An Autumn Encounter Ch. 09

Mike couldn't help taking the bait. "And what rumors would those be, George?"

"Oh, everyone says she married him just for the money and that David finally got tired of her antics; always flirting with other men, dressing like a slut, that sort of thing. Like I said, I am sure it isn't true."

Mike was just about to grab George by the collar when Mr. Ross walked up with Linda on his arm and said, "Gentlemen? Is this a private conversation or can anyone join in?"

Mike smiled. He never took his eyes off George as he said. "George was just telling us that he knows Stacy's ex-husband, David Parker."

Mr. Ross reacted instantly, "David Parker is a conniving, manipulative, ass-kissing cock sucker. She was smart to divorce him."

Mike quickly excused himself and headed off to find Stacy. He was embarrassed and was going to ask her about what George had said. It took a while to find her, and by then he had decided it didn't matter. All he cared about was having Stacy in his life, and nothing the little prick said was going to make any difference.

Stacy was directing the dance contest when he finally caught up with her. "Oh thank God Mike. I really need a drink."

Mike smiled and gave her a bite on the neck. "How long before we can get out of here. I really want to be alone with you."

"Soon baby. Very soon. We just need to finish this contest and then hand out the prizes. After that we can do whatever you want." She winked at him and emphasized "whatever."

Mike put his arm around her and watched the couples finish the last dance. Then the judges cast their votes and handed them to Stacy. "Great! Now we can announce the winners."

Stacy dragged Mike up on the stage and pushed him up to the microphone. She waved at the DJ to cut the music and whispered "Go ahead."

Mike took a deep breath. "Good evening! I hope everyone is having a great time!"

There was a loud round of applause and cheers. Mike waited for it to die down then said, "First, I want to thank Bill Ross for sponsoring this party. Let's all give him a big round of applause!"

This time there was an even louder round of applause. Mr. Ross waved and smiled all around.

Mike continued. "Now it is time to announce the winners of our contests. First, the winners of the dance contest are . . . Mark Lopez and Denise Peffer. They win a weekend for two at the Belmont Grand Hotel. Let's give them a big hand!"

After that he announced the winners of the costume contests. They were all very surprised and happy with their prizes. Finally, Mike invited Mr. Ross up to the stage to close the evening. Bill gave a quick but rousing speech about working hard and playing harder. Then he shook Mike's hand, gave Stacy a big hug, and the party began to break up.

Mike couldn't wait any longer. He had been thinking all week about how close he and Stacy had become. He needed her, not just physically, but in other ways as well. She was a major part of his life now, and he knew it was time to tell her. He pulled her over to a table. "Stacy, I need to talk to you . . . no that isn't right. I want to talk and I want you to just listen." He sounded anxious.

"Ok, Mike. Whatever you want." Stacy was nervous. She couldn't imagine what had Mike so frazzled.

"I . . . Uh . . . Oh, shit! Stacy, I love you."

Stacy couldn't breathe for a moment. "Oh, Mike! You are so sweet. I love you too."

Mike breathed a big sigh of relief, and then opened up. "Honey, I wanted to tell you all night, but it was just so hectic. You are the best thing that ever happened to me and I want you to know it. I am truly, madly, deeply in love with you."

Stacy thought, "Man, once he gets going there is no stopping him!" She hugged him and kissed him passionately. Then she whispered into his ear, "Give me a half hour, then come on up. I have one more treat for you tonight!"

Mike watched her walk away thinking how lucky he was. Two years ago had been the worst year of his life, and now he was happier than he had ever been. It was amazing how quickly things could change. He looked at his watch and smiled, then walked over to the bar to get another drink.