. Revered Smithson beamed behind them.

"It is my pleasure to present Colonel and Mrs. Hawkes."

There were cheers from the guests as Cooper and Tiffany walked down the aisle. They stopped next to Tracy and Ty, everyone hugging everyone else, then continued down the aisle toward the house where the reception was being held. The guests followed them, the sound of laughter filling the garden. The wedding party remained for pictures, as the guests entered the house to wait for the happy couple.

Tiffany could tell that Cooper was becoming extremely annoyed with the photographer when his eyes narrowed to slits and his body took on a rigid posture. Checking to make sure no one was watching, she slid her hand under his uniform jacket and stroked his butt. Tiffany was rewarded with a smile and a wicked glint in Cooper's eyes that promised he would get her for that.

Finishing, the photographer motioned for everyone to head towards the house as he began to snap candid photos. Cooper pulled on Tiffany's hand, motioning for her to hold back. They walked slowly to the house, enjoying the quiet moments together. Tiffany wobbled when her heel caught in the grass, almost falling before Cooper caught her.

"Are you okay?" The concern in his voice flowed over her.

"I'm fine, Cooper. Grass and high heels don't mix." She laughed.

The photographer had turned and was snapping pictures of them as they walked towards the house. He whispered a quick prayer of "Thanks" as he snapped Cooper sweeping Tiffany up into his arms before continuing towards the reception. He stood to the side as the bride and groom reached the stone patio, snapping more pictures as Cooper reluctantly put Tiffany down--Tiffany curtseying to Cooper and Cooper acknowledging it with a bow. Then Cooper offered his arm as they walked through the glass doors to the front hall.

The reception line began in the front hall and extended well down the hall. There were a number of dignitaries and high-ranking military personnel who showed up to wish the couple well. The gift table was piled high, and Cooper cast an eye over it. He leaned over to Tiffany as another one was placed on it. "We're not going to have to open those here, are we?"

Tiffany leaned into her husband, a provocative smile on her lips. "Is there something else you'd rather be doing?"

Cooper leaned down and nipped Tiffany's earlobe. "Oh, yeah."

Guests at the reception were amazed to watch them. They acted in unison, each move complementing another as they moved through the room. There were those who had expressed shock and disapproval at the thought of Tiffany marrying a man so much older, but seeing them together had diffused many doubts.

The sumptuous feast and free-flowing liquor loosened up the guests. By the time Cooper and Tiffany started cutting the wedding cake, every guest was in great spirits. The photographer made them stand there as he looked at every angle, hurrying up when Cooper looked at him like he was going to shove that camera into a dark orifice. People clapped when they sliced the cake, then waited to see if the bride and groom would do anything silly to each other. Cooper broke off a piece of cake and placed it in Tiffany's mouth. She smiled and winked at him, then broke off a piece to feed to Cooper. Tiffany slipped the piece into his mouth, her mouth forming an "o" when Cooper tongued the icing off her finger as she slid her finger out. When she saw his eyes, she realized that was her payback for fondling him during the picture-taking session earlier.

Sitting at a table close to the action, Paul leaned over to Nathan. "Think they'll actually make it to a room?"

Nathan laughed, almost choking on his champagne. "It's going to be real close."

Music began to play, and Cooper and Tiffany headed to the dance floor, Tiffany sweeping up the gown of her dress into her arm. Tiffany had grown up listening to her mother's favorite music from the 20th century. As a result, their first dance as husband and wife was to "The Promise" by Tracy Chapman.

Hands were held, lovers held close as they watched Tiffany and Cooper move slowly around the floor. Tracy blinked back tears and wrapped her arms around Ty as she watched Tiffany sing to Cooper. Then Ty stood up and escorted Tracy to the floor. The song ended and a new one began, with the Hawkes and McQueens exchanging partners. Tiffany slipped into the comfortable familiarity of her father's arms and leaned against his shoulder. She giggled as his ribbons scratched her cheek.

"What's so funny, Tif?"

"Dad, you have entirely too much fruit salad on your chest."

"Your husband has a lot, too."

"True, but when I'm dancing with him, I don't want to rest my head against his chest because I'm too busy watching his face."

Cooper swung Tracy around the floor. "Are you surviving, Cooper?"

"Yes, ma'am. Although, for a while, I wasn't sure about the photographer."

