To Conquer A Goddess
Disclaimer: I don't own any of the characters in the story, with the exception of Jedi (myself). Vengeance is her own character.
Rating: R
Pairing: Aphrodite/Cleo
Crossover: Xena: Warrior Princess/Cleopatra 2525
Special Notes: The "**" around italics indicates that Aphrodite is reading Cleo's thoughts, which is only possible if and when Cleo thinks about love. Personal thoughts are indicated in simply italics.
A Note to Readers:
This story is based on the loving relationship between Aphrodite (Xena: Warrior Princess) and Cleo (Cleopatra 2525) that was established during role-playing on MySpace. I understand that this pairing is unique in that both subjects are often described as "ditzy" or "dumb blondes". Well, that's what made this tale so entertaining for me to write, and I wouldn't change their fictional relationship in the least.
Your Humble Bard,
Warrior Mutt
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Aphrodite POV
I couldn't help but smile when I first saw Cleo at the entrance of my temple, suitcases packed. Her platinum blonde hair, short but not too short, hung behind her ears, and her green eyes sparkled with life. I took note of her eager smile, white teeth gleaming beneath lips covered in pink gloss and dimples that made me feel an odd warmth.
"So, you're the Goddess of Love, huh?"
I grinned. "Yep, that would be moi. I already know that you're Cleo."
The pale skinned face positively beamed at my words. "You've heard of me?"
"Hello? Goddess of Love here. I can hear everyone's thoughts when they think of loved ones. Sarge and Raina have missed you."
"Oh." Her expression remained somewhat positive, though she looked a little crestfallen. Seconds later, I heard in her mind, **Damn, how stupid was I to think THE Goddess of Love has heard of me? She probably wouldn't give me the time of day if she knew how beautiful I think she is.**
Surprisingly even myself, my cheeks reddened slightly. That's weird. Why do I care if she thinks I look good? Brushing it off, I smiled at her warmly. "Have you been to see Sarge? She's getting some lovin' going on with her fiancee."
Cleo grinned, and it brought me warmth to see her looking so happy. "Yes, I have! She and I hugged and talked a little. I met her fiancee, too. Jedi seems nice. I'm so happy for both of them."
I chuckled. "Yeah, those two are one of my favorite couples. Get this-- I didn't even have to fix them up myself. They were just meant to be."
"Awww!" Cleo exclaimed. "That is so cute! So even though they are from two completely different times in history, they were destined to be with each other?"
"Yep," I affirmed. "Radical, huh? Their wedding is gonna be sooo bodacious!"
Cleo grinned. "So, tell me... what is the Goddess of Love doing in a place like this?"
I raised an eyebrow. "Well, it is my temple." I grinned. "Nice, isn't it?"
Cleo looked around. Her eyes ran over the multiple gifts bestowed by my followers, and fixed on the hot tub. "Yeah, great furnishings."
Great furnishings?! Goddess anger bubbled to the surface. "Great furnishings?! Hey, look here, Pinky! I worked hard to make my temple look so good, and apparently some people don't appreciate that!"
Cleo gaped at me. "Pinky?! Gods, 'Dite, I was only commenting on the furnishings because they caught my eye first! Take a chill pill!"
I gasped. "You did not just tell the Goddess of Love to take a chill pill! No way!"
Cleo stood her ground. "Yes, I did! I was only trying to be nice! Your temple looks great."
Slowly, it dawned on me that Cleo was being honest, and that she hadn't intended to offend me. "Oh. Thanks. Sorry, I guess I'm not used to people saying nice things to me, except for Gabrielle and sometimes Xena."
Cleo looked puzzled. "What do you mean people don't say nice things to you? You're you, Aphrodite, Goddess of Love, most beautiful woman ever to grace the Earth. How could someone not appreciate those details?"
I was deeply touched. "Thanks, Pinky. That's so sweet," I hesitated before continuing, "but many people don't like me. I'm nice to them, but they all think I'm just a big ditz and that I'm a dumb blonde. I mean, I am blonde, but dumb?"
Suddenly, Cleo's hand was on my shoulder, patting me with what I shockingly realized was affection. "I don't think you're dumb, but I know how you feel. Pretty much everyone I came across in 2525 automatically assumed that because I joked around, plus my blonde hair and pink clothes, I was nothing more than a little ditz in the wrong time period. No one really liked me much, until I got close to Hel and Sarge."
I looked at her with sympathy. "Oh, Pinky. I don't think that about you at all. I know people like you around here. Sarge, Jedi, me, and even Raina. You're too cute."
Almost instantaneously, Cleo's mind grew quick and nervous. **She thinks I'm cute? Oh, my god. She thinks I'm cute. SHE thinks I'M cute!** I tried not to eavesdrop, though part of me was curious. Why does she care so much what I think? Goddess of Love though I am, I couldn't figure out just why Cleo was so jumpy around me. She's acting like she has a crush, but that can't be possible, can it? I mean, Cleo is totally straight, right? And even so, who would be crazy enough to have a crush on me? I'm the icon of love. People are repelled by my totally flirtatious nature because of the jealousy it evokes. Cleo wouldn't be that crazy, would she?
"Um, thanks, 'Dite," Cleo responded, her cheeks reddened slightly. "Is it okay if I call you that, by the way? I don't want to be disrespectful, or anything."
I smiled, and patted the hand on my shoulder with my own. "It's fine, if it's alright with you about me calling you Pinky."
Cleo grinned. "It's fine. I enjoy personal nicknames between friends."
My smile widened, and I felt my fingers slip between the gaps of Cleo's. "Friends we are. C'mon. I'll show you your room and help you get unpacked."
Cleo beamed once more. "Thanks for letting me stay in your temple. Very sweet of you."
I smiled, delighted by her compliment. "You're welcome. Stay as long as you like."
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The weeks passed, and my affection for Cleo grew. In the morning, she would roll out of bed, and take a long shower, singing softly. I was immediately taken by her voice and it's melodic balance. The powers of a goddess would have allowed me to spy on her during these hygienic sessions, but I didn't permit myself to watch. Unlike any other man or woman I had met before, I wanted to respect her privacy and only if she chose to reveal her intimate beauty to me would I gaze upon her. I knew it wasn't likely that she would ever show herself to me, but I found myself okay with that.
"'Dite, you around?"
I teleported in, smiling at my friend. "Hey, Pinky. What can I do for you?"
"I wanted to ask you something," Cleo began nervously.
"Ask away," I replied, and I winked at her.
"Well, I had this boyfriend, Johnny. After my boob job went wrong and I was frozen, he froze himself so that he could be thawed and be with me again. Unfortunately, he was thawed fifty years too soon, and I had to watch before my eyes as he died from trying to unite us once more." She paused. "I wanted to know if it's supposed to hurt this much still."
My heart went out to her. "Oh, sweetie," I sighed, pulling her into a hug, "of course it still hurts. You loved him."
