Skin and Scars

Hello everyone! I'm a new writer here. (Raises hand and waves.) I have read this blog for many years, and have finally decided to contribute. I hope to be posting a new chapter every week. Your comments, and feedback are welcomed!

Thank you for reading.

Click below for Chapter 1...

Skin and Scars Table of Contents

 Hello everyone! Here is a Table of Contents for Skin and Scars.

Chapter 1
Chapter 2
Chapter 3
Chapter 4
Chapter 5
Chapter 6
Chapter 7
Chapter 8
Chapter 9
Chapter 10
Chapter 11
Chapter 12
Chapter 13
Chapter 14
Chapter 15 

Skin and Scars Chapter 2

Chapter 2

Later on that same day, Julia was starting to feel better and more like herself. Her best friend and fellow flight attendant, Holly, had come by to see her, and after spending a few hours in the hospital room, Julia had become stir crazy. Julia convinced her friend to take a few laps around the hospital floor. The small room was confining, and Julia needed to get out of it.

“I’ll just say it, Jules…you look like shit.” Holly said flatly.

They were walking together slowly through the halls, and Julia rolled her IV pole stand alongside her.

“Jeez, Hol, don’t do me any favors!” Julia let out a small laugh. “One shower wasn’t enough; it’ll take a few more before I feel like myself again.” She smirked.

“Hey, at least you’re out of that awful cotton gown.” Holly nudged Julia gently as they walked.

Skin and Scars Chapter 3

Chapter 3

Aaron turned away from Julia, and wheeled back through the front doors. He tried to steel himself until he was far enough into the hospital to start mentally kicking himself. He gave his wheels a few rough pushes, and crossed the lobby. He rounded a corner smoothly, and pushed through an exit door with both hands into a courtyard that led to the building his practice was in. Aaron came to a stop then, looking around to see if anyone was nearby. He was thankful no one was around.

Skin and Scars Chapter 4

 Chapter 4

The atmosphere at Riley’s bar was tame and relatively quiet for a Tuesday evening, especially since there was a Rockies game on television. Aaron and his friend John were at their regular table, where they met for beer and food quite often.  The bar was near both of their homes, and they had been frequenting the bar for quite a while. Aaron hadn’t been into Riley’s since the night of the car crash when he met Julia, nor had he filled in John on the details of what happened afterward. John and Aaron were relatively close, having known each other for several years, but Aaron hadn’t had a conversation with John about what he was feeling about the girl who had crashed into his life. He was fairly stoic, and rarely talked about his own emotions, or girls he dated, especially with guy friends. It was just something he didn’t do. The two men were on their second round of drinks of the night when Aaron’s phone began to ring.

Skin and Scars Chapter 5

Chapter 5

On Sunday morning, Julia and Holly were walking through a park in downtown Denver. Julia was feeling sort of sluggish, and wanted some activity, so she convinced Holly to come to the park and meet her. The weather was great; not too warm, not too cool.

“How was your trip? Anything crazy amazing happen on your flights?” Julia asked as they walked along the tree lined path. Holly had returned the night before from a three day trip.

Holly laughed before answering. “Crazy amazing? Ha! No. Nothing. Boring. We overnighted in Chicago, so we went out both nights. The captain bought us dinner, which was nice for a change.”

Julia turned to her friend. “What?! The captain bought dinner?! Ugh. I haven’t been on a fun flight crew in months, you lucked out. Totally jealous, Hol.”

Skin and Scars Chapter 6

 Chapter 6

Aaron was in the middle of a weightlifting set and he lost count of the rep he was on; he was distracted. It was early Friday morning, the sun hadn’t even risen yet, and he was at the gym having trouble focusing on his work out. An entire day had already passed since he and Julia went to the baseball game and he kept replaying the night’s events over and over in his mind. Aaron had gone for it; he went and kissed her at the end of the game, unable to resist it any longer. He thought the night had gone well and he thoroughly enjoyed being there with her. She was fun to be around and her energy was contagious. She was patient when it came to the wheels, never seeming to bat an eye at the reality of his situation and he appreciated that.

Skin and Scars Chapter 7

 Chapter 7

Julia sat across from Holly at one of their favorite breakfast spots. Plates of eggs, sausage, bacon, and pancakes were strewn across the table. It was late Saturday morning and the two friends were catching up; Holly especially interested in the development with Aaron.

“He cooked?! Everything?!” Holly asked, obviously surprised by the previous night’s events.

Julia raised an eyebrow and smiled. “He did. All of it. And it was good.” She proceeded to cut a portion from her stack of pancakes and took a huge bite.

“Well, what was his house like? Clean, big, small, cluttered, old, or newer?” Holly rattled off some details she needed the answer to.

Skin and Scars Chapter 8

Chapter 8

“Can I get you guys anything?” The woman asked from the patio door.

John looked up at his wife. “Nah, Amy, I think we’re good. Thanks, babe.”

Aaron and John were sitting on John’s deck enjoying the weather and a few beers. It had been a couple weeks since Aaron had been able to catch up with his friend and that evening after work he headed over with a six pack. It was their ritual. Beer, shoot the shit. Like guys will do.

“So, you’ll bring her? Sunday?” John asked as he peeled the label from his beer bottle.

Aaron nodded and laughed. “I’ll check with her to see what her schedule is like this weekend.”

“It’s the Sixth Annual Butler Football Kickoff Barbecue. Don’t think you’re skipping this year, man.” John teased.

