anightatopera   

Standard Disclaimer: due South and it's characters are not mine. They are
unfortunately the property of Alliance who is too stubborn to put out the
videos for those of us in America. This will be my first attempt at an
original story. So please read it was what it is. Something that I had a
lot of fun with. I always cheer for the underdog and in the world of due
South that would be Francesca Vecchio. This story is for her. 
 

WARNINGS: AU Rated R - Cursing, implied sex and more sap than maple trees
in the fall. 
 A Night at the Opera Icecat62 
 
 

 Benton Fraser strode into the 27th precinct. Nodding his hellos to those
that greeted him. He proceeded to his usual spot. Ray Vecchio's desk. He
had finished his shift on sentry duty. Guarding the consulate it was
called. He allowed himself a mental smile. I am more of a decoration than
a police officer protecting something. 

 His thoughts were interrupted by Francesca. "Hey Fras', how ya' doin'
today." She was standing only inches away from him. Looking up into his
eyes. He could 'feel' her she was so close to him. Blushing and running a
finger nervously around his collar he responded, "I am fine Francesca. And
how are you today?" "Oh...I'm more than good. I always am." As she spoke
she moved even closer. The heat radiated from her body. If she were any
closer they would be pressed together. 

 He tried backing away from her only to bump against Ray's desk. He almost
fell, but he caught himself. He had extremely good reflexes. "Uh,
Francesca. Do you know when Ray will be coming back?" He watched her face
at the mention of her brother. She frowned. "Ray will be back in a few
minutes. If you want you could help me go file these." She smiled and
nodded towards a room in the corner of the precinct. 

 Fraser had been in there to retrieve documents before. It was cool, dark
and had only one exit. A door with a lock. Francesca was the only one who
used it anymore. "I think that I will just sit here and wait for Ray."
"Well, I guess I'll see you later then Fraser." 

 She slowly walked away from him. He watched her as she moved. His heart
was pounding and now he had to control his breathing. Great scott! Look at
those legs! He chided himself. I am a member of the R.C.M.P. I am Ray
Vecchio's best friend. And that is his little sister. 

 Did she have to dress like that? It was sheer torment! And the fact that
he knew that she dressed that way to get his attention. It drove him
crazy! She had on a short, black leather mini-skirt. It was a joke that he
heard once. It was beaver-length. When Ray explained what it meant to him
he had turned a deep shade of red. Ray had laughed at him of course. Where
he was from you would not find any women dressed like that. They would
have frozen to death. 

 He continued to look Francesca over. Her legs were perfect. Tight and
tanned. How she walked in those heels never ceased to amaze him. Today
they were black leather strappy things. He could picture him nuzzling his
face along her calf and slowly easing one of those shoes off. He had to
close his eyes and concentrate. 

 Control your breathing. Slow down your heart rate. It would not do with
him having a full blow erection in the middle of a police station. He was
already on his way to that predicament so he casually moved his stetson in
front of him. Look relaxed. Look calm. 

 He opened his eyes and continued his observation. Her shirt. Did she
spray paint it on? It was a white, clingy, ribbed cotton t-shirt with
Civilian Aid patches sewn onto it. And it was short enough to show her
flat, tanned mid-drift. How he wanted to place his hands on her stomach.
To feel it's tightness. Oh dear! Francesca was bending over a desk. And
her skirt was creeping up her thighs! 

 "Benny!" "Yes Ray!" He answered a little too loudly and he quickly
dropped into the chair at Ray's desk placing his stetson in his lap. "What
is the matter with you? I called your name three times." "I was just
thinking Ray." 

 Yeah. You were thinking all right. About my sister. He didn't say it out
loud. Ray had walked into the room and saw Fraser waiting for him at his
desk. He was happy to see him. Fraser always made life interesting. But as
he moved closer to his desk Fraser had never even noticed he was coming.
He had been intently studying something. And when he had followed to where
Fraser's gaze was fixed...he was staring at Frannie! And the look that he
had on his face was not a good one. Benton Fraser. Benny. His best friend.
Was ogling his little sister! This had to be stopped and stopped fast! 

 "So Benny. How are things between you and the Dragon Lady going?" That'll
fix him Ray thought. He knew that Fraser had a thing for Meg Thatcher. And
he knew that at one time something had happened between them. The train
'incident' as Ray called it. "Nothing is 'going on' Ray. Inspector
Thatcher is my superior officer. It would be highly inappropriate.." Ray
cut him off. "Yeah, right Benny. Why don't you just say the hell with your
duty for once and ask her out? On a date." Ray watched Fraser's face for
any reaction. 

 He caught him looking at Francesca across the room. "I do not think so
Ray. We must maintain a purely professional relationship." Her career is
more important to her. She had worked so hard to get where she is. Fraser
felt that no matter what his feelings were, he would never jeopardize Meg
Thatcher's life in the R.C.M.P. He respected and admired her too much to
do anything to hurt her. And if that meant never getting to be with her,
then that would be the choice that he would make. 

 Well that's a dead subject thought Ray. I have got to get him out of
here. Now. "Let's go." "Go where Ray?" How in the hell should I know?
"Out." Ray stared at Fraser. On my. He saw me looking at Francesca. Again
he took a quick glance at her as he rose from the chair. "Understood." 
 
 
 
 

 Fraser was finishing up his last report of the evening. All day he had
been mentally sparing with himself. Why couldn't he ask Francesca out on a
date? She was full of life. When she talked, even if she did not use
proper English, she so was alive. He had always marveled at how she could
so easily say what she was truly thinking. Her emotions were always
evident. Never hidden. Unlike himself. 

 His entire youth was spent being taught control. Control your voice.
Control your emotions. He was in total control. And as a result, he felt
that he was missing out on certain aspects of life. Francesca was the
opposite of what he was. Animated, loud and unpredictable. And he found
himself totally attracted to her. 

 Why not ask her out? It was obvious that she wanted to be with him. The
only obstacle was Ray. She was his little sister. That one small thing was
all that stood in the way of Fraser being with her. 

 It all boiled down to one thing. Sex. Ray was so worried that his sister
would have sex with Fraser. Ray had been extremely upset when he had
thought that he and Francesca had engaged in sexual relations. If Fraser
hadn't been so bothered by Ray's reaction the whole incident would have
been laughable. But watching Ray and Francesca in the interrogation
room...he had gotten the impression that Ray thought that he would 'use'
Francesca. Guys like him. That one remark had stung. 

 He would have never used Francesca. That is why nothing had happened the
night that she had showed up at his apartment. Yes he had wanted to have
her that night. But he didn't. It would not have been right. He did not
want it to be that way between him and Francesca. Ray seemed so sure that
he would have hurt her. But he would not. If he waited until Ray changed
his mind about his being with her he would be an old man. I am going to
ask her out. Ray is an adult. He would just have to accept this. 

 Looking down at the paperwork on his desk he sighed. What was he going to
do tonight? Ray was on duty. It was really too late to be thinking about
asking Francesca out tonight. And he didn't feel like sitting around his
apartment. Picking up his red serge he walked out into the foyer. Turnbull
was coming out of Thatcher's office with a large grin on his face. Fraser
cocked an eyebrow at him. "Blackhawks tickets verses the Maple Leafs!",
Turnbull blurted out waving the tickets excitedly in front of Fraser's
face. Realizing what he was doing, Turnbull stopped and apologized. "Sorry
Constable Fraser." "That is quite all right Turnbull. I hope you enjoy the
game." "I will, yes indeedy! Inspector Thatcher gave them to me. She also
said for me to find you before you left for the evening and send you to
her office. Goodnight Constable. I have to hurry or I'll miss the opening
faceoff!" Fraser watched Turnbull as he practically flew out the door.
There was nothing that could excite Turnbull more than a Leafs game. I
wonder who he is taking with him? 

 Thatcher heard a knock at her door and she quickly yanked her glasses
off. "Yes?" The door opened and Fraser stepped into her office.
"Constable." "Inspector." They just looked at one another. It was Thatcher
who broke the silence. "Being that things have been running so smoothly
here at the consulate, I thought that I would reward you and Turnbull for
all of your hard work." 

 Actually she was feeling a bit guilty. She had been passing Fraser's
office the other day and overheard Ray Vecchio in his office. Vecchio was
complaining loudly to Fraser. "How in the hell do you stand working for
the Dragon Lady? Get my coffee! Get my dry cleaning! How many hours did
you stand in front of this stupid building staring into space this week?
She is such a bitch!" 

 "Ray! You will not talk about Inspector Thatcher that way. It is her job
to run the consulate. It is my duty to listen to her orders. If she deems
it necessary for me to stand guard then that is what I will do. You have
no idea of the amount of work that she has. I do not want to hear you talk
that way about her again." "Sorry Benny, but it is such a waste of your
time. You're a police officer. Not a signpost or errand boy." "Ray." 

 She could hear the reprimand in Fraser's voice. So that is what he thinks
of me? Not that she cared what Vecchio thought of her. But the comments
hit her. Was she misusing Fraser? She would have to keep a check on those
things. 

 "Inspector." It was Fraser looking into her face with concern. "You were
saying." "Yes. Well as a reward I am allowing you to chose tickets to an
event that the consulate would normally use. It is unusual for me to do
this, but I felt it...necessary." "Thank you sir." Sir. Must he always
call me sir? If he weren't a constable working under her command he could
have called her Meg. "Well, take your pick. I'm sorry if you may have
wanted tickets to the hockey game. Turnbull was very pleased with his
choice." 

 Fraser looked at the tickets on her desktop. Bulls tickets. Nice seats
too. He could take Ray to the game. But right next to those were two
tickets to the opera. La Boheme. He stopped for a second. Francesca was
taking a class. And it's study topic at this moment was the opera. He had
been at Ray's home the other night and Francesca had been complaining
loudly about how hard it was to understand. How would she ever be able to
pass the class. 

 His mind worked quickly. Take Ray to the Bulls game. Or take Francesca to
the opera. He would never have an excuse to take her out anywhere like
this ever again. It was too perfect. "I believe that I would like the
opera tickets please." 

 Thatcher looked up in surprise. She was sure that he would have taken the
Bulls tickets so that he and Ray could go together. She had planned it
that way. What would he want with opera tickets? Oh no! He is going to ask
me to go with him! How was she going to say no to him? If he weren't so
nice. So damned good looking. It would be easy. But she couldn't go with
him. Could she? He was a constable under her command. 