I felt Cleo's head settle on my shoulder, and strangely, a tingling sensation surrounded the area. "I know he wasn't my soul mate, but it still feels like there I was something I could have done for us to be together."
Trying to ignore the warm wetness of her tears on my shoulder, which, unexpectedly, felt so natural, I stroked her short hair, soothing her as best I could. "There was nothing you could have done. It wasn't your fault, and trust me, Pinky, as the one who would know: it's time to move on."
Cleo sniffled. "I've moved on from him. I just want the ache to go away. The one that comes from being alone."
All her sorrow filled my heart as though a winter of pain. I found myself wanting to kiss those delicious-looking lips. The very thought seemed so crass, but at the same time, so tempting. I wondered what they felt like when pressed into a passionate liplock. Instead, I continued stroking her hair, and rubbing her back. "It'll be okay, Pinky. Everything will be okay."
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"Hey, 'Dite?"
Cleo's voice broke me from my concentration on the curls of golden hair that I was spraying into place. Quickly snapping my fingers and summoning a barette, I clicked into place before turning my attention on my friend. "Hi, Pinky. What's up?"
"Nothing, I just wondered if you wanted to hang out, or whatever," Cleo replied.
I quirked an eyebrow. "Hang out?"
Cleo looked around nervously. "Yeah, hang out. You know, chill, girl-style. We can, um, have girl talk, or manicures, or... what do you like to do?"
Her obvious discomfort made me giggle; she was too adorable! "Pinky," I laughed, "I'd love to hang out with you. We can like, play truth or dare."
Cleo grinned. "Great! When?"
I shrugged a shoulder. "Now is fine." Pointing my finger to an empty corner, I summoned in a pink bean bag chair. "Siddown, Pinky."
Cleo nodded eagerly and walked into my temple's personal chambers from where she had been standing in the doorway. Plopping herself into the softness of the chair, she grinned. "You first. Truth or dare?"
I felt my lips curving into a sly smile. "Truth."
Cleo thought to herself for a moment. "God, I don't know. Hmmm. Who was your first kiss?"
I burst out laughing, tears pouring from the corner of my eyes. "Pinky! Do you think I remember?"
Cleo giggled. "That long ago, huh? C'mon, 'Dite. Every girl remembers her first kiss."
I put my finger to my head, thinking back several centuries. "It might've been one of Poseidon's mermen. Or, maybe that little attendant guy once I reached land. Or it might've even been that hot guy I met when I was just a little teen love goddess." I winked.
Giggling even harder, Cleo winked back. "Yeah. I bet you were quite the teen love goddess."
I raised my eyebrow. "And what's that supposed to mean?"
"Well, in my time, the really, really hot teen girls were normally the ones everyone was jealous of, and all the guys wanted," Cleo explained.
"Pinky, are you calling me 'really, really hot'?" I teased.
My mind picked up on panicked thoughts running through my friend's mind. **Oh, my god. Stupid, stupid, stupid! I shouldn't've described her that way!** "Oh, umm. Well, yeah, you are the most coveted woman in the world. So, of course you're really, um, beautiful."
I laughed. "Well, thank you, Pinky. You're not so bad yourself."
She blushed. "My turn."
"Truth or dare?"
"Truth."
I giggled. "Well, okay, Pinky. Being the Goddess of Love, I don't really have to ask about who you like, 'cause I already know, so-,"
Cleo gasped. "You know?!"
The truth was, I hadn't been listening to her thoughts since her mind's previous outburst. In fact, I turned off the trick on her most of the time, giving her the privacy that I strangely felt she deserved. Why do I care so much about a mortal's privacy?, I wondered to myself. "Well, okay, no, I don't. I don't listen in on you. So, who DO you like?"
Cleo's face turned bright red. "Ummm." Her mind practically screamed, and I couldn't tune out what I heard next. **Oh, my god. OH GOD! I can't lie to her, but I can't tell her the truth! She can't know how much I like her!**
My mouth became a not-so-attractive "O". Cleo likes me?! She LIKES me?! When did this happen? Oh, oh, oh. "Uhh, just kidding, Pinky! Real question is... when did you lose your virginity?"
Cleo giggled nervously, obviously soothed. "Peter Calzone, Senior year, after the prom."
The hair on the back of my neck prickled. The sensation confused me. Well, you asked, didn't you?, I reminded myself. "Um, how was it?" To be honest, I really didn't want to know. Something about the thought of Cleo with someone else just bothered me, though I didn't know why.
"Well," Cleo began, "he was sweet at first, and very gentle. It hurt, though. Then, it got better, less painful and more pleasurable."
I clenched the armrest of my chair so hard that it bit into my hand, and the blood of a goddess flowed freely. "Ow!"
"Oh, my god! 'Dite, are you okay?!" Cleo exclaimed fearfully.
"Ow. Yeah, I'm fine, Pinky," I muttered, more mad at myself than in actual pain. I summoned a roll of bandages, trying to erase the imagery that Cleo's description of her first time had created. Why does it hurt so bad that she's been with people sexually?, I asked myself in confusion.
"Here, let me do that for you," Cleo insisted, pulling the bandages from my hands. She gently swabbed at my cut with a piece of the bandage, dipping it in water to clean it. "I know that goddesses don't get infections, but Mom always did say you can't be too careful!"
I watched in awe as Cleo worked to bandage my hand. It was such an insignificant wound, yet she acted as though it was a major concern. Maybe to her it is, I realized. Why haven't I tried to stop her? I began to notice that her attention to my slight pain, although misplaced, soothed me more than any act by anyone else ever had. Does this mean..., I asked myself, stunned. Oh, goodness. I like her back!
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Cleo POV
"So, Sarge, am I invited to your wedding?" I knew that the question was silly, considering the person in question was one of my best friends.
"Of course, Cleo! In fact, you're my Maid of Honor," Sarge told me with a sweet smile. "When Hel shows up, Jedi's asking her to be one of her ushers, since I figured Hel might be too butch to be a bridesmaid."
I grinned. "Hel is butch, but she has her feminine points, you know? Those little shorts she wears, and that top, her hair style. Hel just puts on the 'butch' front because she doesn't want to show her girly girl side."
Sarge laughed. "Oh, Cleo. I missed your strange views and comments. One thing I am truly grateful for in my engagement to Jedi is that she is from the same time period as you, so you two can discuss among yourselves all about the twentieth century, and neither of you will drive me crazy with talks of 'Green Day'." She frowned. "What is Green Day, anyway? Some kind of holiday? And who are 'The Killers'?"
I thought for a second. "Green Day is a band of three guys singing about all kinds of stuff. I don't know if they've had any recent hits, as I was frozen in 2001, but if they did, she probably would have gotten into them then. As for The Killers, I don't know. What year did she leave to come to this time period?"
Sarge shrugged. "2006. She left in the middle of the year, around April, after planning for six months since her eighteenth birthday."