Skin and Scars Chapter 9

 Chapter 9

The sound of a steady rain fell outside. It was nighttime and the bedroom was dark. Julia and Aaron lay together in his bed; she was tucked into him closely and he held an arm around her shoulder. They had spent several nights like this since they had decided to make things official three weeks prior. When Julia wasn’t on a trip, they spent time with each other, taking turns staying at each other's homes. 

Skin and Scars Chapter 10

Chapter 10

Julia stirred slowly the next morning. The bed was warm and cozy and she didn’t even feel like moving. As she blinked open her eyes, Julia saw the soft stream of early morning sunlight peeking through the dark drapes of the bedroom. Turning to the other side of the bed, she noticed that it was empty. From the feel of the empty space, she knew Aaron must have gotten up a while ago, as the sheets were cool to the touch.

Skin and Scars Chapter 11

 Chapter 11

Aaron slowly opened his eyes to see that the bedroom was completely dark. He was still on his stomach and shirtless in the bed, but was plenty warm with help from the comforter. He turned his head expecting to find Julia next to him, and his brow furrowed when he discovered she wasn’t. He turned to the nightstand, the clock read 1:26 a.m. and Aaron realized he must have fallen asleep hours before. He noted that his shoulder wasn’t throbbing like it had been, for which he was thankful. Taking his time with the process, Aaron pushed up from the bed and turned over.

Skin and Scars Chapter 12

Chapter 12

Aaron sat at the desk in his office. It was after six o’clock in the evening on Wednesday evening; his last patient had long since left and his staff had gone home. He was reviewing patient files and working on his computer. The ringtone from his cell phone signaled a text message. Aaron reached for the phone that lay on his desk and swiped his finger across the screen.

Just landed in Baltimore. Going straight to the hotel. Soooo tired.

Skin and Scars Chapter 13

 Chapter 13

“I think that I might have… well, uh…fallen in love with you. A little.” Julia shrugged her shoulder and crinkled her nose.

Still holding himself above Julia, Aaron blinked a few times. His mouth opened but no words came out.

Did she say love? She is in love with me?

Skin and Scars Chapter 14

A couple weeks passed by and plans for the trip were made. They would leave Denver on a Thursday morning and then return on the following Monday. Julia was able to trade off her work trips and Aaron rearranged some appointments with patients. They decided to visit Maui because neither had ever been. Because she worked for the airline, Julia was able to fly for no cost, and could even bring a guest, and Aaron happily offered to cover their accommodation at a hotel.

The morning of their departure arrived. Aaron had stayed at Julia’s the night before so that they could leave from there, seeing as how it was slightly closer to the airport.

The sun wasn’t even up yet on an extremely chilly morning when they got in Aaron’s Jeep.

“You got your backpack? I moved it by the front door…,” Julia asked Aaron quickly as she turned to him.

Aaron was pulling into the street away from the house. “Yes, I grabbed it. It’s in the back with the other bags.”

Julia nodded. “Ok. Good. Great.” She was mentally going over a checklist in her mind.

Luggage. Check. Phone and charger. Check. Purse. Check. Boarding passes. Check. Boyfriend. Check.

When they came to the stoplight before getting onto the freeway, Aaron reached over and squeezed Julia’s thigh gently. His touch was comforting and thoughtful. This would be their first major trip together, the only other one being the cabin earlier that Fall. Julia was looking forward to five days of total rest and relaxation and was excited to get to spend her birthday with Aaron. She had wanted something small and intimate to celebrate turning thirty, and this was the perfect trip.

Julia thought that things between them had been going well. They spent as much time together as their schedules would allow. Their relationship had become more stable in the weeks after the exchange of I-love-you’s. She had become more and more comfortable with letting Aaron in and letting her guard down. Their dynamic felt natural and she felt like they were in a great place.

Aaron drove to the airport in record time and parked in the long-term lot. He opened his door and began the assembly of his chair parts as Julia got out and went around to the back door.

“Just think, babe… In a few hours, we’ll be having drinks in a beach bar in weather that’s 40 degrees warmer than this.” She said as she pulled out one of their rolling suitcases and plopped it on the ground.

“Very true…,” Aaron laughed. “I can hardly wait.” He made the transfer into his chair and closed the driver’s side door while simultaneously clicking the lock button on the key fob. He spun around and wheeled to the back where Julia was.

She handed him his gray backpack and he slipped it on over the coat he wore. He adjusted it so as to not overbalance himself with the extra weight. Aaron then reached in and pulled his roller bag out and set it on the ground. Julia slung her bag over her shoulder sideways and then pulled up the handle on her rolling bag.

Aaron took one last look inside and determined it was all clear. They had everything. “I think that does it. You ready?”

Julia nodded and closed the back door. They turned to the parking exit and made their way to the elevators to the main terminal. Julia pulled both of their wheeled bags behind her and she kept pace with Aaron, who navigated seamlessly through the crowded airport. They got to the security checkpoint quickly and prepared to part ways.

“See you in a minute,” Julia said as she gave Aaron his roller bag. Having traveled often, he had paid for TSA Precheck so he was able to use that line for a faster screening.

Julia hurried down to the Known Crewmember checkpoint line and showed her Crew badge. She was also quickly screened and she collected her belongings and waited on the other side of security for Aaron. She pulled her phone out of her pocket and double checked the departing gate on the electronic boarding pass.

D12. Gate D12.

She looked up in time to see Aaron making his way over to her, guiding his rolling suitcase with the footplate of the chair and toes of his shoes. Julia chuckled as she looked down.

“So, that’s how it’s done, huh?” She nodded to the bag at his feet.

