Talan looked at the clear sky as he walked over to Babs’ place. Aria and Sonata were out for the day, and school had just ended. Today was the day Babs’ friend was coming over. According Babs she was already there, and they were waiting for him to come over. She wanted to hang out, then go to another movie. This time with with her friend along. He didn’t mind, since afterward they’d probably go swimming as well.

He laughed as he turned onto her street. He’d been hanging out there so often he just started stashing clothes to change into if they were working out, or if they were going to go swimming. He wondered what her friend would think of that.

According Babs, Talan would love her. He was curious to see if that would be the case or not.

He rang the doorbell and was surprised when Babs opened in right away.

“Hey you..” she said with a playful grin, “Movies later, right?”

“Yeah, called our driver. He’ll be here in an hour.” Talan replied.

“Your own personal driver? You are a rich kid, aren’t you?” a deeper feminine voice called from the living room.

Babs lead Talan over and motioned to the couch, “Talan, this is Alyssa.” she said with a happy smile. “Alyssa, this is Talan.”

Talan’s jaw dropped, “Woah... uh- hehe- H-hello..”

Alyssa smiled and leaned back, crossing her legs, “I get that a lot, nice to meet you, Talan. I’ve heard a heck of a lot about you.”

“Heck of a lot huh..” Talan said while glancing nervously at Babs, who was sporting a teasing grin.  

He gulped as he examined Alyssa. She was the picture of a gorgeous woman. Talan never really fancied himself someone who was extra picky when it came to looks. He had his preferences like anyone else, but he was able to like several features on most people he met. Before he met Babs he never saw himself being attracted to a fit athlete with a punk rock aesthetic, yet he came around.

But Alyssa, she looked like the type of girl guys fantasized about. When she stood up to shake Talan’s hand he guessed she was six and a half feet tall, easy. Skin a little more tan than Babs’, with shoulder length golden hair, the tips dyed blue and purple. She had curves that were much more pronounced than Babs, and a perfect round ass. Her legs were the most appealing part of her by far. They gave her the height, but unlike Babs’ they were thick as tree trunks. It was clear to Talan she was into fitness as much as Babs was, yet her profile hid the muscle well. Her bust was large, fitting for her frame. Nothing too huge, but clearly dwarfing Babs.’

Talan gulped as she winked at him and went to sit down, taking Babs with her. It was clear as Babs fell into her lap and they shared their first kiss. Alyssa was a woman, there was no other way to describe her. And yet, she was only a year older than him at nineteen, if Babs was to be believed. Regardless, she exuded a presence much more mature, and it drove Talan wild.

After finishing their kiss, Babs got up and led Talan to sit down in between them, “So, Talan here knows about our prior relationship, and he’s cool with it.”

“Really?” Alyssa said while looking down at him, “Just like that? No issues?”

Talan was a bit nervous sitting between the two girls, but he kept his cool. “Not really, I’ll have to pick up on a few things as we go. The only thing that gets me is the whole... equal sharing of love, thing...”

Alyssa rubbed his back and smiled, “Well, how do you interpret it?”

“Have you thought more about it?” Babs asked.

Talan nodded and got up, he stood in front of them and tried to gesture what he meant, “It’s like a love triangle, but there is no focal point. These things are all over fantasy and romance novels. They work fine in theory, but in practice? I can’t help but feel I may like one of you more, even if I don’t intend to. Won’t that just lead to bad feelings? What I’m saying is, we all have good intentions, but having them and seeing them through are two very different things.”

Alyssa looked at Babs and smiled, “Can you imagine if Brandon had this kind of attitude?”

Babs shrugged, “It would have been an entirely different experience.”

Talan looked at them both spread his arms, “Who’s Brandon...?”

“He was Babs’ ex,” Alyssa replied.

“Oh,” Talan replied. “Him.”

Alyssa smiled at Talan and sat forward anxiously on the couch, “I can tell you’re going to be a lot of fun, Spikey.”

“Spikey?” Talan asked, then glared at Babs.

“What? Alyssa was curious, you don’t care... c’mon...”

Talan shook her off as she put him in a headlock and messed up his hair, “You’re right, I don’t.”

“We can work on execution with time,” Alyssa said. “This is a very organic thing, you learn as you go. And really, we’re all still getting to know each other.”

“Well, I’m getting to know you both,” Talan said. “But you girls are already best friends, and uh, more..”

“True,” Babs admitted. “But we haven’t seen each other in a while. We’ve both changed since then. After I left the clique, Alyssa did, too. We talked a little bit, but we needed our space.”

“And we were just starting to explore our new attraction to each other,” Alyssa added. “We can now continue that with a little something extra on the side,” she said while licking her lips at Talan.

Talan felt a shiver run up his spine, “So I’m just a side dish? This is what I was talking about.”

Alyssa waved her hands in a negative and shook her head, “No no no, that was just an expression. Maybe an inappropriate one. Here, let me explain. Take off your shirt.”

“What?” Talan asked.

“Your shirt, lose it,” Alyssa repeated.

