Treasure Hunt, Part 11

by LesLuv

It was seven PM Tuesday when the front doorbell rang.

Jas and Harmony were in the dining room, pouring over their photos from the fashion shoot for the twentieth time. The Oo! and Ahh! stage was long past, and now it was a critical "See how there's a shadow on your leg there?" or "Amazing how the blue of your dress complements your colouring."

They had both learnt enough about photography to use some of the terms, but really had no idea of what was involved. Harmony had an instinct for what was artistic, Jasmine a natural sense for what was fashionable, so evaluating the results of their day in the mountains was a continuing source of interest, comparison and bonding. Lusting after one another's bodies was one thing, having orgasms pretty much on demand another, bringing their minds to accord yet another. This current activity was part of the latter, one they both took great pleasure in.

As Harmony put it, "I've never really had a friend before. I couldn't play with most kids, because they wanted to be outside all the time. No one could come to our house because Mum might bring some guy in. My tutor, of course, he's a friend. Well, a bit more than a friend, but you're the first person of my age and gender I've been able to talk to. Astrid, my sister, is wonderful, but her interests are so different. And for the past year she's been with dad. So I not only love you, I value your company very much."

Jas marveled at how her new companion could express herself, and felt sorry for her isolation without understanding the longing she must have felt, but a devious little plan had formed in her mind as she listened.

She took her mother aside and said, "Mum, I know I've got to be educated, pass exams, and all that stuff, but I'm just not interested in it. School's a bore. I'm determined to be a model, and they don't teach anything about that at all. The other girls are a real pain. Some of them suspect I'm a lesbian and are beginning to make my life miserable. But Mum, you know Harmony has a tutor? He's registered to teach all subjects up to senior year, and I'd be much happier if he could teach me too. Come here and teach us both. And Harmony would not have to be on her own all the time. I mean, apart from you. Her tutor knows everything I need to know, we can be together, she wouldn't be lonely, I'd enjoy my study, and that would make learning so much better. And we could both be available for Sylvia when she wants us, because our lessons could be in the evening or something. Please, Mum, talk to dad and let me do this? It'd be cheaper than school as well." Her school fees had been the subject of considerable debate and sacrifice by her parents, and she knew this bait would appeal to her father.

Her mother had looked at her in astonishment. "My God," she breathed, shaking her head in disbelief. "You are the dizzy limit. Harmony's not even supposed to be here, you want to drop out of school aged twelve – nearly, anyway – and you expect me to wave my magic wand and make it happen. Listen, young lady, I never thought I'd ever have to say this to a daughter of mine – a son maybe, but for heaven's sake get your mind above your crotch. There's a hell of a lot more to life than sex."

Jasmine had had verbal jousts with her mother many times before, and her retort came naturally. "This is not about sex, Mum. This is about our wellbeing. About helping Harmony to feel normal. About wanting to learn, to become real models. Sylvia says we'll be stars. That's what we want to be. Going to that awful old girl's school is not going to do that." Before her mother could break in she added, "And you said you were going to put the wheels in motion so Harmony could be a part of this family. Adopted or something. Have you?" This was said so aggressively that Muriel blinked.

'If she doesn't make model, she'll make politics,' thought Muriel. She'd been caught, because she had done very little. A couple of phone calls, but nothing more. "No, I haven't," she admitted, "but that doesn't alter the -"

"You send me back to that school and I'll run away. I hate it. So I love Harmony, and she loves me. You've always said that's nothing to be ashamed of, but now you're going back on your word. If we can't be together we'd be better off dead."

This time her mother had to laugh. Oh, the melodrama of the preteen. "Sweet Jesus, you're the end. I'll talk to your father, but I'm not sure having him in the house with you two going at it will be the best thing I've ever done for him. But I guarantee this: It will not happen until Harmony's legal status is resolved. And maybe not even then."

Jas threw her arms around her mother's neck and kissed her. "Oh, you're just the best Mum in the whole word. I love you."

She'd gone back into the lounge room with a cat-cream smile on her beautiful lips to look at more photos. That's when the doorbell rang.

"That'll be dad and Astrid," said Harmony, smiling at the sound of the doorbell, then jumping up and heading for the door. It wasn't. An elderly man in uniform held out a package, asked for a signature, got it, handed the delivery over, and was gone. It was addressed to Ms. Jasmine & Harmony Arbutt, with the address beneath.

"Well, where are they?" asked Jas as Harmony re-entered the room.