 He hesitated. "I know that this is a highly unusual request but (here it
comes she thought) could I possibly have the use of the consular car for
the evening of the opera?" He wasn't asking her to go. He wanted to use
the car. She felt like someone who had a cold bucket of water dumped on
her. "Uh, yes. I believe that can be arranged. I hope you enjoy your
evening out. Dismissed." 

 "Thank you Inspector. Have a good evening." She watched him as he left
her office. He didn't ask her. She knew that it was her fault. She had
done so much to make it obvious that no type of relationship could ever
occur between the two of them. She had even told him to forget their
'contact'. That the kiss that they shared, the feelings on the train, were
to be put away and forgotten. It was her doing she reprimanded herself. 

 It was her duty as an officer in the R.C.M.P. to uphold the standards.
And that meant not fraternizing with junior officers. None of the things
she told herself helped. She was alone. In her office. As she normally
was. But a thought popped into her head. He wouldn't be taking Ray Vecchio
with him. Who was he going to bring with him to the opera? 
 


 

 He left the consulate and went back to his apartment and began planning
the entire evening. Wait. He was getting ahead of himself. What if
Francesca said no? He actually laughed out loud at that. Dief regarded him
with a look. "I'm sorry Diefenbaker. But there is no way that Francesca
Vecchio will refuse my invitation. Don't look at me like that." Dief
whined. "No I am not being vain. She wants to be with me. She won't say
no. There are many things in life that I can not be certain of, but
Francesca saying no to me will not be one of them." 

 He was pleased with this situation. First things first. He had to go out
and purchase a nice suit. One that would take her breath away. Then he
would have to order flowers for her that would arrive the day of their
'date'. Let's see. Yes. Make reservations for coffee and dessert at that
restaurant near the opera house. There was so much to do and he only had
five days to put his plans in motion. Five days and he would have a night
out with Francesca. 
 
 
 
 

 Ray invited Fraser over to have dinner the next evening with his family.
This is perfect Fraser thought as Ray pulled the Riv into the driveway. I
can just bring it up at dinner. In front of everyone. Make it appear
casual. There is no way that Ray could accuse him of asking Francesca out
behind his back. It was fate that had brought those tickets to him. 

 As he and Ray walked up the steps he felt like laughing. Before he
realized what he was doing Ray had started smiling at him. "Boy you sure
look happy tonight. Anything I should know about?" "No Ray. I am just
looking forward to dinner. I have been rather busy lately and now I have a
chance to relax." I have been busy. Making plans. This had better work. 

 They stepped into Ray's home. Everyone was already seated at the dinner
table. Loud voices were calling back and forth. "When are they going to
get here." "I'm hungry.!" "There they are now." "What took you so long?"
"Ssssshhh!" Mrs. Vecchio had come to greet them. "Benton! How nice to see
you. Come sit down. Eat." Fraser let her lead him to his seat at the
table. Before he sat down he gave her a quick kiss on the cheek. "It's
nice to see you too Mrs.Vec..Ma." He watched her as she walked away. Mrs.
Vecchio had welcomed him into Ray's family with open arms. Even after all
that had occurred with Victoria, she still called him her son. It felt
good. He had family. 

 Taking his place he noted that he was directly across from Francesca. "So
Fraser. Are you hungry?" Her tone and statement were an obvious pass. "Ow!
Stop it Maria!" Her sister had slapped her arm for the comment. Francesca
turned back to Fraser who replied with a smile, "Why as a matter of fact I
am. I'm famished." 

 He said it so innocently that Ray or anyone else could not make anything
of it. But he let his gaze linger on Francesca for a brief moment. Just
enough so that she would get what he had just said. He got the reaction
that he wanted. She blinked in surprise. "Ah...would you care for some
chicken?" "Thank you kindly. I believe that I would like a...breast
please." He had better be careful. At that last remark Ray had given him a
sideways glance. 

 Dinner proceeded as normal. The volume got louder and the food was passed
around. Fraser was actually enjoying himself. Then to his amazement his
opening presented itself. Francesca was talking about her class! She
started on a tirade about how was she going to understand any of this? She
knew nothing of the opera. How was she going to pass this class? "Knock it
off Frannie", Ray yelled. "Knock it off!, Francesca's voice rose. "You're
not the one taking the class! You already have your degree. I can't fail
this class!" 

 This was it. Now or never. "I believe that I can be of assistance
Francesca." Both pair of eyes looked his way. "I was given tickets to the
showing of La Boheme on the 15th. If you would like, you could attend the
opera with me and we could discuss it afterwards. It could be like
a...field trip." He looked questioningly at her. 

 It was at that moment that he noticed that all sound had stopped in the
room. Now everyone was looking at him. Ray looked like he had been
slapped. Maria and Mrs. Vecchio had small knowing smiles on their faces.
Tony. Tony took this moment of silence to ask for more lasagna. "Why
Benton! That would be fantastic! Can you believe it Ray! He's going to
take me to the opera. I'm going to pass my class!" I'm going on a date
with Benton Fraser she wanted to scream. But she stopped herself. This is
good. Oh boy! The shit is going to hit the fan. Ray looks pissed! 

 "Fraser." "Yes Ray." "Can I talk to you for a moment?" "Yes Ray." Fraser
sat in his chair turning to Ray. "Not here in the kitchen!" "Oh. Excuse us
please." 

 "What in the hell is going on out there!", Ray tightly spoke to Fraser.
"What do you mean Ray?" Keep a blank face. Think innocent. Think baby
seals. "I mean you asking my sister out on a date, that's what!" "I asked
her out on a date?" "Yes!" "No Ray. If I recall I just asked Francesca to
the opera to help her with her class." "I can not believe you!" With that
Ray stomped back into the diningroom. Fraser allowed himself a smile. Then
he evened out his features into his patented innocent Mountie look and
walked back into the diningroom. 



 

 Dinner was finished and the dishes were done. Everyone seemed relaxed.
Except for Ray. I can not believe that he asked Frannie out. What is he
thinking? Well geez. I know what he is thinking. Frannie has been pretty
blunt about what she wanted from Fraser. Sex. Pure and simple. It was bad
enough that she was so open about the fact. But to have Fraser accept that
invitation. In his own house! Friend or not that was too much. 

 Fraser was getting ready to go back to his apartment. For him it was
late. Nine p.m. "Fraser. I need to talk to you." Fraser looked over at
Ray. He had expected further confrontation over his 'date' with Francesca.
He had mentally prepared himself for it. "Understood." 

 Just as he was about to step outside of the house with Ray, Mrs. Vecchio
moved between them. "Raymondo. Benton has stayed too late as it is. Let
him go home. You can talk to him tomorrow." Her tone left no room for
argument. "Yes Ma. 'Night Fraser." "Goodnight Ray. Goodnight Mrs. Vecchio.
"Benton", she said reprovingly. "Goodnight Ma." Thank you Mrs. Vecchio
thought Fraser as he began the long walk to his apartment. 

 As she closed the front door Mrs. Vecchio turned to Ray. "You will not
say another word of this matter to Benton." "But Ma!" "Not another word.
That is my final say in this matter." With that she walked back into the
house leaving Ray in the foyer with his mouth hanging open. 
 
 

 Francesca and Maria were in Francesca's bedroom talking excitedly to one
another. "I can not believe that he asked you out in front of Ray!" "Oh my
god did you see the look on his face? I thought he was going to explode!
Oh my god! I'm going to the opera!" With Benton Fraser!!! "Maria, what am
I going to wear?" 

 "I don't know Frannie. We'll have to go shopping. Get something really
special." "It will be Maria. It'll have to be something tight. And really,
really short. And low cut. If I am going with Fraser I'm going to make
sure he comes back for seconds." 

 "Ahem." Both women turned to the doorway. Standing with her arms crossed
was a very unhappy looking Mrs. Vecchio. "Francesca we need to talk."
Maria immediately jumped up peeking a look at Frannie and mouthing 'look
out' as she sidestepped past their mother into the hallway. 

 Uh oh. What did I do? Her mother had walked into her room and had closed
the door. Things did not look good to Francesca. Mrs. Vecchio walked over
to her daughter and sat down on the bed next to her. "Francesca. You are
going to the opera. This is not a Saturday movie where you chew gum and
eat candy. It is about magic and romance. Stories that have been played
out for centuries will be on the stage before you. People who will judge
you will be there. You can not walk into the opera house dressed as if you
were going to the Italian festival. You must be dignified. Beautiful. A
woman. Not a girl. Do you understand?" "Yes Ma." 

 "You and I will go shopping for a gown. You will make an appointment with
Angela to have your hair done. I will help you chose the style. We will
have your makeup and nails done. Again, I will help you with this too." 

 "When I was your age I dreamed of going to the opera. I never had the
chance. Your father.....he did not like the arts. You have a chance to
experience something special. And with a young man who is special. Do not
waste that chance." "Yes Ma. Thank you." Francesca reached out to hug her
mother. "You are welcome Francesca." As she hugged her daughter Mrs.
Vecchio smiled. Things were working out fine. 



 

 Tonight was it. The opera. All the planning. All the waiting and it was
finally here. Benton Fraser was getting ready for his 'date' with
Francesca. He had been so bold to ask Inspector Thatcher if he could get
ready for his evening out at the consulate. That way he would not have to
make the trek there in his dress cloths to pick up the car. 

 He had showered, combed his hair (adding a touch of gel to keep the wet
look) and he finally had his suit on. Standing in front of a full length
mirror he tried to see what other people saw when they looked at him. A
multitude of women and even men had always told him that he was nice
looking. Or handsome. 

 But what he saw in the reflection was Benton Fraser. The boy who had
grown up in towns named Inuvik and Tuktoyaktuk. By the standards of the
people there he was plain. Something of an oddity. Not all that nice
looking. He was a pale white. They had cream colored skin. His eyes were
the color of the Arctic ice. Theirs were brown. His teeth were white, but
not sharp. 

 No matter where he was he never quite fit in. Anywhere. Here in Chicago
he fit in physically. But with his unique upbringing he was again an
oddity. He always felt separate. Alone. 

 He guessed that he looked good. His entire appearance was neat. All in
crisp white and black. Reaching over to a dresser he picked up a small
pin. It was a silver maple leaf that his father had given his mother
shortly after they had married. Something about wearing it tonight made
him feel happy. As if he could have them both here with him. 