Tracy laughed. "I noticed."

She turned serious for a moment. "Take good care of her, Cooper."

"I will, I promise."

The rest of the guests joined them on the floor as music swirled around the room. Tiffany was passed to Nathan and Paul, then several other guests as Cooper danced with Shane, then Vanessa.

Several hours later, Tiffany stood on the stairs and looked out over the single women gathered below. Turning to face the wall, she held a bouquet that she had especially made for throwing, breathing in the scent of the roses, then threw it over her shoulder. Miranda cheered as she caught it, looking at her boyfriend over her shoulder.

The guests moved out the front door, lining the sidewalk as Cooper and Tiffany prepared to leave. Tiffany walked down the stairs and took the hand Cooper held out to her. He leaned down and kissed her, feeling her hand come up and pull his head closer. When they exited the house, they were showered with rose petals and bird seed as they made their way to the car. Someone had covered the car in shaving cream, ribbons, balloons, and old shoes, making almost impossible to get in.

Once inside, they honked the horn as they drove off.


With a heavy sigh of relief, Tracy closed the door on the last guest. Ty stood in the front hall and unbuttoned his jacket as he watched her lock the door for the night.

She leaned against it, staring at him. "I can't believe that's the last one."

He smiled. "You can never say Marines don't know how to close down a party."

"That's very true, General."

Tracy walked over to Ty, looking at him as he stared around at the walls.

"Listen...do you hear that?"

Tracy shook her head. "Hear what?"

"Silence. There's no one here but us." Ty tilted his head and a slow grin creeped onto his lips. He brought Tracy's hand up to his lips and kissed her palm, licking and sucking on her fingers.

"Do you realize that we've never really been alone in this house?"

Tracy caught her breath as Ty reached around and unzipped her dress. "Why, General, what do you have in mind?"

He smiled, easing the dress off her shoulders and letting if fall to the floor. Tracy stepped out of it, kicking it away as she began unzipping his pants.

Hands caressing skin, rapidly removing clothing, as Tracy and Ty made their way to the floor.

"Oh, God, Ty..." He sank between her thighs, burying himself in Tracy's moist warmth. He eased himself out, then drove hard into her.

Ty's mouth was hot against her neck. "I will never get tired of this."

Tracy wrapped her arms around him, reaching up to stroke his navel. "Ty, you feel so good."

His thrusts became harder as Tracy's body rocked to meet him, matching his rhythm as they pushed toward climax. Tracy shook, wrapping her legs tightly around his hips as she felt her muscles grip him. Ty was right behind her, shuddering against her as she held onto him. Falling into her arms, he pressed kisses along her neck and jaw.

"Now that we've gotten rid of the kid, guess we can do this anywhere we want." Ty raised his head to kiss Tracy.

"Only until the grandkids come along." Tracy stroked his back with her hand.

He let his head drop into her shoulder. "Why does everyone keep talking about grandkids?"

They laid on the floor until he softened and shifted to Tracy's side, pulling her close in his arms.

Tracy moved, then groaned as she tried to get comfortable. She sat up with a grunt, then looked at Ty. "I'm getting too old for this shit."

Ty smiled and put his hands behind his head. "Making out on the floor of the hall?"

"Yeah. I'd much prefer to be upstairs, in a big, soft bed, where I don't have to worry about my back going out and missing out on any little fantasies you might have."

Ty got to his feet quickly, holding out his hand to help Tracy off the floor. "Well, I guess I'd better do what I can to help an old woman."

Tracy slapped him on the butt. "Who the hell are you calling old?"

He picked up their scattered clothing off the floor, straightening slowly as he watched Tracy. The soft light from the lap bathed her in a warm glow. "God, you're beautiful."

Tracy leaned close to him, licking his lips, before moving toward the stairs. "Let me show you more beautiful things."

She held out her hand, entwining his fingers with hers, and led him up the stairs.


Cooper and Tiffany drove into the countryside to the little bed-and-breakfast Cooper had discovered on a weekend jaunt. They checked in, missing the indulgent smile of the proprietress because they were too lost in each other. Tiffany ran her hand across the register after Cooper signed them in, enjoying the sight of "Colonel and Mrs. Hawkes".

