And The Story Goes ...

And The Story Goes ... Episode XIV

2010-07-19T20:14:00.001-07:00

And The Story Goes ... Episode XIII

2010-07-12T20:21:00.000-07:00

“Where is he? He should be here by now. Maybe somethinghappened; how come he’s still not here? What’s with all of this waiting?”Jennifer interrogates, escalating her tone with each question.

Advancing towards Jennifer consolingly, Karen pats her shoulderand assures, “Calm down love, David is on his way. I’m sure nothing hashappened. We haven’t been waiting long. Remember, he and Brad were at the gym;they probably had to shower. He’ll be here soon dear, okay?”

I wanna say okay but it’s not okay, what’staking so long? I wasn’t even sure I wanted to tell David but now that Karen’sconvinced me to tell him, he’s taking forever to get here. “This waiting iskilling me girl. I wish he already knew then I wouldn’t have to tell him. Idon’t want to tell him Karen, maybe I should just take him with me to my nextappointment with the doctor.” Jennifer offers.

“Taking David to your next appointment is a great idea;that way he can ask questions which will help him help you. What are you soafraid of?” Karen cross-examines whileoccupying the closest chair.

“Everything and nothing—something and a little bit. Ican’t explain it; I know it sounds crazy to you but I don’t feel it will gowell.”

“Why wouldn’t it? He’s probably gonna be crushed when hefinds out your diagnosis; and hurt that he wasn’t the first to know. Frankly,I’m shocked that you’ve told me before him.” Seeing Jennifer’s face sadden,prompts Karen’s reassurance, “No judgment dear, I said I was surprised not thatI thought it was wrong. It’s your body and you have to do what is okay withyou; I ‘m here for you all the way sweetie.”

“Thank you; that means so much right now. I just wish hewould come already.”

“He’s coming; he’s coming, now let’s talk aboutsomething that won’t have you watching the door. How would you like to have alittle girl just like you?” Karen puts forth.

“A little girl would be nice, just not like me”,Jennifer decides.

“Why; were you a hellion growing up?”

Jennifer smirks, “Not really, but I do remember how Iused to think and that was a problem; my luck, my daughter would be inquisitiveand rebellious—I’ll pass.”

“Revolution is natural, we all go through that.” Karenreasons.

“Talk about looking on the bright side, I say rebellionand you say revolution, you’d of been perfect as a parent for me and my friendsgrowing up.” Jennifer remarks then looks down to the floor.

“What is it Jen?” Karen examines not expecting an answerand moving out of her chair to kneel alongside. “I guess I’m fired from thecheer up committee,” she chides hoping to elicit a glimpse of positive emotion.

Taking Karen’s hand and bringing it to her face,Jennifer sighs, “Why can’t it be this easy with him?”

“Because we’re women dear heart; we share a bond. Weconnect and understand in ways different from our male counterparts. Not thatthey’re less, because they aren’t; I think it’s the same with them too.” Karenassures trying to ignore the voices in her mind.

“If that’s the case, maybe that’s why that drunk womansaid David was hooked up with a man back when he was in college.” Jennifersurmises.

“That makes more sense to me. Like I said before, Ican’t see David with a guy. He’s a man’s man.” Karen confirms unaware she issuggestively gazing into Jennifer’s eyes.

“Wow Karen, you have the cutest eyes. No cute isn’t theright word. They are so bright and look like the work of an artist. I bet youalways hear about them.” Jennifer compliments while surges fire through Karen’sbody. On autopilot, devoid of guilt, decorum and protocol, Karen thanksJennifer for the accolade moving to stand behind Jennifer positioning herselfto give a massage.

“You seem tense Jen.” Karen assesses softly working bothshoulders.

“I am; you know I am.” Jen agrees unfastening the firstfew buttons of her blue polo shirt allowing Karen to touch her skin. Zoning ona higher net, Karen breathes deeply taking in the aroma. She’s reminded of themany scents carried by Victoria’s Secret then wonders, does Jen go to VS? I bet she would look good in just her underwear. Iwish she’d take her shirt off; of course she’s only trying to make it easierfor me to massage her shoulders—nothing more. Ah her skin is so supple; shemust pamper herself regularly to keep it this soothing. I just want to turn heraround right now, grab her head and have her suck me off. It wouldn’t take longat all; I bet she’s been with a woman at least once. Maybe I should ask her; ohyeah Karen that’ll go over real well. It wouldn’t have to mean anything; she’snot even my type. I just haven’t had awoman in forever and I’m creaming. I want; dammit I need; this is agonyKaren professes to herself. Trying to dim the intoxication of lust, she almostcries out but confers within, “Lord help me, this is your child Karen. Whereare you when I need you? If you don’t want me to do this, give me a sign.”

Severing Karen’s internal war, Jen chimes, “Yeah! Guesswho’s finally here? That’s the garage door opening. Oh my goodness, thank you, thankyou, David is finally home. Isn’t that wonderful? It’s about time isn’t itgirl? You are the best K! You told me he’d be here soon.”

Panties sticky and senses peaking at maximum, a worldwind of sane arrives; material, rational and irrational all convene—wanting toscream, pout, cry yet thankful for Jennifer’s fog, Karen imparts, “Isn’t thatwhat friends are for? Thank you for trusting me enough to share something sopersonal. I’m going to scoot so that you and David can talk. Remember to tellhim everything the doctor told you and be sure to call me if you need anything.“

“I will sweetie.” Jennifer assures kissing Karen on thecheek. “Oh and by the way, your hands are simply magical. You relaxed me and Ididn’t think that was possible; especially with everything that was going on.You had me melting like butter. You’re gonna have to teach that to David.”