I stared at my friend. "She's eighteen? Wow, you like them young, doncha?"
Sarge glowered at me. "Don't go there."
I giggled. "I'm kidding, you mean old cat. I have totally no disrespect towards you for dating her, even if she is seven years younger. Which reminds me," I winked, "she pulled me aside the other day and asked for help planning your birthday party. Big twenty-sxith, huh?"
Sarge shook her head, chuckling. "I knew she was faking when I told her not to think about my birthday and she nodded." She sighed. "Yes, I'm turning twenty-six." A chuckle and a wink. "Soon, I won't be able to keep up with Jedi's stamina."
Curious, I prodded a little more. "Oh, so you two have...?"
Sarge laughed. "That's how our relationship started, to be honest. She liked me, she pursued me, she seduced me, and then we...," she winked, "and then, we spent time with each other, and then we fell in love with each other. Yes, we have had sex, many, many times. " She grinned. "It's wonderful when you're with THE ONE."
I giggled, and poked her arm. "Details?"
Sarge sighed happily. "She takes me to such heights that I feel like I'm flying with the birds. To think she was a virgin before she met me," another sigh, "she still makes me feel better than anyone ever has, emotionally and physically."
I raised an eyebrow. "That good, huh? Mind if I borrow her?"
Sarge scowled. "Cleo."
I laughed. "Oh, I'm kidding. She's all yours, tiger." A question entered my head. "What's it like being with the person you were destined for? I mean, feeling the kind of love that you feel be reciprocated by your destiny."
"She refuses to treat me like anything less than perfect. She's so wonderful. I don't know how I got so lucky."
"Awww," I said with a smile, "that's so cute. Sarge, I'm so happy for you."
Sarge smiled softly. "Thanks. I am truly indebted to the Fates for fixing me up with her." She hugged me and I giggled. "What's so funny, Cleo?"
"Nothing, just," I giggled again, "I wondered if you were making a tape of your wedding night."
Sarge's eyes widened. "Cleo! Bad girl." I laughed harder. "You can wait 'til your own wedding night."
"Saaaaarge, I'm never getting married," I whined. "My last opportunity was with Johnny, and he's been dead for years. In fact, in this time period, he hasn't even been born yet."
"Awww, Cleo," Sarge coaxed me, "I know you loved Johnny, and I know it hurts that you two ended, but he wasn't meant to be with you. You'll find your someone."
I snorted. "My someone? Who are you suggesting? Aphrodite?"
Sarge shrugged. "I meant whoever your soul mate is." She raised an eyebrow. "Why did you bring up Aphrodite?"
"N-no reason! Just using an... an example!" I stammered, blushing.
Sarge smirked. "Mmhm."
"Not like she'd ever like me back, anyway," I muttered to myself.
"I heard that," Sarge laughed. "Cleo, if you like her, why not just tell her?"
"Hell-O! This is only the Goddess of Love we're talking about here! She doesn't do the relationship thing," I informed her sadly.
"What makes you say that?"
"Well, from an innocent observer's point of you," I began, then I saw her knowing look, "okay, okay. From the eyes of someone who really likes her, she's the hottest woman on the face of the planet. She is THE Greek Goddess of Love. Why would she want to settle down with a mere mortal? While we're at it, a FEMALE mortal, and also, she is the epitome of sexual desire. She can have anyone she wants, no strings attached, simply to satisfy her needs. She'd never go for me."
Sarge thought for a moment. "Have you tried flirting?"
I shook my head sadly. "No. I mean, what if she completely blows me off, or thinks I'm just trying to get in her pants, like one of those icky guys who comes to the temple and tries to grope her?"
Sarge patted my shoulder. "She's your friend, right? So, if she's really your friend, she'll forgive you for those kinds of advances. True friends put things like that behind them."
I sighed. "Why do I have the feeling you're going to push me to do this until I do it?"
Chuckling, Sarge called over her shoulder. "Jedi!"
"Coming!" Jedi's voice sounded as though she had been sleeping. Seconds later, the young woman came running out of their hut, clad in boxers and a grey wifebeater. "Yes, love?"
Sarge turned to me. "See that? I call her name, and she comes running." She drew her lover's head down for a passionate kiss, and I tried not to gawk. Tearing herself from her fiancee's mouth, Sarge grinned at me. "I am so lucky to have found my true love, but we're only at this point now because in the beginning, I surrendered to my feelings, and to her. Cleo, if you never try your chances with Aphrodite, you might be passing up on your true soul mate." To Jedi, she pecked at her lips briefly. "Sorry to wake you up, baby. You can go back to bed now."
Jedi grinned, and her pearly whites gleamed against the curviness of her full lips, dimples seeming to wink. I saw at once what Sarge loved about her smile. "Yeah, sure. Lemme know if you need me again. For kisses like that, I'll be there instaneously." She turned and strode back into the hut.
Sarge watched her as she went, eyes filled with what I knew was her undying devotion to her other half. Turning back to me, she continued our discussion. "So, what are you going to do?"
I sighed. "Oh, all right. I'll try flirting with her, but if she blows me off-,"
"She won't."
"But if she does-,"
"Cleo! She won't."
You'll never know if you don't try, my mom's voice echoed in my mind. She had said the same thing when I had debated over attending college, and it had turned out for the best. I began to plan my seduction of the Goddess of Love.
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Aphrodite POV
What do I do? I like her so much. Ahh, what's wrong with me?! I cannot fall in love with her! If the Goddess of Love were to fall in love, I'd lose my edge! I wouldn't be independant, or strong anymore! Look at all these people who come to me with heartbreak. I don't want to feel that!
"Oh, 'Dite?"
Cleo's voice calling from my temple brought me out of my concentration. Teleporting to land right in front of her, I grinned, looking right into her green seas. "Hey, Pinky. What's up?"
Cleo smiled in a way so tempting, so sultry, that I felt myself begin to blush. "Oh, nothing. I just wanted to say I'm taking a shower, and I wanted to know if you'd like to join me?"
Ahhh! How do I reply?! "Uh, Pinky, didn't you take a shower this morning?" I asked nervously, my fingers idly playing with the ties of my silky, transparent gown.
"Well, yes," Cleo uttered, her voice husky- Oh! -, "but I want to take a different kind of shower." She reached out, and her fingers tiptoed up my arm, landing on the curve of my neck.
Oh, god! I need to play dumb! "Oh? You want to use my loofa?" I stammered. "'Cause that would be different than that washcloth I gave you-,"
Cleo laughed, and I stopped short. For a second I thought her teasing would cease. Then, she winked. "What I have in mind doesn't involve soap."
"Oh? Then it involves-,"
"-It involves you, and me, and a hot, steamy shower," Cleo purred. "Now, 'Dite, I'll level with you. I haven't done much in a while, and I'm kinda curious what tricks the Goddess of Love has up her sleeve."
