Ben and Claire would video chat several times per week and they looked forward to talking with each other. They were there to offer emotional support to each other, and to share their college experiences with their best friend. They even discussed the possibility of Ben transferring to the same college as Claire so they could share expenses and cut down on some living costs.
When they both got home in mid-May, they were thrilled to see each other in person again and greeted each other with a long, sincere hug bypassing their parents who became second and third in line for an embrace. Instead of dining with their parents, Claire and Ben made plans to go out on their own to catch up even though they had been video chatting regularly. Their parents were disappointed not to be invited but they were happy that their children were getting along so well.
As they were talking over dinner, Ben couldn’t help but notice how beautiful his step-sister was. He knew this before but there seemed to be something different about her. Maybe it was that she was older now, almost twenty-one and looking more like a young woman than a pretty girl. His eyes kept darting down to her cleavage and he was recalling seeing her naked and hoping it would happen again someday. He could only wish.
Claire was complaining to Ben about all of the jerks she seemed to attract when dating. She had only been in one semi-serious relationship and was frustrated that she hadn’t found a decent guy yet.
Claire noticed Ben staring at her and asked, “Why do you keep looking at me like that?”
“I’m sorry Claire, you’re such a beautiful woman and a loving, caring person. The right guy will come along eventually. It will probably happen when you least expect it.”
“Ahhhh, you’re so sweet. Any woman would be lucky to have you, Ben. That’s what I love about you, you’re always so supportive.”
Claire also noticed how mature Ben had gotten during his freshman year in college. Being away from home probably helped but he continued to fill out physically also. He was wearing a tight t-shirt that showed off his muscular chest, broad shoulders, and biceps. Claire even teased him about the women in the restaurant checking him out.
Ben smiled and said, “Some women like me for my body, I get that. Don’t get me wrong, it’s helped my sex life but I’m still looking for that special person too.”
“Until that happens, I guess we’re stuck with each other, Ben.”
He laughed and replied, “There are worse people to be stuck with I guess.”
“Gee, thanks a lot,” Claire jokingly replied.
“You know what I mean.”
Claire responded, “I know what you meant but that doesn’t mean I can’t have some fun with you.”
That is what Ben and Claire loved about each other. They could playfully make fun of one another, share their deepest secrets, give advice to each other and share their fears and disappointments. They were best friends in addition to being step-siblings.
As they were leaving the restaurant, Claire asked, “Why can’t I find a guy like you? Any woman would be lucky to have you.”