Harmony had a puzzled but expectant frown on her face. "No, it was this, addressed to us," she replied, holding out the parcel.

Jas grabbed it and began to tear it open. "It's from Sylvia," she screamed. "It's – yes. It's the DVD!" Now we can see our show!" Seeing Harmony's blank look, she added, "You know, Miss Live. The movie they made of us in our goddess costumes."

"Oh, wow! I'd forgotten about it. Quick, stick it in the player and let's have a look." A few fumbles before it was in properly, and when it began it was just a promotion for the Miss Fashion House, then a tease for upcoming promotions, so they saw nothing of themselves before the doorbell rang again.

This time it was Muriel who answered it, a moment later ushering the two expected visitors.

Harmony and her ten year old sister Astrid caught sight of each other immediately. Harmony stood, a big smile on her face, arms outstretched. Astrid almost launched herself into those strong, welcoming sisterly arms. They hugged each other, kissed fiercely, and grinned. "How are you, little one?" Asked Harmony.

"Wonderful, specially now I've seen you." Astrid was inclined to be weepy. It was obvious she missed her older sister very much. She was a tiny ten year old, and could have been mistaken for eight. Slight, she wouldn't have weighed more than 25 kilos, but with her elfin face, wide-spaced grey eyes, and mouth that always seemed to be on the verge of laughing, she was the cutest elf one might find.

Letting her sister drop gently to the floor, Harmony said, "Hey, dad. How are you?" Without waiting for a reply, she gave him a hug and said, "You've met Muriel, and this is my fashion partner, Jasmine. Mum – er, I mean Muriel, where are Ben and Angela?"

"They'll be here in a moment, don't worry," she replied. "Charles, it's really good to meet you at last. "We've heard about you from Harmony, of course, and we're delighted to meet Astrid. You are both very welcome."

"Thank you," Charles replied with a smile. "I have been a little involved in some of your charitable work, so I feel I know you already. And when Harmony told me where she was staying, well," he trailed off with a Gallic shrug, then added, "I knew she was in really good hands. So I thank you sincerely. It has not been an easy life for us." He looked grave, nodding in affirmation of his words. Brightening, he added "But, there is some news I..."

The sudden arrival of Ben and Angela in the room caused him to stop. Muriel did the introductions, Ben getting a shy smile from Astrid and another vote of thanks from Charles. A little chat between the adults, and it was announced they would be talking in the lounge room for a while, and the girls were welcome to do anything they liked apart from leaving the house without telling them.

"We were just going to watch our new film," Harmony said to her sister and Astrid. "Want to see?" They had no idea which film it was, but got a "sure," from Ange and an uncertain nod from Astrid.

Jas had paused the disc, and now started it again. The promos had finished, and the opening was a hazy title which grew in definition before the letters began dancing, fluorescing, growing ever brighter until they burst into flame. They were replaced by the smiling faces of the three participants, au naturel, the letters of their names beneath the pictures continuing the opening dance. Some woodland bird singing could be heard, and as the images faded a sparkling scene of a green mountain top meadow emerged, into which the three girls in their costumes slowly materialized. And the real dance began.

Apart from Angela's "Oh my God!" there was not a word. Totally entrancing, it was a ballet like no other. Their images became merged, mixed and superimposed so that it seemed they were in fairyland, fantasy, and dream all combined. Each face would appear, dissolve and reform elsewhere. Harmony floated above the other two, looking down like a radiant fairy. Kirrinai flashed her mirrors, swirled her vivid colours, and Jas glowed with the fire of her Titan. At one point she seemed to burst into flame only to have silvery rain descend from Harmony's outstretched hand and quell it. Like all good fairy stories, it had moments of menace and fright, but that made it all the more watchable.

A scene when the three girls had held hands and danced in a small circle had become more than a minuet; a hint of something erotic had emerged, and the lighting had made Harmony's gown almost transparent. Her breasts were glimpsed in silhouette, the G string she wore left little to the imagination, but for only about five seconds. 'A real tease,' thought Jasmine who felt herself getting aroused at the sight – even though she knew the performer's body intimately.

"Run that part again, would you," asked Angela. Astrid gave her a smiling nod. She wanted to see her sister again, especially like that.

Harmony had a little knowing smile on her face. Sylvia had said they weren't into pornography, which was true, but this was better. Any father watching would fork out for a gown for his daughter, no question, if she could look like that. Every girl worthy of the name would wheedle and cajole until he bought it for her. What better way for a girl to attract the ardent male – or female, come to that. And how else were they expected to out-compete their rivals for the limelight? Harmony had been with the company long enough to know that everything was aimed at getting their label into every exclusive outlet in the country. And to make every potential buyer into an actual one. This film would help do that, no question.