“Anytime love.” Karen calls exiting the front doorbefore David finishes parking in the garage. I’ve got to get outta here. I guess that was God’s sign that I askedfor—David getting home. Like the church always says, prayer changes things,Karen reasons hurrying to her Honda Accord.

*******

“You’re staying over theretonight right?” Rob initiates hoping to disquiet Bishop’s easiness.

“Nah man, I’m leaving inthe next thirty.” Bishop informs.

“Yeah okay, she’s notgonna like that.”

“She’ll be cool with it.It’s not like that between us; we don’t want each other like that. Speak whatyou know man.”

“Did you sleep with her?”Rob nosily asks.

“Where you want to meet upat?” Bishop injects, changing the subject.

“I’m telling ya, if youslept with her, then it’s like that between y’all; you know how women are aboutthat type of thing.” Rob obsesses.

“Brah please drop it. Sheand I know and that’s what matters. One sec man, lemme call you back after Ileave outta here.” Bishop responds hearing Andi approaching.

“Uh huh, that’s how itstarts.” Rob instigates.

“How would you know? Yeah,that’s what I thought; I’ll hit you shortly.” Bishop quips then turns around to see Andi’s smiling at him.

“You hungry? I can putsomething together for you to take with you in a bag.” Andi mentions.

“What made you think I wasleaving? I didn’t say anything” Bishop guiltily renders, fearing Andi may haveheard what he and Rob were discussing.

“Oh it’s not that; it’sjust that my friend Devin will be coming over soon and it may be a bit awkwardif she sees you here. You know I wouldn’t care otherwise.”

Trying to prevent an allout guffaw, Bishop chuckles about Rob’s concern that Andi would have a problemwith him leaving. “Not a problem; it should take me about ten minutes and thenI’ll be on my way.”

“Thanks Bishop, I have tofinish getting ready. Would you please let yourself out hon and we’ll talktomorrow right?” Andi leisurely poses

“Right,” Bishop affirmsfiguring Devin is the next woman Andi is going to drive insane. Andi is a sure enough pill, but that headshe gives makes it all worth it.

*******

Stay tuned and find out what happens next …

And The Story Goes ... Episode XII

2010-07-05T15:47:00.000-07:00

It seems the softness in Gabriel’s voice was thecatalyst to Sophia’s purging about her meeting with Kennedy. Sensibleinitially, her replay quickly escalated to outrageous. Unimpressed, Gabrielinterjected, “Sure she seemed a bit braggadocios but why are you so angry? Issomething else motivating your rage?”

What! That was adumb question; hadn’t she just heard what I said. I must be in some alternateuniverse. What is wrong with her? We’re never on opposing sides. How come shecouldn’t see it? Sophia considers remembering some of the accusationslaunched by Gabriel. Since when are Gabbyand I so vehemently opposed? I thought she’d have my back on this. Well—maybenot, it was Gabby who didn’t even want me to meet Kennedy. She felt I neededmore training on counseling a homosexual. I say, experience is the bestteacher. I want to help people that are looking to break free from the bondageof being gay. To wait for more education would just be an excuse to not move toaction. Why would I do that when so many people want help? Even with clarifyingmy position, Gabby still didn’t get it. Why was she being so stubborn? “I just wanted to help,” Sophia testifies expellinga long sigh remembering the exchange between them that ended the palavering.

“I admire the passion with which you want to free themind of a troubled soul but I didn’t think Kennedy wanted any help. I thoughtshe was content in her decision to be gay. Did she want help Sophia?”

“Everyone wants help Gabriel.”

“Now see? That’s what I mean; instead of answering andexplaining to help me understand, you’re defending yourself. Why is that?”Gabriel condescends.

“I’m not defending myself, why are you acting likethis?” Sophia exclaims.

“I guess I’m missing it sweetie. You’ve been ranting andI still don’t know what the poor woman did that was so wrong. It sounds likeshe didn’t have any idea why the two of you were meeting and yet she took itlike a champ. Yeah she debated with you, but even you said she was nice aboutit. Forgive me for not getting it; to me you sound like you’re obsessing and Iwould really like to know why,” Gabriel summates.

“Wow, I don’t know what to say; I’m speechless,” Sophiamanages as the lump rises in her throat.

“All evidence to the contrary.”

The silence was not golden as neither woman spoke for afew seconds. Conceding her last statement bordered on nasty and clearly wasunnecessary, Gabriel offers, “I can see that you don’t like what happened withKennedy and since it seems like I’m not helping, I should probably let you go.How about we talk a little later; okay sweetie?”

Not feeling okay and trying to douse the hurt burningwithin her chest, Sophia agrees to the mutual retreat and the call expires. Kennedy’s the heathen but I get accused ofobsessing. Why do I get so upset anytime I think about her? Gabby’s right, shewas kind and seemed to accept that we both did not agree. I can’t believe shewas so well read in the scriptures; what was that about? If I didn’t know I’dfeel so embarrassed, I’d ask her more about some of the points she made. Shewas fairly intelligent and her confidence made it even more overbearing. Maybethat’s why she seemed so attractive. I can see why women cower to her but justas they’d think she’s not in my best interest, she would act humble and thenthey would give in to her. That’s gotta be a real head trip.