 Standing back he looked at himself again. Yes. The pin added just the
right touch. Ray would have said that he looked classy. But he was still
unsure of himself. Inspector Thatcher was working late. I'll go and ask
her what her opinion is. She would tell him the truth. She always told him
the truth. He walked to her office . But he hesitated at the door. He
wanted her opinion, but he did not want to intrude. If she were here this
late she would be awfully busy. 
 
 

 Inspector Thatcher sat at her desk. Her paper work and laptop sitting
before her. Yes she could have taken this work home with her. But she was
curious about Fraser. She had danced around the topic all week. Who did
you ask to go with you? It had nagged at her ever since he had chosen the
opera tickets. Ever since he didn't ask her. 

 But she couldn't ask him. It would be impolite. It would be rude. It
would make her look like a jealous ex-girlfriend. No she and Fraser had
never dated or had a relationship. They had coffee together. Attended
consular events together. They had shared 'the kiss' on the train. But
that is far as it went. No. She was never his girlfriend. But as she
tapped her Waterford pen on her desk all she could feel was envy.
Jealousy. 

 She was jolted out of her revere by a knock at the door. It cracked open
and Fraser poked his head in. "Excuse me Inspector. I was wondering. Well.
I wanted to ask...well not ask, but I...." "What can I help you with
constable", Thatcher replied irritated. Fraser took that as an invitation
to enter her office. 

 Walking up to her desk he quickly asked her, "I would like your opinion.
Do I look appropriately dressed for the opera?" When Fraser had stepped
into her office she thought her heart would stop. He was stunning! She
found herself just staring at him. 

 It was a simple black tuxedo. But he had chosen one without a tie. His
white collarless shirt contrasted with the black. His hair as always was
perfect. Was that gel in it? She noted a small silver maple leaf pinned to
his shirt. It seemed to bring it altogether. But as always the thing that
made him so handsome were his eyes. Two beautiful blue eyes were looking
questioningly into her brown ones. 

 "Inspector?" "Uh, yes constable. You look very...nice. Very appropriate
for the opera. Black suits you." He stood there for an awkward second or
two. "Thank you kindly. I wasn't sure. Thank you again for the use of the
consular car." "You're welcome. Enjoy your evening. Dismissed." "Thank you
sir." 

 With that Fraser turned and left her office. She sat staring at the
closed door. Again she hadn't asked who he was taking. She wished that it
were her. And now she was alone. As she was many nights before. And how
she would spend many nights to come. 



 

 Francesca was pacing nervously in her bedroom. She had spent the better
part of her afternoon getting her nails, makeup and hair done. Now she was
waiting to put her gown on. 

 She felt ridiculous. This was worse than when she had gotten married. If
she didn't calm herself down she was going to throw up. And if she threw
up it would ruin her lipstick. Calm down. Breath. You are just going on a
date with Benton Fraser. Oh my god! I'm going to the opera with Benton
Fraser!, her mind screamed. Calm down Frannie. Calm down. 

 What was it about him that made her so giddy. She had been married. She
had numerous boyfriends and she had sex with them. It wasn't like she was
some virginal girl going on her first date. She laughed outloud at that
thought. 

 Sitting down on her bed she began to analyze was she was so nervous. And
in a flash it hit her. This was her first time with Fraser. A night out
with him. She wanted it to be perfect because she wanted more nights with
him. And days. It slowly dawned on her that she just didn't want Fraser to
have sex with. She wanted an actual relationship with him. She wanted to
be with him. All the time. And if this night was a failure, then there
would be no other times together. 

 That thought numbed her. Strangely enough it calmed her. She was able to
focus again. I will not mess this up. This night will be perfect and
Benton Fraser will ask me out again. Standing she walked to the door and
called down the stairs to her sister to help her put her gown on. 

 Fraser pulled up in front of the house. Turning off the ignition he took
a deep breath. This was it. He was nervous. Not about Francesca. But
because of Ray. For the past few days there had been an uneasiness between
them. He could feel it. But he had expected it. Ray had wanted to talk to
him about the 'date', but for some reason he held back. Ray hadn't
mentioned his taking Francesca to the opera since the night he had left
the house. 

 It had to have been because of Mrs. Vecchio. She must have said something
to Ray. And in the Vecchio household, what Mrs. Vecchio said was law.
There was no arguing with her. He slowly got out of the car. Smoothing
down the front of his shirt. Touching the pin at his breast as a gesture
of luck. It was now or never. 

 

 Maria heard the car pull up. She stood at the window watching him step
out of the car. "Oh my god Frannie!" "What!" Francesca dropped the flowers
that she had been holding. Roses that Fraser had sent earlier in the day.
She rushed towards the window. Maria quickly jumped in front of her
blocking her view. "No! You'll ruin it." "Ruin what!? I want to see what
he looks like." "You will. Just have some patience." 

 Maria smiled. I can not wait to see the reactions of the two of them when
they see each other. She was as almost excited as Frannie was. Looking at
her little sister she could not help but feel happy for her. "Frannie, you
look beautiful." 

 "Do I really?" Francesca stepped back and looked at herself in the
mirror. Her makeup was light, but it brought out her features. Her eyes
looked bright and her lips full. Her hair was smoothly pulled behind her
head and was held in place by a clip. She had two small diamond studs in
her ears. The gown she wore made her feel like one of those women that she
had seen in old academy awards films. Thin, graceful...almost like a
princess. How corny. But that is how she felt. 

 The gown was made of a soft velvety material. The color was an electric
blue. Not too garish, but not a muted blue. The front of the gown was cut
low, but not enough to show any cleavage. Her mother had been adamant
about that. "You do not need to put your bosom on display. What is hidden
can be appreciated just as much." The back of the gown was cut low enough
so that her back was visible. But again, not so low as to expose
everything. Her sleeves came to her wrists. The material was fitted but
not tight, with a floor length skirt flaring into soft folds around her
legs. When she moved the dress moved with her. Every step she took looked
as if she were gliding across the floor, not walking. 

 She had to admit to herself that she had never looked as good as she did
at this moment. She would have to make sure to thank her mother again for
all of her help. At that moment Mrs. Vecchio came in. "He is here. Before
you go I have a gift for you." Her mother handed her a small box. Opening
it she found a thin silver chain with a small diamond solitaire. "That is
to go with your earrings." "Thank you Ma. For everything." Francesca
hugged her mother. "Can you put it on please." Taking one last look in the
mirror Francesca made her way down the hall. 



 

 Ray heard the knock at the door. He was here. Ray exhaled as he turned
the knob opening it up and letting Fraser in. "Goodevening Ray." Ray just
stood and stared at him. Fraser always looked good. He looked good in his
red serge. His brown uniform. Fraser looked good in flannel and jeans. But
this was ridiculous. The only thing that came to mind was Prince Charming.
Fraser looked like freaking Prince Charming. 

 He was about to say so when he noticed Fraser's eyes locked at the top of
the stairs. Turning Ray stared too. His mouth dropped open. His little
sister. The girl who wore short tight skirts and even shorter tight tops
was now...a lady. 

 Ray never could picture Frannie as really being an adult. She was a
terminal teenager to him. It was upsetting, but it was nice. His sister
wasn't a little girl anymore. She hadn't been for years, but he could
never accept it. Looking at her now he had no choice. 

 Francesca had frozen at the top of the stairs. She couldn't move. All she
saw was Fraser standing there. Staring back at her. But he didn't move
either. He couldn't. She was so beautiful. Like a porcelain doll that had
come alive. He should say something, but his throat felt dry. He didn't
want to start stammering like some idiot picking his date up for the
spring dance. 

 Mrs. Vecchio solved that problem for them. "Francesca, it is time to go."
She placed her hand lightly on her back and pushed her gently forward.
"Yes Ma.", came the automated response. As she walked down the stairs she
continued to stare at Fraser. The guy never ceased to amaze her. She knew
that he would look good dressed up. But she had never seen him in a suit
before. Ever. He looked so different. Like another person. Breath Frannie.
Take a deep breath. That is all she would need. To pass out on the stairs.
That would leave a good impression. 

 I can not believe these two! I know this is a date. Everyone else knows
that it is a date. This is not just about him helping her out with her
class. This is all wrong! She is just going to end up being hurt Ray
thought. I should have stopped this before it even started. 

 Francesca finally reached the bottom of the stairs and was standing in
front of Fraser. She didn't know what to say. Fraser cleared his throat.
"You look lovely Francesca." "Thank you Benton." Oh give me a break
thought Ray. "The play starts at nine so I think we should be going."
Maria and Mrs. Vecchio both said their goodbyes. Just as he and Francesca
were leaving Fraser turned to Ray. He just couldn't resist saying it. He
knew it was wrong to do so. But he did it feeling just a bit guilty after
he had, "Don't wait up Ray. Goodnight." And then he quickly shut the door
in Ray's face. 

 Ray was about to go after them when his mother spoke up. He gritted his
teeth. "Raymondo. Let us have coffee and talk. We have not had a nice talk
in some time." "Yes Ma", he sighed in resignation. 

 

 Offering his arm to her Fraser slowly walked Francesca to the car. He
opened the door watching her as she got in. He could not help but marvel
at the change in her. She did look lovely. This was the best thing that he
had done in a long time. 

 He knew that she wanted him. But he wasn't sure if it was for love or
just sex. He knew that there was no mistaking the wanting him for sex. She
had made that completely clear in the past. But would she want him for who
he was? A man with feelings and passions? Likes and dislikes? She really
didn't know him. Just as he didn't know her. He wanted to have that chance
to get to know who she was. 

 In all his experiences he had found sex to be fun. Pleasurable. Erotic.
But without love it was just a physical thing. Without love there was no
passion. Sex was o.k., but love...love brought all of those feeling to
unimaginable heights. He wanted to experience that with Francesca. He
wanted her to love him. So that she wanted all of him. Not just his body.
And as he drove away from the Vecchio residence he felt that if things
went the right way tonight, he would eventually have all of that and more.