Taking their key, they made their way down the path to a small cottage that was rented only to honeymooners. Setting down the bags, Cooper opened the door and turned on the light. He placed the bags inside the door, then bent slightly to sweep Tiffany into his arms once again. He walked inside and kicked the door shut behind, hearing the lock click.

He smiled at Tiffany. "Alone at last."

Tiffany leaned into him and kissed his lips, licking them slightly. "It's about time."

He set her down, then looked around the room. He noted the fireplace, the huge bed with the comforter turned down, the ice bucket with champagne. He could see a small light shining in the bathroom.

Tiffany picked up a bag and headed toward the bathroom. "I'll be right back."

Cooper took off his jacket and laid it across a chair. He crossed to the fireplace and started a fire, turned on the radio to play soft music, then turned down some of the lights. Sitting on the bed, he slipped off his shoes and socks, then bounced on the bed a couple of times. Hearing the door open, Cooper turned to look at Tiffany, feeling his eyes widen and his jaw drop. He couldn't move as Tiffany walked towards him--every muscle was frozen as desire rolled through his veins.

The white lace was vivid against the soft color of her skin, the dark hair at her thighs shadowy beneath the material. Tiffany felt her nipples harden as she watched Cooper's eyes light up with passion, and her legs almost gave way as she walked to him. Cooper got off the bed as he reached for her.

Cooper stroked her cheek before rubbing her lips with his thumb. His hand then caressed her neck and glided across her shoulder before wrapping itself in the dark curls that hung down her back. He pulled her to him, consuming her mouth in a kiss that burned all the way down to her toes. Tiffany slid her hands up his chest, then around his neck, stroking his navel as he cupped her bottom with his other hand. They were breathless when the kiss broke.

Tiffany closed her eyes. "I've waited so long for this, I feel like I'm going to burn up."

She opened her eyes to stare at him.

Cooper smiled. "We're going to try and take this slow and easy, but I don't know how well I'm going to control myself."

He brought his other hand down to cup her bottom and pulled her close, letting her feel how hard he was. His lips caressed her forehead, before blowing softly across her eyelashes. "I want you so bad."

Tiffany sighed as she brought her hands around to caress his jaw. "Then why are you waiting."

Cooper smiled again. "I promised your dad I'd be gentle because it's your first time."

Tiffany didn't now whether to laugh or get angry at the thought of her father giving Cooper instructions on their sex life. Cooper could read her face as she decided how she felt.

"Tiffany, he cares about you, that's all."

Tiffany wrapped her arms around her husband. "I know, but do you think we can leave my parents out of this conversation?"

With slow hands, Cooper skimmed along Tiffany's skin, sending little jolts of electricity through her. She shivered, opening her eyes and watching Cooper's face in the flickering light. She lifted her hand and stroked it down his face, stopping as he turned towards it and kissed her palm.

Cooper pulled Tiffany down to the bed and stretched her out, lying beside her. For a moment, he just looked at her, memorizing the lines of her body.

"What do you want to do, Tiffany?" Cooper leaned down and sucked on Tiffany's earlobe, enjoying the gasp it caused.

"I want..." Tiffany could barely get the words out as Cooper's hand glided along over her hip to cup her breast, stroking her nipple with his thumb. The friction of the lace against the tender bud made her groan as pleasure radiated through her.

"Please, Cooper, I need you." Tiffany's fingers wrapped themselves in Cooper's t-shirt. Feeling the cotton in her fingers, she looked at him.

"Aren't you wearing too many clothes?"

Cooper sat up, stripping off his t-shirt. Tiffany also sat up, reaching out to lightly rake her nails down his chest. Moving close to him, she could smell his scent--warm and musky.

"Hmmm, you smell good."

She leaned into Cooper, brushing her breasts against his chest, and he felt himself harden. Tiffany nuzzled Cooper's neck as she rubbed her hands along his chest.

"Taste good, too."

Cooper closed his eyes, hissing as he felt her lips move across his skin. "God, Tiffany, when you do that, it takes every bit of self-control I've got to go slow and not take you right now."

At his words, Tiffany lifted her head and stared at him. "Then why hold back?"

Cooper smiled. "Because I want this night to be beautiful."

"It will be, Cooper. It will be."

Tiffany stood and slipped her fingers under the straps of her gown, easing it off her shoulders, feeling the whisper of lace as it brushed against her skin. The fire illuminated her from behind, and Cooper reached out to her. His hand brushed the valley between her breasts, stroked her belly, then tangled itself in her pubic hair. Tiffany grabbed Cooper's shoulders to steady herself as he began his exploration of her body.