Now more subdued, venom securely sutured, Sophia restsher head on the back of the large comfy chair. Her heart slows as relaxationcommands her eyes shut. Firmly closed, a movie begins on her lids; she andKennedy are in the room and Kennedy has to have her. Caught in the impulse,Sophia slides her satiny hands down her ashy light brown thighs into her pastelstriped Hanes. Lubrication saturates the swelling middle as Sophia massagesbetween her lips. Rotating her hips forward, she widens her legs to allow herhands to move faster. Giving in more, wanting to climb higher, Sophia slightlylifts her legs, providing the gateway to more than a clitoral orgasm. Fondlingher opening with haste brings heavier breathing as the film continues. Kennedykisses Sophia’s calves and hamstrings while she lie there on her stomachmoistening the sheets with each touch from Kennedy’s lips. Impatient and wantingmore, Sophia elevates to all fours. Kennedy pauses and admires the buffetawaiting her then uses her fingers to pull Sophia’s lips apart, and suckles.First softly licking then accelerating to meet the speed at which Sophia waspushing back to receive her tongue exploration, Kennedy holds Sophia’s thighs forbalance to keep from falling back. Inhibition’s absent as Sophia looks back andmotions for Kennedy to lie down. Before she could offer any furtherinstructions, Kennedy pulls Sophia atop her, sitting her just under herbreasts. Looking up into her eyes, Kennedy declares, “I wanted to make sure Iwas in the position to follow your instructions to the letter. Now tell me General,what am I to do?” Feeling secure and free, Sophia climbs onto Kennedy’s face,and straddles right over her mouth. Using the headboard to support her weightvia her left hand, Sophia uses her right hand to open her swollen lips, advertisingher clit then glides it across Kennedy’s orifice. Carnality forces Sophia tostuff Kennedy’s mouth with more goodness; every plunge hastening to aconvulsive climax. Thighs shaking, Sophia considers cessation to avoid an earlyarrival. Out of compliance with that plan, Kennedy pulls her forward delvingdeeper and faster with her tongue, hoping the onset of the explosion was lessthan seconds away. The cinematography seeming live, Sophia cries out toKennedy, “Right there, Yes! Please don’t stop. Oh yeah, yeah, mm hmm, mm hmm,sssss, oh! Yes! Oh! Ah!” Not disappointing, Kennedy engulfs her juices andaccepts the shock of every thrust to her estuary, granting Sophia complete releaseand ending the screen play. Limp with REMs fast approaching, Sophia’s fatiguingmind floods with questions, the most apparent one being, what the heck was that? She tries to search for an answer, butsleep arrives first.

*******

Stay tuned and find out what happensnext, Monday, July 12^th 2010. Have a beautiful day and stay hydrated!

And The Story Goes ... Episode XI

2010-06-28T12:02:00.000-07:00

Please enjoy themusic while your party is being reached …
♪ I’m so excited and I just can’t hide it, I’m about to lose control and Ithink I like it. ♪
She’s probably at rehearsal or in the middle of practicing knowing Toni,Shaun thinks as the Pointer Sisters song diminuendos and the voice mail messagebegins. Ending the call, Shaun chortles remembering Andi’s words. Screw me? Huh, screw you b that mess wasover before it started. Shoot, Andi was too everything; too much, too little,too mouthy, too extra, just to damn too. Hopefully she meant it when she hungup on me; God help, she won’t call back.

*******

“You don’t ever have time for me anymore. What’s got youso busy?” Andi mocks as though Karen couldn’t possibly have anything else to dobut answer her solicits for attention.

“Life girl; Ican’t really talk right now.”

Can she get over herself? She’s not the onlyone with a life ya know. She’s so selfish; it’s always I gotta this and I gottathat. Why do I even bother? “You’re not the only one with a life. There’s alot going on with me right now.”

“I know sweetieand I’m sorry but this isn’t a good time. I’ll call you a little later okay?”Karen gently suggests. I hope she isn’tabout to snap off. Lord knows it’s just like Andi to trip out because I have totake care of something other than what she deems is important. The last thing Ineed is to hear her nonsense while I’m trying to sit here and help Jen. She’strying to deal with cancer and lies about her husband. I still can’t believesomeone told her David is a homo; that’s not even possible. Women can be socatty, probably some tramp that wants to screw David. There is no effing wayDavid is into dudes. Well she did say it was back when he was in school. Peopledo get wild when they leave home, I should know. Yeah, I’m sure he got wild; hewas an athlete and frat boy after all. I bet he had women all over, I know Braddid and they were best friends. Come to think of it, I wonder what Brad wouldsay about David and men; he would fall out laughing I’m sure. Hmmm I wonder; Ijust might have to tell him the rumors on ol’ Dave.

“Hello, helloKaren, are you there? I don’t believe this. Hello Karen, if you can hear me, Ican’t hear you. Are you there?” Did shehang up? Andi muses just as Karen unpremeditatedly reacts, “I’m here Andi,but I don’t have a good signal. I’ll catch up with you tonight. Talk to youthen girl.”

“Talk to me then?Talk to me when?” Andi quizzes not immediately discerning that Karen is no longer onthe other end. What a crock; she’s always too busy for little old me. With friendslike her, you don’t need enemies. I should call Devin, she always has time forme.

*******

“What was that you were saying? Careto repeat your accusations? I think you were lecturing me on the pitfalls ofjealousy when Karen called me and then you decided to act it out. Admit itDavid, I’m not the only one who gets jealous and we both know why.” Brad statesraising his left eyebrow suggestively.

Ignoringthe obvious overtones, David snaps defensively, “I don’t think inquiring aboutthe reason Karen would need to contact you yet again, when she’s knows we’replaying racquetball constitutes invidiousness. Face it Brad; this is about younot wanting to be the only one green with envy.”

Here comes the human thesaurus; why can’t hejust say jealousy. Isn’t that what normal people say? Not him, he has to sayinvidiousness. That’s my David; man I love him. “When I think of green, Ithink of Go, not envy; and knowing what I know you should too babe. Now dropthe attitude and stop wasting time; you’re gonna have your hands full soonenough. Or maybe you should drop something else, how ‘bout that?”

“Doyou ever get enough?” David scoffs.

“Noand neither do you. C’mon let’s go to the showers. I got something for you tosuck on. I think I see a green light and it’s getting brighter; here take alook.” Brad demands pointing to his member.