Whoever had conceived this idea had left nothing out. Music had been added, weird and soothing in turn, heightening the effects and making Jasmine's fire scenes so scary that Astrid grabbed her sister's arm, before they all giggled at the sight of Kirrinai trying to hold her skirt down in mock horror as the wind threatened to reveal what she had on underneath. The images shifted and swirled. Poetry was in every movement, and it was twenty minutes or so before the three mythic figures merged into one being and slowly became transparent, revealing a starry firmament.

The music faded, and the screen went blank. There was a collective sigh, a release of pent up breath. They looked at each other without speaking. 'This is what we did?', Harmony and Jasmine seemed to be saying to each other. Astrid was wide eyed, Angela had her mouth open in astonishment, and they all could not bear to speak.

It was left to Astrid to break the quiet. "That was wonderful." She looked at her sister adoringly. "You are so beautiful, sis. Such a wonderful star. Gee, I hope I can be as good." Then she gave a big grin. "Hey, did you really have nothing on under that dress?"

"Wouldn't you like to know," was the teasing reply.

"Would you really like to know?" Jasmine was curious and horny. She needed to get off soon. With Harmony for preference, but if they all joined in? That'd be fun too.

Astrid turned red. She knew she could ask her sister anything, knew she could tease and be teased in return, but she did not know this new girl. And she did not know if Jasmine knew of the things she and Harmony did together, so she was embarrassed. "Um...."

But Jas knew, and pressed on, trying to find out how far Astrid would go. She got up and bent over the young girl, whispering in her ear, "I'll tell you if you tell me what coloured knickers you're wearing.

It was something she already knew, for Astrid was dressed in a minimum – cotton shift and sandals, white panties with little red hearts on them – because of the heat. They'd not been hard to spot, something neither she nor Angela could resist doing to most females that gave them a chance.

Astrid hesitated. It was no big thing to tell, they were all girls, and she didn't think any of them would laugh at her choice of underwear, but she'd never even thought of telling anyone else something like that. But they were all friends, weren't they, and Angela seemed nice, quiet and refined, so it was probably going to be OK. And she did so want to be part of her sister's group. She couldn't talk to anyone at school about intimate things, so she guessed she'd have to tell. "They're white with little pink hearts," she whispered back.

"Can I look?" Oh, so subtle.

'Oh oh', she thought, 'what do I do now?' But her sister, who knew pretty much how things were shaping, and who thought it high time Astrid had some wider experiences, leant over and whispered in her other ear, "It's OK. She's just teasing. Let her see."

That was alright then. Astrid opened her legs so the others could have a look.

"Ooh, nice," said Angela. "I had a pair like that. Jas used to peek at them. Didn't you?" This last was said in mock anger.

"And I used to wear them sometimes, too." Jas was helping the game along.

"You what! Is that why they were all smelly sometimes? You cheeky little devil."

"Well, I liked smelling you on them too. And I liked smelling you as well. Still do, of course." The cat was now out of the bag and jumping around the room.

Astrid's eyes were wide. What had she got herself into? Harmony held her hand, causing Astrid to look to her sister for more advice.

But Harmony wanted the game to progress, so she said, "So do Astrid and I. But" – here she paused for effect, looking at the other two as though unsure how this would be taken, "We do a bit more than that."

Astrid felt her cheeks flame. How could her sister tell their secrets? She wasn't a naughty girl, she wasn't bad like her mother, she was just a ten year old who loved her sister. She felt a bit like crying, but girls her age didn't do that unless they were hurt real bad, did they?

"Oh ho, do you indeed!" Angela licked her lips. "Hey, Astrid, do you like doing that?"

A pregnant pause as the blushing girl slowly nodded her head. She couldn't deny it, not with her sister right beside her.

"Nice, isn't it? Jas and I do it all the time, don't we?" Angela was into the final act. Jas just grinned in agreement.

Harmony put an arm around her sister's shoulders and drew her close. "Listen, my dear little one, it's the most wonderful thing when two sisters love one another, lick each other's pussies, get all excited, have orgasms, and there is absolutely nothing wrong in it at all. But," and she gently turned the small girl's head until they could look into each others eyes, "not just between sisters. You see, my darling, Jas and I have become friends too. We are really in love. And we do all those things we do, and some more. Please don't be sad or cross. I still love you, and I always will. And we'll always have good times together. But, well, Jas and I are only two months difference in age, we model together, we live together, and most nights we sleep together. And right now we want to go and suck each other off to a wonderful climax. Sorry, darling, that's how we are."