“Why?”

“Oh, I am going to have so much fun straightening you out later...” Alyssa mused with a devious grin. “Dude, just take off your shirt. I won’t bite yet, I swear.”

“Yet...” Babs chuckled.

“You take yours off, too.” Alyssa said, shooting her sidelong glare.

Babs obeyed immediately and elbowed Talan to do the same. Eventually he complied and shrugged. “Now what?”

“Stand next to her,” Alyssa commanded.

Talan stood next to Babs and looked at her, noticing how she took on a different demeanor when given orders by Alyssa.

“Wow... he does have small abs,” Alyssa giggled.

“I told you they were modest, I wasn’t making it up,” Babs said indignantly.

“Like I said, I’m not a bodybuilder,” Talan explained with a sigh.

“I love your physique...” Alyssa said with a sultry smile. “It’s clear you’re an athlete like us. You take care of yourself. Not like other guys who let themselves go. That you have abs at all is something to be proud of. No reasonable girl should expect washboard abs like in the movies or professional sports. That shit’s rare. What you have is more than enough for both of us, right Babs?”

“Right,” Babs agreed. “Confidence, Spike. Now you’re hearing it from another girl. And a sexy one at that. Convinced yet?”

“Yeah, you make good points,” Talan said.

“Well I’m not done,” Alyssa said while she crossed her arms and leaned back. “Even though they are modest, I much prefer your abs to hers.” she said while motioning to Babs. “I like guy abs more than girl abs, that’s my preference. What about you, Babs?”

“Same,” she said with a shrug.

“Talan, the important thing is that in the end, it doesn’t matter. Just because I like a feature of yours more than hers doesn’t give you a point over her. It’s just a preference. Just as her also sharing said preference doesn’t put you above me. As long as we have things we love about each other, then it doesn’t matter.”

“I think I understand,” Talan said. “Makes sense.”

“We used abs, now what’s one thing you like?” Alyssa asked.

Before Talan could answer, he felt Babs drape and arm over his shoulder and kiss his cheek, “He loves legs...”

“Does he now...?” Alyssa asked with a playful giggle. She ran a hand down her thighs and crossed her legs twice, first the left then the right.

Talan gulped and had a hard time concentrating. Her figure was complemented by the ripped up short jean shorts she was wearing. Suddenly Talan felt his ear being licked. Babs began kissing his ear and suckling on it, all while running her hands across his stomach and chest.

“Not sure what to look at?” Alyssa asked, stretching out one leg and caressing it with both hands.

“Poor Talan...” Babs pouted while she turned his head and kissed him deeply.

Talan had no time to enjoy it. As soon as she pulled away she shoved him toward the couch. He fell neatly into Alyssa’s spacious lap. His abs were immediately fondled, and he felt her tongue taste his neck. Babs crawled onto the couch and pushed Talan to the side, finding her own place in her friend’s lap.

Alyssa turned away from Talan and kissed Babs, leaving him to figure out what to do next. He saw Alyssa’s bust, and decided to kiss her neck and caress her firm arms. Eventually he grew more bold and his hands drifted down to her chest.

“Oh, Spike..” Alyssa said with a low chuckle. “Where do you think you’re going?”

“Not yet,” Babs teased.

Talan tensed as he felt Alyssa’s left hand move from his abs down to his groin. He closed his eyes as her hand explored it, rubbing back and forth.

“Oh my...” Alyssa said. She stopped kissing Babs and looked down. After that she captured Talan’s gaze with a knowing smile. She leaned forward, about to give him his first kiss.

However it was interrupted by a buzzing sound from Talan’s pocket.

“Fuck!” he yelled, rolling out of her lap.

Alyssa and Babs giggled, “What is it, Spikey?”

Talan slid open his phone and read the text, it was their ride. Mr. Wesley was waiting outside.

“Goddamnit Wesley!!” Talan shouted. “Our ride is here, I think I’ll just tell him to leave.”

Alyssa put a hand on Talan’s leg and shook her head, “No no, I want to see the town a bit. Don’t worry. We’ll pick this up later when we get back.”

Talan looked at Babs who shrugged, eager to play along with her friend.

“Alright, let’s go,” Talan said while getting up.

As they walked out of the house, Talan opened the rear door for the girls and waited patiently. Babs got in first, then Alyssa stopped.

“Well?” Talan asked, motioning for her to get in.

“Oh, you’re cute,” she said with a laugh. “I’m a big girl, Talan. I don’t do well in back seats, let alone sitting the middle. Maybe someone shorter should-”

“Fine,” Talan said with a roll of his eyes.

He received a giggle as he walked by and slid over near Babs.

“Oh hey!” she said with a grin.

“Can it,” Talan groaned.

Alyssa climbed in next and took some time to get situated. Her long legs making it difficult. Eventually she settled in and they were off.

Talan sat back and felt very ill at ease with two beautiful girls staring at him the whole time.

“So Babs,” Alyssa said, finally breaking the silence. “Is Talan good at showing people around? How’d he do with you?”