Wantingto resist but feeling his own “green light” David follows behind Brad, who turnsleaving the court, eagerly anticipating what was about to become. He knows how to get me going. Damn I’m soweak for him.

Noddinghis head then glancing back to the accompanying David, Brad looks around to ensurethere are no observers. Still walking, he reaches into David shorts, reacquaintswith his favorite and whispers “I wanna taste and be tasted.” Feeling a tingeof guilt, he rethinks his decision to not tell David what Karen said. I should’ve told him Jen wants him home butour time keeps getting cut. I will after we shower; we deserve some timetogether. Ever since that damn accident things have gotten even more strained.He’ll understand, it’s not like she’s dying, she can wait this once; I alwaysdo.

*******

Ah man, I missed Shaun’s call. I hope shewants to hang out tonight. I knew I should’ve left earlier. I would’ve if Lyrichad of stop talking; how many times are you gonna want to reread the doggonelines at rehearsal. She needs to do that crap at home – she’s carrying on likea headliner. You’re an understudy for goodness sakes. Let me hurry up and callher back, we’ve been having so much fun lately Toni appraises selectingShaun’s mobile number, unaware of Lyric approaching on her left.

“You didn’t rideyour bike tonight? I usually see your helmet riding into the sunset when I comeout,” Lyric teases.

“Not tonight, it’stoo humid. I’d be a sweaty mess.” Toni explains.

“It has been quitehot lately. It feels like July.”

“It is July Lyric.You might need to get yourself some rest girl; we’ve been going at it hard.”Toni declares trying to move the conversation along so she can return Shaun’scall.

“That’s fer sure;you headed home?” Lyric quizzes noticing a look of surprise on Toni’s face.

What the heck? Why is she asking that? Shewant a ride or something? “Well I’m not sure. I was hoping to catch up witha friend of mine.”

“Is it the girlwho comes and waits for you at rehearsal sometimes? I don’t mean to be nosy,”Lyric justifies.

But you are being nosy. “What girl?”Toni asks not wanting to say yes.

“The one whose caryou sit in sometimes. Y’all seem like good friends.”

What is she doing; watching me with binocswhen I leave? Toni leaves with girl, full story at 11. “Oh yeah, we’re goodfriends.” Toni assures

Hmmm she didn’t answer my question. I knowshe heard it. Maybe she’s just guarded. I should just come out with it. What’sthe worst that can happen huh? “I asked because I want to go out with youand didn’t wanna disrespect anything you all may have. Are you available tograb a bite? Lyric invites.

“I’m sorry, Ididn’t really hear you. The music from that truck over there drowned you out.What did you say?” Toni asks trying to compile an acceptable response toLyric’s invitation.

Skeptical but acceptingthe plausibility, Lyric repeats, “Do you wanna grab something to eat? I askedabout your friend because I’m very interested in getting to know more about yououtside of work.” I bet she’s gonna endup asking about Scott.

“Going out wouldbe good; tonight wouldn’t be the best night though. If I’d known, I would’vebrought a change of clothes; how about later this week?”

“Sure; what’s yournumber so I can text you mine?” Lyric explains.

“Cool; I have aquick question Lyric and I’m not trying to judge. Your business is yourbusiness. There’s a guy that’s with you almost all of the time, is he yourbrother?”

Laughing, Lyricclarifies, Scott is not my brother although he’s around like one. We tried togo out back in high school and have been friends ever since. Don’t get mewrong, I do date guys just not that guy.”

“So you’rebisexual?” Toni submits

“Yes mam;card-carrying and proud”, Lyric announces confidently. “I bet you’re not usedto hearing that response.”

“No I’m not; I’mpretty sure that was the first,” Toni confirms looking forward to what Lyricwas about to say next.

“I think thedefinition of bisexual has become mucked up. It has become a symbol for greedand lies and distrust and that is a falsehood if I do say so myself. Pleaseallow me to explain premise; not everyone who likes both wants both at the sametime or wants to lie to one to have the other. I myself prefer not to mixsticks and slits; how about you dear heart?”

Bellowing to thepoint of almost choking Toni chides, “Now that is a colorful definition if Iever heard one. Bravo Lyric, bravo! Although Toni’s enjoying Lyric’s antics,she hopes for an ending in the near future. “Girl you are too funny. Wedefinitely gotta hang out.”

She said hang, I’m not trying to hang, Iwant to date. Let me not push it, we can work out the details later. “Yes,let’s; see ya later.”

“Cool”, Toniresponds, rolling up her window. I surehope Shaun isn’t busy. I have been chatting with this chick when I could’vebeen calling Shaun back – Damn, what if she’s unavailable?

*******

Staytuned and find out what happens next, Monday, July 5^th 2010. Have agrand 4^th of July weekend; it’s our nation’s birthday!

And The Story Goes ... Episode X

2010-06-14T00:01:00.000-07:00

Experiencinganother mental tirade over what happened at Kennedy’s a few weeks ago, Sophiaenvisages, why oh why do I keep thinkingabout her? What a crock! Talk about thinking you know everything—Gabby wasright. I shouldn’t have gone there by myself. Then again nothing happenedreally—it was such a waste of time. You’d of thought she called the meeting theway she dominated the conversation. What was Karen thinking when sherecommended I speak to Kennedy? Okay, okay, technically she didn’t, but she could’vewarned me when I asked about her. I was trying to help her but she believesshe’s right. How can someone so well versed on the scriptures actually believebeing gay is acceptable to God? Her arrogance was beyond belief; who doesn’tknow that Sodom and Gomorrah was wiped out due to homosexual sins?