Astrid's eyes were coated in tears, but she was also smiling bravely. She sensed it had been going to happen sometime. She knew she'd have to share her sister with, well, someone.

Angela came and put an arm around her waist. "But would you let me have a cuddle? Would you let me kiss you? I'm pretty good at it, and I like you a lot. We could go to my big bedroom and have a smooch. Would you like that?"

The idea was new to Astrid, but suddenly appealing. If Harmony was with someone new, why couldn't she be? She nodded. "I think I'd like that," she said softly.

Angela, ever cautious, checked on the parents to make sure they were going to be ensconced in the lounge room for a good long time. She enquired about their needs, was asked for another couple of beers and a gin and tonic, produced them and a bowl of assorted nuts, said they were having a great time watching the DVD, and that there was no hurry. She gave a subtle wink to her mother who was momentarily nonplussed, then gave the slightest of nods saying she understood. When she returned, the others were in the kitchen eating cream cake. "Oh, well," she said in pretend anger, "If that's what you want to eat, then I'm off. Always thinking of your tummies. Huh!"

"Always thinking of yours, aren't I? Jas was being cheeky. "At least, a part of it. The lower part, that is," she giggled.

Astrid was beginning to see how these games were played. "You mean down here?" she asked, pointing to her crotch.

"Yes, I do mean down there. And I reckon you should show Angela just where that is." Lowering her voice, she added, "She doesn't know."

This brought peals of laughter from Harmony. It was fabulous living with a family who could make jokes at any time, send you up with a straight face, and add so much spice that life had become more enjoyable than she had ever imagined. How she loved it!

Angela went to Astrid and put her arms around her shoulders and drew her close. "Come and show me?" The tiniest of smiles and a nod said yes. Angela sat on a chair and motioned the small girl to come near. Sitting next to the standing child their mouths were almost at the same level, but instead of kissing her, Ange picked her up and sat her on her knee.

Astrid didn't know what was going to happen, but she somehow had ceased to worry. These girls seemed to be happy, healthy and normal. They were not going to sell her to the white slavers or something. Her wonderful sister was here, appeared to love being here, and she was pretty choosy. Well, had been when they lived together twelve months ago. She looked into her new friend's eyes and smiled.

"I'm never going to do anything you don't want me to," Angela told her softly, "if you feel uncomfortable, dubious or scared just say what you feel. I know you and Harmony have been very intimate, but I might do different things, but things I think you'll like. OK?"

"Mmm. You're nice, Angela. You're funny – you all are, and I like that. What are you going to do?'

Before answering, Ange looked at this tiny creature, ten but seeming much younger. The bright grey wide-spaced eyes, sparkling in anticipation; the full, ruby lips, perfect little teeth, small, straight nose, tiny dimpled cheeks and pointy shaped face. A cherub, an elf, a fairy. This newness, this wee girl were all firsts. Her heart quivered, a tick of lust began, and she said, "Well, first of all I'm going to do this." And she bent her head and put her lips on those before her.

After a moment the pressure was returned, a moment more and their mouths were parted, their tongues were touching, exploring, and sensing. Then their mouths were wide and they were exchanging saliva. Angela felt her nipples stiffen, Astrid knew she was getting damp, and with a few little 'uh, uh, uh's', felt herself lifted and carried up the passage and into the first room. A big double bed, cool air, lovely girl smells, and she began to grin.

"What a lovely room. Wish I had one like this." She felt herself lowered gently onto the bed, looked up and saw this tall dark haired girl with a kind smile looking down at her.

"You might, one day. Good things happen." Angela sat down next to her new angel and ran her hand through her light brown hair, then down her face to her neck. Then she bent and removed the sandals on her feet, pulled her little dress up and over her hips as Astrid arched her back, then slid it over her head and arms. Tiny pink points marked where her breasts would develop, perfectly smooth pale skin without a blemish was revealed, and Angela knelt beside her companion and ran her tongue from throat to belly button, slowly, stopping at each tiny nipple. "Like that?" she enquired.

"Oh, yes. Love it."

She gently tugged her knickers down her legs and off onto the end of the bed, then gazed at the puffy and protruding lips of this new unexplored cunt. Astrid opened her legs wide and raised her knees, happy to show her new friend her most precious feature, the source of so much enjoyment. Angela's eyes fastened on the tiny hood emerging from the folds, and had to will herself to go slowly.

