Coffee sonata, p.19
Coffee Sonata, page 19
“What’s wrong?” Mike asked, and took her by the shoulders.
“You’ll think I’m a pathetic fool.”
“I’m sure I won’t. In fact, I can promise I won’t.”
“I…I haven’t been undressed in the same room as anyone, except my dresser, for years. I’m not a young woman, Michaela.”
Mike’s eyes softened until they were almost violet. “You don’t have to apologize, and you don’t have to get undressed either. There are no ‘musts’ at all.”
“I know that. And I guess I’m being insecure for no reason.”
“Nothing is for no reason.” Mike smiled crookedly and shrugged. “I’m twenty years younger than you are. You think I expect your body to look as if you were my age or younger?” She cupped Vivian’s cheek with one hand and put Vivian’s hand back on her breast with the other. “But don’t you see? This feels good because it’s you touching me. Just as you’ll feel good for me to touch, because it’s your body. I happen to think you’re gorgeous, but if you weren’t, you’d still make me want you, just for being you.”
“Gorgeous, cara?” Vivian tried to take in what Mike had just said. Of course the words were reassuring, but a part of her still doubted that Mike knew what she was talking about. Her legs were trembling now, and she had to lean back against the counter for support.
“Am I hurting you?” Mike backed away.
“No. Don’t.” Vivian reached for Mike again. “Stay with me.”
Mike nodded and reached for the hem of Vivian’s camisole. As she pulled it up and over her head and then placed it on the countertop, Vivian suppressed her urge to cover herself up. She shivered where she stood, undressed down to her bra.
“Beautiful,” Mike whispered. Her eyes shone a radiant black-violet and were getting darker every second. As she reached out and pushed the bra straps down Vivian’s arms, Vivian moaned at the faint touch.
“May I?” Mike said confidently.
“Yes.” Vivian couldn’t hesitate. Or be afraid. And yet her mouth went dry, and she held her breath as Mike edged her hands around her back and unhooked the bra.
Naked to the waist, very aware of the fullness of her breasts and her painfully stiff nipples, Vivian gathered her courage and looked at Mike.
“Oh, God,” Mike whispered, barely audible, and reached out. She cupped Vivian’s left breast and weighed it gently. “You feel wonderful, Vivi.”
“Thank you.” Damn, what a silly thing to say. Vivian tried to moisten her lips.
Then Mike took the other breast in her free hand. With a gently massaging touch, she explored both of them thoroughly and left Vivian blissful, all her insecurities quieted.
“Let’s get more comfortable,” Mike suggested. “Come on.” Taking Vivian by the hand she led her to the black leather couch. “Here. Lie down. You’re shivering.”
Vivian fell back against the pillows by the armrest and closed her eyes, but opened them immediately, afraid of missing what little she could see of Mike’s expression. A time will come, soon, too soon, when I won’t be able to make out any details at all. I won’t be able to see her face, her eyes. How will I go on without being able to see her beauty…without her at all? Vivian moaned as Mike tweaked her nipples carefully. She had never known her breasts could be this sensitive. Small tremors began traveling from where Mike touched her, through her stomach, and new moisture pooled between her legs.
She’s bound to notice… But there was no time for embarrassment. Vivian couldn’t help but close her eyes and groan when Mike kissed her again. Her breasts were on fire, and Mike’s tongue in her mouth fueled it further.
“Vivian,” Mike sobbed, apparently as moved by the intimacy as Vivian was, “oh, God, Vivian. Hold me.”
As Vivian raised her heavy arms and pulled Mike on top of her, Mike lost hold of Vivian’s breast, but another, completely new sensation flooded her when their breasts rubbed together. Short stabs of pleasure pierced Vivian’s nipples, which puckered into two throbbing bullets that raced toward her wet sex. Vivian instinctively raised her legs again and wrapped them loosely around Mike. “Cara,” she whimpered. “You make me…I’ve never…”
“Me either. Not like this.” Mike’s voice was small and almost fearful. “Never.”