I’m sure only Kennedy believes there wasn’tany mention of God’s feelings towards that when He spoke about the sins ofSodom and Gomorrah.
Shetried to intellectualize everything; you’d think she was a concordance. I’venever heard anyone say that God was speaking about rape when referring to thesins of that town and the fact that she cited Genesis 19 from which shegarnered that revelation was profane. I can’t stand when someone knows a littlebit of information and uses it to mislead. I’m trying to save souls, not havean academic debate with a self proclaimed theologian. I refuse to be dissuadedfrom helping people come to the Lord just because it’s not popular.

I’ve tried to help so many people, even mycousin Karen and yet I’m alone. I’m the one that’s by myself because I choosechastity, and purity, and virtue. Well, not alone because I always have Jesusin my heart but what about having someone in human form for this earthly realm?This is nothing but warfare; the devil is always trying to battle with me andhe used Kennedy. She was spewing all types of unsupported facts about God’sview on homosexuality. I guess as sinners we’ll find anything to justify oursins. I wonder if Gabriel has ever had anyone use the excuses Kennedy gave me.The nerve of her to challenge the Word of God; it is only by grace that Hesaved any of us. How any of us can challenge His power and goodness isunconscionable. If that wasn’t enough—when I began to raise my voice, Godforgive me, she ignored my fervor and with gall said, “I have nothing butrespect for your passion in your beliefs. Passion is a beautiful thing and I’msure you will look beyond our differences. Thank you for stopping by andsharing your concern for my future Sophia. Is there anything else you’d like totalk about tonight?” What else was there to say at that point? Clearly herheart was hard against any truth. I’m glad I left right then. Yeah she playednice and tried to walk me to my car but I wasn’t having that or anything elseMiss Kennedy was giving! I can only help people that want to be helped … who isthat ringing my phone? Probably a telemarketer, I don’t recognize the ringtone.

“Sophia Delp,” sheanswers.

“Hey Lady Sophie,”Gabriel replies.

“Gabby?”

“Yup it’s me; I’mcalling from my mother-in-laws house. My cell is charging right now.”

“How is mama?”Sophia offers sincerely.

“She’s good; Iwanna know how you are. We haven’t had a chance to talk in more than a week andI didn’t see you at the last meeting.”

Before responding,Sophia exhales then begins outlining her meeting with Kennedy.

*******

Awaiting theabatement of Karen’s call, Jennifer calms down after whispering cynicalsentiments about telling Karen that Brad was supposedly David’s college lover.At least that’s the story the gossiper spun during Homecoming weekend at Berkeley.Remembering how highly she thought of Karen, Jennifer decides not to sharethose specifics. Why share something likethat when there are no facts? It’s bad enough that I had to hear that; I’m notgonna do that to Karen. I have much more pressing issues to talk to her about.

Rejoining theroom, Karen scares Jennifer, disrupting her thoughts. Almost blurting, Jenniferannounces Dr. Tomell’s findings.

“I have cervicalcancer Karen.”

“Oh honey, I’m sosorry; are they sure? Is there any chance of error? How can I help?”

“Yes, they’resure; my pap came back abnormal so they did another pap and when that came backthe same, they did a biopsy.”

“I can’t evenimagine what you must be going through. Did you know before the accident? Isthis what you don’t want to share with David?”

“I do want to tellDavid, it’s just that I don’t want him to think ill of me. I had the biopsybefore the accident and I was going to tell him when I came to the gym thatday, but my mind started playing tricks on me. Next thing I knew, I was in theER.”

“Why would hethink something bad of you? You are the victim here; you didn’t ask forcancer.”

“True; but there’ssomething he doesn’t know. Before David and I started dating, I had genitalwarts. I had them removed, and they’ve never come back. The problem is I nevertold him about it.”

“But that wasbefore you and he even knew each other. C’mon Jen, David would stand by you andsupport you in this.”

“Let me put itanother way; how would you feel if Brad had herpes and never told you about it.Would you care if it happened before you?”

“There’s nocomparison—you’re comparing apples and oranges.”

“No—both areincurable.”

“I’m not gonnadebate this with you, the point is, you have cancer and I believe your husbandwould want to know and will stand by you. If it’ll help, I’ll come with you totell David or I can tell Brad and he’ll tell for sure. You know how close theyare.”

All too well if I believe … never mind.“That’s nice of you to offer Karen, but no. You’re right, I need to tell himand I’m going to tonight.”

“Good girl; nowwould you like me to call Brad back and tell him you’d like David to come homenow?”

“I’m injured nothelpless.”

“I know but sincethey’re together I figure I can kill two birds with one stone; call Brad to meetme and tell him to have David come home.”

“Where are they?”

“Playingracquetball; probably putting names to the balls as they hit them,” Karensuggests snickering a bit but quickly changing her expression to somberreminded of the conversation being about cancer. “Just sit tight hon, I’m goingto call Brad right now.”

*******

“Idon’t see why you’re not more concerned about why Jen was at the gym.”

“Goshyou sound paranoid Brad. Why do you keep bringing this up?” David asks wipingthe sweat from his hairline.

“Becauseit doesn’t make sense; her explanation for being at your gym is flimsy. I hopeyou’re not being naïve again,” Brad declares.

“I’mnaïve because I believe my wife is still unaware of our relationship. If that’swhat it is now; is it still a relationship Brad or are you just pricked by mymarriage?” David sarcastically propositions.

“Howconvenient; are we talking about me or you?”

“Explainthat; you’re not married, I am, and it seems to get under your skin even thoughyou didn’t want to be with me exclusively. You wanted to pretend for otherpeople remember?”

“Don’tthrow that in my face again; is that always gonna be your response when theconversations between us turn to you and your wife. We said we were going totalk about us that day at the gym. I’ve been trying and every time it’s come upsince then, you retreat. Who’s being the coward now? Maybe I did get skittishback then but what about now? One second.”