"Do you know the story of Ali Baba?"

"The forty thieves?"

"Yes, about finding hidden treasure. Well, I'm Ali, and I'm going to find your treasure. All you have to do is say the magic words.'

A smile began, then grew into a grin. "Open sesame!" she giggled, then said, "I love games."

Angela's face disappeared between the thin little-girl legs. Her nose and mouth approached the gateway which had been barred by the magic rock, but which she could now roll away with a gentle flick of her fingers. The resultant opening was a small pink tunnel, fully perfumed with the sweet odour of virgin sex, closing to nothing but inviting its conqueror in to explore. She had never analyzed her love for young feminine flowers, and did not think to start now. She only knew that this was her idea of heaven.

Her tongue slowly poked forward until it came in contact with the warmth and moisture, then gradually poked in further until it was fully extended. The resultant 'Ahh' from above her told her the magic was working. She pushed upward, enlarging the hole, then withdrew and stabbed it back. This time the sound was much louder. She stowed her tongue back in her mouth and savoured the sweet hormonal flavour. She looked up, licking her lips. "Hey, you taste like sherbet," she exclaimed.

Another giggle.

She lowered her head again. This time the hunt was really on. Gently opening her protruding labia, she looked for the tiny mound of nerves that were the focus of pleasure. A tiny whitish patch spoke of its presence, although her clitoris was so small that she could not see it. But, when she put her tongue there, she could immediately feel the minute nub under the flesh. She began stroking with her tongue, gently and slowly, little movements that produced an immediate reaction.

"Ah! Oh, yes. That's it. Oh! Yes. Keep doing it. Please. Please." The high pitched young voice was growing in intensity, deepening and becoming breathy.

Angela carefully slid her forefinger down the valley and into the opening of the cave. She knew she'd have to be careful. Hymen busting was not something one did on a first date. She slid in to the first knuckle only, then began to find a rhythm of pulsing in and outs, while maintaining her tongue flicking.

Now Astrid's breathing was ragged. Gasps and gurgles blotted out words. Her body had begun to quiver, then shake, her back to arch and her head swing from side to side. As her climax approached Angela committed the coup de grace. She pursed her lips over the labial region and sucked. The flesh bunched into her mouth, and a scream came from the writhing body. Then another, louder and higher. Angela was so far gone in her own induced arousal that she did not realise the volume of sound coming from her orgasming companion – but it became apparent that the other girls had heard the shrieks for Harmony, naked as the day she was born, dashed into the room and clamped her hand over her sister's mouth. Jas followed, similarly attired, closing the door gently. But even a hand on mouth was insufficient to produce quiet. Angela had stopped at the sudden opening of the door, looking up bewildered by the intrusion, but the orgasms continued. Astrid's small body spasmed, twitched, and shook. She was covered in sweat, her eyes were tightly closed, and finally her body went rigid before collapsing like a rag doll.

No one spoke. They looked worried. Indeed, it was all too possible that they would have a parental visitation any moment. Harmony's hand was firmly clamped, and it was probably lack of air that finally brought a halt to the eruptions.

Astrid finally opened her eyes. She frowned. Why were three people standing over her? She watched as Jas opened the door quietly and listened. Then, closing it again, she turned, a relieved smile on her face. "Seems all quiet," she whispered.

Harmony knelt at the side of the bed. Astrid watched her with half glazed eyes, sighed, smiled, and closed her eyes. "Some orgasm, eh?" Astrid's whisper was loud enough.

"Mmm...."

Angela had stood, now understanding the intrusion. She was still aroused, and wanted relief, but her built-in survival instinct quashed that need in favour of a decision to get dressed, washed, tidied, and wholesome. At once. She went to the door, opened it and peeked out, motioned with her head to the other two, hissed "dress", and watched as they scurried from the room.

Astrid was still out of it. Ange did not like to bring her back too quickly – she recalled her own need for prolonged glows – but had to get her dressed and decent before too many minutes. She was glad she had not got undressed herself – T shirt and shorts took no time to fix – so leant over her new love and softly kissed the luscious lips.

"Time to move, my sweet one," she whispered. "Wakey wakey."

The eyes fluttered open. Then a slow, dreamy smile appeared. "Hello." A soft murmur. "Oh, that was so wonderful. Oh, Angela, what you did..." and the eyes closed again.

