Things seem normal, but...

Despite the earlier tension, breakfast went very well. The three of them talk about old times, what they were doing currently, and even what they planned for the future. Ben made no innuendos, no sly looks, no sneaky touches toward her. Bernie found herself comfortable, just enjoying the moment, with no thoughts or worries regarding Ben or Gary.

"I'll put the dishes away," Ben offers, standing up.

"Thank you, dear. I appreciate that," Joyce answers gratefully.

Bernie watches him get up, unconsciously admiring his nude form, eyes straying once more to the cock she was so fond of. She realizes what she is doing when Ben winks at her as he walks by. She bites her lip in frustration before turning to her mother.

"Hey, Mom, I hear you got an errand to run today. Can I go with you?"

Bernie then realizes that Joyce had been looking at her.

"Naomi Bernice, you need to resolve this yourself," Joyce states softly, but firmly.

Bernie's heart leaps into her throat. "I-"

"Honey, I can practically smell the arousal you two are giving off," she states simply and bluntly. "Not surprising. I know how close you two are."

"Wait-you knew?" Bernie asks, trying to process everything.

"I've known for years. I knew I could trust Ben to help you explore your body's natural desires in a safe way, so I didn't want to embarrass you by revealing I knew," Joyce explains calmly, and without judgement.

Bernie sighs, sitting back in her chair. "Shit."

"You're conflicted because you're with Gary, but part of you really wants to further explore things with Ben." It wasn't a question.

"What should I do, Mom?" Bernie asks, hoping her Mom had some advice.

"Naomi, you're a grown woman in the prime of your life," Joyce says, standing up from her chair. "I can't answer that question because I'm not you. We're all different in how we approach love and sex." Joyce goes to put on some clothes she had set up for a quick dressing. "I can tell you what I would do, but that doesn't help you. So all I can tell you is this: You're the one in control here, not Gary, not Ben, and not me. It's your choice." She walks over and kisses Bernie's forehead, then smiles. "If you do choose to fuck, make sure Ben uses protection."

"Mom!" Bernie blushes crimson.

"I love you, sweetheart!" Joyce chuckles and waves as she heads out the door.