Aaron shrugged his shoulders. “Hey, it gets the job done.” He laughed.

“Something to drink?” She asked and gestured to take the suitcase from him.

He reached down and pushed his bag to her, relenting the task of rolling it around in addition to himself. “Sure. And a bite to eat maybe.” He looked down at his watch. “We have a good half hour still.”

Julia led the way to the best coffee place in the airport, which was conveniently located near the departure gate. They waited in line to give their orders. An orange juice, toasted bagel, and fruit cup for him and a hot tea, muffin, and banana for her. They found an empty table in the corner of the seating area and settled in to eat.

After breakfast, they both took turns watching the belongings at the table while the other used the facilities before the flight. They would fly from Denver to Los Angeles and then catch another flight to Maui. It would be a long travel day.

“You ready to head over?” Aaron asked as he slung his backpack on once again.

“I am, let’s go.” She stood and meticulously made her way through the dining area over to the gate with Aaron right behind her. The airline gate agents were already there preparing to start boarding when they arrived to the area.

_____________________________________________________________________________________

Aaron followed Julia who found some empty seats nearby, a good spot to wait, and she sat down. She shrugged off her coat and laid it in the seat next to her along with her bag. Aaron turned and reversed his chair to sit next to her.

They sat quietly for a couple minutes, then Julia turned to look at Aaron. “Thank you.” She reached across to grab his hand that rested on the push rim of his chair.

“For what?” He replied with a smile. He ran his thumb over the back of her hand softly.

“For this. For coming.” Julia squeezed his hand.

Aaron smiled and clasped her hand with both of his. “No thanks necessary, babe. I wanted to come. Happy Birthday.” He brought her hand up to his mouth and kissed it.

Julia audibly sighed at the sweet gesture. “I’m glad you’re here.”

“So am I. Thank you for inviting me.” Aaron tugged on her hand and forced her to come closer so he could claim her lips for a quick kiss.

Once they pulled away, he held her hand in his and let it rest on his thigh. They sat in comfortable silence until one of the airline gate agents came over.

A pretty young girl, probably in her mid-twenties, with a calm and professional voice. “Are you Mr. Evans?” She asked Aaron. The airline knew in advance that Aaron would require some special assistance being that he used a wheelchair.

He nodded, “I am.”

The agent smiled. “We are ready to board if you are.” She gestured to the opened door leading down the jet bridge to the plane.

Julia pulled her hand back from Aaron’s and began to gather her belongings. Aaron knew that Julia would know he would be one of the first to board, given the extra time it would take to get settled.

He was used to this part having traveled a good amount. Depending on where he was seated on the flight, sometimes he would need the assistance of an aisle chair to get to his seat, but if he was seated closer to the front, he would not; that transfer was easy. This time though, he had to use the dreaded aisle chair. It was clunky and skinny; basically a human dolly. He would be the first to board before everyone else, ensuring there would be enough room to maneuver onto the aircraft, and he would be last to deplane.

Aaron heard the agent turn to Julia. “You’re one of our flight attendants, right?”

“Yes, that’s right.” She confirmed. “And this is my boyfriend, Aaron.”

“Awesome, well, I’ll go ahead and do a gate check on your bags if you won’t be needing them during the flight.” The agent looked down at the two pieces of luggage they had.

Julia looked at Aaron who nodded in agreement, he had everything he would need for the duration of the flight.

“That’d be great. Thank you.” Julia handed over the two items to the agent’s waiting hands.

“Follow me right over; we’ll get you on your way.” The agent turned in the direction of the door with both Aaron and Julia following right behind.

As he followed the agent through the crowded seating area, Aaron noticed a few people stare at them and a few others avert their eyes. He’d been through this many times before; he knew that they were curious about how the guy in the wheelchair was going to get onto this airplane. It was amusing to him at this point. The whispers and stares were a part of his regular life, even more so at an airport. Aaron caught the stares of a few people and simply gave them a polite nod.

Once at the door, the agent placed some neon green colored tags on their rolling suitcases and placed them off to the side.

“You know the drill, these will be ready and waiting for you planeside in LA.” She smiled and handed Julia two claim tags.

“Alright, Mr. Evans. Are you ready to go?” She then asked.

Aaron nodded again, “Yes, I am.”

“Do you need any help down to the aircraft?” The agent questioned.

“Oh, no, I’m good. Thanks.” Aaron said.

With a flick of her wrist, the agent motioned to follow her down the jet bridge. “Let’s go then.”

Aaron looked over his shoulder at Julia, an eyebrow raised. His smile was tight; almost forced.

It was tough to accept help, but he would try not to appear so annoyed at the whole spectacle. As he pushed forward, and glided down the first ramp, Julia reached out and squeezed his shoulder gently.

“Do you want me to wait for you, or get onboard…?” Julia asked softly. He knew she might have been sure about what he needed.

“Yeah, would you mind waiting? If that’s ok…,” Aaron glanced back over his shoulder.

Julia answered quickly. “Sure thing.”

Once at the bottom, a couple of young guys were waiting with the aisle chair. “Just let us know what you need, Mr. Evans,” one of them said. The airline agent made room and stepped out of the way.

What is with this Mr. Evans stuff? I’m not old enough to be a Mr. Evans yet… am I?

Aaron noticed that Julia stood to the side, and he gave another tight smile to the guys. He shrugged off his backpack and coat quickly, before handing them up to Julia. “Could you hold these, babe?” He asked quietly. She took the items and laid his coat across her forearm. Julia stood by quietly and watched.