This would have to stop. Reluctantly, Angela picked the panties up, inserted feet in the correct openings, and slid them upward till they were in place. Dress over the head, arms through the sleeves, dress pulled down over torso and bum, and finished product lifted, sat on edge of bed, sandals reapplied, and stood.

The standing figure was still reluctant. It threw its arms around the waist of its new lover and tried to collapse again. Instead, its keeper lifted the form and went to the bathroom where a face washer, cold with fresh water, was applied to face and neck.

That finally worked.

"Oh, Angela, that was so marvelous." Astrid picked up a hairbrush and began brushing. "I have never, never felt – I'm still - tingling." She looked up, adoration in her eyes. "Thank you. You are so wonderful."

Angela bent and kissed the top of her head. "Thank you, Astrid. You are the best girl there is. We've got to join the others now, are you OK?"

"Hmm. I'm floating, I'm wonderful, but I'm OK."

They made their way to the kitchen, where everyone else had now gathered.

"Fell asleep," said Angela with a grin, nodding at Astrid, who nodded her head in agreement.

The men chuckled, Muriel gave a little snort, Harmony said, "Come and sit on my knee. Dad has something to tell us."

Angela sat, Astrid perched, and Charles looked round at the assembly. "Well," he began, "Muriel, Ben and I have discussed this, so here's the story, and what we think is the best outcome."

The children watched, but said nothing. "You see, girls, Your mother has been arrested." There was a collective gasp. "It happened last night. I didn't tell you, Astrid, because I wanted to wait and find out the circumstances. And to talk to these two kind and knowledgeable people. So this is what happened."

"How bad is it, dad?" Harmony was surprised at the news, at it was not something she had thought of occurring, but she couldn't feel too upset. In a way it was good news, and might bring her mother to her senses.

"Bad. There's no other word. She was picked up in a raid on an illegal brothel. She was carrying a stash of heroin, about 5 grams, which is a major felony. Normally I would not have been given this information, but because of my position in the courts I was called in to the the district attorney's office. She's been charged, a preliminary hearing will be held tomorrow, she will not be offered bail, and she is likely to finish up in jail for quite some time. I'm getting a good attorney to represent her, but I'm not hopeful."

There was silence. Astrid looked first at her father, then at her sister. The other three girls could find nothing to say, so after a few moments Charles went on, "But now there's another issue. You know I started divorce proceedings some months go. Well, the firm handling that has been contacted by a friend of mine, a judge, and told to file immediately, and he will see it's expedited. There can be no custody battle, her arrest is sufficient to stop that, even though she's not been formally convicted. She admitted her guilt, of course, what else could she do, and although she might get a suspended sentence, that will not matter in custody. So I'll be free soon, and hence you will be also. But," and here he paused and swallowed hard, "there's also another far more serious thing."

'More serious?' thought Harmony. 'What on earth could that be?' But again no one said anything, so he went on hesitantly, "My life has not been easy, as you know. Yours has not either, especially yours, Harmony, for which I am very very sorry. I was powerless to do anything until now, but -' he paused, looked around the table, then went on, somewhat red in the face, "I have been offered another job. A promotion. Still in the courts, but senior clerk."

"Hey, that's wonderful news," exclaimed his eldest.

"Yes, but this is the difficult bit. It's not here. It's in another state. Now I have to tell you that I not only want to take up the offer, but I need to. If I don't I will not get another chance. And if I stay here your mother's conviction will be hanging over everything I do. So, here's the question: would you agree to come with me? It's quite a way, but we'd have a pretty decent house to live in, and there are some good schools and tutors there."

Astrid looked at her sister, stricken by the thought of leaving her new friend, her school, her new found joy, but quaking at the thought of leaving her father who she loved very much.

Harmony also looked troubled. She knew what she wanted to do, but how to tell her dad? He loved them, and would surely miss them, but she'd been through some rough times and was now out of them. Finally she spoke. "Dad, you are the most wonderful father anyone could have. We love you, and want to be together with you. But..." She stopped, a determined look on her face. "Neither of us wants to leave here. You understand that?"

He smiled. An understanding, fatherly smile. "Of course I do. It's what I expected. And of course I want to be with you, but one reason for talking to Ben and Muriel tonight was to discuss a possible alternative."

Harmony's eyes opened wide. Could this be the realization of her dreams?

Ben spoke for the first time. "What Charles has proposed, and to which we have agreed in theory, is that he will pay for an extension to be built onto this house, so we can have enough space and amenities to allow both of you to stay. But we need to know if that is what you really want. Because your wellbeing and comfort are our only considerations."