“Eh, alright,” Babs said while winking at Talan. “We didn’t really go too many places when hanging out. It’s the suburbs and all. Nothing like the city.”

Talan almost swallowed his tongue when Alyssa took his right hand and placed it in her lap, “Well, you’ll have to show me around a little before I leave.”

“When are you leaving?” Babs asked. “I want to know so we can plan out tomorrow.”

Alyssa shrugged, “Oh, I’m not leaving too soon. I’ll let you know, Babsy.”

“Babsy...?” Talan asked with a dumb grin.

Babs glared at him and whispered, “That’s her pet name for me, not yours.”

Talan leaned against Alyssa and chuckled, “Whatever you say... ...”

“Don’t,” Babs warned.

“Oh boy...” Alyssa whispered.

“Babsy...” Talan said.

Babs’ glare looked like it could melt steel, “Tally, you’ll be regretting that later.”

Alyssa shook her head in awe, “You’re very brave, Talan.”

“He thinks he is,” Babs said with a devious grin.

After a few moments of silence, Talan stretched. Instead of putting his hand back in her lap, he rested it on Alyssa’s leg. He stared ahead for a moment, then glanced up at her. She looked down at him and smirked, “You like?”

Talan’s face grew red and he nodded, “Yeah, a lot.”

“Could say that again,” Babs said while leaning over. “My second favorite thing about Alyssa.”

“What’s the first?” Talan asked.

“That’s a secret,” Alyssa said as she took Talan’s hand and slid it up her thigh. “Best thing about these babies is all the fun things I can do with them.”

“I can only imagine...” Talan said.

“You won’t have to imagine for long,” Alyssa said. “If you’re a good boy...”

Talan looked up and caught a wink as the car stopped. Talan got out after Alyssa and walked to the theater with them. “So, am I paying or-”

“No,” both girls said in unison.

“Okay...” Talan said with a chuckle.

As they went inside, Talan payed close attention to the guys and girls staring at them. Quite a few were looking, so after he they got to their theater he held the door open and smirked.

“Lot’s of people staring,” he said with a laugh. “They probably wonder what kind a guy I am, huh?”

“That, or they just think you’re our gay friend,” Alyssa joked as she walked inside.

Babs grabbed Talan by the shoulder and wrapped an arm around him. She kissed his cheek and whispered, “You’re doing great, Talan. I’m super proud of you.”

“Really? Or are you just shitting me?” he asked.

“Not shitting, for real.” Babs said. “Lyss really likes you. I couldn’t be happier.”

Talan put his arm around her and gave her a small kiss on the lips, “I like her, too. This is the best thing to ever happen to me.”

Babs smiled and hugged him, “Just you wait... just you wait...”

After the movie Talan went to the restroom and waited for the girls to meet him outside. He gave Mr. Wesley a call and told him to come as soon as he was done eating dinner. Talan told him he didn’t need to be back right away and that he could get something to eat while the movie was playing. It was a longer one this time. Talan figured he’d take the girls to a coffee shop afterward if they had to wait. There was one across the street.

“Shitface, you’re lucky I don’t deck you right there and curb stomp your ass.”

Talan pocketed his phone and laughed, “This is the second time I’ve had to deal with assholes after a show here. I’m never coming back to this place again.”

Davis walked up to Talan, flanked by his two friends of course, “I don’t know what the fuck happened last time. But that pigtailed slut isn’t here now. I’m here to finish what I started.”

Talan held his ground, “What are you trying to prove? Seriously, what the fuck is the point? You and your friends beat me up, then what? When does it stop? I don’t want to fight you. You’re not worth my time, and I’m not worth yours.”

“What a little bitch, tryin’ to talk his way out of it,” Davis said, earning a laugh from his friends. “Not gonna work, Talan.”

Babs and Alyssa walked outside and joined him. “Who do we have here?” Alyssa asked.

“This is porky, the fat kid I told you about earlier,” Babs said.

“Oh... right,” Alyssa said. “The one who couldn’t take on little Talan here by himself. How sad.”

“You got two bodyguards now? And chicks?” Davis asked. “You’re fuckin’ hysterical.”

“They aren’t bodyguards, they’re my friends.” Talan said. “I’ll ask again, leave us alone. Nothing has to happen here.”

Davis spit in front of Talan and glared at him, “You know we’re way beyond that, shithead. Are you gonna fight, or are you gonna have your sluts do it for you?”

Talan stood up to his full height and balled his fists, “You want a fight, you’ve got one. Behind the building, now.”

Davis smirked and walked off with his friends. Babs grabbed Talan’s shoulder and stopped him. “Talan, I know you can do this. But you’ve got nothing to prove. I know you’re tough. You don’t have to do this. Let’s just leave this time.”

Talan took Babs’ hands in his own and kissed them, “I’m just not going to take this anymore. What did you say about there being no one above any other in our relationship?” he asked Alyssa. “He insulted you two, and he’s been after me for years. It ends tonight.”