Aaron wheeled parallel to the aisle chair, getting as close to it as possible, then flipped down the wheel locks on his chair. The two guys both had a hand on the aisle chair; one at the back and one on the opposite side from where Aaron was. He scooted his rear end close to the edge of the cushion of his chair and then lifted each foot off of the footplate.

“I’m just going to swing over…,” he said to the two guys as he looked up, affirming that he was fully capable of making the transfer independently. They braced the chair then, making sure it was stable.

Aaron scooted forward more and reached over with his right hand to grab the edge of the aisle chair seat. In one swift movement, he lifted over to the seat quickly, and planted himself directly on it. 

Once he knew he was stable and his rear was in place, he lifted each foot up onto the small raised platform and held his knees together with both hands.

“Nice,” one of the guys commented. “Let’s get you secured in here now.” He and the other guy began buckling the various buckles around Aaron’s chest, which were completely unnecessary for him to have but it was mandatory.

Aaron reached down to grab the Velcro straps for his legs, insistent on helping with the process. As he grabbed for the strap his left knee fell to the side and quickly took his foot with it, splaying his leg out sideways. He braced his right leg to make sure it stayed put, then he hurriedly reached out and brought his hand under his left knee and lifted his foot back into place.

Shit. Damn legs. Come on, boys. Cooperate with me today, would you?

Aaron glanced up at Julia quickly and he was met with one of her comforting smiles.

Aaron held his legs together and the two guys brought the Velcro straps around Aaron’s calves and around his knees, securing them. He gave the ridiculous straps on his chest a tug then reached over and grabbed his black seat cushion from his chair and placed it on his lap.

“I think I’m all set, guys.” He then said.

“I’ll get your wheelchair tagged too, Mr. Evans. It’ll go underneath in the cargo compartment.” The airline agent pulled another neon green tag from her pocket and handed Aaron his portion of the claim tag before placing the tag on the frame of his chair.

Aaron slid the tag into the pocket of his shirt. “Thank you, I appreciate it.” This part always made him nervous; being separated from his chair. It was his main mode of transportation. He had a huge internal fear that on any given flight he’d take, he would land and for whatever reason his chair wouldn’t be there or it would be damaged. It had never happened before and he hoped it never would, but it didn’t make it any less nerve-wracking. He took a deep breath and exhaled. “Alright, I think we’re good here.”

Gesturing to his backpack that she still held, Aaron spoke. “I’ll take that bag off your hands, Julia.” 

She handed it over but kept his coat. The two guys then wheeled Aaron to the door of the plane then turned the aisle chair around so he was backward as they hauled him over the threshold and onboard.

Two of the crew members were there waiting to greet them. “Hello, good morning!” One of the flight attendants said.

“Good morning,” Aaron returned with a smile.

The airline agent waited in the jet bridge and Aaron heard Julia thank her for her help before following Aaron onto the plane. She exchanged pleasantries with the crew too then turned and walked facing Aaron as he was pulled backward down the aisle. He silently made a funny face which made Julia laugh. They were seated in row twelve, so they didn’t have to travel too far back in the plane.

“Babe, which seat do you want?” Aaron asked as the two guys began helping him undo all the chest straps.

“Oh, it doesn’t matter. Window, I guess. The middle seat will be empty,” she waited a row back from him to give plenty of room to move.

“I’ll take the aisle then.” Aaron pointed a thumb at their row, signaling for her to step into the row first.

“That’ll work,” she said as she stepped into the row and sat in the window seat. She laid their coats in the middle seat and took her bag strap off her body and placed the bag under the seat in front of her.

Aaron reached over to drop his backpack in the floor in front of the middle seat. He tossed his seat cushion into the aisle seat, he’d use it for this flight, it was better than just the regular cushioned seat of the plane. One of the guys who were helping made sure that both ends of the seat belt were accessible and on the sides of his cushion. Once the chest straps were off, Aaron undid the Velcro leg straps but was careful to keep his knees together. The armrest on the seat would not be able to be raised up so he’d have to transfer around it into the seat.

“I’m going to do the same thing, guys, just swing over…,” Aaron lifted his knees and placed each foot on the floor. Then he reached over to the opposite armrest of the seat and lifted himself up and over into the seat. He settled back onto the seat cushion and lifted his legs, making sure his feet were 

flat on the the floor.

He reached his hand out and shook both of the guys’ hands. “Thanks, guys.”

One of the young guys gave Aaron a fist bump too. “Hey, no problem at all. You know what you’re doing, Mr. Evans.”

Aaron laughed as they tidied up the aisle chair straps and started moving forward up the aisle. “Take it easy, man.” The other guy said.

Ok, that wasn’t so bad.

Aaron turned his head to look over at Julia who was busy getting her phone and cords and a book out of her bag.

“Hey.” He said in a low voice. She looked over at him.

“You good?” He asked as he reached out across the empty middle seat for her arm.

“I’m good. Are you?” She questioned.

He smiled and gave her a nod. “Yes.” He gave her arm a squeeze then leaned forward to reach his backpack and slide it under the seat.

He sat back up and buckled the seat belt low on his waist. More people came aboard then, mostly families with small children and elderly folks. In no time, the flight was almost fully boarded. Then, Aaron noticed that an older gentleman with a greying mustache, presumably one of the pilots given the uniform and hat, was making his way up the aisle and he stopped at their row.

“Hello, sir, how are ya today?” The pilot said to Aaron, his tone was friendly and laid back.

“I’m well, and you?” Aaron returned.