The pain over their impossible situation and comfort in their mutual touch were just as strong as the lust between them, and Vivian cradled Mike as her lover rubbed against her. Lover? Yes. Of course. Mike is my lover now. From this moment on. The seams of Mike’s jeans ground into Vivian, and she almost lost control. She was shivering all over, and hot and cold flashes seared her, leaving her breathless and teary-eyed. “Mike?” Did it come out as a whisper or a cry? She had no idea.
“Vivian. I know. Just let it happen. It’s okay.”
Is it? Was it okay for her to orgasm, here on the couch, with this wonderful woman in her arms? Vivian tried to restrain herself, but the sight of Mike destroyed her determination. Mike’s eyes shone of something resembling love, and even if Vivian knew that was wishful thinking, her body latched on to the emotion and sent her flying.
“You’re fine. Give it to me.” Mike moved with gentle insistence against Vivian. “Come!”
With a husky cry, Vivian came, over and over, while Mike kept rocking against her. Trembling, sweat running from her temples, chased by the tears that streamed from her eyes, Vivian felt the convulsions surge and fade. “Mike!” Impossible. Oh, God, I can’t believe it! Vivian arched and closed her eyes. The tremors reverberated within her for a few seconds more, and then she slumped back on the armrest, pulling Mike with her. “Cara…”
“I’m here.” Vivian welcomed Mike’s weight on her, despite her heat within and the warmth from the fireplace. “I have you.”
“Yes. You do. You really do.” Vivian felt incoherent and licked her dry lips. She couldn’t remember ever coming like that, and definitely not from being fondled in this particular way. Mike felt wonderful against her, soothing where Vivian had ached so badly just moments earlier, and smelling divine. “Don’t let go,” she repeated. “I feel dizzy.”
“You need water.” Mike sat up despite Vivian’s words. “I’ll go get some.”
The living room felt desolate when Mike left. Vivian was still trembling inside, and she moved awkwardly when she felt the soaked panties between her legs. Reaching for a blanket, she wrapped it around herself with unsteady hands. Being naked in the throes of passion was one thing, but greeting Mike in the same state now was unthinkable. God, what will she think of me? What if she sees me as a pathetic fool…half blind and in such dire need of human contact that I climax at the drop of a hat?
How could she explain to Mike that she had come like she did because of her? Only Mike’s presence, her touch and her voice, could explain why Vivian had launched into orbit and soared so high from the mere rubbing of Mike’s hips into her own.
When Mike returned with the water and their clothes, Vivian took the glass, grateful Mike didn’t try to help her drink it. At least she doesn’t treat me like an invalid. Vivian’s stomach lurched, and she took another large gulp of water. So far, that is. What if I do become dependent on other people for my very existence? What if I need help with much more than drinking a glass of water? Vivian put the glass down on the coffee table and placed her tremulous hands on her thighs.
Her eyes radiating unspoken questions, Mike watched her intently. Unlike Vivian, she was clearly oblivious to her seminaked state and did nothing to cover herself up.
“You never drank much juice,” Vivian heard herself point out and wanted to groan. Merde! I’m such an idiot. That was probably the least romantic, and the most lame, thing I could have said.
“I was busy taking care of you.” Mike’s voice was noncommittal, but she didn’t avert her eyes.
“Yes.” Vivian smiled quickly and allowed caution to guide her. “And it was…lovely.”
Mike smiled guardedly. “It was.”
“But you didn’t come—”
“It wasn’t important right now. I wanted to be close. I was happy that you came, and next time, it’ll be my turn, okay?”
Vivian grabbed her glass quickly and nearly choked on the next sip of water. She wants to repeat this embarrassment? “Next time?”
Mike recoiled visibly. “You don’t want to.” It wasn’t a question.
Vivian cringed since she didn’t mean that at all. “I thought, I mean, was sure, that you found this something of a disappointment. I’m not used to…feeling this strongly. And when you touched me…I just never…expected…”
Somehow Vivian’s fragmented speech hit home with Mike. “You’re no disappointment,” she murmured and smiled shyly. “You’re beautiful, and bringing you to orgasm like this was one of the most exhilarating moments I’ve ever experienced.”