I gulped. "Tricks? I can make bunnies appear."
Cleo leaned in. For a split second our eyes locked as our mouths were only inches apart, and my heart pounded. Then, she went more to the right, and growled into my ear, "I'll be in the shower. If you're in, come join me." She backed up, turned on her heels, and began a sexy walk to the bathroom, her hips swaying seductively.
Oh, god! What just happened?! , my mind cried in shock. As I watched Cleo's final step into the bathroom, my expression contorted in emotional pain. "Oh, Pinky," I murmured, "you don't know how much I want to, but the Goddess of Love cannot love!" Sighing painfully, I teleported back into my private chambers on Mount Olympus.
Settling down on my bed, I let my thoughts drift back to the first time I cared for someone. My brother, Ares, in an overprotective brother fury, had lit the poor mortal on fire. For the first few months, I mourned his loss, but then I started having all kinds of affairs with multiple men, and I only thought of him occasionally to this day. It can't be that way with Cleo, I told myself, not only would I never want to hurt her by my own stupidity, but she'd be vulnerable. How many people would target the Goddess of Love's lover? Our love just wouldn't be safe. I realized how much I was jumping the gun. Cleo doesn't love me. She just really likes me, and I like her. But still, if we allow our lust to take control, it just might turn to love, the very thing I'm trying to avoid! No, no. I can't let that happen.
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I lounged on my pink recliner, idly twiddling my thumbs while listening to Cleo's... "mp3 player", as she called it. Some songs were radical, and some were sappy. I had taken an interest in one entitled, "My Sacrifice". Very cool!
A whistling sounded behind me, and I turned as Cleo strode in, wrapped in a purple towel. "Hey, lonely shower."
Trying to ignore the hidden body parts that teased me from beneath the towel, I made eye contact. "Yeah, I'm sorry. Something came up."
"Oh?" Cleo's voice had once again taken on it's husky drawl, and I shivered in desire. "Well," she began, and winked one beautiful green eye, "maybe some other time." She reached to the top of her towel, and before I knew what was happening, her towel had dropped to the floor in behind her, and she stood in front of me, nude and still dripping from her shower.
My mouth opened and closed several times. Her beautiful curves shone in the light of the temple, and seemed to invite me to caress each and every part of her. No, 'Dite! Don't do it!, my mind screamed, remember what happens with a little fun in the sack with someone you want so bad! I had seen it in mortals plenty of times. A little romp, and then questions arose, and pretty soon, they were head over heels in love. We can't have that, I insisted inwardly. Turning my attention back to Cleo, I blushed. "Hey, ummm, I think I hear... something! Um, a lovesick mortal somewhere in the world! Gotta jet. Bye!" I tried to pop out, but I only proceeded to knock myself on my rear. Blushing even harder in embarassment, I concentrated, and seconds later, I teleported back to Mount Olympus.
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Cleo POV
Leaving a note to let Aphrodite know where I was, I began the slow jog downhill from Aphrodite's temple to Amazon village, where Sarge and Jedi's hut was located. As I walked along, my mind drifted. Oh, Cleo. What did you expect? You can only hit on someone so much before they show some sign that they like you back, and she hasn't. You might as well give up on love, lust, and relationships in general.
As I reached their hut, I caught a glimpse of them through the window. Sarge was sitting in Jedi's lap, and they were locked in such a passionate embrace that I swore I could practically feel Sarge's romatic satisfaction. Knocking on the door lightly, I heard Sarge tell Jedi, "Let me get that," and then what could only be a deep kiss, lips creating sounds in their harmonic dance. Footsteps approached, and Sarge thrust open the door. "Hey, Cleo. Come on in."
I nodded, entering their abode. For such a small architecture on the exterior, the inside was roomy, and I found myself admiring the interior design. "Great deco. I like."
Sarge smiled and sat back over next to Jedi on the loveseat where the young woman had started to stretch out. "Move over, Squishy."
Jedi laughed and moved her legs. "Okay, love, but only if," she paused as Sarge sat down, and did a full body rotation, then lay her head in Sarge's lap, "you let me do this."
Sarge smiled down at her grinning fiancee. "Oh, all right," she replied. "How can I refuse having such a cute head in my lap?"
"Awww!" I exlaimed. "You two are so adorable."
Sarge pressed a kiss to Jedi's forehead. "Thanks. We try. So, how is the Aphrodite situation going?"
I sighed. "I tried flirting with her. I asked her to shower with me.?"
Sarge grinned. "Did you do 'The Voice'?"
I nodded. "I did. She gave me this strange look, like she was unsure what to think."
"Ooh!" Sarge exclaimed. "She likes you! Go for it!"
"Sarge, I'm not sure," I began, "I mean, she's had every opportunity to take advantage of me, especially when I dropped my towel in front of her. She didn't, though. She just stared, and then tried to leave."
"Tried to leave?" Sarge asked.
"Yeah. She started to pop out, but then it was like she couldn't do it, and she fell down. She managed to the next time, though," I answered.
"Hey, not that I'm the Goddess of Love's stalker or anything," Jedi spoke up, "but for her to have difficulty teleporting elsewhere, she must have been too distracted to concentrate fully on the process."
I stared. "Which means?"
Jedi grinned. "Which means that she was too busy checking you and your naked self out, and she didn't really want to leave."
Sarge nodded in agreement. "She's probably right. Maybe Aphrodite really likes you, and when she saw you naked, she wanted to stay, but didn't allow herself to make the first move."
"Her make the first move? Wasn't my flirting the first move?" I asked.
"Not necessarily," Jedi said with a grin. "Flirting is the teaser. The first move is the first intimate touch."
I frowned. "But I did the finger thing on her shoulder."
"Not that," Jedi explained. "See, that's still flirting. By intimate touch, I mean a kiss, a caress, or even a grope."
I gazed at Jedi in amazement. "How does an eighteen year old know so much about flirting and sexual touching?"
Jedi winked. "When I met the one I wanted, flirting was all I had to get my way." She grinned up at Sarge.
Sarge laughed and tussled her fiancee's shaggy bleached blonde hair. "And you got your way, so it worked out perfectly."
Jedi smiled at her lover, and looked back over to me. "So, I would recommend waiting for the right moment, and then just kissing her. That'll kick it off nice."
I shrugged. "If you say so. I just hope that I'm really wanted."
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I strode into the temple, looking around wildly for the Goddess of Love (and my dreams). I heard a commotion in the next room, and Aphrodite's voice exclaiming, "Oh, god! Don't do that!"
Running to find the source of her dismay, I entered her temple's main hall, where her various gifts from worshippers were bestowed. There, Aphrodite stood glaring at a man and a woman, both of whom were arguing about their marriage.
"She won't give me-," the man began to complain.
"Don't you DARE finish that sentence!" Aphrodite exclaimed angrily. "Listen, Bryce, or whatever your name is-,"
"Brian."