Greeted by the pilot? This is a new one…

At that moment, Julia looked up and noticed the exchange.

“Oh my gosh, Rick!” Her voice showing complete surprise. She stood up from her seat and reached out to give his outstretched hand a squeeze. “How are you?!”

“I’m good, darlin’. I heard you were on this flight, I had to come say hello.” Rick had a slight Southern drawl to his voice.

Julia laughed. “Well, I’m glad you did. It’s been a while, we haven’t flown together in such a long time.”

Rick nodded. “That’s right, it has been a while. Headed to the City of Angels, huh?”

“Oh, well, no… Going on to Maui…,” Julia turned her attention to Aaron. “Captain Rick, this is my boyfriend, Aaron.”

Rick immediately reached out his hand. “Richard Graham, good to meet you.”

Aaron met it with a firm handshake. “Aaron Evans. Good to meet you as well, sir.”

“She’s dragging you to Hawaii, huh, bud?” Rick clapped Aaron’s shoulder and motioned to Julia who simply shook her head, knowing he was teasing.

Aaron laughed. “Yes, something like that.”

Rick reached out again and squeezed Julia’s hand that laid on the seatback in front of her. “Good to see you, youngin’. You let the flight attendants know if y’all need anything.”

Julia smiled, “Will do, Captain. Thank you.”

“Nice to have you both on board. Enjoy the flight.” Captain Rick said with a nod then turned and walked back up the aisle to the flight deck.

Julia took her seat again, still smiling from the conversation. “He’s the first Captain I ever flew with after I completed my training when I started. He’s been looking out for me ever since. Such a great guy, and an extraordinary pilot.”

“I’m glad you introduced me. I can tell he thinks highly of you.” Aaron said.

Julia smiled. “I’m happy you got to meet him. What a coincidence.” She buckled her seat belt again and settled in.

An announcement was made overhead that the forward door would be closing soon and that everyone would need to take their seats. Julia slid the window shade up and Aaron saw that the sun was rising. Their trip was officially underway.

___________________________________________________________________________________

Thanks for reading! I am glad to be back. My goal will to be post every two weeks. So, see you back here in a couple!

Skin and Scars Chapter 15

The flight had gone by quickly, Julia and Aaron talked for a little while, and then Aaron decided to take a short nap while Julia read her book. Two and a half hours later, they landed at LAX. When the plane pulled into the gate the other passengers deplaned, and then a middle aged man and woman came on board with the aisle chair to get Aaron. Julia waited patiently in the window seat as Aaron was readied to be hauled off the plane again. He repeated the process of transferring to the aisle chair, but this time the two assistive passenger service agents were more hands-on. Julia watched as he glanced her way several times, making eye contact, his face soft but his mouth tight. She knew he was annoyed but was trying to be patient with them. Once seated in the aisle chair, he grabbed his cushion and backpack and was wheeled up the aisle.

Julia was in front this time, leading the way. She stopped to give Captain Rick a quick hug before stepping off the plane. From behind, she heard Captain Rick speak to Aaron as he passed.

“Aaron, you take care of her, son.” His voice was low and sincere.

Julia smiled to herself and heard Aaron respond. “Will do, sir. Great flight, thank you.”

Julia saw Aaron’s wheelchair waiting there right next to both of their gate checked bags. She lifted the handles up on both bags and pulled them to her. The assistive agents pulled Aaron right next to his chair and undid the straps. He tossed his cushion onto the seat and pressed it in place. Once the straps were all off, Aaron made sure his wheel locks were still in place, then quickly hopped over to his chair. He shifted backward against the low backrest and lifted up from the seat to sit straighter. Julia waited as he lifted his legs and feet into place and slung his backpack on.

He thanked the assistive agents and turned to Julia. “Ready to rock and roll?”

Julia handed him his coat which he laid across his lap then. “Ready.” She turned to head up the incline of the jet bridge with Aaron right beside her.

There was still about forty-five minutes before they boarded their next flight so they found the gate and got settled. They both took turns keeping guard of their belongings while the other used the facilities, then Aaron set out to refill their water bottles and purchase a few snacks for the flight.

“Nuts, protein bar, M&M’s, gum, magazine, water.” Aaron handed Julia a sack of goodies and her water bottle when he returned.

“Ooooh, yes! Thank you. We’ll definitely need a little chocolate.” She peered into the bag.

“Julia West and uh, Aaron Evans. If you’re here in the boarding area, please see us at the service desk at the gate.” Overhead, through the loudspeaker, their names were suddenly called.

Julia’s head snapped up. “Oh. That’s us.” She stood quickly. “I’ll go see what’s going on.” She dropped the sack in her seat and went to the desk.

A few minutes later, she returned and handed Aaron a paper boarding pass. “New seats, my friend.” 

She sounded excited. “Business Class was wide open, so we got upgraded.”

Aaron looked down at the pass. “What?! Wow! Awesome.”

“Perks of the job,” she said teasingly.

“It’s in row five…,” Aaron said as he noticed where they would sit. “That’s not too far back. Is this aisle on this one wider through Business?”

Julia glanced over her shoulder to look at the waiting plane at the gate. “Yes, it is. It’s an A330, so the aisles are wide.” She turned to look at him. “Are you thinking you won’t need the aisle chair?”

Aaron nodded in agreement and folded his boarding pass to slide it in his shirt pocket. “That’s what I am thinking. It will be fine. Should I go let them know?” He said.

“Yeah, probably.” Julia motioned up to the desk. “I was talking to the lady with the neck scarf right there.” She pointed her out.