Babs frowned and looked up at Alyssa, who was studying Talan carefully. She crossed her arms and nodded, “This is your show, Talan. I’ll have you know I’m every bit as experienced as Babs in defending myself. If those other two try to start something they’ll have to go through us.”

Talan nodded and walked with them behind the building. The street lamps were just starting to turn on as the sun began to go down. Talan took his keys and cell phone out and handed them to Babs.

After that he circled Davis and waited for the right move. When he advanced and threw a punch, Talan knocked it away and countered. Davis threw another and another, only on connecting to Talan in the gut. He doubled over and received a blow to the side. Talan staggered back and put up his hands again. As Davis came forward he kicked him in the gut, then twice in the side. As he was bent over, Talan punched him straight in the nose.

Davis went down to one knee, and stumbled backward. His two friends looked ready to get involved, then saw the two girls. Babs wore her standard attire of short shorts and a band tea. She cracked her knuckles and smiled. Alyssa on the other hand wore a ripped jean jacket, similar to Aria’s. She took it off and cracked her neck. The two boys took a step back when they saw her, they did not want to fight a girl who looked like she was hiding a ton of muscle.

“You piece of shit,” Davis said. “I hate you.”

Talan raised his eyebrows and jumped around a bit, eager to finish it, “I know, it’s why you bully me. I don’t care. You’re trash, Davis. Always have been, always will be.”

Davis ran forward and surprised Talan by tackling him to the ground, using his larger size to his advantage. Talan put up his fists to block several of the sloppy punches Davis threw in a flurry. Eventually Talan overpowered him and flipped him over. He threw a few punches of his own, and missed one, striking the hard pavement. Talan winced and decided to let him get up, then kicked him in the side of the head. Talan caught him as he went throw another punch, then struck him right in the throat.

It was over, Davis was done. He was on the ground breathing heavily, and bleeding from a small cut to his face.

“It’s over,” Talan said. “Stay down.”

“Fuck you!” Davis wheezed.

“No, fuck you...” Talan growled. “This is what will happen the next time you try this. You mentioned a curb stomp earlier. If you bother me again, the next time I beat you I’m going to curb stomp your head into the pavement.”

Talan turned away and walked over to Babs, he took his stuff and walked to the parking lot where Mr. Wesley was waiting. “Sorry about that girls. I feel terrible about this. You shouldn’t have to go through this with me. Especially you Alyssa, this is your first time visiting and you have to watch me fight. I feel terrible.”

Babs put a hand on his shoulder and kissed his cheek. Alyssa bent down and turned him around to face her. She wrapped her arms around him and held him tight, “Don’t you ever apologize to me about what you just did. You’re a man, Talan. I have tremendous respect for you.”

“Well... you still shouldn’t have had to deal with that.” Talan said. “Too many shitheels frequent this place. I’m never coming back here again.”

Babs and Alyssa giggled as they got in the car with him. “I think I’ll make us some light dinner when we get home. Then we can go for a swim.”

Talan nodded and winced as Alyssa took his hand and sat it in her lap again. She looked at the bloody knuckles from hitting the pavement and shook her head. “I’ll get this taken care of when we get back. Don’t worry.”

Talan nodded, “I appreciate the help.”

After getting home to her house, Talan was lead upstairs by Alyssa and sat down on the edge of the tub. She proceeded to wash the cuts and bruises on his knuckles, then bandage them up. After that she found some tape and tightly wrapped it around his hand.

“Seems like you have experience with this sort of thing?” Talan said.

Alyssa nodded, “I worked as a lifeguard at a pool for years. Trained for this sort of stuff.”

“That’s cool,” Talan said. “You a swimmer?”

“Was a little bit, but stopped after going to high school.”

“How come?” Talan asked.

“Lost interest and didn’t get along too well with my teammates,” Alyssa answered. “But that’s another thing. Let’s go downstairs.”

“I’ll meet you down there,” Talan said. “I’m going to change into my trunks and use the bathroom.”

Alyssa nodded, “Guess we’ll change, too. Meet us out by the pool.”

Talan nodded and went into the other room to grab his spare clothes and swimsuit. He wondered if he handled the situation with Davis correctly. Part of him wanted to do more damage, but the girls were there. Talan didn’t feel comfortable indulging in such violence in front of them. But then, that begged the question of what he would have done if they weren’t there. He tried not to think about it. Babs and Alyssa didn’t deserve to be put through that. He knew Babs could take care of herself, and one look at Alyssa spoke volumes of what she could probably do.

He shook his head and ran a hand through his spiked hair. He was going to have to start training again. He knew Davis, and he knew his former friends. Ryan and Alex wouldn’t start acting any better.

It made him feel terrible. Talan looked at his phone and frowned. He opened up the contacts list and scrolled down to his most recently added. He cracked open the bathroom door and crept to the stairs and listened for any noise. He could hear Alyssa and Babs, but they were outside. They couldn’t hear him.

Talan shut the bathroom door behind him and sat back down on the tub. He took a deep breath, then dialed the number.

“Hello? Who is this?” a strong female voice asked.

“Hey Sunset... It’s Talan.”