"Brian. Right. Whatever. Anyway, marriage is not about her fulfilling your sexual needs whenever you want! She has a life of her own, especially since you got her pregnant!" Aphrodite explained exasperatedly.
"Yeah, and whose fault is that?" The woman snapped, glaring at her husband. "If you had just waited a little longer before c-,"
"Whoa, way too much information!" Aphrodite groaned. "Here's my advice. Go home. Bob, you give-,"
"Brian! My name is BRIAN!"
"Whatever! Brian, give her some space since she's pregnant! Breanna-,"
"Brenda!"
"WHATEVER! Try to accept your pregnancy, and be happy about it. Not every woman gets to have a child, you know."
The couple looked at each other, then turned back to Aphrodite, mouths opening to spout more complaints. Aphrodite shook her head and pointing her fingers at them, pink sparks flew through the air, surrounding the married pair. Within seconds, they were kissing heavily and running off into the woods.
I watched the spectacle in amazement. "Wow."
Aphrodite turned at the sound of my voice. "Oh, hey, Pinky. How long have you been standing there? Sorry I didn't say 'hi' right away. Silly married mortals and their whining."
I laughed. "It's okay, I gathered that you were busy." I paused, curiosity bubbling around in my mind. "What was that you did with your fingers?"
Aphrodite grinned. "Standard love spell. Works every time." She sighed, rolling her shoulders around as though cramped. "I'll tell you, dealing with mortals' problems all the time can really be a pain in the back. I think I'm going to pop back to Olympus for a massage."
"Wait!" I told her eagerly. "I can do that." I approached her, circling behind her, and lay my hands on her shoulders, rubbing tenderly.
Aphrodite stiffened as though scared. "Pinky, you don't have to-,"
"'Dite, I want to help you," I coaxed her gently. "Let me help you."
Aphrodite sighed. "Pinky, I shouldn't let you, you don't understand-,"
I don't understand?, I echoed internally. Does this mean she does like me? One way to find out. Moving to face her, I wrapped my arms around her neck and gazed into those beautiful brown eyes. "I do understand. And you know what? I'm tired of flirting. I want to take the next step." I leaned in and kissed her soft lips.
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Aphrodite POV
Cleo's lips were on mine before I could realize what was going on. Pulling back, I looked into her eyes. "Pinky, why did you do that?" I asked weakly.
Cleo sighed. "I like you a lot. I do. And I think you like me, too, and it kind of shows every once in a while. The rest of the time, you have this wall up like you're afraid of getting hurt. I'm not going to hurt you." She leaned in and kissed me again.
It was more than I could take. My mouth parted, and as her tongue darted in, tangling with mine, I kissed her back, savoring the taste of her mouth. Yo! Earth to Goddess of Love, stop it! You're going to make things bad!, a voice in my mind screamed. Once again, I pulled away.
"Cleo, I can't. I'm sorry. I just can't," I told my friend, barely restraining myself from grabbing her and kissing her once more. Focusing all of my concentration on leaving, I teleported back to Mount Olympus.
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Cleo POV
As I looked at the empty space in front of me in shock, tears of hurt and rejection drizzled from my eyes.
What have I done? I shouldn't have kissed her! Now she's running away from me, and it's all my fault! She called me 'Cleo'. She must hate me now. "'Dite, I'm really sorry! I thought you felt the same. I"ll understand if you never want to talk to me again," I whispered, trying not to sob. The thought of never talking to her ever again took a toll on my heart, and I swore I could feel it cracking. "'Dite, if you want me to leave your temple-,"
"No, Pinky. It's okay," Aphrodite's voice responded from somewhere invisible to me. "Stay as long as you want." Her voice sounded strained, as though she was holding back tears of her own.
"Are you sure?" I choked out.
"I'm sure, Pinky. You will always be in my favor, and always welcome in my temple."
"Thank you," I sobbed, and I ran from the temple, heading to the Amazon village.
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Aphrodite POV
I watched as Cleo fled from my temple. Oh, Pinky, I mourned silently, don't cry. Please. I never meant to hurt you. The whole reason that you and I can never be is so that you won't get hurt. How I wish I could just hold you right now, and tell you everything. I want to look into your eyes and say how much I love you! I sighed, unable to deny my feelings anymore. The Goddess of Love has made a dangerous mistake; I've fallen in love with a mortal, and I'm head over heels.
As Cleo ran down the hill of which my temple was built upon, her mind screamed in anguish. **Why did I have to begin falling for her? Stupid me for assuming I was special!**
I gasped. Cleo's falling for me? She's starting to love me? Multiple possibilities flowed through my head, and I knew I would need to think of any possible solution for this situation.
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Cleo POV
I ran to Sarge and Jedi's hut. As I neared the small hut, I noticed Jedi outside practicing sword drills. She looked up as she heard me approach.
"Hey, Cleo. How are-," she began, then frowned. "You're crying. What's wrong? Did something happen with you and Aphrodite?"
I nodded, trying not to break down on the spot. "I-I-I kissed her. She left me."
Jedi's jaw dropped. "She left you? Oh, shit."
Sarge came walking out of the hut. "Hey Cl- whoa, what's going on?"
Jedi studied my face keenly before replying to her lover, "She kissed Aphrodite, and apparently our great, fearless Goddess of Love got scared and left her."
Sarge's face took on an expression of sympathy. "Oh, Cleo!" She ran down the steps, and took me into her arms, hugging me tightly. I cried on her shoulder as she rubbed my back and whispered words of comfort. "Oh, you poor thing. That's horrible."
Jedi cleared her throat. "I'm going to the Temple to see if Aphrodite wants to talk about what happened. I'll be back."
Sarge nodded. "Okay. I'll wait for your return."
Jedi nodded in return and began trekking up the hill towards the temple.
"Sarge," I whimpered, "I gave her a backrub, and she said that I shouldn't let her, that I didn't understand. So I kissed her, and she pulled away. And then I did it again, and she kissed me back!"
Sarge patted my back kindly. "She kissed you back? Are you sure?"
"I'm positive! For one short moment, there was perfect bliss! I was kissing her, and she was kissing me back," I insisted.
"And then she left? Did she say anything?"
I nodded, wiping my eyes on the back of my hand. "She said that she was sorry, but that she couldn't do this. She sounded sad."
Sarge was silent for a moment. "Cleo, if she's sorry, and she sounded sad, then she probzbly feels for you more than you realize."
I sniffled. "Then what's so wrong about kissing me and being with me?"
Sarge smiled sadly. "Cleo, just because she's the Goddess of Love doesn't mean she's ever been in love."
Confused, I stared at my friend. "What do you mean?"
"Just what I said. She knows enough to give advice about love, but that doesn't mean she's ever felt it. It's probably scaring her that she feels for you, and she doesn't know what to do."
I sighed. "So what should I do?"
