"How far is Clunes?"

"Not far," replied Grant to Valerie. "About another few minutes I think."

"Okay," replied Valerie. "I haven't been this way for years and one's advancing years can have an impact on one's memory."

Grant laughed.

"As I keep saying Valerie age is just a number."

Grant was a senior librarian at a municipal council library service responsible for collection development and acquisitions. Grant had met Valerie one day when he was on a reference desk shift at one of his libraries and the two of them had struck up a conversation about books and writing styles. It transpired that Valerie taught creative writing at university and had a number of textbooks published in her name. Over time they developed a casual friendship which prior to now really only extended to lengthy discussions about books in the library. Occasionally they would run into each other in the supermarket or the local shopping centre.

Valerie was 60, divorced and had one daughter who lived interstate and was a lawyer. Valerie looked after herself and cut a fine figure, was tall with curves in the right places, a nice round bottom, blue eyes and an infectious laugh. Valerie looked pretty good either in leisurewear or more formal attire.

Grant was 51, separated with two young adults, one at university and the other finding her way in the corporate world. Oddly enough they lived in the same suburb but at either end. Grant was more bookish in appearance, wore waistcoats and shirts with French cuffs. Valerie regularly commented about Grant's appearance in favourable terms and noted that his dress sense put other staff to shame.

Grant and Valerie were on their way to the Clunes Booktown festival at the town of the same name. Over the years it had developed into a world-famous event which drew large crowds, respected authors and well-known booksellers.

One day at the library, Grant ran into Valerie and mentioned he was going to Clunes.

"So am I," exclaimed Valerie. "I would have mentioned it earlier but I've been interstate for a while and haven't had a chance to catch up and tell you I am chairing an event on creative writing for textbooks. When are you going?"

"Sounds good," Grant replied. "Most likely Saturday just for the day as I am working Sunday or I should say I've volunteered for Sunday as we are a little down on staff at present. When is your workshop? I recall it was the Saturday morning?"

"Correct," said Valerie. "Would you care to attend and ask impertinent questions?"

"Ha!" laughed Grant. "I'll see what I can do. I really have a full agenda to visit some booksellers and spend some ratepayer money. If you like, we could travel together to save on driving. Normally I'd catch the train but I think I'll be coming back with lots of goodies so I'll be taking my car."

"Thank you Grant," replied Valerie. "I'd appreciate that. What time would you like to leave? You can either pick me up or I can meet you somewhere?"

"I don't know where you live," Grant said.

"You never asked," mused Valerie with a laugh. "How about we meet here instead? We can grab a coffee at Dose across the road. They open early on Saturdays."

"Agreed. I'd like to be on our way by 0730 if we can as it will take about two hours. Your workshop is at 1100 so it should give us time," Grant noted.

"It's a date," Valerie said with a twinkle in her eye. "See you on Saturday at Dose at 0700. You and your 24-hour time! Love it! Oh I need your number as well!"

So that is how Grant and Valerie came to be travelling to Clunes for the Booktown Festival. Grant felt relaxed and enjoyed listening to Valerie's stories about life as an author and being subjected to all the idiosyncrasies of the publishing industry from bullying editors to stalking fans and arrogant authors.

"You had a stalker over a textbook?" Grant asked incredulously.

Valerie laughed and launched into another story.

They arrived at Clunes and agreed to keep in touch during the day and perhaps meet for lunch. As it happened they didn't cross paths until towards the end of the day when Grant texted Valerie to ask if she was ready for departure and home.

"Yes. Sorry. Super fun day. See you at the coffee place on the corner Val," was the message received.

As Grant waited after loading the SUV up with boxes of books for his libraries, his phone pinged. It was Mike from the library.

"Hey Mike," said Grant. "What's up? I am still at Clunes but ready to head home."

"Don't bother rushing back. Did you get an alert? Most of Chelsea has lost power for at least 24 hours due to a fire. Water is out as well. Looks like we might have to shut Cheslea and Dingley tomorrow if it is not resolved."

"Gawd," Grant responded. "Are you the duty leader this weekend? Have you let Jo B know?"