“Talan!” she exclaimed, “How are you?!”

“I’m okay, I think...” he said, keeping his voice low. “Actually, that’s not true. Can we talk? Maybe tomorrow or the next day? I need to see you.”

“Questions about the whole magic thing?” she asked.

“Not really, not yet at least. We can talk about that, but it’s not what I’m calling about. I need advice on friendships. Can you help me?”

“I’m still learning myself, but I’ll certainly try.” she said. “Come by my place tomorrow morning if you can. I’ll be there.”

“Sounds good,” Talan said. “Thanks, Sunset. I’ll see you then.”

“Bye, Talan. I’m glad you called.”

Talan took a deep breath and went downstairs. He went out onto the patio and chuckled at what he saw.

“Hope I’m not interrupting anything.”

Babs sat on Alyssa’s leg in the shallow steps. She was currently making out with her and showed no sign of stopping. Talan walked over to the other side of the pool and sat down on the edge, dipping his feet in. Babs wore a bright pink bikini, while Alyssa wore a dark green one. Alyssa also wore a headband to keep her long hair held back. Talan thought it looked great on her.

He wasn’t sure if either girl noticed him, so he remained silent, not wishing to disturb them. The sun was down and Babs had turned on the patio lights, which illuminated most of the water. Like Talan’s, Babs’ pool was in ground and close to the house.

Talan looked at the stars and took deep breath of the cool night air. Despite the shittiness earlier, he was very fortunate to be hanging out with such beautiful and interesting girls.

“What took you so long?” Babs asked, still kissing Alyssa. “We thought you fell in.”

“Not quite,” Talan replied. “Just figured I’d give you girls some alone time.”

“How considerate,” Alyssa chuckled. “But now you’re here, so come join us.”

Talan shrugged and decided to play a little hard to get, “Tempting, but it looks like the best seat in the house is taken.” he said while motioning to Babs.

Babs turned around to say something, but was stopped when Alyssa playfully pressed her head against her chest. Alyssa smirked and beckoned him over, “Lucky for you I have two best seats, and one is empty.”

She bounced her left leg and ran a hand through Babs hair, never taking her eyes off Talan.

Talan smirked and slipped into the water, slowly swimming over. He slid onto her leg, both he and Babs facing each other. Babs shook her head and frowned, “You just have to share, don’t you?”

Alyssa leaned back then wrapped an arm around both of their sides, pulling them close, “Of course, denying either of you my affection would be cruel.”

“Problem sharing?” Talan asked Babs. “What happened to nobody being above anyone else in the open relationship?”

Babs rolled her eyes and grabbed Talan’s face, pulling him into an aggressive kiss.

“Oh dear...” Alyssa said, fanning herself. “You two are so...”

Right after breaking the kiss, Babs jumped off Alyssa’s lap and close lined Talan, flipping him backwards into the water.

“What the hell?” Talan croaked, holding his throat and coughing up water as he resurfaced.

Babs returned to her spot with Alyssa and crossed her arms, “That’s for the Babsy remark...”

“Poor Talan...” Alyssa pouted while taking his hand and leading him back to her lap. “Learned your lesson though, I hope.”

Talan shrugged, “I like it when she’s feisty, what do I have to say to get you like that?”  

Alyssa’s eyes widened, then narrowed in a daring glare, “Best you not figure that out too soon. You might not survive a close line from me, Spikey.”

Talan considered that, “Noted.”

“Now, since I have you both right where I want you, let’s play a game: Who’s the best kisser?”

Babs smirked and casually examined her nails, “We all know the answer to that.”

“Well, we’re going to play anyway...” Alyssa said with a glare, which made Babs change her tone immediately. “Now, since you have such confidence, you can go first, Babs. But first, you two should get a bit more comfortable.”

Following her gesture, Talan and Babs flipped around and straddled Alyssa legs, each facing forward and loving it.

Alyssa leaned forward and took Babs’ lips into her mouth. Both kissed each other aggressively, vying for dominance. As much as he loved her thighs, Talan was a bit antsy watching them go at it like that. He slid forward a bit and leaned in, only to be stopped by Alyssa’s hand. She looked at him from the corner of her eye and wagged a finger.

Talan groaned, then couldn’t help but chuckle as Alyssa’s hand lingered on his chest, then wandered down to his abs. Lucky for her he didn’t care.

After a little bit of waiting, Alyssa finally broke the kiss with Babs and leaned back. “Well, you’ve certainly not lost your talent.”

Babs shrugged and jumped off, then grabbed Talan in a headlock, “Had to step my game up to teach this little guy a thing or two. No half-assing it with him.”

“Thanks, Babs...” Talan groaned.

“Which brings me to you...” Alyssa said while leaning forward and playfully bouncing Talan on her leg.

Just as they leaned in, a loud ringing sound came from the house.

“The hell?” Alyssa and Talan asked in unison.

Babs’ face reddened in anger, “Fucking phone! Argh!” she yelled as she climbed out of the pool. “Who would be calling at this hour? Bet it’s my folks... be right back guys.”