 

 Francesca looked across the seat at Fraser. The street lights flickered
across his features as the car passed underneath them. He is so beautiful.
I know that guys aren't supposed to be beautiful, but he is. She wanted to
reach out and run her fingers through his hair. It was all she could do to
not slide over. To press against him. To run her hands across his thighs
and kiss his neck and lips. But she restrained herself. Her mother had
said she was to be a lady. She wasn't going to the movies with Fraser. So
she sat quietly next to him. Her hands folded in her lap. Just looking at
him. 

 Fraser glanced at Francesca and smiled. He had felt her staring at him.
Just as he could feel the tension between them . It was all he could do
not to pull the car over and take her there. He wanted her badly. But he
wanted all of her. It was killing him, but he forced himself to relax. He
wouldn't ruin this by becoming a rutting bull moose. 

 So he began to talk to her. He asked her about school. What was her class
like. How much of the opera had they studied so far. He could feel the
tension slowly dissipate. As they talked Francesca began to relax. Their
conversation became animated. The small things built relationships. So he
continued to talk. To find out more about the woman named Francesca. 

 

 They reached the opera house. They have valet parking! This is way too
classy thought Francesca. Fraser had come to her door and offered his hand
to her. As she stood up he directed her by placing his hand on the small
of her back. This was just too much! She wanted his hands all over her.
But nnoooo. Ma wanted her to act like a lady. And ladies did not take
their dates and throw them up against a wall and have sex with them. 

 As they entered the building all those thoughts left her mind. This is a
fairy tale. She had never been in a place like this before. Everywhere she
looked there were crystal chandeliers. Women in gowns, covered in jewels
walked past her. She began to feel self conscious. Compared to them she
felt so plain. So out of place. All she wanted to do was turn around and
run. She found herself moving closer to Fraser. Automatically she reached
for his hand. 

 He watched her as they entered the building. He could see the excitement
in her. The wonder. He had in his duties at the consulate been to many
functions. He was use to the grandeur. It never impressed him. The people
all were intent on showing everyone their wealth. Many of them forgot
their manners. He had encounters with homeless people that had more class
than many of those that walked past him. 

 As he watched her he could see a change in her posture. She was tensing
up. He found her reaching for him. Her fingers intertwined with his.
Slowly he pulled her closer. "Francesca. Are you all right?" "Uh, yeah
Benton. I'm just a little excited that's all." She was lying. He knew it.
She was afraid. "Francesca. You are beautiful. You do know that don't
you?" "Yeah Fraz." "Francesca. Look at me. What is the matter?" "I don't
belong here." He started laughing. "Francesca. Everyone belongs here. This
is the opera. Think of it as a...giant movie theater." 

 Did he just say what I thought he said? She broke out into laughter and
pulled him into a hug. "Thank you Benton." "You are welcome Francesca." He
didn't know what he had done, but she was smiling again. She was no longer
tense. "Benton. Are those programs over there?" "Yes they are." "I need to
get one for Ma. She always wanted to go to the opera. I think she would
like one." 



 

 Their seats were in a box that was elevated above the stage. The view was
spectacular. Francesca found herself looking everywhere. She wanted to
remember this night. As the curtains parted and the music began she found
herself enjoying the story. She would occasionally peek over at Fraser.
She could tell that he was enjoying himself too. 

 Watching him she realized that he knew this opera word for word. He would
look across the stage in anticipation of certain parts. She even caught
him mouthing some of the passages. 

 This was a man that she had seen police at the 27th precinct mock. She
had heard some of the jokes that they made. Some of them called him dense.
Thick. They felt hat he was some hick from the woods up north who had no
business doing police work in Chicago. He was a guard and that was it. 

 Because of him being around Ray she knew that he was none of those
things. She didn't even know that he knew any Italian. She looked at him
again. Then it hit her. He knew the 'entire' opera. Not just some parts.
He knew it verbatim. He said he had invited her to help her with her
class. But he could have done that sitting at a table in their kitchen and
going over it with her there. 

 He must have had some other motive for asking her out. Did he actually
like her? As she returned her gaze to the stage she started thinking. How
much did she really know about Fraser? He was from the Territories in
Canada. Both his parents were dead. He had no family. He had a wolf. And
Ray was his best friend. Ray was his only friend in Chicago as far as she
could tell. 

 What else did she know about him? He was good looking. Then she had to
pause. She really did not know who this person was beside her. He was
kind, thoughtful and considerate of other peoples feelings. She knew he
was smart. She had heard him tell Ray about his learning from his
grandparents library. But did he ever attend a real school? Had he
graduated from college? What were his hobbies? She didn't even know what
his favorite food was. 

 It stunned her to find out that she had known Fraser for over two years
and she still knew nothing about him. She had been so intent in her
pursuit of 'having him' that she forgot 'about' him. For some reason it
made her feel guilty. He was the one trying to get to know who she was.
All the questions in the car. And not one time did she ask him what he
did. Or what he liked. She would make sure that she would change all of
that. After the opera she would learn about him. 

 The opera ended. The curtains went down and the light came up. Francesca
had a wonderful time. And yes, Fraser would have to do a lot of
explaining. She had followed some of it, but the whole thing had been
somewhat overwhelming. 

 As they walked through the opera house she saw a few people looking at
her and Fraser. She thought it was rather odd until she passed a large
mirror. Looking at her reflection she couldn't help being surprised. They
looked good together. Like a couple that had been with one another for
sometime. 

 She noted the way that Fraser possessively had his arms around her waist.
Guiding her through the crowd. She looked up at him and smiled. In turn he
looked down at her returning the same smile. It was an honest one. Not one
of those forced one that he had given her in the past. This was nice. This
was different. She felt comfortable with him. Not like she had felt before
he had picked her up at home. She liked this feeling. 



 

 The valet had brought the car up to the curb and they proceeded to get
in. Turning to her Fraser spoke, "I hope you do not mind, but I had taken
the liberty of making reservations for coffee and dessert. Is that o.k. or
would you prefer to go home now?" 

 Go home? You have got to be kidding me. "Coffee would be very nice
Benton. We could maybe discuss the opera some?" She was rewarded with
another of his smiles. This is a date. He planned all of this. He actually
wants to be with me. Not just help me pass my class because I am his
friends sister. 

 The drive to the restaurant was short. He surprised her again. It was a
nice upscale place. Somewhere that she wouldn't have expected him to
choose. For some reason when he said reservations she hadn't really paid
attention. She thought that they would end up at 'Jen's' a local diner a
few blocks from her neighborhood. She had been looking forward to getting
there to see the faces on the patrons when they walked in with their
evening wear. 

 But this place was nice. People sat at tables with china, crystal and
candles. Quiet conversation mixed with classical music in the background.
As they were seated she looked around. Not believing the whole night was
real. Benton Fraser. The quiet, blushing mountie was actually romancing
her. Francesca Vecchio. The flowers. The opera. Now coffee and dessert in
a beautiful restaurant. 

 She looked across the table at him. He was reading a menu. "What would
you care to order? They have coffees and espresso." Picking up her menu
she looked back at him. "Um, I can't read it. It's in French." "I'm so
sorry. I didn't think." He proceeded to name the different types of
coffees and desserts listed and when the waiter appeared he ordered for
her speaking in fluent French. 

 The waiter who had worn a frown when he first came to their table began
to smile at Fraser. She could see that they were having an actual
conversation, not just placing an order. She was curious. After the waiter
left she asked Fraser what they had been talking about. "Again I
apologize. I didn't mean to be rude. He was asking me where I was from. He
is from the French Quarter in Louisiana and he noticed my accent was
different. I speak French more like the people in Quebec. I never really
thought about it before. I learned French from some books that my
grandmother had. She would tutor me on the pronunciations." 

 "Just how many languages do you speak?" He began telling her the
different languages. And then he proceeded to ramble off several different
dialects that he also knew. After that she began to slowly ask him more
questions. And he continued with more of his own. 

 Their coffee and desserts came. They barely touched them. It was like a
tennis match where they volleyed questions back and forth. But there was
no goal in mind. It was just conversation. She found his company
enjoyable. As he did hers. Before they knew it their waiter had appeared
at their table presenting their check. He and Fraser spoke again. Fraser
looked quickly down at his watch. "Oh dear. I believe we had better be
going. It appears that they are closing the restaurant. "What time is it?"
"Two o'clock." She looked up at him in surprise. It was two o'clock in the
morning. They had spent two hours just talking. About one another. 

 On the way home Francesca began to feel sad. This is so stupid. It was
the same feeling that she would get as a child on Christmas day. After all
the excitement of opening gifts, going to mass and then the huge family
dinner, her mother would carry her up to bed and tuck her in. And she
would lay there in bed depressed. Christmas was over. This was the same
feeling that she was getting now. 

 What if she were wrong? What if Fraser was just being the helpful Mountie
that he always was? She had made mistakes before in her judgments with
men. Why would it be any different with him? What if this was to be the
only time that she would share with him? She had to stop herself. If I
keep thinking like this I am going to start crying and he's going to think
that I am a nutcase. 

 She took a deep breath and again began to ask him questions. Before she
knew it they had pulled up in front of her house. She had to smile. Ma had
left the porch light on for her. Just like she use to when she was in high
school. They slowly made their way up to the porch. And for the first time
since they had arrived at the opera there was an awkwardness between them.


 "I really had a good time Benton." "As did I." "Uh, we really didn't get
to talk all that much about the opera. Is there anyway that you could come
over tomorrow, I mean today? Maybe help me write down some notes and
stuff?" That was good Frannie. You asked him over without asking him out.
"Yes I could. I know that it is late and I'm sure you'll want to sleep in.
What time would you prefer me to come back." She resisted the urge to just
tell him to stay. Come in now. Just don't leave. "Would three be o.k. with
you?" "Yes that would be fine." 

 The entire time they had talked they had never let their gazes wander
from one another. "I guess I should go in." She started to turn away from
him. Only to feel his hand gently stop her. He leaned down and softly
kissed her. She couldn't believe it! He had kissed her! She just stood
their frozen. He must have taken that as an invitation because he leaned
down and kissed her again, this time wrapping his arms around her. 

 She didn't know how long they had stood there like that, but when he
finally parted from her she had found that she had her arms around him as
well. They were both pressed so closely together that she could feel his
heartbeat. It was like hers. Rapid, but in control. She knew that it would
not go beyond this tonight. It didn't have to. 