"C'mere, Cooper." Tiffany pulled him to his feet in front of her, reaching for the button of his pants. Undoing them, she eased her hands under the waistband of his briefs and pushed them down his legs. Looking down, her eyes widened a bit.

"Wow."

"Is that good or bad?"

"*That* is exceptional."

There was nothing between them anymore. Tiffany felt Cooper's skin against hers and almost cried--feeling the strength of his chest against the softness of her breasts, the hair on his legs brushing against the satiny skin of her thighs, the electric shock as his hands curved around her hips to pull her against his erection. They fell to the bed, locked in each other's arms.

His mouth was sealed to hers, his tongue teasing her, letting her slide her tongue into his mouth. When she did, he sucked on it, listening to her groan. He nibbled his way down her neck, then bent down to lick her right nipple. Cooper licked it again, suckled it, then nibbled on it--finally alternating all three. As he teased her right nipple with his mouth, his fingers teased the left, rolling it between his fingers.

Cooper's leg slid between hers, the hair tickling her inner thighs and his penis heavy against her hip. Tiffany heard herself moaning as she clutched at his arms.

He switched breasts, laving the left one with his tongue as he caressed her right nipple with his thumb. Tiffany could barely moved as each sensation paralyzed her with pleasure. Cooper looked up to see Tiffany's head thrown back, her neck arched as he teased her with his fingers. He moved up along her body, capturing her mouth. She wrapped her arms around him, stroking and kneading the muscles in his back as she pressed her body closer. As their mouths caressed each other, Cooper slid his hand between their bodies down between her thighs, separating the dark curls with his fingers until he found what he was looking for. When he rubbed her clit with his middle finger, Tiffany jerked against him almost whimpering.

Cooper whispered against her lips, "It's okay, baby, just let go."

He continued to stroke her, feeling her hips roll against him as she sought release from the pressure in her belly. When she came, her body stiffening, Cooper watched as her eyelids closed and she melted into the orgasm. Cooper's hand rested on her mound, fingers still entangled, his finger resting against her.

Tiffany felt like she was floating. When she opened her eyes, she saw Cooper's face, saw the love in his eyes. She lifted her hand to his cheek.

"That was incredible, love."

Cooper smiled. "We're not done yet."

Tiffany grinned. "I don't know how much more I can take."

"Believe me, it will be worth it."

Tiffany nodded, then her eyes opened wide when she felt Cooper slide his finger inside her. She wiggled a bit when he slid another finger inside.

"Does it hurt?"

"No, love, it doesn't."

Cooper slid his fingers out, bringing them to his nose to smell her scent. Tiffany watched as he put a finger in his mouth and smiled.

"You taste very good."

Cooper kissed her again and Tiffany tasted herself on his tongue. Slowly, he maneuvered himself above her, settling between her thighs and propping himself up on his arms. With one hand, he reached down and pulled her leg up high on his hip, then repeated the move on the other side. As he positioned himself, he looked at her. Tiffany nodded, trying not to tense up as he slowly pushed his penis into her. The stabbing pain as he broke her maidenhead made her squinch her eyes and suck in her breath.

"Tiffany, look at me."

She opened her eyes and released the breath she was holding.

"Are you okay?"

Tiffany nodded, unable to speak for a moment as her body adjusted itself to Cooper's size. He leaned down and kissed her as Tiffany welcomed the unfamiliar sensation of fullness. Her hands, which had dug into Cooper's back during penetration, unclenched and slid down to cup his butt.

Although she had thought about this, thought about making love with Cooper, there were so many sensations to experience. The weight of his body, the pain--and the pleasure that accompanied it, feeling him inside her body, the racing of her heart, the prickles of heat wherever he touched her. Tiffany thought she would go crazy trying to remember everything.

There was a hint of laughter in her voice when she spoke. "This doesn't look like how they do it in the movies."

Cooper grinned down at her. "They never show the really good stuff."