“Is that Karencalling you again? You just talked to her a few minutes ago. Damn that girl;can you get a moments peace?” David protests right before Brad picks up hercall.

*******

“So you’rebreaking up with me because I didn’t want to see you on the day you asked,after you refused to go out with me when I suggested we spend some timetogether. Aren’t you the selfish one,” Andi fumes.

“Huh?” She got all that from me saying I’d preferto just be friends and no longer date Shaun considers.

“Or are you seeingsomeone else now? Is that it?”

“No Andi, I’m notseeing anyone; I just think we’ll fair better as friends that don’t date.”

“Easy for you tosay; you don’t even care about how I might feel about it.”

“I do care how youfeel, but that’s not going to change my mind. Listen sweetheart, I think you’rea nice girl and I hope nothing I’ve said has hurt you.”

“Whatever Shaun;you could’ve at least done this in person. So crass of you to do it over thephone; It’s cool though. I actually agree with you. There were a lot of thingsabout you I didn’t like.”

“Well then I’mglad we’re in agreement.”

“Screw you!” Andiexclaims before ending the call.

Wasn’t that unnecessarily dramatic? Then again,what should I have expected? That’s the joy of Andi Shaun ponders thendials Toni’s number.

*******

Stay tuned and find out what happensnext, Monday, June 21^st 2010. Make you day beautiful!!

And The Story Goes ... Episode IX

2010-06-07T09:59:00.000-07:00

“Hmm yea right there. Just like that, don’t stop!” Please don’t move from that spot. That’s it, oh she feels so good Avery thinks as Kennedy partakes in her nectar. With her upper back and head propped up on two pillows and her thighs open like the Sukhasana position in Yoga – legs extended, Avery uses both hands to secure her lips on either side ensuring Kennedy has complete access to her protruding clit. Her body jolts from Kennedy’s navigation to ‘the place’ prompting Avery’s insistence that she stay suckling right there while thrusting her pelvis forward to guarantee Kennedy’s tongue stay on target. ‘The place’ being the one of many spots that causes the body to surge into an insatiable quest for climax which is why Avery is panting and pushing her middle between Kennedy’s lips.

Not quite five feet, ten inches in height, Kennedy’s legs extend beyond the queen-sized bed as she finds sustenance in Avery’s juices. Her gluts flex as she grinds and slightly pumps the sheets reflecting on the last time she entered Avery. Knowing their time was short today, they opted for strictly oral sensations instead of their usual full contact romp including Trish, the affectionate name given to the harness that houses whatever curved inches Avery wants to receive from Kennedy. Having to curtail their encounter, a thought sporadically appearing in Avery’s mind, initiated the hastening to crescendo. With more time, she’d want Kennedy to explore further but time is of the essence right now.

I bet Vanessa has text me. Hopefully it wasn’t too long ago. I’m gonna have to get off later. I should not have tried to cut it this close; Avery would’ve understood a change in plans. She does not sweat me on my schedule. What the hell was I thinking? Let me not even try to lie to myself – I was thinking about these thick thighs wrapped around my head like a vice. Damn she juicy; that’s right give it all to me Kennedy mulls feeling Avery’s body convulse, jerking and spewing a liquid feast. Oh yea! Now that was worth the trouble I might get in later. Mmm, I wanna put it in your mouth so bad girl, but that’s gonna have to wait till next time. Let me hurry up and get going before I change my mind and start really causing some problems.

*******

“I absolutely cannot picture my husband taking it in the rear. Can you believe I’m saying this? It’s absurd! If I told you the countless thoughts I’ve had about him and another man you’d shoot me. I need to get off of these pain killers; they’re affecting my judgment. Ever since that accident I haven’t been myself. What should I do Karen?” Jennifer questions.

“Well um okay, I’m a little in shock right now; give me a minute to get my bearings. First you need to try and relax. Like you’ve said, you’ve been taking some pretty strong meds. Did you think David was sleeping with men before your accident?”

“I’m not sure.”

“It’s not a trick question,” Karen chides.

“I never thought anything until his school reunion. One of his old classmates told me about a torrid affair David had with another man. How could he do that to me?”

“Wait, slow down Jennifer—a stranger decides to spin some erotic tale about your husband and your faith in him goes out the window? Who was this person and why should you trust them? What about all of your years with David? Doesn’t he deserve some credit?” Karen defends unable to picture David being any man’s man. Shucks, David is the last person anyone would suspect of taking it; giving it maybe. Nah, not him, somebody’s just messing with Jen’s head. Maybe her doctor should take down some of the milligrams in those pills. I wonder if she’d be just as flabbergasted to find that I’d follow the contour of her tanned body before ever looking at David. I can barely recall all of Brad’s anatomy and I sleep with him. “Have you ever seen anything that made you question whether he was straight?”

“I know, I know but she sounded so convincing, like she knew what she was talking about.”

“Who? Who told you all of this? I’ve never heard even a whimper about David’s sexuality being something other than straight.” Of course I haven’t heard any mention about myself either, so I’m not sure that logic is the catalyst to any real conclusive findings, Karen reasons, awaiting Jennifer’s explanation.

“I can’t remember her name; it’s not like I knew her—I was trying to figure out what brew I wanted when she sauntered over to me.”

“You let a drunken woman put ideas in your head about your man? She probably was tore up Jen.”

“I guess you had to be there. I felt she knew my man better than I did; like I was an outsider in my own relationship. I don’t think about it a lot but I just wonder ya know? Especially now Karen; it keeps gnawing at me.”

“Why now? Is it because of the accident?”

“I wish it were. Do you know that on the day of the crash I was spying on my husband? I was messed up and confused and wanting to tell him about my doctor’s appointment when I started getting suspicious. David is wonderful but sometimes he disappears out the bed or seems to go to the gym kind of early; I used to think nothing but now I just don’t know.”