Jas nearly screamed with delight. Angela had her mouth open, Astrid was looking at Jas with unconcealed glee, and Harmony was wreathed in smiles.

"You are amazing people," Harmony said in her beautifully modulated voice and looking at each in turn. "Dad, I have one main reason for staying. I cannot go to ordinary school. I need tutoring at home. Professor Harwood is so understanding and good at teaching me that I would never find anyone to take his place. And I feel at home here. These are my friends. Beth has become my mother. I'm sorry my real mum had to turn out like she did, but that's in the past." She stopped abruptly, a look of consternation on her face. "What about custody?" she said slowly, looking from her father to Muriel.

"That'll be accomplished within a few months." Muriel was smiling broadly. "Charles has pulled a few strings, and the necessary papers will be in the hands of the right agency shortly. It's a no contest."

"Hooray!" Jas could not stop herself this time. "We'll be able to model together. Now, Mum, have you spoken to dad yet?"

Ben looked questioningly at his wife. "Ah." She let out a long sigh. "No. not yet."

"Well, now is the perfect time. Dad, I want -", but her mother broke in.

"Listen dear, she wants us to get Harmony's tutor to teach her as well. I didn't quite know how, or when to broach the subject, but now..." she trailed off and gave a small shrug.

Jas jumped in. "Dad, it would be ideal. I hate school, they have no idea of what to teach for modeling, it will give me real time for Miss Fashion, and it'll cost a lot less money."

Ben's eyes were steady, assessing his daughter's other motives, if there were any. But this scheming, irrepressible member of his family had saved her biggest guns till last. "You haven't seen the DVD. Please do before you say anything. And you haven't seen this."

She passed a folded piece of heavy weight paper across. He unfolded it, looked at it, said in absolute astonishment, "Good God Almighty," and passed it to his wife.

Her mouth opened also, amazed at what she saw. "When did you get this?"

"It came with the DVD, addressed to me personally, marked confidential, and I hadn't had a chance to open it until a few minutes ago. What do you reckon?"

"This'll ruin your life," Ben said with a grin.

"We'll see it doesn't," his wife said with asperity.

"What is it?" Angela did not know whether she wanted an answer or not. Was it good? Was it awful?

"It's my first pay cheque." Jas was beaming with pride. "In my trust account. Have a guess."

Ange shook her head. Whatever she said would be wrong and stupid.

Muriel handed the paper over without a word.

"Oh, my God," Angela murmured. "$5000? For one day?" She felt an unladylike 'fuck' creep into her mind.

"It includes all royalties from sale of the DVD, though." Jas produced another piece of paper, and handed it to her dad.

He didn't even open it, just sat there shaking his head.

Muriel looked across at Jasmine and said slowly and deliberately, "Jasmine, God help me, you've got a deal."

The four girls erupted with shouts of joy, laughter and happiness. Harmony put Jasmine's hand to her lips and said, "Well done. A star is born."

Astrid flung her arms around her new companion and hugged. Angela leant over and kissed her cheek. "Can you get me into this?" she said with a wink.

It was midnight when Charles said they had better be going. Astrid pleaded to be allowed to stay the night, and not go to school tomorrow, if that was alright with everyone. Ben's eyes appeared to cross, Muriel looked questioningly at Charles, who gave his familiar shrug and said, "Why not, if it's all right with you?"

"It'll be a sleeping bag. That OK?"

"Anything. I'm so tired I'd sleep on the floor." But she did catch Angela's glance., and wasn't quite as tired.

They all got ready for bed, though as her mother went to her room Angela stopped her and asked, "Are we still having the Party?"

Muriel Smiled. "Next Sunday. The boys are going to the races, we will need to get everyone here by about eleven in the morning. Can you contact your friend?"

"Oh yes, I can do that. Thanks, Mum, you're the very best. Amazing what Jas has done, isn't it? Wait till you see the film! It's incredible." They gave each other hugs.

Angela had whispered to Astrid, "Hop into my bed. It's much more comfortable, you know?"

""Sure." An impish smile said she understood perfectly.

When Ange arrived at her room, however, the imp was playing cherub after a busy day. Sound asleep, beatific smile, and no doubt dreams of sensuous doings. Angela was disappointed, as she'd wanted her new friend to show her what she could do in the sucking department, but being the oldest she had to be tolerant. She could wait. And boy, would she enjoy it. Anyway, she had to be up by seven to get ready for school. Jas may want to miss out on that, but she was now determined to follow Eline's example and get an education. Run she would, dumb she would not be.