“Thank you.” Vivian was stunned. “Can you take a few hours off tomorrow night?” she asked spontaneously, not prepared for her own words. “I’m invited to a big bash at the city hall, and I’d really like for you to come with me.” She’s going to say no.
Mike’s expression shifted from shock to delight and then to horror. “City hall?”
“But would you come with me?” Vivian’s eyes filled with unshed tears. Mike’s reply was so important. She knew she sounded pleading. Again. Pathetic.
“Of course. Just tell me what the dress code is, so I don’t make a fool of myself.”
“Tuxedos for the men and evening dresses for the women. And you’d never make a fool of yourself.”
Mike shrugged. “All right. What time?”
“Eight o’clock.”
“Why don’t I pick you up at seven thirty, then? I have a small car that I seldom use, but it’s reliable.”
Vivian exhaled, relieved. “Sounds perfect.” She paused and reached for Mike’s hand. Taking it in hers, she rubbed her thumb over the back of it. “I take it you’re on your way upstairs to work?”
“Yes. I think you need your rest for the big bash tomorrow. Why don’t you relax on the couch, and I’ll call a cab when you’re ready?”
Vivian had to smile at how formal Mike sounded. “Thank you.”
“I’ll see you later.” Mike leaned in for a quick kiss, then began to get up.
“Cara.” Sudden panic at the thought of Mike leaving before she had a chance to say what she really wanted to say made Vivian scoot closer. She reached up and cupped Mike’s chin. “You know how special this was, don’t you? How incredible you made me feel?”
Mike’s features softened, and she nodded slowly. “Yes. I think so.”
“I guess you’ll have to be patient with me, and more than anything, teach me how to…please you.” Vivian nearly lost her breath at her own words.
“I promise. Soon.” Mike wrapped her arms around Vivian and hugged her.
They sat in the silent embrace for a moment and then parted, which left Vivian feeling emptier than before. Oh, Mike.
“See you upstairs, then.” Mike rose and then hesitated. “Will you be okay with the stairs?”
“Yes. See you later.”
She sat still for long moments after Mike left and pulled the blanket closer. The basement was lit by many small lamps, carefully placed throughout the rooms, which made Mike’s apartment very cozy. Yet, without its owner present, it was what it was—a dark basement, cleverly decorated. Vivian shuddered and closed her eyes.
*
Manon sat by the piano, staring at the keys. Her head was still filled with the tones of their musical experience. Jam session, she corrected herself. But as much as that astounded her, the events in the elevator played havoc with her heart and her body. She could still feel Eryn’s hand on her breast and the relentless lips against her own. Manon let her fingers strike a chord and grimaced at the sound. It was clear and not false, but definitely in a minor key. The sorrowful tone rang through her living room, and Manon wondered if Eryn had heard it below.
She tugged the terry cloth robe closer around her naked body and pushed her damp hair out of her face. Another attempt to recall the feeling in Mike’s basement resulted in a similar solemn chord. Manon impatiently flipped the lid down over the piano keys. She rose and padded into her bedroom, and for once she didn’t bother meticulously drying her hair.
Manon closed the curtains and slipped out of her robe. She glanced down at herself and frowned at her own flushed appearance, the blush stretching from her chest upward. So much for taking a tranquil bath and relaxing at the piano. It used to work. She turned down the bed and climbed in, shivering slightly as the cool, crisp cotton yielded to her body. As she fell back against the pillows with a sigh, images of Eryn flashed through her mind, the way her hair had loosened as she harnessed that wild guitar of hers, and how she’d kissed her with such confidence. And heat. She shimmers and yet she’s so…real. She feels real.
Manon moved her hands along her body, trying to calm it, or satisfy it, but she couldn’t focus or relax enough to really feel them. As she tossed feverishly from one side of the bed to the other, her thighs ached from the need between them. She rubbed herself haphazardly, wanting this torment over and done with quickly. She’s weaseled her way into my mind and she’s driving me crazy. “No!” Not now. Not with her face plastered all over my thoughts. Her hair. Her long, long legs…and her small, pert breasts. Just a handful…No!