Aaron nodded and pushed forward, making his way to the desk. “Be right back…”

Julia consolidated the items Aaron had purchased into his backpack and into her bag, preparing to board the flight.

“She said they will be ready to board in just a couple minutes.” Aaron returned and stopped in front of Julia, his knees almost touching hers.

“Cool,” she glanced up with a smile. “I put half in here and the other half in my bag,” she lifted his backpack.

He took it and slung it over his shoulders, then laid his coat across his lap again.

Julia stood up and grabbed the handles of their bags as the lady in the neck scarf stepped over.

“Hi, folks. The crew is ready for you.”

Julia and Aaron looked at each other, both ready to get the show on the road.  They followed the lady and she scanned their boarding passes.

“And you’re sure you don’t need any assistance boarding, Mr. Evans?” She confirmed as she placed new gate check tags on their bags and his wheelchair.

“Yes, I can get right to the seat, thank you.” He said.

The scarf lady smiled. “Ok, then, you two enjoy! Have a wonderful day.”

Aaron let Julia in front of him and she passed through the boarding door into the jet bridge. At the door of the plane, Julia stepped on and Aaron popped up his front casters and pushed onto the plane, which was bigger than the last. Julia walked the few rows back and stepped into their row which was only a window and aisle seat. Aaron followed right behind, having more room to navigate. He was able to quickly make the transfer into the aisle seat.

“Ah, yes. More leg room,” he commented with a chuckle.

“Yes!” Julia leaned down and kissed his cheek as he glanced up at her.

“Do you want me to take it up front?” She asked with a nod to his chair.

“Yes, please, thanks.” Aaron shifted on the seat cushion from his chair and reached over to push his chair back out of the way.

Julia turned sideways in order to get out of their row, stepping over Aaron’s legs in the process, which he quickly adjusted to make a clear path.

Aaron reached back and flipped off the wheel locks so Julia could push the chair right up the aisle.

“Be back in a minute…,” she leaned down and pushed his chair away. At the front of the plane, a guy in a fluorescent vest met her to take the chair to the cargo hold.

When she returned, she stepped into the row and turned to take her seat.

Soon, the rest of the passengers began to board and before too long, everyone was in their seats. The flight wasn’t completely full, Julia could see several empty seats. When they were pushing back from the gate, Julia was looking out the window, a ritual she loved to do when flying as a regular passenger. She felt Aaron grab her hand and intertwine his fingers with hers. She glanced over and smiled then leaned her head on his shoulder.

_____________________________________________________________________________________

Aaron’s eyes fluttered open and for a moment he was confused about where he was.

Wait… Where… Oh, right. Airplane. Pacific Ocean. Maui. Julia.

He sighed and came to his senses. Then he glanced over at Julia, who was leaning into him with her head on his shoulder. She was asleep. The lights in the cabin were dim and the window shade was pulled down, preventing a while lot of light from entering. He had guessed he had been asleep for an hour and a half or so, which according to his watch, meant that combined with the time they had spent awake, there would be another hour or so left on the flight. He and Julia had watched a movie on his laptop, then ate the provided meal, which had been quite good. After lunch, they both fell asleep.

Without wanting to wake Julia, Aaron slowly pressed down on both armrests, lifting himself from the seat to change positions. He settled back down and then slowly reached with one hand down to the leg of his pants to adjust his legs one at a time which were outstretched and crossed at the ankles. He had to make sure to move often on long flights like this one. It was torture having to stay in the seat for such an extended amount of time, but he tried to make the best of it.

Aaron relaxed into the seat and closed his eyes again. Maybe he could fall asleep again and get some more shut eye. They would be to their destination before too long.

_____________________________________________________________________________________

Around noon Maui time, they landed. Upon touchdown, Aaron immediately rolled his watch three hours back to be in the correct time zone. From the looks of it, it was sunny and clear outside. Aaron and Julia both peered through the window to see the surroundings as they taxied down the landing runway to the gate.

“Holy smokes, it’s so beautiful!” Julia exclaimed as they rolled right along the edge of the ocean outside.

Aaron squeezed her held that he held. “It is indeed.”

The plane came to a stop at the gate and the sound of everyone’s seat belts unbuckling simultaneously reverberated throughout the cabin. The sounds of shuffling came next. Julia and Aaron both unbuckled and leaned down to retrieve their respective bags. Aaron would again be the last one off, so they weren’t in a rush. After a little while, the last of the passengers were trickling off and Aaron’s wheelchair was rolled up the aisle to their seats by a young gentleman. “Here ya go,” he said as he left it.

Aaron lifted off the seat enough to jerk his cushion out from under his butt and place into the seat of his chair. Then he made sure the wheel locks were on and reached over to plant his hand on the edge of the cushion. With one swift movement, he squarely planted himself in the chair. He lifted both his legs up and rested his feet on the footplate. Both his left foot and knee gave a little bounce. Aaron pressed down on his knee and it continued to bounce. Brushing the spasm off, Aaron shifted in the seat and reached for his backpack which he stuffed his coat into and then he pulled the straps over his shoulders. Julia inched out of the row with her belongings as Aaron pushed forward up the aisle. Julia grabbed both their rolling bags and pulled them along up the jet bridge.

Once they were in the terminal, they split ways, both wanting to use the restroom. Meeting up again, Aaron pointed to the sign above that pointed to the exit and rental car pick up. They made their way through the throngs of people in the airport to the exit which deposited them outside.

Julia took a deep breath as she looked toward the sky. “Sunshine!” She immediately rolled back the sleeves of her shirt as the temperature was way warmer than the weather they left in Denver.