*

The athletics race meet the following Saturday afternoon was large. Some 200 competitors, many trainers and coaches, the media, and uncountable spectators. Ben, Muriel and the four girls had arrived by 12.30 and been directed to a special section of the main stand reserved for parents of competitors.

Angela found Steve, her coach, in a tent that bore the name of his coaching clinic. There were about fifteen others there, some in running gear, some, like her, having arrived recently, and one or two that had obviously competed already. When he caught sight of her he beckoned her over. "Hi, Angela, I want you to meet Paula and Jess, who will also be in the first heat of the 400. Girls, this is Angela. She came home strongly in the relay at Westmoor, and I want her to get a taste of longer distances and harder comps. Look out for her, hey? And Angela, these two have been moving up the rankings, so we expect them to go through to the semi at least. Don't be disappointed if you aren't placed today. That's not the aim. I want to see how you manage this, then help you achieve a top in some area of aths. You've been training as I asked?"

She nodded. "Every day. A circuit or two around the local track, dad has been doing times and they've improved."

"OK, good. Here's the lane draw. Come and see the layout, then you can relax for a while, get your fluids up, and return by 1.45. See you." He scurried away.

The girls she had met came over, saying 'hi' and asking her about her career. "I don't have a career at the moment, I'm only fourteen, but I sure want one in running." The buzz of the meet had made her forget all about her study ideas. "How about you?"

"Well, I'm seventeen," volunteered Paula, a pretty and plumpish blonde, and I'm working towards a place in the 800 metres."

"And I'm eighteen," said Jess, a tall athletic looking girl with dark hair and complexion. "The 400 relay is my game, but unless I win this one today I'll not get into the team. You know the comp is a state finals?"

"What? No, I didn't Steve just wants me to see how I go at this level."

"Well, you wouldn't have got a place if he didn't think you had a chance. He must have impressed the organisers. Well done." Jess was obviously experienced in the ins and outs of competitions, and Angela appreciated her comments. How could she qualify to enter at this level? She had no official results, no wins in other comps outside her school, and either Steve had far more influence than they had thought, or he was – well, what? She must be pretty good. Hmm. She felt her shoulders go back, her head become high, and a real sense of pride in her ability flood her mind. She couldn't help smiling. She wasn't so bad, was she? No, definitely not. She nodded her head in agreement with her thoughts.

On the way back to see her family she was stopped by a tall dark-haired young man who stepped into her path. "Excuse me, aren't you Angela Arbutt?"

She'd never seen him before, although he was very handsome, with sparkling eyes and an engaging smile. She liked girls, not boys, but even so – "Yes, that's right."

"You don't know me, but you know my father, and I saw the photos of you winning the relay a while ago. Impressive. So when I saw you coming this way, I just had to introduce myself. Ivan Gregorovitch at your service." He used the Russian pronunciation, smiled, and gave a little bow.

The name meant nothing to her. "Oh. I know your father?"

"Yes. But not at the happiest of times. He was your host at the dinner afterwards."

Now it flooded back to her mind. That dinner. Starting so well, finishing so badly. And this was his son?

"Oh." She stopped, not sure what to say. His smile broadened, but he said nothing. "Well, nice to meet you." She prepared to walk off.

"I don't blame you if you want to leave, but I just want to tell you that I'm working for the The Sports News, you know, the sports newspaper, and that I'm covering the events here today. Are you running?"

"In the 400." She couldn't cut him dead, he was too nice.

"Wow! You've come a long way in a short time. I'll be watching. Do well."

"Thanks, Ivan, I'll be trying."

By 1.50 they were on the track, stretching or resting quietly. Eight runners, all looking older than Angela, who was glad to see that Jess was running in the lane next to her, lane 6. She felt her heart speed up as the time approached, and when the starter called "on your marks", she was just a bit jittery. The starting pistol seemed to take forever, but when it did go off she had no hesitation. Her nerves had vanished, and the race was all.

She knew 400 was four times as long as 100, but had not appreciated what that meant. Steve had warned her about burning her energy too quickly, and she was pleased to see that the initial pace was slower than she thought it would be. At the 300 mark she was fourth, felt marvelous if a little hot, and picked up the pace. So did the others. 50 to go and she was third, 20 she was second, and at ten metres she was flying through the air. It felt as though her legs had taken wings – for an instant. Then the surface of the track hit her with a sickening jolt and she felt her skin scrape along the rough and unyielding surface.

The surprise was so great she felt no pain.

Not then, at any rate.

To Be Continued