Sarge shrugged. "Give her time to come to terms with her feelings. It may take a while, but if and when she does, everything will be okay."
I groaned. "Give her time? There's not a minute of the day that I'm not thinking of her. How am I going to distract myself long enough to see if she does feel anything?"
Sarge smiled. "There's a journey taking place soon. Cyane and Ephiny have become ill, and they need to search for potion ingredients. They need as many women going with them as they can. Hel's going on that trip."
I gaped. "Hel? Hel came from the future, and didn't come to see me?"
Laughing, Sarge shook her head. "She said she'd stop by to see you after getting settled in. Oh, god, Cleo, you should've seen her face when she met Jedi, and then I told her Jedi is my fiancee. Her mouth was this huge 'O'!"
I burst into laughter. "What's so wrong with Jedi?"
Sarge shook her head, chuckling. "She was wearing this shirt she has. It says on it, 'Sex Instructor. First Lesson Free'. And, she was wearing those huge baggy pants of hers, and Hel probably thought I was marrying some weird freak."
Almost collapsing with laughter, I wiped at my eyes, removing the last of my tears from 'Dite. "Awww, poor Jedi!"
Sarge grinned. "Well, Jedi is weird in some ways, but she is my destiny, and I love every part of her." She patted my arm. "Things will work out, sweetie. Just don't give up."
-----------------------------------------
Aphrodite POV
I lay on my bed on Mt. Olympus, unable to think of anything other than the day's events. Oh, Cleo. I shouldn't love you, but how can I not? Everything you are, everything you represent, is intoxicating to me.
"Aphrodite! Where are you? We need to talk!" Jedi's voice beamed up to me from my temple. Curious to what was bothering my friend, I immediately teleported to land in front of her.
"What's shakin', Shorty?" I asked, grinning at my young friend.
The young Amazon shrugged. "Nada. I just wanted to see if you wanted to talk about anything bothering you. Like, for instance, how you feel."
I sighed, knowing immediately what she was getting at. "Look, Jedi, I know I probably seem totally bitchy for what happened with Cleo, whatever you heard of it, but-,"
"No, you don't," Jedi interrupted. "Cleo didn't speak badly of you. She could never. What she did say sounded to me as though you could use a friend right about now, and you and I have always been friends."
I smiled, remembering all the times Jedi and I had talked. "Well, thanks. I appreciate it. But, I don't think anyone can help me right now. I need to figure this out myself."
Jedi quirked one dark eyebrow. "There's much to figure out?"
I sighed. "You have no idea."
"Oh, I do. Remember when I fell for Sarge? That day we spent together made me question what I felt. I can imagine you feel the same."
I nodded. "Yes, I do." Questions filled my head regarding Cleo. "Jedi, is Cleo alright?"
Jedi smiled. "She's going to be okay, I think, though emotionally, she's not great right now. Whatever you decide, be gentle on her. She's very distraught. Sarge is at home taking care of her, and I thought I'd see how you are."
Touched, I stared at my friend. "Even though it's my fault Cleo is hurt, you thought of my feelings?"
Jedi smiled and walked over, giving me a quick hug. "Yes, I did. We're buddies, Aph. I do care about you. Why do you think I trusted you to not mention my plans of proposing to Sarge to anyone? It has more to do with our friendship than with you being the Goddess of Love."
I grinned happily. "Really?"
Jedi nodded. "Really. Sarge is telling Cleo to give you some space, so you'll have all the room you need to think about everything you feel."
I hugged Jedi again. "Thank you both! You two are the best."
Jedi grinned. "We try. I have to get going, or my adorable fiancee will start to worry that I'm causing trouble again. You remember how crazy she got when I put a cherry bomb in the neighbor's chicken hut?"
I laughed. "That was hysterical, but yeah, run along, sweet cheeks. I'll see you later."
Jedi nodded. "Later, Aph."
------------------------------------------------
Cleo POV
The arrangements were set. On the following morning, I was to go to Gabrielle's hut to wait for the journey to begin. The Queen had taken my words at face value, and didn't try to pry me for information.
"So, what makes you want to come with us?" The Queen of the Amazons had asked.
"Well, Gabrielle, I need to get away for a while. There is a lot going on in my life, and I need some time away from it to see if distance will make it any easier to deal with," was my reply.
Gabrielle had nodded, and informed me of what I would need to take with me, and the full details of the journey.
As I packed a few pairs of clothes into a small bag, I lost myself in thoughts of the goddess of whom I so desired. Images of our two kisses flowed freely in my mind, and I crazed another sensuous liplock. Calm down, Cleo. Don't let yourself fall any deeper. As it is, you've dug your own grave just by falling in the first place.
Morning came, and after the most desirous of dreams, I rolled out of bed, took my daily shower, and gathering up my bag, I sauntered through the temple. Coming to the main hall, I smiled as I saw her sound asleep in her pink recliner. Approaching her, I bent and kissed her cheek softly, then rose and turned to leave, placing a scroll on her stomach gently enough that she remained asleep.
I left the temple, my love for Aphrodite going with me.
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Aphrodite POV
Cleo smiled, her lips curving into a teasing arc, and her pearly whites shining as brightly as ever. "You are so beautiful."
"No more beautiful than you, my love," I replied, stealing a tender kiss.
Our tongues tangled, and passion grew as our hearts raced from the contact.
I awoke with a soft smile. Dreams like that make reality seem like torture, I thought to myself. I felt something very warm on my cheek, as though something had touched it, and my skin burned pleasurably. I put my hand to the spot, and drawing it away, I noticed a pink glossy substance. In fact, it was the very shade of Cleo's lips.
I blushed, knowing I would be rubbing the spot subconsciously all day. I noticed a scroll tied with a pink ribbon on my stomach. Curious, I unraveled the neat ribbon, and read to myself.
'Dite,
I understand that I did something foolish the other day in kissing you. Believe me, if I had known it would frighten you away from me, I never would have done that. Our friendship is the world to me, and I would never jeopardize it. Even if I feel more for you than just friendship, I can understand that you do not feel the same, and I won't bother you with that kind of attention.
I am currently part of the journey to find ingredients so that Cyane and Ephiny may be healthy once more. I don't know when I'll be back, but I shall return, if I am still welcome.
I will continue to worship you as the wonderful Goddess that you are, even if you do not want me around any longer.
Forever your servant,
Cleo
Tears flowed freely from my eyes as I read the note over and over again. What have I done? She thinks I hate her, or that I'm repelled by her. A thought came to me, a dangerous thought, and I knew I had to choose between what was safe, and what my heart really wanted.
Scribbling down a quick note, I concentrated on the location of Gabrielle's hut, and within seconds, I teleported to land right in front of Cleo. Grabbing her, I looked into her eyes, leaned in, and kissed her deeply.