 He kissed her once more. It was lighter. Not as insistent. "I really
should be going. I promised Inspector Thatcher that I would have the car
back in the morning. And I need to get some sleep as well if I am to come
back and help you with your studies." He smiled at that. He slowly backed
away from her, holding her hand and letting it slide from his. "I'll see
you this afternoon Benton. Thank you again for everything." "No. Thank you
for coming with me." 

 After she went into the house she watched him as he got back into the
car. Only then did she turn the porch light off. She stood there watching
the car pull away. Staring at the taillights until they disappeared down
the street. She practically skipped up the stairway and down the hall.
Keeping quite so as to not wake anyone she closed her bedroom door
thinking about all that she had seen and done. I don't think I'll have any
problem sleeping tonight she thought as she hummed music from the opera as
she got undressed. 



 

 Ray had lain in bed since one. Yes he and Ma had a good chat. About
neighbors, about his work and about relatives. But she always directed the
conversation away from Frannie and Fraser. He knew it would do no good to
argue with her. For some reason he got the impression that his mother
approved of this. That she wanted them to get together. Was he the only
one that could see that this was a mistake? One big fat mistake. 

 Frannie had been hurt so many times. Her marriage was a total failure as
had been every successive boyfriend. She just didn't use good judgment.
Granted Fraser was his best friend, but he just couldn't see a
relationship between the two working out. She was loud, opinionated and
unpredictable. Fraser was quite, spoke only when the mood suited him and
you could set a clock by him. They were total opposites. 

 A small thought nagged at him. But opposites attract, he argued with
himself. But not these two. They were so opposite there was a chance in
hell of it working out. And he didn't want to deal with the aftermath when
it failed. Frannie would be all bitter and Fraser would just close in on
himself again. 

 Sighing he turned over on his side. It was almost three in the morning.
Where were they? He knew that the opera couldn't have drug on this long.
He sat up in bed with a start. What if they were...no they wouldn't. Would
they? He knew Frannie would without hesitation. But Fraser? He had to have
some weird Mountie code of honor about not having sex with his best
friends sister. 

 Thinking back, he still never got an answer from Fraser or Frannie from
the time that she had shown up at Fraser's apartment, offering herself to
him. No. They didn't then. Did they? Just then he heard a car pulling up
to the house. They were back. Ray crept to his window and slowly opened it
so that he would be able to hear them talk as they came up to the porch. I
can't believe that I'm spying on them. He almost shut the window out of
guilt, but curiosity got the best of him. 

 They came up the walk together. Looking like any other normal couple
would. Now that they were on the porch he couldn't see them. He strained
to hear what they were saying. They were talking in low voices. Damn! I
can't hear a single word. Then there was silence. At first he thought that
they had gone into the house. No I didn't hear the door. Oh no! Oh come on
Frannie! They were making out! They had to be. When Frannie was a teenager
she would always get caught at the door. 

 Several minutes later he heard voices again. And then he watched as
Fraser left. He could hear Frannie coming up the stairs. Was she skipping?
Nah. It had to be his imagination. He heard her door softly shut and then
nothing. It was killing him. He wanted to go into her room and give her
the third degree. But he wouldn't. Not if he didn't want Frannie, Maria
and his mother attacking him all at once. Crawling back in bed all he
could do was shake his head. Poor Frannie. She had no idea what she was
getting into. 



 

 Francesca stretched lazily in her bed. It was almost noon. She had slept
soundly. And her dreams couldn't even begin to compare to last night. She
kept looking over at her closet where her gown hung from the door. Yes she
had been to the opera. And to a nice restaurant. But best of all, Benton
Fraser had kissed her! Not one of those 'I am glad I could be of service
to you kisses' on the cheek. He had kissed her three times! Count 'em
Frannie, three! She giggled softly. 

 Wrapping her arms around herself she relived the moment over in her head.
It was a good 'I really want you' kind of kiss. The kind that made her
heart beat faster and sent a tingle down her spine. She found herself
wondering what he would be like in bed. 

 Before she had only fantasized about it. But now she had a small sampling
of what he could do. And she wanted more. She wanted to be held by him.
She wanted more kisses. She wanted to feel him naked next to her and make
passionate love to him. Just thinking about having sex with him made her
shiver in anticipation. 

 But how long would she have to wait? She didn't know how long she could
hold back from just throwing him on a bed and ripping his clothes off. She
decided she had better stop thinking about it and get up. Laughing to
herself she realized that she now needed a cold shower. 

 I have way too much to do before Benton comes over. Only three more hours
until he comes here to help me study. She snorted. I'd rather study him
than the opera, but if it wasn't for this class I don't know if he would
have ever asked me out. Thank God I went back to school. Putting on her
bathrobe she gathered her things and made her way to the bathroom. 

 

 It was noon. Ray sat in a chair in the den watching television. He wasn't
really watching it. It was more like he was staring at the set in a zombie
like trance. When was Frannie going to get out of bed?! He hadn't been
able to sleep after she had come home. He wanted to hear about last night.
He wanted to know what they had done. Where else besides the opera did
they go? 

 Every time he thought about that he would get a mental image of the two
of them at Fraser's apartment. On that ridiculously small bed of his.
Pawing each other like animals in heat. And each time he would shake his
head in disgust. That is so gross Ray! Don't even think about it. His
sister and Fraser 'with' one another. Geez! Stop it! 

 He didn't even know what either one of them looked like without their
clothes on. The closest thing he had every gotten to seeing Fraser nude
was in the hospital. And even then he always had boxers on. Or he would
insist that Ray turn around so he couldn't see him. Ray had argued with
him. What did it matter! They were both guys. Fraser would just look at
him until he turned around. He was way too modest. And Frannie. He hadn't
seen Frannie since she was a little kid in the bathtub. 

 He heard a door opening upstairs. And then another one closing. The
shower came on. She was finally up. Now he could get some answers. He
stood and walked out into the hall. Just at the same time as his mother.
"Raymondo. Can you come into the kitchen and help me with lunch please?"
He looked at her. She never asked him to help her make lunch. Occasionally
dinner, but never lunch. His own mother was running interference again for
Frannie. Well, she was going to have to come down sooner or later. He
would get the information from her then. "Sure Ma. What do you need me to
do?" He followed her into the kitchen. 



 

 Francesca finally came down from her shower. She was dressed in a pair of
jeans and a tight fitting t-shirt. Ray looked at her as she came into the
kitchen. Hum. He looks looks a cat ready to pounce on a mouse. Why does he
have such a problem with me dating Benton? If I didn't know any better I
would think that he was gay and jealous of me getting him before he had
the chance. 

 She walked over to the table where Ray and her mother sat. Coldcuts,
crackers, soup and other lunch items were laid out on the table. She began
making a sandwich. "Goodmorning Ma. Goodmorning Ray" "It's the afternoon
Frannie." Boy is he crabby! "Sorry! Goodafternoon Ray." 

 Her mother cut in sensing an argument in the making. "So how was the
opera?" "Ma, I had such a great time." Francesca proceeded to tell them
about her evening. She left out the parts about their conversations,
holding his hand and the kisses at the door. She really did tell them
everything. She just left out what were to her, the best parts. 

 "I got this for you Ma." She picked up a bag from the counter handing it
to her mother. "Oh Frannie. How thoughtful. How nice. Is not your sister a
good daughter Raymondo. She brought me a program of the opera." Oh please
Ma, thought Ray. "Yes Ma. That's very thoughtful of you Frannie", he said
in a dry tone. "If you'll both excuse me I'm going to go and watch the
game." 

 Picking up the remainder of his lunch Ray walked out of the kitchen. He
knew the moment that he left Frannie would tell their mother all of the
good parts. He stopped in the hall hoping to hear her, but all he heard
was the sound of silverware against plates. Damn! She's not going to say
anything until she's sure that I'm gone. He stomped into the den, snapping
the t.v. on and flopped into his chair. Brooding. 

 

 Once Mrs. Vecchio was certain that Ray was out of listening range she
looked at Francesca. "So my daughter. How was the opera. Really."
Francesca began to talk excitedly. "Ma it was so beautiful! I mean
everything I told you did happen. But I just couldn't say certain things.
You know how touchy Ray is about this." "Yes. I see him. It will be fine.
You will see. He just needs time to accept this. Raymondo ...he is just
being overprotective. Of the both of you." "I know Ma. But I wish he would
just, I don't know. Not act like this was the end of the world or
something." 

 "Ma. He didn't ask me to go just to help me with the class. He asked me
out for me. Oh, you know what I mean. He actually likes me. Alot. I can
tell." Mrs. Vecchio looked at her daughter. She is so happy. She has not
been this way in so long. It is good. 

 "Yes. He does care for you Frannie. I have seen it before." "What do you
mean before?" Mrs. Vecchio laughed. "Frannie. He has liked you from the
first time he was here." "Oh come on Ma!" "No. A mother can see these
things. The first time he was here for dinner. I saw how he looked at you
when Ray did not watch. He always looks at you." 

 Francesca sat there stunned. How could he have liked her all this time
and never approached her? Was he really that afraid of Ray? No. It
couldn't be that. If it were, why did he ask her now? "But Ma. I mean, why
now? Why not two years ago?" "No one can understand the heart. You just
have to accept life as it is." Francesca just looked at her. What in the
heck did that mean? Her mother could be as bad as Benton when it came to
talking in riddles. 

 "Oh whatever. I don't care. He's coming over at three to help me study.
Can I use the table in here?" So that I can have some privacy. I don't
want to be in the den with Mr. Miserable. "Yes you may use the table. To
study." Her mother smiled knowingly. "Oh Ma!" Francesca picked at her
sandwich. She wished Maria were home right now. She must have gone out
shopping. She could have talked to her about getting kissed and sex. But
not to her mother. She wouldn't understand. 

 Frannie." "Yes Ma." "You are going to be seeing him?" "Yes." "You will be
dating then?" "Yes. I think. We haven't discussed that yet." "When you do
discuss that, you must date. Get to know who he is before you get to
'know' him." Francesca looked up in shock at her mother. "Ma!" "I am not
so old that I do not remember. Do not rush Frannie. Love is not a race. Do
things together. Learn of one another. Then when you are together, it will
be right. Promise me this." I can't believe my mother is talking to me
about sex. "Yes Ma. I promise." "That is good." 