Talan watched her leave and slid backward, but was caught a strong hand.

“Just where do you think you’re going?” Alyssa asked, a curious look on her face.

“Uh, well... Babs isn’t here, so I figured you wouldn’t want to kiss me without her here to watch? Or something?”

Before he even knew what happened, Talan was picked up under the armpits and sat down in Alyssa’s lap, straddling both her legs. Her arms slid down his side to his rear, where she firmly grasped it and slid him forward. All while looking down at him with a playful smile.

Talan needed a minute to process what just happened, which he didn’t seem to have at the moment. Talan wasn’t tall, or particularly big. He was trim, toned, and about two or three inches under average height. This meant he wasn’t heavy, but he certainly wasn’t light either. Yet, he was picked up like a doll in a matter of seconds, with little to no effort.

Alyssa was strong, deceptively strong. Looking at her one could tell she worked out, but this type of strength was not visible at all.

“Comfortable?” she asked. “Best seat in the house is all yours.”

“Better than the cheap seats,” Talan said with a grin. “Well?”

Alyssa grinned and pulled Talan forward. Her lips connected to his and felt amazing. More full than Babs’, and with a different taste. Grapes? He didn’t object to that at all. Talan followed her lead for the first minute, then opened his mouth a bit more. On cue, Alyssa added a little tongue and became more aggressive. Talan didn’t back down and rose to the occasion. Alyssa ran her arms down Talan’s and intertwined her fingers with his. After that she crossed her legs, adding a little elevation to Talan’s seated position. They were now each eye level. Alyssa wrapped her arms around him and let out a content sigh before pulling away.

She leaned back and shook her head, “And you’ve never done this before Babs...?”

“Nope.” Talan said. “So, what do you rate me?”

Alyssa leaned forward and fondled his abs some more, pondering her answer, “Well, you’re not as good as Babs...”

“Shit!” Talan cursed dramatically.

“Shocking, I bet...” Alyssa said with a smirk.

Talan leaned back and fell into the water. He grabbed Alyssa’s hand and gave it a tug, beckoning her into the water with him. Surprisingly, she complied. They floated into the center of the pool, hands intertwined.

“So, out of ten,” Talan said.

“I’d say about a five and half...” Alyssa said with a wince.

Talan was admittedly shocked, he thought he’d at least get a six. “That bad?”

Alyssa saw him frown and leaned against the wall, “Sorry, call it like I see it.”

“Guess I have a lot to learn, huh?” Talan asked, floating in front of her.

“And that is the right attitude to have,” Alyssa said with a wink. “Also, worth noting that as basically a first kiss, with little to no experience apart from Babs, that wasn’t bad. Believe me, I’ve been kissed by other guys with no experience and it was dreadful. You were not dreadful.”

“Okay, okay...” Talan said, nodding in understanding. “I’ll take it. But would have thought Babs would get me to a six at least.”

Alyssa crossed her legs and poked Talan in the stomach with her big toe, “Babs can’t work magic in only a few days or weeks. I doubt even I could.”

“Oh surely you could...” Talan said. “I mean, look at you.”

“Yes, do admire me,” Alyssa said while standing and striking a pose. “But we must all know our limits, Spikey.”

“That’s good advice,” Talan replied.

A few moments of silence passed. Talan decided to to take a peek inside and saw Babs standing at the edge of the kitchen, still on the phone.

“Talan...” Alyssa said. “Can I ask you something?”

“Sure,” Talan said. “Fire away.”

Alyssa crouched lower in the water as a breeze blew by, it was getting a bit chilly out now. “When we were kissing, and you were in my lap... did that feel...”

“What?” Talan asked.

“Were you uncomfortable?” she asked.

“A little, but I mean, you’re a tall beautiful girl and I lack experience. You can put two and two together.”

“Not what I mean,” Alyssa said. “Me holding you like that, it’s not... emasculating?”

“Emasculating? What? Like making me less of a man?”

“Yeah,” Alyssa confirmed. “Does it?”

Talan pondered that for a minute, “I suppose if people saw me in that position they’d make fun of me and mock me, yeah.”

“So you don’t like it?” Alyssa asked

Talan noticed her frown a bit and avert his gaze. The first time she did it all day.

“I didn’t say that,” Talan said while shaking his head. “Is it emasculating? Maybe, but I don’t care. I loved it. You’re beautiful as all hell, Alyssa. Babs said I’d like you, she wasn’t kidding. You’re like somethin’ outta my dreams!” he said while spreading his arms out of the water. “I mean, girls generally like taller guys. At least that’s what I’ve seen. Makes them feel protected and all that stuff.”

“You don’t feel like any less of man when I treat you like that?” she asked. “It doesn’t make you uncomfortable? Really?”

“Only because I’m new to it,” Talan said. “What has Babs told you about me? Did she say I’m not really social?”

“Yeah,” Alyssa said.

“Well, that makes me feel uncomfortable, but not the emasculating thing. That’s kinda dumb.”

“What makes you say that?” Alyssa asked.