He eased out of her tightness, then thrust in gently, finding it a bit easier to enter. Each stroke was a little smoother as Cooper's hips rocked against Tiffany. She found herself rolling her hips to meet him, trying to match his rhythm. Cooper eased his hand down to her hip to guide her hips against him as his thrusts became stronger. As he eased out of her, she reached up and caressed his navel, knowing that touching him there was like igniting a fire. Tiffany was rewarded with a groan as Cooper shivered, then she gasped as he buried himself in her with a hard thrust.

Cooper continued to kiss her, caressing her skin, teasing her with his tongue as they made love. Tiffany ran her hands over his body, trying to get closer to him, stroking his arms, his chest, his back. She tightened her legs around his hips, pulling him closer.

As they began to match each other, he slipped his hand between them, rubbing her clit as he felt orgasm closing around him. Tiffany jerked against him, shuddering as another orgasm filled her. Cooper thrust into her twice before he came, groaning her name as he spilled into her. He fell against her, propping himself up on his elbows so that he didn't smother her.

Tiffany's eyes were closed, her lips parted as she tried to calm her heart. She felt Cooper's fingertips brush the hair from her forehead and opened her eyes.

"So good." Tiffany sighed the words.

Cooper pressed kisses to nose, her cheeks, her jaw, her chin as they lay there. When he softened and slipped out of her, he moved to her side and drew her against him.

She smiled, stroking the arm that held her close to his body. "Thank you, Cooper."

Cooper smiled back. "For what?"

"For making this the most beautiful night of my life." Tiffany pulled his head down and kissed the lips that had given her such pleasure. "I love you with all that I am."

Cooper smiled gently as he returned the kiss. "I love you, Tiffany Fairgate McQueen Hawkes."

Wrapped in each other, they fell asleep.

Tiffany woke in the early morning, feeling the warmth of Cooper's breath against her neck. She smiled as she remembered, running her hand across her breasts, down her belly, between her thighs. She winced a bit, feeling sore, but loving it. She shivered when she felt Cooper's hand slide down her arm to join her hand and leaned against him as he gently fingered the tender folds. Tiffany stroked his arm as he touched her, rubbing herself against him as she felt little fingers of pleasure clutch at her. She felt his penis press against her back as his body responded to her. Cooper moved his hand to her hip to push her onto her back, then looked at her. She ran her fingers over his lips and down his throat, pushing against his chest so that he ended up lying on his back.

Tiffany leaned over him, looking at his body, running fingers down his chest. Reaching out, she stroked the shaft of his penis with her finger and heard Cooper suck in a breath.

She turned to look at his face. "Does it hurt when I do that?"

Cooper grinned. "In a good way."

"Good." Tiffany thought a minute, biting her lip. "I want you to show me how to make you ache with pleasure."

Cooper nodded, unable to speak as she continued to stroke him.

"But, first..." Tiffany licked his lips before sucking on his bottom lip.

Resting her hands on his chest, she draped her leg over him so that she straddled his hips. Cooper stopped her before she could move.

"Why are we stopping?"

Cooper slid his hand between them, slipping a finger up into her. "I just want to make sure you're ready--I don't want to hurt you."

Tiffany's hands curled into fists as Cooper's finger stroked her. When he pulled his finger out, he took one of her hands and wrapped it around his penis. Tiffany watched his face as he helped her guide him into her. She sank down on his shaft, resting for a moment as she adjusted herself, then began to rock against him, moving her body as she searched for the position that felt the best. She rolled her hips against him and felt him thrust up gently.

Cooper ran his hands up her arms, cupping her shoulders, then smoothing his hands back down. He watched Tiffany's face as she closed her eyes, letting her head fall back as she let go. He reached up to cup her right breast, stroking the nipple and rolling it between his fingers. Tiffany's eyes flew open and she bit into her lip as each sensation swept over her. Cooper wrapped his hands around her hips as she moved faster, his fingers digging into her skin.

Everything closed in on Tiffany, and she felt herself stiffen, throwing back her head as an intense rush of pleasure rolled over her. She felt Cooper continue to thrust into her, her body moving to accept him, then she felt him spurt into her as climax overtook him. Cooper groaned as he came, hearing Tiffany moan with pleasure as she fell against him. He ran his hands up along her back as she lay there, feeling her heartbeat calm and her breathing slow. Tiffany turned her head to nuzzle his chest, her tongue licking his nipple, and she heard Cooper sigh.

"You're going to be a handful, Tiffany Hawkes."

She grinned as she looked up at him. "I certainly am."

The End


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