 

 It was almost three. Ray heard a knock at the front door and got up to
answer it. He was a bit surprised to see Fraser at his house. He never
just dropped in. "What's up Benny?" "Nothing Ray. I've just come to go
over the opera with Francesca for her notes." "Give me a break! Your both
gonna' go in there, open a book and make goo-goo eyes at each other."
"Ray. What are goo-goo eyes?" He looked so innocent. How could he not know
what he was talking about? I give up! "Frannie! Fraser's here to see you!
I'll be in the den watching the game if you get tired of the opera." With
that remark he walked away. 

 "Hi Benton." Goodafternoon Francesca." "I have my books and stuff in the
kitchen." They sat down. And for the first time that she could remember he
sat down next to her in her own home. He didn't back away. He didn't
blush. They were so close that their legs were touching under the table.
Their shoulders brushed together. She could have spent all night just
looking at him. Listening to him talk. 

 "Francesca. Francesca. Francesca." He was calling her name and she hadn't
even paid attention to him. "Sorry. I was just thinking." "About the opera
no doubt." He was smiling back at her. She knew that she wasn't paying
attention. He knew that she wasn't paying attention. Instead of getting
angry with her he just shook his head. 

 Francesca. You have to study. We are going to talk about the opera at
dinner tonight." "Why?" "Because Ray thinks we are here making 'goo-goo
eyes' instead of studying. What exactly are goo-goo eyes? I know that Ray
is being sarcastic, but he didn't explain to me what it meant." He was
serious. He really didn't know what Ray had said. That is so cute. 

 "Well Benton it means this." She stared into his eyes moving closer to
him. Leaning heavily on his shoulder placing a hand on his chest. Slowly
she let her hand slide down to his stomach feeling him tense up as she
went. Oh he is way too cute. He's starting to blush. She pressed closer to
him and whispered in his ear. "That is goo-goo eyes Benton." Of only her
mother wasn't in the same room. She was so close and it was so tempting.
It took all her willpower not to nibble a trail down his neck. 

 "Ahem." Fraser cleared his throat. "Goo-goo eyes. I'll have to remember
that." He couldn't break eye contact with her. "We really should be
studying. Maybe after dinner we could go for a walk perhaps?" "A walk
would be nice. And maybe I could make goo-goo eyes at you again." Oh this
is definitely more fun than study hall ever was. 

 By the time they were getting ready to eat, Francesca could recite
characters and scenes without hesitation. He made it so easy to remember
things. She liked this. "I've gotta' stop now. Ma needs some help with
getting dinner on the table. They had asked her earlier if she needed help
getting dinner ready, but she had declined. Watching the two of them while
she prepared the evening meal was enough. It made her heart glad to see
them together. Both of them need someone to take care of. To care for none
another would be a good thing. 



 

 Getting up from the table Francesca began to gather plates and silverware
to take into the diningroom. Of course Fraser got up to help her. "You
don't have to help. I can do this. Why don't you go see Ray for a bit
before dinner." "No, I really should help you." "Benton." She lowered her
voice and leaned towards him. "Go sit with Ray until dinner. Talk to him.
He was really cranky about last night." "Oh." He stood looking at her.
"Go." For extra incentive she grabbed him by the shoulder, turned him
around and pushed him gently in the back. 

 She couldn't believe she did that. Only a day ago she would have never
touched him like that. And he would have never let her get near enough to
do it. She couldn't get over how easy it was to think of him as belonging
to her already. She had to be careful. She didn't want to scare him off.
But she couldn't resist. She had been waiting years to be with him. And
now that it was a reality, she wanted to touch him as much as she could. 

 

 Fraser made his way to the den. He peeked in. Uh oh. Francesca was right.
Ray did look cranky. He was staring at the t.v. with a scowl on his face.
Fraser almost walked back to the kitchen, but he knew that Francesca would
not have been pleased with him doing so. They hadn't even been together
one day and he could see that she was going to be just as overprotective
and volatile as her brother. 

 Taking a deep breath he walked into the room and sat down in a chair
across from Ray. Ray ignored him. Not a good sign. "How is the game Ray?"
"It sucks. Bulls are behind ten points." Ray didn't even look at him. This
definitely was not good. He could feel himself growing warm. The room
closing in on him. 

 "Ray." "What!" Ray snapped at him. Fraser looked at him in surprise. Ray
never acted like this towards him. He seemed cold. Distant. He found
himself standing. This was way too uncomfortable. He didn't know how to
deal with this. He ran a thumb across his brow. Ray never made him feel
nervous like this. He had to leave the room. It was suffocating him.
"Nothing Ray." He walked out into the hall. He couldn't go back in the
kitchen. And he definitely did not want to go back in the den. Turning he
open the front door and stepped out onto the porch. 

 It was mid-september and the weather was finally getting to the point
where he was comfortable. He found himself wishing he were back home. Not
his apartment. The Territories. Whenever he felt like this he could always
walk away into the wilderness where he could be alone. Where the only
sounds were the wildlife and the wind in the trees. There was no where to
go here. The air stank and the noise was maddening. 

 Leaning against the wall he tried to sort things out. He finally began a
relationship with Francesca. It was only starting, but he liked how things
were going. But Ray. His reaction to it was worse than he had anticipated.
Why was Ray so angry with him? He wanted to walk back in and talk to Ray,
but he couldn't. What would he say? Hi Ray. Why are you mad at me? I
haven't had sex with your sister yet. No that wouldn't work. It was safer
to just stay here until dinner. That will be one unpleasant meal he
thought. 



 

 Now why did I do that to him? All he did was come in, sit down and ask me
a question about the game. I'm the one who told him to come in here when
he was done with the opera stuff. Crap. I had better go and get him. 

 Ray got up and looked in the kitchen. He assumed that Fraser had gone in
there, but all he saw was his mother at the sink cutting vegetables. Not
there. Where else would he be? He could hear plates being set in the
diningroom. He must have gone and helped Frannie. 

 He peeked in and quickly jerked back. Frannie was by herself. He waited a
second. Good. She didn't see him. Great. This is just great. I chased him
out of the house. Frannie is going to flip out when she finds that he's
gone. 

 He grabbed his coat and keys and headed out the door. Only to find Fraser
on the porch leaning against the wall. He immediately stood straight up
when he saw that it was Ray. "Benny. What are you doing out here?" Fraser
cocked an eyebrow at him. "What are you doing with your coat and your keys
in your hand?" Think fast Ray. "I was heading out to get some beer. Do you
want to go with me?" "Sure." "Hold on a sec. Ma! Benny an' me are going to
get beer! We'll be back in a few minutes! Let's go." 

 They both got into the Riv. Neither of them saying a word. I really
screwed up. He's not even talking to me. "So. How was the opera?" Ray
watched as Fraser decided how to answer him. It was not what he expected.
"It was good." Fraser didn't say anything more. 

 Ray tapped his fingers on the steering wheel. "So where else did you go?"
Fraser looked over at him. "We went out for coffee." This was like pulling
teeth. When he decides to get pissy he can do a good job of it. I guess I
deserve this. "That's nice." This is really stupid! "Come on Benny. Spit
out the details. What was the play like? Where did you have coffee? Did
you have a good time?" 

 Again he was greeted with silence. Fraser stared back at him. He was
giving him that look. He hated that look. It was the 'you hurt my feelings
and now you want everything back to normal?' look. I can't believe him.
"Benny. I'm sorry I snapped at you like that earlier. I didn't get much
sleep last night and I'm a little grouchy. O.K.?" 

 "Understood." I hate when he does that! He's mad at me still. Not mad.
Fraser never gets mad. He just gets really quiet and still. This is bad.
They pulled up to the liquor store. "You coming in?" "Yes." Just yes. Not
yes Ray. I wish he would yell at me and get it over with. 

 They walked through the store. Ray picked out a six pack of Moosehead.
"Benny. You want anything?" "You know that I don't drink." He watched as
Fraser walked over to the wine section and looked them over. He hesitated,
then picked up a bottle of merlot. "I thought you didn't' drink?" "No. I
don't. This is for Francesca. She had mentioned this as being her
favorite." 

 So. One night out with her and he's already a Frannie expert. Trying to
please her. Since when did he care what Frannie wanted? Why after all this
time did Fraser have this sudden desire to be with his sister? Why not
Thatcher? Or for that matter, why not one of the hundreds of women in
Chicago that threw themselves at him on daily basis? Ray shook his head.
He just didn't understand. What was it about Frannie that made Fraser want
her so much now? 



 

 Francesca had heard Ray yell to their mother about him and Fraser going
out to get beer. That was strange. Ray didn't drink beer all that much and
Benton not at all. Well, things must be o.k. They had been in the den all
this time and she didn't hear any yelling from Ray. Maybe things weren't
going to be all that bad after all. 

 The table was set and Maria had come home. The house was alive with
noise. Maria's children ran around excitedly. They always loved it when
Fraser would visit. He told stories or played games with them. He was
really good with children. 

 Maria, Ma and Francesca began to bring the food out to the table. Tony
had plopped into a chair in the kitchen and was reading Sports
Illustrated. He irritated her. He never helped do anything. That is the
one thing she would never have to worry about. Fraser was overly helpful. 

 Ray and Fraser came into the house with Ray making a beeline towards the
fridge to put the beer and wine away. Francesca watched as Fraser quietly
entered the room. She made eye contact with him, making a questioning
gesture and pointing at Ray. Fraser just nodded his head no, mouthing the
word 'later' 

 Frannie looked over at Ray. He was helping Ma with the roast. And he
wasn't talking. For Ray not to talk...she exhaled. How could he turn her
dream come true into a tense filled evening? Hopefully he would loosen up.
It was a good thing she didn't have Fraser sitting next to her at the
table. She had thought about it, but for some reason she had held back. 

 

 Dinner was uneventful. And for once it was quite. That was a strange
thing for a Vecchio dinner. Even the children could sense that something
was wrong. They ate as fast as they could and excused themselves from the
table to get away from the grumpy adults. Smart kids thought Francesca. 

 They finished dinner in silence and Ma brought out dessert. And then to
Francesca's surprise and dismay Tony started talking. He hardly ever said
anything except for please pass me whatever. He was always too busy eating
to be bothered with joining the conversations. 

 "So Frannie. Maria says you and Fraser are an item When did this happen?"
"Tony." Maria elbowed her husband but he ignored her. Oh God help me
Francesca thought. She looked across the table at Fraser and Ray. Fraser
had stiffened up. He was looking at Ray out of the corner of his eye. Ray
had stopped a forkful of pie in midair. Setting it down with a smile he
looked up at Francesca. "Yes Frannie. When did this happen?" 