“What doctor’s appointment? Is something wrong? Are you pregnant? I know y’all were trying. Did you tell David whatever it was?” Karen inspects eager to hear answers.

“No I didn’t tell him about the doctor and I’m glad the hospital didn’t tell him when I was in their ER for my accident,” Jennifer guiltily announces.

“Jennifer, he’s your husband and I’m sure he would want to know. He’d want to support you no matter what your doctor said. Can I help in any way?”

“Yes you can; I’ve been holding this in and that’s not healthy. Dr. Tomell told me I um …” Tear droplets ski the slopes of Jennifer cheeks before she finishes. Trying to prevent an all out cry she keeps softly sniffling, when Karen’s phone rings. Showing Jennifer the display indicating the call is from Brad, she signals the one moment and steps out the room. Taking the time to get herself together, Jennifer grabs some tissue, leans on the granite counter and wipes her face. Sighing loudly, she whispers, “Would you be so consoling if you thought my husband was boffing your man? I doubt it. Maybe you need to hear exactly what was told to me. Maybe you’ve seen something I haven’t. Why should I be the only one carrying all of this? You asked if you could help; how about I give you a scoop of truth. Yeah, I need your help Karen.”

*******

Stay tuned and find out what happens next, Monday, June 14^th 2010.

What did the doctor tell Jennifer?

Is Karen going to find out that Brad is the one rumored to have been David’s lover?

Is Kennedy with anyone exclusively?

And The Story Goes ... Episode VIII

2010-05-24T09:47:00.000-07:00

A summation of thoughts over the last few days produces feelings of self preservation and self annihilation for Karen. Prayers, sighs and cries led her to calling off work a few days ago. Now out of breath from Plyometrics, a workout regimen from the p90x® series, Karen drags herself to the linen closet to get ready for her shower. Beads of sweat peruse her cocoa butter body; sliding past her back to her firmly shaped hamstrings and then to her calves; sculpted like a runner, they tend to make themselves known whether she’s still or ambulatory. With her head leaned against her right arm, that’s propped against the linen closet door, Karen grins thinking about Cyan.

Cyan, a beautiful soul, almost angelic, given the way she assisted Karen with her depression the other day; Karen was wallowing in a pool of self hate and conflict trying to come to terms with her yearning for women. She had reached out to an ex-gay counselor after sleeping with her boyfriend only to hear she was wrong for taking that route. Deciding to get away from the walls that seemed to be closing in, Karen goes to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial. While walking along the wall, she considers the many sacrifices each person named must have given and begins berating herself for having feelings of despair over being gay. What do I have to be sad about? I’m not in the trenches waiting to be fired upon or bombed. Why can’t I get passed this? Why am I making this thing with women such a big deal? As Karen contemplates an answer to her own question, Cyan walks up and asks, “Is someone you know listed on the wall?”

“No, not at all, do you know someone here?” Karen asks snapped from her trance and now focused on the stranger’s possible loss.

“I don’t believe I do, but some of my family members served in Vietnam. My granddad got a purple heart,” Cyan proudly declares.

“I’m sorry your grandfather was hurt,” Karen atones eyes welling.

“Thanks, but he’s okay and there were so many that didn’t make it back; I mean look at this wall, so many lost. Hey listen, I know you said you’re not here for that, but you look so … what I mean is, are you okay honey? What’s your name dear? I’m Cyan.”

“You’re so sweet to ask, but I don’t have an answer. Well accept for my name that is, I do have that for you; my name is Karen. As for everything else, I don’t know what I am right now. I’m a whole lot of something. Well actually, I’m a whole lot of nothing.”

“No doll, that just can’t be; I don’t even know you but I know that. We’re all God’s children and He doesn’t make any mistakes. Are you telling me you’re the one exception?” Cyan buzzes, consoling Karen handing her tissue before grasping her hand.

“Thanks for the tissue. I know God is infallible but you don’t understand. I’m all messed up. It’s not His fault, it’s mine. I’m the one who’s made a mess of my life. Let me ask you something Cyan, have you ever heard of the point of no return? That’s where I am, the point of no return.”

“Is that so? Please tell me where that is; I’ve been dying to know. Is it somewhere near ‘I’ve arrived’? You know where I’m talking about right? That place everyone tries to get to,” Cyan enunciates. Karen begins guffawing; holding her stomach and bending over to catch her breath. Now drawing the attention of others visiting the wall, they decide to walk. Cyan grasps Karen’s hand and starts swinging their arms forward like school girls. Looking over to Karen she admits, “Now that’s what I like to see; a pretty girl with a pretty face—no tears allowed. Are you ready to tell me why you were the one mistake in all of God’s creation?”

“It probably seems like I’m having a pity party, but I’m not; well maybe I am—shoot I don’t know. I’m not sure I have the words to help you understand,” Karen emits and releases the catalyst to her dolor; her desire for women even though she’s in a relationship with Brad, the abomination for being gay sermon preached from the pulpit of her cousin Sophia and the perturbation parade marching through her head. Karen finds it amazing how willingly she divulges her private hell. I guess it’s true what they say—sometimes it’s easier to tell a stranger. Listening in earnest, Cyan proclaims, “don’t allow yourself to be prisoner based on the beliefs of others. It sounds to me like you were fine with being gay until your cousin took you to a revival of some sorts, and they told you how ashamed you were supposed to be about being you.”

“Thank you for trying to be supportive but it’s not that simple Cyan,” Karen resolves.