"100% done and done. Libraries are closed. Updating socials as we speak. You might want to stay in Ballarat tonight," Mike reported. "Furthermore there is toxic smoke alerts from the fire across your end of town and many local roads are closed. You might have trouble getting home. Oh and I forgot to mention the Western Highway is closed until further notice due to an accident. Truck versus truck versus truck. A complete mess!"

"Noted," Grant said. "Thanks for the tip. I'll be in touch."

"Well hello there," Valerie sang as she arrived with a bag full of books. "Is there room for more?"

"Absolutely," Grant replied. He then launched into an update about what was happening in Chelsea.

"Oh dear," Valerie said. "Not good."

"Indeed. Do you have a friend or somewhere you can stay with?" Grant asked. "I am really at a loss as to what to do?"

"Fuck it," Valerie said. "Let's go to Ballarat. I'll spring for some rooms at the Craig Hotel in town. My treat. Besides, I'd like to continue to chat with some friends I've caught up with at Clunes in Ballarat. We would probably have to go shopping for essentials like toothpaste."

"Done," said Valerie. "We have apparently an adjourning set of suites. Last one two as they are fully booked."

Grant thought about this idea. Oh well. Something to tell the team about on Monday. Besides he could use the time wisely to finish some reports.

"Okay," Grant laughed. "Thanks for the offer. Let's get to Ballarat. I really appreciate it. I think there is a supermarket around the corner so we can grab what we need. The libraries are closed tomorrow in Chelsea and the Dingley area so there is no real rush to get home."

They headed across to Ballarat and checked in at Craig's one of Ballarat's finer hotels with old world charm after doing some shopping for last minute essentials such as toothpaste.

"I'm meeting my friends in the bar so feel free to join us," noted Valerie.

"I might but I'm pretty tired and I need to follow up on some work things," replied Grant. "I'll see how I go after I have a shower."

"OK all good, I'll text you or you can just pop down," said Valerie.

Grant let himself into his room and noted the door leading presumably into the next room. He put down his bag, undressed and headed to the shower that was bigger than his entire bathroom. It was clearly built for two or more given the shower had two large roses at either end.

Grant finished, dried off and walked into the main room naked just as Valerie was entering. "Arrrgh," exclaimed Grant and dived for the towel to cover his nakedness.

"Oh my god," said Valerie, laughing. "Sorry for stumbling in. I think there is a mistake on the booking. I was assuming we had adjoining suites."

"So what happens now?" asked Grant.

Valerie dialled reception and after a short explanation hung up.

"Well... it appears that this is in fact the room," explained Valerie with a wry smile. "The adjoining door goes to next door which is out of use due to refurbishment. Oh well. I guess this will have to do. It's quite nice from what I can see unless you want to look elsewhere?"

Grant thought for a minute. "All good I guess, besides I am really tired. At least we don't have to worry about who gets what bed as they are both doubles," said Grant. "I hope you don't snore at least I think I don't."

"That's the spirit," laughed Valerie. "OK well my turn to have a shower and then shall we pop down to the bar for a while?"

"Sure. I'll see you down there," said Grant.

Valerie undressed and marveled at the size of the bathroom and shower. As she soaped up she also mused about seeing Grant naked. All of him. She thought that for 50 he cut a fine figure and clearly looked after himself. She also noted his cock which was cut and briefly imagined it erect. Grant's bottom looked tight too Valerie thought further.

Valerie's fingers idly massaged her pussy as she washed and their was a brief tingle. How long was it since she had a man inside her? Other deeper thoughts bubbled to the surface but were quickly banished as Valerie gathered her senses. Besides her neck was quite stiff and sore. She would need to see her chiropractor tomorrow if possible.

Valerie dressed and joined Grant in the bar. She waved her friends over as they walked in. Soon drinks were obtained and the discussion settled on the events of the day at Clunes. The group decided a quick dinner was the order of the night before retiring early.

Grant excused himself after dinner and before the coffee arrived and announced he was heading upstairs to check on some emails before heading to bed. Back in the room, Grant opened his laptop and logged in. Soon he was immersed in some reports and email responses.

After about an hour he heard the door open and Valerie walked in. "What a nice evening but fuck it is brutally cold outside," Valerie reported.

