Page 101 of Nocere

"She did and I'm grateful for her. Know what else I'm grateful for?"

"What, baby?" Sam's smile turned into a broad one by then, and color returned to her rich complexion. She stroked my arms and I tapped her nose.

"You. I'm so happy you came here today."

"I haven't had a holiday with someone else's family since my ex-husband's," she said, then drew in a deep breath. "And I almost didn't come. But when I thought about disappointing you, I couldn't bear it."

"I'm glad, because I would've been very disappointed." I leaned my forehead against hers again, and we spent a few moments in quiet.

When Sam shifted again, rubbing my thighs and drawing in a deep breath, I asked, "Ready to go in?"

"I am," she said, smiling up at me. "With one promise."

"What's that?" I draped my arms over her shoulders.

"Will you come home with me tonight?"

"That's such a difficult promise." I let out a dramatic sigh. "I planned to not wear panties at all the other women's houses that I date."

She gave my hip a firm swat while she laughed. "So naughty."

"Only for you." I kissed the end of her nose. "I promise to come home with you tonight."

"And stay all weekend? All four days?" For a fleeting second, she bit her bottom lip and the simple gesture drove me crazy with want.

"Hmm. I promise." I pulled her into a heated kiss and her hands immediately wandered up my front to grip my breasts. My gasp broke the kiss and she grinned.

"C'mon, my sweet." She urged me to my feet and took my hand.

"Are you hungry? We cooked everything in the world for one meal." I led her inside and she nodded.

"I am now. Yes."

"Good."

The whole house filled with the warm, comforting scents of Thanksgiving. The turkey, nearly done, and all the sides combined, offered a savory touch that would only ever lead to pie. Rebecca's house, with its honey floors, plush carpets, and open floor plan, always felt like home. Her decor, mainly a mixture of everything cozy and family heirlooms, welcomed me as if it recognized me every time I entered a room. Having Samirah there made everything seem more special.

With the table now set for six in Rebecca's best China and silverware, the holiday feel brought a smile to my face. As a kid, I never celebrated a holiday until Rebecca took me in.

"I forgot the wine in the car," said Sam, her eyes widening with alarm. "Let me go get it."

"Get it after." I gave her hand a squeeze.

"No way. I can't come in empty-handed." She glanced behind us and tugged me to stop. "Be right back."

"Okay, honey." I watched as she hurried off then waited for her at the door.

We scurried back to the dining room to find Rebecca and Alex setting the food on the table like they did every year, except without me for a bit.

"Samirah," Rebecca chirped, her whole face lighting up. "So glad you could make it." She rushed us, hugging Sam like she'd known her forever.

Sam didn't miss a beat and returned her embrace. "Happy to be here. Thank you for the invite."

"Well, we love expanding our family." Rebecca winked at me and gave Alex's shoulder a squeeze. "Come on in. The boys will show up shortly."

"Thanks." Samirah smiled and held the wine wrapped in silver paper to her. "Thought you all might enjoy."

"Oh, we will enjoy." Rebecca winked at her and accepted it. "Thank you, doll. Get comfortable, girls."

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