Aaron stopped long enough to do the same thing. He unbuttoned the top few buttons of his shirt, revealing his white undershirt, and rolled his sleeves back to his elbows. The sun felt good.

Julia looked around and then turned to Aaron with a smile.

“We’re here, babe,” he said as he reached out and pulled her to him. She leaned down and he hugged her close to him before exchanging a quick kiss.

“Let’s find the car, shall we?” Aaron suggested when they pulled apart.

“Let’s.” Julia grabbed the bags and kept pace as they turned a corner in search of the rental car facility. They quickly found the shuttle that took them over to where the cars were picked up. In no time, Aaron had the keys in hand and their bags were loaded in the back of a newer model white Ford Edge. He had arranged for a car with hand controls that way he could drive. Once in the car, Julia plugged the address of the hotel into the navigation app on her phone and set it up on the dash. Aaron was in the driver’s seat and he adjusted the mirrors and seat. They both slid their sunglasses on and rolled down their windows to let the fresh air in.

“You should reach your destination in twenty three minutes,” the automated voice radiated from Julia’s phone.

Aaron reached over for Julia’s hand and rubbed his thumb over her knuckles. “Are you ready?”

“Totally ready,” she said as she reached down to the radio controls and turned up the volume. A song by Bruno Mars came through the speakers and Aaron drove the car away from the airport.

_____________________________________________________________________________________

Later that evening, as they sat at a table in a beach side bar at their hotel, Aaron and Julia were enjoying cocktails and dinner. They were staying at the Hyatt Regency Maui which was located on Ka’anapali beach. They had made it to the resort hours before and took their time getting refreshed and rested before setting out to explore the nearby Whaler’s Village, a shopping and dining complex. Once they returned to the hotel, they were both starving. They found a quiet little restaurant and bar where they were seated right away.

The open air bar was lined with lit torches that gave off a soft glow and a romantic ambience. The ocean was a stone’s throw away; the sound of waves lapping the beach was subtle and calming. They shared traditional Hawaiian dishes paired with specially crafted cocktails.

Julia could feel the effects of the alcohol after her third drink. She felt the heat radiate up from her neck into her cheeks and face, a calming sensation she welcomed. She nibbled on the food at the end of the meal, having been fully satiated by the entrées she and Aaron shared. The conversation had relaxed by then and a stillness swept over the table. Julia caught Aaron’s eye several times as they both sipped on their drinks. The spark between them was palpable, and the desire for one another had been building all night.

When their glasses were empty, Aaron wheeled over to the bartender where he arranged for the meal and drinks to be added to the room. He generously tipped the bartender and waitress and came back to the table where Julia waited.

With an outstretched hand, Aaron invited Julia to come to him. She willingly took his hand and let him pull her down to whisper in her ear. She laughed quietly and covered her mouth, a girlish move. Aaron spun around and headed to the door, pushing the wheel rims on his chair with long deliberate strokes. Julia lagged behind a little, having stood up at the table and felt the effects of the alcohol go straight to her legs. She caught up to Aaron at the elevator where they entered and he pressed the button for their floor. The ride to the fourth floor seemed like it forever. Aaron drummed his fingers on his wheel rims and Julia tapped her foot. When the elevator dinged the signal of their arrival, they exited and turned to the direction of their room. Aaron swiped their keycard in the door and pushed the door open. Julia made sure the door was shut and she flipped the lock to engage it.

The room was dimly lit with only one lamp by the bedside and the drapes and window were open. The sounds from the beach could still be heard and the breeze coming off the ocean was blowing right in.

In the middle of the room, Aaron turned to face Julia, who dropped her small clutch onto the table in the sitting area and kicked off her sandals. She took off the necklace and earrings she wore and placed them by her clutch. She went to Aaron and laid each hand on either of his shoulders. He grabbed her waist and pulled her closer, positioning her to be right between his knees. Julia leaned down and pressed his head into her middle before she ran her fingers through his hair. In an instant, she hiked up the skirt on her dress and pulled the fabric up to her hips. She straddled Aaron’s lap, one leg hung over either wheel, and sat down slowly. Aaron’s hands were still on her waist and he pulled her closer to him. He slid his hands up her back to her neck and his fingers tangled in her hair. Julia wrapped her arms around his neck and tilted her head back.

Aaron started slowly by kissing her neck, her chest, and the soft tops of her breasts, which were exposed by the neckline of the dress she wore. He worked his way up to her face, jawline, and finally her mouth. With her head tilted down in his hands, Aaron claimed her lips. Julia kept her arms around his neck and welcomed the kiss. The heat and desire had been stoked all night.

Julia ran her hands under Aaron’s blue t-shirt as they kissed and she slowly lifted it as he raised his arms. She pulled it from his arms, over his head and tossed it aside. Aaron slid his fingers under the thin straps of her aqua colored dress and let them fall off her shoulders. He slowly gathered the bunched up fabric and began to lift it off her body.

“You know…seeing you in this dress tonight, damn near killed me,” he said through kisses. He let the dress fall to the side of his chair. Julia sat back and let him look at her. He ran his hands over Julia’s bare shoulders and back; she wore nothing but a sexy strapless bra and matching panties.

“Maybe you are trying to kill me, woman…,” he teased before taking her mouth again.

Julia let her fingers trace along Aaron’s bare shoulders and chest before she moved to his back where she ran her nails up and down gently. He shuddered and chill bumps raised on his skin.

“Feel good?” She whispered. She felt Aaron nod slowly as they continued their exploration.