 She blinked. She was dumbfounded. An item. Well, yes that is what she
wanted. She knew that was what Fraser wanted, she could tell. But they
weren't officially an 'item' as Tony had so bluntly put it. Then Fraser
came to her rescue. "Yes we are and I believe it technically could be said
to have occurred last night." 

 Tony piped in again. "So what took you so long? You've know Frannie for
two years now. All I've ever seen you do is run away from her all the
time. What's the deal?" That pig! He's deliberately doing this. He sees
that Ray isn't happy about it and he's going to start something. She could
see Fraser hesitating. He hadn't expected any of this and didn't know what
to say. 

 Ray turned to him. "Yeah Benny. What is so different now that you all of
a sudden want to 'date' Frannie." He had held his fingers up making little
quote marks in the air with his hands. Francesca looked over at her
mother. Ma just shook her head no. Fraser sat stiffly. His fingers
nervously toying with a napkin on the table. 

 "I really don't know." He turned in his chair and looked directly at Ray.
"The only answer that I can think of Ray would be that I got tired of
waiting for your 'approval' to do so." Fraser shocked everyone at the
table by mimicking Ray's hand gestures from a moment ago. You could hear a
pin drop. 

 Ma was smiling! Francesca couldn't believe it. Fraser was directly
confronting Ray in his own house and her mother was looking on enjoying
the whole thing! 

 Ray didn't know what to say. He just stared back at Fraser. Where in the
hell did that come from? "And what is that supposed to mean?" Ray's voice
rose a little. She watched as Fraser rubbed his ear. He was preparing to
say something that might not go over well. "Ray. Every time that I have
made an indication in the past that I might have an interest in Francesca
you would always start acting, I don't know...weird." 

 Did he just call Ray weird. Ray's eyebrows went up at that comment. "All
you ever do is say don't look at her, don't think about it. And then the
next thing you say is oh geez Benny, if I would want anyone to sleep with
Frannie I guess it would be you." Ray's mouth dropped open. "And what
exactly did you mean by guys like me?" 

 Oh this was getting good. Francesca had never seen Fraser talk to anyone
like this. He was actually looking annoyed and he was even gesturing with
his hands. Normally he kept them politely folded in his lap when he would
talk. 

 "Guys like me don't date girls like Francesca. What exactly did you mean
by that? It can be only one of two things. You think that I would use her
or you think that she is not worthy to be with me. What did you mean by
that Ray? I'd like you to explain it to me because I'm not really clear on
that." 

 Fraser stopped talking and looked directly at Ray. He was waiting. He
actually expected an answer to his question. It was as if the entire table
was holding its collective breath. Would Ray explode? 

 "How did you know what I said?" "Know what Ray?" "How did you know that I
said that about you?" "I was on the other side of the interrogation room."
"You eavesdropped!" "Yes I did." "Why?" "Excuse me, but you haven't
answered my question first." "No! I want to know why you listened in on
our conversation. It was private!" "No it wasn't. It directly involved
both Francesca and I. Why couldn't you have talked to us at the same
time?" 

 Ray stopped. He didn't know what to say. He ran his hand over his head.
"Look Benny. She's my sister. I want what is right for her. You're not
going to stay here. Sooner or later you're going to get a transfer back to
Canada and off you'll go. Where does that leave Frannie?" 

 Fraser just shook his head and smiled. "Ray you are talking maybes. Am I
ever going back home? I don't know. The way things are it could be years
before that even happens. And when it does happen I would just ask her to
go with me." 

 Francesca was stunned. She had never thought about moving to Canada with
Fraser. But as she sat there all she could think was if he did ask her she
would go. Without hesitation. Why not? She would be with him. What was the
point in staying in Chicago if he wasn't here with her. Except for family
what did she have? 

 "Let's be serious Fraser. Frannie has never even been in the country. How
do you think she would do in the Territories? There's no phones, no malls
and no family. What would she do up there? Have you thought about that?" 

 Fraser hadn't thought of that. He just figured she would go with him.
Learn to love the land as he did. He looked over at Francesca. "I would go
with him Ray." "What?!" Ray blurted out. "I said I would go with him." She
repeated it slowly so Ray would get the picture. "What is your problem!
We've only gone out together once and you have us moving away to Canada!
Aren't you just being a little ridiculous? Can't we just date? It sounds
like you have us married with children already. Geez Ray. Lighten up!" 

 And then her mother spoke up. "Raymondo. I think you need to let them
find their own way. Did anyone tell you not to see Angie? Or to marry her?
No. We let you decide. Francesca will decide what she wants." "Look Ma, I
just don't want her to get hurt." 

 Fraser put a hand on Ray's arm. "I'm not going to hurt her Ray. Can't you
at least see that much?" "I don't know. I mean...oh what the hell. Do what
you want. I can see that no matter what you're both going to do it
anyway." "Ray!" "No Frannie, I didn't mean that, I meant go out together."


 "So does that mean we get your approval then?" She looked over at Ray
smiling. Not that I need it, just say yes. "Yes you have my approval. Now
can I finish my dessert?" "Thank you Ray" She found herself grinning
across the table at Fraser. Things were going her way and she liked it.
Alot. 



 

 It had been two months since their date at the opera. Ray was finally
getting use to seeing them together. It was sometimes a bit awkward, but
to Francesca it was worth it. The dates that they had been on were nice.
They would go out to dinner. Take long walks in the park. He had even
taken her out horseback riding. That had been interesting. But her
favorite thing to do was to watch movies with him at home. That was the
only time that she could curl up close to him. 

 They had both made a point of not being alone. Ma had said to get to know
who he is before I 'know' him. Well she had done that. She thought she
knew more about Fraser than anyone ever would. Well, two months was long
enough. It wouldn't hurt to 'know' him just a little would it? 

 They had gone out to dinner. Nothing fancy. It was a nice quiet place.
The entire night she had played footsies with him. At first he was a bit
confused as to why she was bumping into his legs. But he soon got the idea
when she had taken her shoe off and ran her foot up his leg. 

 He didn't blush. Instead her grabbed her foot before she could reach her
her destination. And he massaged it. Slowly and softly looking at her the
entire time. He was turning something so simple as a foot message into an
erotic experience. And he was doing it at a dinner table. All through
their meal she would make suggestive comments. The best part was he
responded to them. 

 They were on the front porch. Her favorite place. She could see that he
was reluctant to go. She pulled him to her. Go slow Frannie. Don't push
him. If he knows what you're going to do he'll make an excuse to leave.
She knew that he didn't want to face Ray when he found out that they had
gone beyond just kissing. It was ridiculous that they both worried about
it. But he was her brother and he was Fraser best friend. So they worried.


 She soon forgot about making Ray upset. She loved to hold Fraser. She
loved kissing him. But they always stopped before things could get out of
hand. She hated it. She wanted to know what he was like when he lost
control. 

 When he tried to pull away from her she tightened her grip. Kissing him
harder. She ran her tongue across his. They had done this many times
before, but it had never been as intense. She made sure there would be no
uncertainties as to how she felt. 

 She pulled back from him just enough so that she could undo some of the
buttons of his shirt. She loved the feel of the soft flannel that he wore,
but she wanted to feel his skin. She eased her hand into his shirt and
returned her mouth to his. 

 The entire time she kept wondering if Ray would come out on the porch to
interrupt. To catch them. The excitement that she might get caught was a
turn on. She ran her hand across his chest loving the smooth feel of it.
The hard nipple came under her hand and she pinched it gently. He felt so
good. So smooth. 

 Her ex-husband, the pig, was a hairball. It had been like making out with
a rug. Benton was smooth skin over muscle. What would it be like to run
her hands over his entire body? Was he smooth all over like this?
Reluctantly she removed her hand. She had a different target in her mind
tonight. 

 She nibbled at his neck and throat. She knew that he loved it when she
did that. There was the spot. Right at the pulse point. She placed soft
kisses there. Running her tongue over it she could feel his heart rate
increase. It was his weak spot. Knowing this gave her an advantage. She
sucked at it hard. She didn't care if she left any marks. He moaned, but
not in pain. She loved hearing that sound. 

 She pressed tighter against him. Oh yes Frannie. You haven't lost it. He
had her in a crushing embrace. Kissing her and pushing against her. She
could feel him. This was definitely the time to do what she had wanted to
do since she had first seen Fraser walk into her home two years ago. 

 She traced a path down his chest. Moving her hand down to his hip.
Resting it briefly there. Then she moved to his thigh. And finally she was
touching him for the first time. The way she had wanted to for so long.
She could feel him tensing up but not in fear. His breath was hot against
her neck. He had stopped kissing her. He wasn't moving. 

 She pressed harder against him with her hand as he pulled her towards
him. Moving to her mouth once more kissing her deeply. She loved his
tongue in her mouth. Everything was slow. Gentle. He was going to take his
time with her. She had never removed her hand. She was touching, stroking
and fondling him through the material of his jeans. She loved the feel of
him. Knowing that she could do this to him. 

 He pulled slightly apart from her. "Francesca." "Yes Benton?" She grasped
him tighter, hearing the catch in his voice as she did it. "We need to
stop." So this is what Fraser was like when he wasn't being the perfect
tin soldier. Leaning forward she nibble at his throat. For someone who
said they should stop he sure didn't act like he wanted to. He tilted his
head back slightly so that she could reach his neck better. "We really
need to stop." "Uh-huh." 

 Pulling herself against him she moved her hands around his back tugging
his shirt out of his jeans. Her hands went under the waistband of his
boxers and she cupped him, pulling him even closer to her. He laughed
lightly in her ear. "Francesca, you are bad." "You have a nice butt." She
felt his own hands reaching behind her. Mirroring her actions. "As do
you." 

 Again he moved his mouth back to hers. Pulling her against him. God he
felt so good. Why did I promise Ma? I am an idiot. Well, promises could be
broken couldn't they? Again it was Fraser who broke the kiss. "Francesca."
"Yes?" "If we are ever going to go in, we need to stop." She nipped at his
neck once more. "O.K." But they didn't. He wanted her. She knew that she
could talk him into it. But they couldn't stay here. No way. She wasn't a
fool. You'll have to be blunt Frannie. They had to go back to his
apartment. 