"And now raining," said Grant. "Welcome to Ballarat!"

Valerie sat down on the couch with a sigh and started rubbing her neck and grimaced.

"You ok?," asked Grant.

"My neck," explained Valerie. "I think I might have kinked it playing netball. You're not a physio or chiro on the side by any chance?"

"No but I can massage it if that helps," said Grant before realising what he said. "I mean... it might help."

"Why not," said Valerie. "Come over to the couch."

Grant walked over and sat close to Valerie who then turned with her back to him. Grant thought to himself that Valerie smelt rather nice.

"Tell me where and what to do and I'll see what I can do," said Grant.

Valerie explained where the stiffness was and Grant started working the area with his two hands.

"Mmmm, that's good," sighed Valerie. "More pressure if you can and work your way down my spine too".

Grant did as instructed and continued with the massage.

"Ooohh..." said Valerie. "That's good. I am feeling better. If you have a female friend she is very lucky! Your hands feel good."

"Hmmm not at present," replied Grant. "But thanks for the compliment. I might need to stop shortly for a rest."

"Sure," said Valerie and by now was resting against Grant. Valerie's breathing was deep.

Grant slowed down and focused on the neck area. The room was silent apart from the rain on the windows. He got the feeling that Valerie was thinking about saying something significant.

"I hope you don't mind me saying it Grant," said Valerie softly. "I enjoyed your little accident out of the shower. I must admit you scrub up well for a 50yo librarian."

"Umm... thanks," said Grant nervously.

"You have a nice bottom as well," laughed Valerie. "Not that I was noticing too much."

"Duly noted," said Grant. He was starting to feel rather light headed.

"Okay, I'll be honest," said Valerie. "I am actually feeling quite aroused. Seeing you naked started it so you are to blame for that and your massage has continued the thoughts."

By this time Grant had stopped and his hands rested on either side of Valerie's thighs. Suddenly she grabbed them and placed them on her tummy.

"You don't mind? I am feeling very comfortable and relaxed," sighed Valerie.

"No," said Grant and gently nuzzled his face Valerie on the nape of her neck in an effort to get more comfortable.

"Did you just kiss me? If so please continue," mused Valerie.

"I... I... no..." stammered Grant.

"Well that felt nice. I like being kissed there," said Valerie with a sigh.

Grant thought briefly and then kissed Valerie gently on the neck.

"Mmmm... yes that was nice," said Valerie. "Don't stop on my account."

Grant felt a twitch. He too was getting aroused. He hoped Valerie wouldn't notice. The evening was taking an interesting turn.

"Anywhere else? Just for the record of course," asked Grant.

Valerie laughed and turned gently to face Grant. Valerie then kissed Grant on the cheek followed by a gentle nuzzle on his mouth. Grant responded in turn and put one of his hands on the back of Valerie's head and neck and slowly stroked her hair.

By this time Valerie was very turned on. She felt a moistness rising in her pussy and her nipples were hard. Grant gently moved his other hand up towards one of her breasts.

"Mmmmm... that's nice," cooed Valerie as Grant's hand rested on her breast and had started gently playing with the now erect nipple.

They continued kissing gently at first but now their tongues were tentatively exploring each other's mouths.

"I think we should lie down," said Grant with a husky voice.

"Mmm..." replied Valerie and stood up with Grant.

They faced each other and Valerie's hand moved down to Grant's crotch exploring the growing bulge. Grant moved his hands down to cusp Valerie's bottom and pulled her in gently.

"Mmmm you feel good," Valerie mused as her hand started to loosen Grant's belt and undo his pants. Soon his pants were down and Valerie admired the growing bulge in Grant's underpants.

They moved to the bed and Valerie flicked back the doona and started getting undressed.

"Everything off Grant, I'm so wanting to lie down," instructed Valerie.

Grant undressed and his cock was relieved to be unrestrained. Grant was surprised how hard he was. The head of his cock was engorged and already some drops of precum had started to ooze out. Grant felt a familiar movement in his balls.

Valerie by now was fully naked and prone on her side. Her breasts were round and despite her age were still full. Both nipples were erect and hard. Valerie slowing was fingering her pussy which by now was glistening with wetness and admired Grant's firm, hard erection.