-----------------------------------------
Cleo POV
I don't know when I got over the shock of the moment. For the first few seconds, my eyes were wide, gaping at the face so close to mine as Aphrodite kissed me. Then, shutting my eyes and giving into the moment, I returned the light caress her lips were bestowing upon mine, and gently prodding them with my tongue, her mouth opened. I slipped in, and the kiss continued, passion growing each second passed.
After a few more seconds, we both backed away. I opened my mouth to question her, but before a single word could be spoken, she teleported out with a pop! and a flurry of stars and hearts. A note fluttered down in her wake.
Pinky,
I feel more for you than anyone I have ever known. What I feel--- I can't explain it, but it's there. You would think that the Goddess of Love would know what to do, what to feel?
Well, I don't. Give me time, and we'll see what happens. I'm awaiting your return from the journey. Be safe.
'Dite
I read the note several times, feeling my face spread into wide grin. "Oh, my god," I murmured, "is this really happening?"
---------------------------------
A tap on my shoulder brought me out of my daydreaming. I spun to see Hel, looking as brave as ever.
"Hel!" I squealed, and grabbed her in a fierce hug. "Why didn't you come see me at the temple? Oh, my god, I have missed you so much!"
Hel laughed. "I've missed you, too, Cleo. It's boring in 2525 without you and Sarge to keep things hoppin'. No fun going to clubs without my girls." She looked around, then back into my eyes. "Hey, is this Jedi character good for Sarge? She seems nice enough, from what I could tell. Have you had an encounter?"
I grinned. "Jedi's a sweetie. I can't think of anyone better for Sarge. She's a trouble-maker, and she's a challenge. And you know Sarge," I winked, "she loves a challenge."
Hel snorted. "Ain't that the truth. As long as I don't have to save Jedi's ass like I already do for the two of you, she's okay to me." She looked at me wryly. "What's this I'm hearing everyone talk about? Some woman appeared out of nowhere, made out with you, and then disappeared?"
I blushed. "That would be someone special to me. A goddess someone."
Hel studied my face. "Someone you're involved with?"
I fidgeted with my hands. "Not yet, but someday, hopefully, yes."
Hel gave a brief nod. "Is she treating you right?"
"Yes, she does. She just isn't sure of what she feels yet, and that's why we're not together."
Hel's eyes bore into mine. "Cleo, you know you're one of my best friends. I'm here for you, so if she does anything to hurt you-,"
"She won't," I interrupted. "Hel, I know that she doesn't want to hurt me. I just don't know what she feels for me."
Hel nodded. "All right. Now, when this journey's over, do you know anywhere I can go to find some hot men? I need some love."
I laughed. "You always were the straight one. Yes, Hel, I know just the place. I'll show it to you when we get back."
----------------------------------
The next week went by slowly, as due to emotional strain, the group was unable to embark on the journey. When Gabrielle finally announced that the journey was being cancelled, and that Cyane and Ephiny would need another cure, I left them at once, desperate to go back to the temple of my love.
Before taking the long walk up the hill, I stopped by Sarge and Jedi's hut. Hearing noises inside, I paused before entering to knock on the door.
A groan from within. "Coming!" Sarge's voice called, and when she opened the door, her body was wrapped in a sheet, her shoulders bare. "Cleo!" She exclaimed, and moved to hug me, then hesitated. "I, uh, don't know how to properly greet you right about now, given my lack of clothing."
I giggled. "Sarge, what did I interrupt?"
Sarge visibly blushed. "Well, we were eating lunch, and then I spilled some on me, and she said she'd take care of it," she paused as her blush deepened, "and then dessert began."
I snorted with laughter. "You two have very healthy sex drives, don't you?"
Sarge grinned, still blushing. "We just can't keep our hands off each other. It's hard to ignore the passion between soul mates."
I nodded. "So you've said. Anyways, the journey never took off, so I'm back." I pulled the note from my satchel. "'Dite came and gave me this. She kissed me!"
Sarge's eyes widened as she read over the note. "Cleo, that's great! Have you been to see her yet?"
I shook my head. "I don't know what to do. What to say." I looked down at myself, then back up at Sarge. "How do I look?"
Sarge smiled. "You look fine. Now, go get her!"
--------------------------------
As I trekked up the hill to the temple, I ran sentences through my head, trying to decide on what to say. 'Hi 'Dite, miss me?' No, no. 'Hi 'Dite, wow, you look great today,' No, still bad.
I finally reached the temple. Adjusting my outfit, I opened the door, and ran inside.
Aphrodite teleported right in front of me. "Where's the fire, Pinky?"
I blushed, realizing I probably looked like an idiot. "Hi. The journey never took off, so I'm back." Fidgeting, I pulled my poorly crafted gift from my satchel. "This is for you. I hadn't made signs since being in 2525, but I thought you might like it." It occurred to me how stupid I must seem. "Umm. I know it's not much, but-,"
Aphrodite gently took the sign from my hands, and stared at it. Written in blue, green, and red marker were the words "My Goddess" with flowers and hearts bordering them. "Oh, Pinky," Aphrodite said softly, and she reached over and hugged me tightly. "No one has ever done anything half as special as this for me. Thank you so much."
I blushed, melting in her arms and fighting the urge to purr into her ear. "Um, yeah, no biggie. Glad to bring a smile."
Aphrodite released me halfway, leaning back to grin at me. "You always bring me a smile, Pinky," she giggled.
Fighting the urge to lean in and kiss the lips so close to mine, I grinned back. "Good, because that's what I'm here for."
Aphrodite released me from her embrace with a sigh, and walking backwards, she pointed to an empty spot behind her. A pink, fluffy couch appeared. She plopped down on the couch, patting the cushion next to her. "Come sit with me."
I blinked. "Oh, um, okay." I approached the couch, and settled next to her. "Ooh, comfy," I put in, trying for conversation.
Aphrodite nodded, and after a moment, her arm slid around my shoulders. "Still comfy?"
A river of sensations flooded my body, and I fought against jumping on her right then and there. "Very comfy," I replied, and my arm went around her waist. "Are you?"
Aphrodite opened her mouth, then closed it. Opening it again, she responded, "Yes... I... I think I am." She nodded, her golden curls bouncing all over the place.
Without realizing what I was doing, I reached over and pushed a strand of her hair behind her ear. Wait, did I really just do that? , a voice inside me asked. "Oh, umm, sorry. It just felt so natural to do that."
She smiled shyly. "It's okay, Pinky. It felt natural to see you do that."
I subconsciously began rubbing circles on her back with my hand. "Well, that's good."
She leaned into my touch. "Yes, it is good."
Taking the moment to think of a conversation topic. "So, what did you do while I was away?"
The Goddess of Love shrugged a shoulder. "Made people fall in love, being lazy, bumming around. Doing the god thing." She lay her head on my shoulder and muttered, "Missed you."
Oh, my god! She missed me?! "Missed you,too," I told her, "and I thought about you a lot."
She blushed the color of her outfit, making her blonde hair stand out. "I thought about you a lot, too."