 She removed one of her hands from his jeans and caressed him again
through the front. She felt him slowly remove one of his own hands from
her. He was tentative. Not knowing if he should do what he was thinking
about doing. She increased her pressure on him. Probing her tongue in his
mouth. He reached into her shirt. Running his hand softly across her
breast. Lightly touching her. 

 This time she pulled back from him. "Benton." "Yes?" She couldn't even
talk. They were both breathing heavily. "Let's go back to your apartment
for a while." He was looking at her. His fingers pinching her nipple as
she had done before to his. She could tell that he wanted to. But he was
still undecided. 

 She removed her other hand from her grip on his ass. Reaching around she
unbuttoned the top of his jeans. Again he didn't stop her. She slowly
pulled the zipper down. She looked up at him. He had closed his eyes. He
was trying to control himself. She smiled. He wouldn't be able to do that
much longer. 

 "Francesca." His tone was almost a warning. She ignore him. Inching her
hand into his boxers. Hard. Smooth. Hot. All of these sensations flowed
through her fingertips. She tightened her grip around him. "Let's go back
to your apartment Benton." Leaning forward she kissed him again. Lightly
stroking him as she slid her tongue back into his mouth. He felt so good
like this. 

 When he pulled away from her she knew that she had won. She got what she
had wanted. He finally spoke the words. "Let's go." It took a bit to pull
themselves together. Once she had taken hold of him she didn't want to
release him. She tugged at him. "You're not lying to me are you?" She
could see that he was having trouble speaking. She almost started
laughing. It was so nice to have this type of control over him. He choked
out an answer as she increased her movements. "I am a Mountie. I would
never lie." 

 Reluctantly she released her hold on him. Removing her hand. They put
buttons back into place and made their way a few blocks over to a pay
phone to call a cab. She didn't want to chance meeting anyone still up
inside the house. The entire ride over to his apartment all she could
think was, I'm finally going to get to know you. 



 

 Ray lay awake in bed. Looking at the clock he read the numbers with
blurry eyes. Five in the morning. Why is it I have to wake up on my day
off at the same time as I do when I work. He knew why, but it still
irritated him. Closing his eyes he tried to go back to sleep. 

 His eyes popped back open. I have to pee. Throwing the covers back he
slid out of bed. As he shuffled down the hall he stopped. Taking a few
steps back he looked into Francesca's room. Her bed was still made. She
hadn't come home last night. 

 Since she had been dating Fraser he knew that it was inevitable. They had
been going out as a couple for two months now. Deep down inside he was
surprised that it had taken this long. He didn't think Frannie would have
waited two days. 

 But he was still in shock. His baby sister had...was...is spending the
night with his bestfriend. He tried shaking the thought from his mind. His
sister and Fraser. If it were with anyone else he would have been happy
for Fraser. He would have been congratulating him. But with his sister? 

 Now that he was fully awake he gave up. After using the bathroom he went
back, put his robe on and proceeded down the stairs. I might as well eat
breakfast and read the paper. Just as he hit the landing the door opened.
It was Frannie. She was wearing a large blue sweatshirt over her clothes.
She hadn't seen him yet. 

 Ray watched as she quietly closed the door and locked it. Just as she was
about to turn Ray spoke. "How nice of you to come home Frannie!" "Ray!
Don't do that! You scared the shit out of me!" 

 Uh oh. She stood there. At first she felt panic. What in the hell was she
going to say? Oh hi Ray. I just got back from a night of incredible
lovemaking and now I'm going to bed. See you later? No! Why should she say
anything? Did she ever question Ray about his nights out? No! Why should
it be any different for her? He was getting as bad as Pop had been! 

 At that thought she snapped. "Ray. What I do is my business. I don't
question you and you have no right to stay up all night waiting for me to
come home like I'm some little school girl! "Frannie." "No! You listen to
me! I am a grown woman. I am in an adult relationship. What I do is my
business!" She stabbed a finger in his chest as she spoke. "Are we clear
on this?! Good." Not giving him a chance to argue she stormed up the
stairs. 

 Ray just stood there. I can not believe she compared me to Pop. Was he
acting like his father did? A slow chill came over him as he thought back.
Mental pictures of his father standing at this same door. Waiting for
Frannie to come home from a date. 

 She was late. He remembered watching his father scream at her. Calling
her a slut. A tramp. Then slapping her across the face. Watching as
Francesca stood defiantly up to her father only to get slapped a second
time. It would have gone on all night if he hadn't stepped between the two
of them. Frannie was stubborn. She may have feared their father, but she
would have never backed down from him. Even if it meant getting the crap
beaten out of her. 

 He heard laughter coming from upstairs. Giggling. It was Frannie and
Maria talking. At that moment Ray decided what he had to do. 

 

 "Well Frannie?" "Oh come on. I can't tell you." "I'm you sister. Sisters
tell everything to each other. Don't let me think you're going to tell Ma?
Are you?" "Noooooooo." Francesca started laughing at that. She loved her
mother, but she just couldn't tell her. It made her feel squeamish inside.
But she was dying to tell someone. 

 "Well...." "Come on Frannie. Did you or didn't you?" Maria was staring at
her with anticipation. Smiling at her. Oh what the hell. She is my sister.
Who else am I going to tell? "Yes!", she blurted out. She felt giddy.
Lightheaded. Stupid. This was what it was like to be truly happy. 

 "And...what was he like?" Maria asked with a sly smile on her face. The
two of them broke out into fits of laughter that trailed off into giggles.
"Ssshhhh. Someone will hear us." "Come on Frannie. What was it like with
him?" Again she giggled. This was so juvenile. 

 "He wasn't anything like I expected that's for sure." "Don't tell me he
wasn't any good?" Maria had a disappointed look on her face. Frannie
couldn't help dragging it out. "Well." "It figures. Someone who looks that
good couldn't be that great at everything." 

 Francesca couldn't suppress her laughter. "Maria. He was better than
good." Her sister started laughing again. "Tell me. I have to know!" "He
wasn't anything like I expected. I mean I thought he would be
inexperienced and all that. You know how shy he can be sometimes. Boy, was
I wrong!" She laughed again. "Somewhere between here and Canada he learned
a thing or two I'll say that for him." 

 "It was really nice. We had dinner and came home. We were standing on the
porch just talking. And then we started kissing. I mean I've known him for
two years. We've been dating for over two months. I was getting tired of
waiting. So I just took the initiative. One thing led to another. And I
sorta' convinced him that we should go back to his place." Maria looked at
Frannie. I bet she convinced him without talking. 

 "It was so good Maria. I can actually be able to say that I made love. It
wasn't just sex." "I am so happy for you Frannie." "You're happy? I'm
ecstatic! And you're not going to believe this but...he's really a bit on
the kinky side." "Nooo!" "Yes." She started laughing again. "Let's just
say he did a few things that surprised me." Maria was looking at her
sister with an arched eyebrow. If it surprised Frannie, it had to be
unusual. With that they both started laughing again. 

 

 Ray had gone back to his room to get dressed. He resisted the urge to
stop at Frannie's door and eavesdrop. They were talking in voices so low
that he couldn't make out what they were saying. Only the laughter and
giggles were audible. If he got caught with his ear to the door it would
not bode well for him. Plus he did not want to know the details of his
little sisters sex life. Again he shook his head to clear that thought. Do
not think about it. 

 He snuck out of the house. He didn't want Frannie to catch him leaving.
Lucky for him they didn't hear the Riv start. They were too busy upstairs
talking. He didn't know what he was going to do. Everything that he went
over in his mind seemed ridiculous. 

 Ahead of him he could see a lone figure walking down the street. It
wasn't hard to spot Fraser with him wearing that red jacket and stetson.
He pulled the Riv up along side of him and stopped. Fraser looked into the
car and blinked. "Uh, goodmorning Ray." 

 He looks like he's expecting me to pull my gun out and shoot him. Am I
really that bad? "Get in Benny." "Yes Ray." Fraser took his place next to
Ray in the car, depositing his stetson on the dashboard. The car pulled
away from the curb. He avoided direct eye contact with Ray. He knows. Ray
knows. This is his day off. He shouldn't be here. And I should not be in
this car being taken to the consulate. 

 Fraser was beginning to feel very uncomfortable. He was actually tensing
up. Waiting for Ray to lash out at him. He found himself wanting to fling
the door open and jump out of the moving car. 

 Ray glanced over at Fraser. Yes he was that bad. Except for that time two
months ago Fraser was always relaxed around him. It shocked Ray to see
Fraser acting like he did when strange women approached him. He looked
stiff. Like a spring stretched to its limit. Ready to snap. 

 God. I am turning into Pop. The thought of ever being anything remotely
like his father scared the hell out of him. It had to stop. "Look Benny.
What you and Frannie do together is none of my business. What is my
business is having her go into that neighborhood you live in. I don't want
her coming and going at who knows what hour. I don't want anything to
happen to her. I know that this is alot to ask, but could you please
consider moving to a better neighborhood?" 

 Whew. That took alot for me to say. I'm not interfering. I'm just being a
big brother concerned for his sisters safety. Not some butinsky trying to
ruin her life. 

 Ray could see the confusion on Fraser's face. Then the relief. Ray wasn't
trying to keep him away from Francesca. "I think that I could do that Ray.
I would appreciate it if you would help me look for a new apartment. If
you have the time." Ray looked at him again. He really was serious about
Frannie. He had been trying to get him out of that dump for the past two
years and he always refused. Now he just said yes without hesitation. 

 "Sure Benny. How about this weekend." "That's fine Ray." As he spoke he
finally looked over at Ray. "Thank you." Ray knew that Fraser was doing
more than thanking him for offering to help him find a new apartment. He
was thanking him for finally accepting his and Frannie's relationship. 

 They reached the consulate and Fraser stepped out of the car. Turning he
leaned into the window and thanked Ray for the ride to work. "No problem.
How about I pick you up after work. Do you think you could make it for
dinner?" "Yes Ray. That would be nice." "O.K. Benny. See you later."
"Goodbye Ray." 

 As Fraser walked into the consulate he felt a lightness in his step.
Everything had worked out perfectly. He had Francesca. And he still had
Ray as his best friend. Life in Chicago was certainly better than he had
ever expected it to be.