She entered herself and emitted one muted, tormented whimper after another. She was so close to coming, and every time she thought she would achieve some relief, it eluded her. Over and over she hovered near temporary satisfaction, but eventually her arms tired and the sweat chilled her body. Instead of feeling her initial heat, she shivered. Angry tears welled up and, on the verge of screaming in frustration, Manon finally gave up. She buried her face in her pillow, hugged the bedcovers close, and after struggling with residual images of Eryn, finally fell asleep.
Chapter Seventeen
As Eryn browsed through the rack of dresses, she sighed. They were beautiful, but nothing that would suit her. She was too tall and lanky, and her skin too pale. She gazed around Genevieve’s, ready to call it quits. But this was the best boutique in town, and if she didn’t find anything here, she wouldn’t find it anywhere else.
“Ma’am? May I help you?”
It was the shop owner herself. “Yes, please. I need a dress for tonight.”
“For the Dodd Endicott party?”
“Yes. And none of these feel quite right.”
“I see.” Genevieve scrutinized her. “What about a vintage dress?”
“Vintage? Sure, why not? This year’s pastel colors are a disaster with my hair. I’m Eryn, by the way.”
“Genevieve. Over here’s a rack of vintage designer clothes, several in suitable colors. They’re all like new, and some even collectors’ items.”
“Really?” Eryn usually wasn’t very interested in fashion, but occasionally she’d spend lavishly on jackets and boots. The rack stood behind a curtain, which Genevieve pushed to one side, and Eryn immediately saw much more potential in these dresses.
“The dresses are arranged in chronological order, by decade. Browse and see what you like, and if you need help just call.”
“Thanks.” Eryn hoisted her shoulder bag farther up. The colors from the sixties and seventies were much more flattering, she decided. When she finally selected two dresses and headed toward the fitting rooms, the dresses hanging over her arm, someone stepped in front of her, and she almost tripped. Strong arms grabbed her and steadied her.
“I’m so sorry…Eryn?”
Mike looked surprised.
“You’re shopping for tonight too?”
“Mike! Yes. I was about to give up before I found these.” She waved her arms.
“Can I watch you try them on? They might inspire me. I’ve looked at three or four dresses and…I’m going nuts.”
Eryn tried to remember if she’d ever seen Mike in a dress. Or a skirt, even. She didn’t think so. “Yes, come help me. It’s one of these or my corduroy jacket and chinos.” Mike followed her to the large fitting room area, where she tried on a long, bottle green, velvet dress with raglan sleeves. She modeled it for Mike. Eryn stepped outside where Mike sat waiting for her. “This one?”
“Looks great. I didn’t know you were that stacked.”
“Yes, it does bring out some curves. That’s good.” She pinched the wide skirt beneath the narrow waist. “All right. Good. Next one.”
Then she changed into a short, deep blue dress that hugged her body in another way. Although it left her legs naked up to her mid thigh, she wasn’t prepared for Mike’s reaction.
“Oh, my God, Eryn. If you show up in that one… You look gorgeous!”
“I don’t even look like me.” She tugged at the hem, feeling a little naked.
“Actually, we have the perfect stockings and original-looking boots to go with that dress,” Genevieve said as she entered the fitting room area. “Let me get them.” She returned in a minute with tight knee-high leather boots, very thin and pliable. “I figured you for a 9.”
“You figured right.” Eryn smiled and pulled them on. She didn’t dare check the price tag, but the sight that met her in the full-length mirror said it all.
Stepping behind her, Genevieve folded her braid up, quickly creating an up-do and securing it with a few hairpins that she magically produced. “There. If you buy the dress, I’ll add some amazing custom jewelry.”
“You drive a hard bargain, lady,” Eryn murmured, but kept watching her image as she twisted and turned in front of the mirror. “Are you sure this is okay for the party? It’s rather short.”
“Yes, but not too short. You have the legs for it, Eryn, and the dress covers what it needs to cover.”
Mike got up. “You have to buy this dress, Eryn. You’ll knock ’em dead.”
“Really. Well…I’m not sure—”
“I’ll let you have the boots at a 65 percent discount.” Genevieve smiled.
“Aw, you’re going to kill me. Okay. Show me some of the jewelry, and if it fits, I’ll take it.”