“Well, I’m not exactly an alpha male...” Talan said while motioning to himself. “I’m not jacked... yet.” he said, earning a slight giggle from her. “And you, well... you’re...”

“An amazon,” Alyssa said.

“Not what I was gonna say, but yeah. You’re the girl, you’re supposed to be sitting on my lap. But how ridiculous would that look?”

“Pretty bad,” Alyssa chuckled.

“Yeah,” Talan said. “As for the being a man thing? Well, I think there are more ways to be a man than stupid stuff society says. I’m athletic, I can fight, I take responsibility for my actions, I treat people with respect, women and men. Also, an open relationship is more loose than a single more normal one. We’re not taking this too seriously, are we? We’re just friends who like touching and kissing each other.”

Alyssa smiled, “That’s true, there are more ways to be a man. I just wanted to get your opinion. I know I can be a little intimidating and domineering. I love it, but I would never want to hurt any feelings or make you uncomfortable.”

Talan swam over and leaned against the wall beside her, “Can I ask you something now?”

She looked down at him and nodded, “You can.”

“You’ve been a confident woman, and I mean woman, all night. You’ve been in control of what Babs and I have done. But just now you looked away when you asked me if I didn’t like your domineering attitude. What made you change your tone?”

Alyssa sank further into the water and rubbed her shoulders, “I like acting that way, for several reasons. But it’s not my default. I acted that way because it’s what I do when I first meet people. Also, as you’re probably aware, Babs and I kinda planned it. We wanted to see how you’d act.”

“Yeah, okay,” Talan said. “Fair enough.”

“I was curious to see what you thought afterward. You can only study so much when you’re actually doing it, you know? There are... distractions...”

“Could say that again,” Talan said while staring at her chest.

Alyssa smirked and elbowed him, she floated away and stopped, “I like you, Talan. I think we could be good friends, and more.”

Talan swam forward and hugged her, “I’m down for that, but I have something else to ask.”

“What?” Alyssa asked.

Talan pulled away and pointed to her chest, “What’s the significance of that?”

Around her neck slightly above her breasts was a solid gold necklace, shaped into a word. Thick stylized letters held close together to spell ‘QUEEN.’

“This was a gift from Babs when we were together and part of the clique in New York. It’s very special.”

“You’re a queen?” Talan asked.

“Aren’t I?” Alyssa smirked. “I like being the one in control, being the dom... so to speak. This personifies that role and mindset. I never take it off.”

“Well you are certainly equipped to fit that role,” Talan said. “Guess that was what I experienced tonight.”

“A small taste,” Alyssa said.

“I like trying new things, just a shame we won’t have more time to do it. Babs will probably miss you a lot when you leave.”

Alyssa took a deep breath and looked at the sky, then smiled at Talan. “Well... about that. Part of why I asked you that is because we might actually have more time than you realize.”

“Why?” Talan asked, confused.

“Because I’m not just visiting, I’m moving here.”

Talan’s eyes almost popped out of his head, “What?!”

“Yep, just found out a few days ago...” Alyssa replied.

Talan fell backward and floated on his back, “What did I do to deserve this? So much good karma. Any more beautiful city girls going to be coming? Or is it just you?”

Alyssa chuckled and looked down at him as he floated over, “Just me, but I’m more than enough. Don’t you agree?”

Talan felt her hands on his shoulders as she gave them a rub, “Hard to argue...” he said with a yawn. “Still that’s... wow... wait, does Babs know?”

“Not yet,” Alyssa said. “I was going to tell you both after all three of us kissed, but Babs had to go an answer her phone.”

“All three of us?” Talan asked.

“Well yeah,” Alyssa said while pulling him up and hugging him. “It’s going to happen eventually, and since I’ll be sticking around, it’ll be sooner rather than later.”

“God, I’m sorry guys...” Babs said while coming outside and jumping into the pool. “That was dad, he was just checking up on me. What are you talking about? Why are you giving me that look?”

“Well, you’re not gonna believe this,” Talan said. “Alyssa is- omphh!”

Talan grunted as he was shoved under water in front of Alyssa.

Babs shrugged and waited until she was done playing around. Talan broke the surface as Alyssa’s legs closed around his sides like a vice.

She playfully covered his mouth with a hand and kissed his cheek, “I think I’ll tell her, Spikey.”

“What?” Babs asked.

“I’m not just visiting, Babsy... I’m moving here.”

Babs’ expression changed from neutral curiosity to a bright smile. Tears formed in her eyes as she pressed her hands to her mouth. “Y-you are? Really?”

“Really, babe.” Alyssa said.

“You’re not playing? This isn’t a joke?” Babs asked.

“No joke, the fam and I are moving here,” Alyssa said.

Babs sniffled and leapt on Alyssa crushing Talan between the two girls. He eventually managed to break free, if only to keep breathing. He sat there and watched them hug each other. There was a strong friendship there. Something the likes of which Talan had never experienced. Both girls had tears in their eyes. Alyssa picked up Babs and placed her legs around her waist, supporting her effortlessly. Both girls connected in a heartfelt, passionate kiss.