Grant lay down beside her and they embraced once again. Grant's hands stroked Valerie's curvy bottom and ran along the crack.

"Allow me," groaned Grant and gently moved one of his hands to her pussy and started exploring with his fingers.

Valerie groaned with pleasure and moved her legs apart to enable Grant to slip one then two fingers in.

"Ugggh, fuck yes," groaned Valerie. "You don't need a map."

Grant fingers had found her clitoris and were gently massaging the engorged ball of flesh.

"My nipples are really sensitive, please kiss and suck on them," murmured Valerie.

Grant obliged and soon his tongue was swirling around each nipple in turn. He sucked on them and heard a sharp intake of breath from Valerie.

Valerie's hand found Grant's erect cock and was slowing rubbing up and down the thick shaft. By now Grant had secreted quite a bit of precum which was being massaged across the engorged head of his cock.

"Yes... yes... mmmm," sighed Grant.

Soon Valerie was gently massaging his balls before running her hand up and down his shaft. Grant groaned with pleasure.

"Ohhh yes... I am so needing this," sighed Valerie. "Use your fingers more on my clit..."

Grant continued with increased pressure and soon heard Valerie start to pant.

"Fuck... I want you inside me," panted Valerie. "Do you want me?"

"I think so yes," replied Grant with a husky croak. "I think that might be a little obvious."

By this time Valerie was on her back, legs spread and Grant's fingers still gently but firmly caressing her engorged clitoris. Grant moved across and positioned himself. Valerie looked directly at him with a smile and guided his cock across her pussy and placed the head at the entrance. Grant lowered himself gently inside Valerie with a sigh.

"Oooh... that feels good," panted Grant and he started to gently thrust inside. "Tell me what to do and what works and stuff."

"Mmmm agree. Oh let's make love," sighed Valerie. "I might need to finger myself as sometimes I can't orgasm with a penis inside me but you are making a good start."

The room was soon filled with sighs, moans and whispers from the pair. Grant thrusted rhythmically and every time he pushed in it was met with a groan from Valerie. Grant knew that he would cum soon but wanted to make Valerie cum so it required every ounce of self control and concentration.

"Faster Grant, go faster if you can," moaned Valerie. "I am getting close."

"Me too," agreed Grant. His balls were in turmoil and a pleasing pressure was building up.

"Oh baby yes, yes, mmmm, mmmm fuck, yes," cried Valerie.

"Val, I can't hold back too much longer. I am close to cumming," groaned Grant.

Grant thrusted harder and Valerie was fingering herself faster and faster.

"I'm gonna... ugh oh fuck mmmm," Grant exclaimed as the first of several spurts of hot cum erupted from his cock deep inside Valerie. "Mmmm sorry oh yes mmmm gawd!"

Valerie felt a warmth spreading inside and Grant's cock pulsating and twitching as another and another spurt of Grant's creamy cum jetted from him as Grant was panting and groaning.

"YES, fuck yes, yes don't stop babe. Yes, YES OH GOD FUCK!," Valerie cried as she shuddered into an intense climatic release of pressure. Valerie's pussy pulsated and seemed to milk Grant's cock.

Grant started to slow down. He was spent and drained and felt very hot and clammy. He had not had such an intense orgasm like that for some time. Valerie scraped her fingers down Grant's back as the shuddering started to subside. She released that they had more or less had orgasmed at the same time.

"Oh my! Baby that was so good. I needed that," panted Valerie gasping for breath. "How are you?"

"Fine," smiled Grant and kissed her deeply. "It's been a while. You are very, very hot and sexy."

"Not bad for 60," laughed Valerie. "Let's cuddle."

They held each other tightly, stroking each other and gently kissing. Soon Valerie's breathing grew deeper. She had not felt this way for a long time and there were many questions to ask and answer and thoughts to process. However now she enjoyed the warm glow and being in Grant's arms.

"Same time tomorrow," whispered Valerie. "I'm game if you are."

"Sure," agreed Grant. "But breakfast first."

The two adjusted the doona and snuggled back down with Grant cuddling Valerie's back. Soon the two were asleep helped by the sound of the gentle rain outside.