A question arose, and I felt compelled to ask. "Did you, ummm... did you keep the note I wrote to you?"
Within seconds, the note appeared in mid-air with a pop!, and it floated down into my lap. Aphrodite blushed even deeper. "Of course. I could never get rid of it."
Hoping to relieve her of her embarassment, I unzipped a pocket of my jacket, pulling out the note she had written to me. It was crinkled from the multiple times I had been reading it over the past seven days. "I keep it close to me, so in a way, you're close to me."
Aphrodite laughed, tweaked my nose, and grinned at me. "I knew there was a reason that I love you, Pinky!" Her smile faded as it dawned on her what she had said.
------------------------------------
Aphrodite POV
Oh, my goodness! OH MY GOODNESS! I just blurted out that I love her! What have I done?! "Umm, I-," I stammered, no longer able to meet Cleo's eyes. Concentrating on Mt. Olympus, I teleported to my room.
"'Dite, wait! Come back! We need to talk about this!" Cleo's voice called to me from my temple. "Please, 'Dite, come back!"
Knowing I could deny her nothing, I teleported back to the temple on the far side of the couch. Staring at my hands, I avoided her eyes warily. "I'm here."
Cleo took a breath. "You love me?"
Fighting back tears, I nodded, still avoiding her eyes. "Yes, I do."
In seconds, she was near me once more, taking myhands in hers. I looked into her eyes hesitantly, and she smiled. "This is the best day of my life. The one I love more than anything in the universe, more than anyone I've known in whatever era, more than any feeling I've everfelt in my entire life, loves me back."
Shocked, I brought my head back up with a snap. "You do?!"
Cleo nodded. "Yes, and it's the most amazing feeling in the world. With Johnny, there was love, but when I was frozen and thawed in 2525, I didn't fall apart without him. I was away from you for a day and it's like my whole world came crashing down. I'm head over heels in love with you, 'Dite."
Feeling overcome by the surge of emotions rushing through my body, I moved without moving, and kissed her deeply, passionately, lovingly. When our mouths pulled apart, I pressed my forehead to hers and whispered, "I'm in love with you, too, Pinky."
Cleo sighed happily. "Oh, 'Dite. Say it again. Please. I'll do anything you want if you say it again."
I kissed her again, this time for longer. "I'm in love with you," I whispered against her lips.
Cleo sighed happily. "What does this mean?"
Her question caught me off guard. "Oh, umm. I don't know what it means. It could mean any number of things," I stammered.
Cleo calmed me with a soft kiss. "When did you know?"
I smiled. "I started falling in love with you the moment I saw you, but it wasn't until I made you upset that I realized how in love I am with you."
Cleo closed her eyes happily, as though she was savoring the moment. Reopening her eyes, she smiled at me. "I've loved you from the beginning, though I never thought you could love a mortal."
I smiled and leaned in to kiss her gently. "You can be my mortal, Cleo," I muttered against her lips, "though not for long, if you want?"
Cleo frowned. "Not a mortal? You mean I'd be dead?"
I stared at her for a second. Oh, my. My lover is insane. "No, Cleo. I meant I'd make you a goddess."
Cleo gaped at me. "You... would do that for me? 'Dite, I don't want you to think I'm taking advantage of you."
I smiled. "I offered, so it wouldn't be taking advantage of me. Really, I'll do that for you because I love you."
Cleo hesitated. "What do I have to do? I'm not familiar with the whole process of godliness."
I released her from my arms, and stood, allowing her all the room on the couch. "Just stretch out, and I'll take care of the rest."
Cleo's lips curved into a sly grin. "Okay, although this position is rather vulnerable. Don't uh, try anything," she purred, "or wait, DO."
Oh, my god!, my mind screamed. Does she have any idea what effect those words have on me? I clenched my hand into a tight fist, forcing huge waves of sexual desire to the back of my mind. "Already ahead of you, Pinky," I told her with a wink. I put my hand about her chest, and calling upon the powers of Gaia and Rhea, I concentrated deeply, transferring the powers of godhood into Cleo's body. Her body went rigid as the spell took it's course, and she sat up, gasping.
"Wha--- am I a goddess?"
I nodded. "Yes, you're a goddess." I grinned, lightly patting her chest where my hand still lay. "Goddess of Exotic Dancing and Strippers."
Cleo laughed. "Goddess of Strippers? That sounds very accomplished in a whorish way."
The statement brought tears to my eyes from extreme laughter. "Well, hey, you're a great dancer, from what I've heard, so you deserve the title."
Cleo's eyes narrowed in a look so seductive I felt myself go weak in the knees. "And now, I should thank you properly."
I fought to keep my expression under control. Forcing a calm, collected smile, I replied, "Your love is enough thanks."
"Oh, no," Cleo purred, and in one skilled move, she manuevered me onto the couch, and straddled my hips. "No. You see, I want to show you my thanks in ways that would make a sailor blush." She kissed me hungrily, her hands beginning a slow exploration beneath the silken gown veiling my lingerie.
Feeling her teasing touch caressing my stomach, I groaned, reaching behind her to untie the straps of her halter top. Yanking it off, I pulled her closer and began on her skirt. "Something tells me I'm going to like the words 'thank you' very much."
"Oh, you will," Cleo told me huskily, and untied the sash holding together my gown. With both of our lingerie being the only barrier left between us, our kissing grew even more desperate.
The door to my temple burst open, and several of my worshippers entered.
-----------------------
Cleo POV
"Oh , noble goddess of such light and purit-," the leading man began, then froze as he noticed our present position. "What the-,"
I groaned. "Not looking so pure right now, are we?" I took Aphrodite's hand and concentrated on Mt. Olympus. Within seconds, we were both teleported there, bouncing onto her bed. I took note of the pink satin sheets. "Mmmm, nice. Now, where were we?"
Aphrodite leaned into me, kissing me with a such a hungry fervor that fire ignited within my heart. "We were right...," she undid the clasps of my bra, and pulled it from me, "about...," her fingers reached to curl in the waistband of my panties, and pull them down, "here."
"Oh, yes. I remember now," I murmured against her lips, and with similar movements of my hands, I removed her undergarments in turn. I pulled back to gaze at her body. Her curves were magnificent, and the lean shape of her body entranced me. "'Dite, you're...," I began , completely at a loss for words.
A nervous look appeared on her face. "What? You don't like?"
Sensing her fear, I leaned in and pecked at her lips. "What isn't there to like? You're absolutely intoxicating."
Aphrodite blushed, and gave me a once over. "You're quite the stunner yourself, Pinky."
Unable to waste another second, I leaned in, kissing her once more. "Now that we've established that, let's get this party started."
"Yes, let's," Aphrodite moaned as I trailed kisses down her neck.
A brilliant sunset formed in the sky as the Goddess of Love allowed her heart, mind, body, and soul to be conquered by the Goddess of Strippers.