He could see the strength of the bond. It was good they were together like this, and he considered himself fortunate they wanted to be friends with him.

“It’s getting a little chilly, let’s go dry off...” Babs said.

“Alright,” Alyssa said. “I should be getting home soon. I have some work to do around the new house. The moving guys should have brought some stuff.”

“Where do you live?” Talan asked. “Is it close?”

Alyssa smiled at him, “Closer than you think. Get dressed, Spike. You’re walking me home.”

Talan got out and performed a formal bow, one hand pressed to his chest, the other stretched out in presentation. “At once, my queen...”

As Talan went upstairs to change, Babs looked at Alyssa and smiled, “You told him?”

“Just what it meant, that’s all. He’s been very receptive so far. We’re going to have a lot of fun.”

“I’m so happy you like him, he really is something. Something different, you know?”

“Different than what we’re used to that’s for damn sure,” Alyssa said while drying off her hair. “If you don’t mind, I’d like to borrow him for a while. Have him stop by and help me with some things. That way I can get to know him a bit better... and...”

“And...?” Babs asked with a smirk.

“And... maybe have a little fun, too. Maybe.”

“Knock yourself out, Lyss.” Babs said. “Just tell me the deets later, kay?”

“Don’t worry,” Alyssa said. “I might even send some pics...”

Talan walked out of the house with Alyssa as they both waved goodbye to Babs.

“So, where to?” Talan asked. “It is in walking distance right?”

“It sure is,” Alyssa said. “It’s not far at all, actually. Come on.”

Talan paused a second at Alyssa opening her hand to him. He took and walked onto the street with her, a smile never leaving his face.

Alyssa looked over and nudged him a bit, “What’s with the face?”

“Nothing,” Talan said. “Just... this, holding hands with you, and Babs. It’s just... almost surreal.”

“Yeah?” Alyssa asked.

“Put it this way,” Talan said. “If you were to find me, even just a month ago before all this happened. If you found me then and told me I’d be hanging out with two gorgeous girls from New York City, and they found me attractive, and they want to include me in an open relationship?!”

“It’s not as rare as you think, Spikey.” Alyssa said while swinging their arms a bit. “But Babs was right. You sell yourself way too short. Uh, no pun intended.”

“Har har,” Talan said. “You’re lucky you’re royalty.”

Alyssa chuckled and bent over, staring at him from the same height, “And if I wasn’t?”

Talan froze, “Uh, well I didn’t think that far ahead.”

Alyssa tousled his spiked hair, “Most boys never do.”

They walked about two streets over and entered the far end of Talan’s neighborhood and turned down a familiar street. Talan looked around a bit and shook his head.

“We’re in my neighborhood now. You’re going to live here?”

“That so surprising?” she asked with a shrug. “My parents are business owners just like yours.”

“Okay...” Talan said, also shrugging. “Wait...”

“This is Pinegrove!!” he exclaimed. “Are you seriously...? You can’t be serious!”

Talan gasped when Alyssa pointed to her house.

“This is it,” she said. “What’s with the enthusiasm?”

Talan walked with her into the yard, then pulled her three houses down to the edge of the street. He pointed down another street that ran south, “The house that has the two lamps at the end of the driveway? That’s mine! We’re practically neighbors!”

Alyssa smiled as Talan grabbed her waist in a hug, “Wow... really? That’s some coincidence huh?”

“This house has been on the market a few months. The family who used to live here moved across the country. I can’t believe you’re the one who’ll be here now. This is so...”

“Sexy?” Alyssa asked.

“Honestly? Hell yes it is.” Talan said while he was lead to her door.

Alyssa opened it up and turned on the lights. After setting her things inside she rejoined Talan on the porch.

“I’m glad we’re friends, Talan. Listen... would you mind coming over tomorrow? I have some stuff to do around the house like setting up furniture and other stuff.”

“Want my help? Say no more.” Talan said.

“Well, I need your help with something else. You can build computers?”

Talan raised an eyebrow, “Yeah, provided you have all the parts.”

“I do, it’s a gaming PC actually,” Alyssa said casually. “I ordered the parts before I moved and had them delivered here. Figured I’d have a new one at the new house.”

Talan’s jaw dropped, “You’re a PC gamer? Shit... could you be any more sexy?”

“Is that even a question?” Alyssa asked, bending down and placing her hands on his shoulders.

“Right,” Talan said.

“So I’ll see you tomorrow then? Come early, and don’t worry about food. I’ll feed you.”

“Okay, see you then,” Talan said while turning to leave.

A hand caught his arm and pulled him back, Alyssa bent down and gave him a gentle kiss on the lips. “Something to tide you over til tomorrow. See you then, Talan.”

“R-right,” he said. “Goodnight, Alyssa.”

Talan walked down her driveway and turned around. He went from almost being killed, to swimming with Sirens, to meeting yet another sexy girl. He couldn’t help it. He shouted at the moon and fist-pumped the air. Life was good. Real good.