Julia reached down to unbutton his lightweight pants and then slid her hand into his boxer briefs. Not surprising, he was already hard.

“Mmm,” she murmured as she wrapped her hand around him. “Bed,” she whispered.

Aaron reversed the chair toward the side of the bed closest to where they were and pushed forward, Julia still straddling him. He didn’t notice that he knees hit the mattress when he made it to the bed but Julia felt her butt brush against the soft material. Aaron aided in lifting Julia from his lap and she shimmied backward onto the bed.

He watched her as she reached back and unclasped the bra holding her breasts. She rose to sit on her knees and let the bra fall from her body. Aaron closed his eyes and bit his lip before tilting his head back.

“I want you now…,” Julia said as she sat perfectly posed on her knees, her firm breasts on full display.

Aaron quickly spun around and pushed toward the bathroom, the door closing behind him. A couple minutes later, he came out hurriedly and pushed across the length of the room to the bed, where he lined up the chair parallel to the edge. He leaned down and pulled off his shoes and socks quickly.

Aaron transferred efficiently up to the bed where Julia waited. He scooted back to sit against the headrest and jerked his pants leg to straighten his legs. Julia crawled over on all fours to his feet and faced him. She slowly and methodically began to pull his pants down off each leg, then went to shimmy down his boxer briefs. Both items were tossed off the side of the bed. She crawled closer to him and straddled his hips.

“Let me see you…,” Aaron’s voice was low as he cupped her bare breasts with each of his hands.

“God, you are beautiful, Julia.” He admired her as she sat back and let him take her into full sight.

Aaron pulled her closer to him and brought her face to his to claim her mouth again. They kissed for a while, and explored eachother’s bodies with their hands and mouths.

“I need to taste you,” Aaron finally said as he lifted Julia up. She switched positions with him and laid in the spot he had occupied. She bent her knees and waited to feel his face between her legs. Aaron reached up and pulled her by the waist down the bed to him, then slid her panties off. Julia felt the tickle of his scruffy face come in contact with her most sensitive area. He was soon using his tongue and mouth in ways she had come to appreciate. Julia took his head in her hands and ran her fingers through his hair.

“Oh god, Aaron, yes,” she was almost breathless.

Aaron continued the task for a while and Julia was nearing the edge.

“Almost… almost… yes!” She whispered.

Satisfied, Julia caught her breath and Aaron lifted his head. Julia lay her arm over her eyes and then felt Aaron next to her. His hand was on her stomach and his mouth went to her breast. He sucked and kissed her breast and caressed her skin for a moment while she rested. She took her arm from her eyes and rolled on her side to face Aaron. He kissed her forehead and she placed her hand on his bare chest. They lay silently and still for a moment until Julia rolled back to lie flat. She glanced down to see the state of Aaron’s situation and saw that he was still hard but would probably need to be firmer for intercourse.

Julia grasped Aaron’s shoulder and urged him to scoot up closer beside her, then she reached down and laid her hand around his erection. She began to stimulate him and felt his erection grow. She continued the task for a moment until Aaron groaned. Julia knew he was ready.

She lay back gently, her head resting comfortably on plush pillows, while Aaron held himself above her. In their tried and true position, he rested on his bent left forearm and reached down with his right hand. Julia felt Aaron guide himself inside of her slowly and she took him fully. He glanced down between their bodies, then back at Julia. His upper body could support his weight, and with Julia’s legs being bent, his lower half wasn’t on top of her completely. He began to move inside her using his hips and rocking his upper half. His movements were slow to start and gained speed as he worked. Julia had one hand on the back of his neck and the other on his chest. They were quiet as Aaron rocked and thrusted; he would take his time.

Minutes passed, their body heat radiated off of one another, both bodies had a sheen of sweat on bare skin. Aaron’s breath quickened as he neared orgasm. He worked for a little while longer and adjusted the position of his arms

“Yes, babe,” she said breathlessly. “Keep going,” she had to tell him in words what he couldn’t always feel. Without Aaron having taken a pill, he probably wouldn’t be able to last long enough to please her again, but she accepted that in the moment. This was his time; he had brought her to orgasm earlier.

Julia felt Aaron’s body quiver as he finished just a moment later. His arms and upper body shook slightly when his muscled contracted. He lowered himself down slowly to gently lay on Julia and caught his breath.

“I love you,” she said softly.

“I love you, too.” Aaron kissed her lips softly. He didn’t stay on top of her for long before reaching down and guiding himself out of Julia. He rolled onto his side and took a few deep breaths.

Julia sat up and swung her legs over the edge of the bed while she waited for Aaron to move. Soon, he sat up and scooted forward to the edge of the bed next to her. He brought his legs over the edge and reached forward for his chair. Julia placed her hand on his thigh and turned her head to capture his mouth. The kiss was tender and sweet.

When they pulled apart, Julia stood up and strode toward the bathroom. She emerged a few minutes later with a thin white robe wrapped around herself and her hair in a messy ponytail on top of her head. Still naked, Aaron leaned to swing down into the chair and positioned his legs accordingly. He went into the bathroom next and took care of business before coming out, his body still bare except for a pair of fresh boxer briefs. He wheeled over to the window to close it and to draw the gauzy curtains. Then Aaron pushed to the bed and swiftly transferred up onto it next to Julia, who had turned down the comforter and sheets. Julia settled in close to Aaron as they relaxed into the bed together. Sleep was pulling them both into the darkness.

___________________________________________________________________________________

Thank you for reading! See you back here in two weeks!