"No, Mike. I'm on birth control."

She gave a soft laugh, now enjoying this playful banter between us. "No, Mike. I'm on birth control. Don't worry about it." Her eyes searched my face, this vulnerability I had just shared. "And I wouldn't have it any other way. I want you inside me, completely and without hesitation. You can trust me."

Satisfied with her reassurance, I continued to lie there, our bodies still joined together. I gently caressed her face, admiring the flushed cheeks and relaxed expression. "This isn't some temporary fling for me, Ria. I know things might get complicated, but I promise I won't betray your trust."

She smiled weakly, her eyes still full of that look I couldn't quite understand. "I know, Mike. We'll figure it out. And I promise not to gossip about your sister's secret fantasies ... unless you torture me with pleasure!" she said giggling.