“The heck it ain’t. Let me tell you what I know sugar. I know God loves me, you and every other living thing out here. It wasn’t that long ago that I thought, no correction, I knew I had to be a mistake. Can you imagine being born with male genitalia but knowing you’re a female? I bet you can’t and don’t want to,” Cyan concludes and timelines her discovery; chronicling the many battles with her parents, associates, so-called friends and most viciously, the fight within herself. She expounds, at length on the day she came to terms. Ready to terminate her life, she pleaded with God to help her be a man; to make her a son her parents could be proud of; a brother her siblings didn’t have to defend to others and on that day, after petitioning and beseeching, Cyan received her answer. Trying to tell what happened next, she clutches Karen’s hand tightly and whispers, “do you know that the phone rang? It scared me right out of my despair; there I was begging God and asking for His help and the phone rings. I picked up and said hello as if God was calling me direct from heaven, of course it wasn’t, but you’d never guess who was on the line.”

“Who; one of His disciples?” Karen interrogates without equivocation and quite seriously.

“In a matter of speaking, yes it was a disciple; his name was Joshua—go figure. I’ll never forget what he said after I said hello. He replied, yes um hi this is Joshua from Love You, I’m trying to reach Darryl. Cyan goes on to explain that Darryl was her birth name and Love You is a group who touted as its mission ‘To help you love you no matter who you are.’ She had been told about the group, but never called. The fact that she was receiving an unsolicited call during her request for God to miraculously heal her perceived affliction; it was the answer she needed. Moving forward, she faithfully attended meetings, eventually accepting who that she was not cursed or a mistake. She changed her name to Cyan because it means blue in Greek and blue is representative of peace; the peace she tries to maintain. Speaking with glee, she shares how she finally found love. “Once I loved me, I became open to others loving me. Actually, I have too much love going on right now.”

“Is there such a thing?” Karen asserts unclear of what Cyan means by saying too much love.

“It is when you have a girlfriend and a lover.”

“You have woman? I don’t get it; if you like women then why didn’t you just stay a guy”

“I could ask you the same thing; you have a boyfriend, why not just be heterosexual?” Cyan retorts one eyebrow up, waiting for Karen’s epiphany.

“I see your point, I’m sorry that was tacky,” Karen acknowledges.

“All is forgiven sweetie, but the truth is I do have a situation. My girlfriend and I were having issues and we took a break.” Cyan clarifies holding up the quotation marks. “That’s when I met Kennedy. She walked in the café and I could not stop looking over at her. I stopped focusing on my coffee, my book and the phone call I was on. She sat near my table and we ended up talking. Next thing I knew, I was trying to stop myself from giving her every way imaginable to meet me. My cell, home, address, email, you feel me? Kennedy and I went out a few times, but of course Samantha and I got back together.”

“Oh I see; Kennedy is the lover and Samantha is your girlfriend?”

“Affirmative.”

“Well, I can see why you are in high demand Cyan. You are some kind of special.”

Karen chuckles softly standing there at the linen closet remembering just how much she laughed that day with Cyan; Cyan made it all seem so easy. I wish it were that easy. I haven’t received my revelation just yet. Cyan wasn’t in a relationship lying when she faced her demons. I’ve got a man who I want to want but don’t. He loves me, he wants me and I still can’t get it together. I’m sitting here wanting something I could never get from him and there’s nothing he can do to change that. I must be the most self consumed bitch on the planet. Me, me, me that’s all I seem to think about these days. Let me hurry up and take a shower so I can go check on Jennifer. She’s laid up in the bed trying to heal and all I can think about is my shortcomings. Snap out of it Karen; can’t you be there for someone else right now? Get over yourself already; gosh.

*******

Having dismissed her class early, Shaun gets ready to stop by Toni’s play rehearsal. Toni has been working so hard running lines trying to get her part just right. I’m so proud of her. She’s gonna be shocked to see me there. I should stop by RaeKi’s and pick up her favorite dish. Who in the world is calling? Everyone knows I still have my students now. Looking down at her phone, Shaun sees Andi’s name highlighted. I might as well talk to her now, since I’ll probably be hanging with Toni later.

“Hey babe, how’s it going?”

“I’m not sure, why haven’t you called me back? I know you know that I’ve been calling you,” Andi insists.

“I’ve had students all day; you know that Andi. The only reason I could pick up now is because I let them go early. Relax babe; tell me about your day.”

“You mean to tell me you couldn’t call me at least once today? How likely is that? And why did you let the kids go early today, did you give them a test?” Andi gripes. “You know what; you should come pick me up. Let’s go get grab something to eat.”

“How about I take you to breakfast in the morning?” Shaun offers.

“What about tonight? I don’t wanna go to breakfast.”

“Tonight’s not good, tomorrow would be better. I’ll have more time then.” Shaun announces.

“Why can’t we go out tonight?”

“I already told you babe, c’mon let me pick you up in the morning and we’ll chill together.”

“No, I can’t.” Andi argues.

“No problem, I understand. I need to call you back—one of my students just came in.”

“Yea I’ll bet; I’ll talk to you later; bye.”

“Bye babe,” Shaun utters and hits the ear piece to disconnect. Happy to be off the call, she considers the best way to end any relationship type dealings with Andi. I need to end whatever this is with her, sooner rather than later.

Miles away as the call between Shaun and Andi ends, Andi pouts over being turned down for dinner. What is she up to? She let her students go early but she can’t spend time with me. She could’ve found some time during the day to return my call. She’s so full of crap. She never has time for me. That’s cool though, it’s not like she’s the only person I can hang out with. I wonder if Michelle is gonna be with Mike tonight?

*******

Stay tuned and find out what happens next, Monday June 7^th 2010. Have a great Memorial Day and remember our fallen heroes!

And The Story Goes ... Episode VII

2010-05-17T18:07:00.000-07:00

Waiting in the car outside of the gym, Jennifer reflects on the reason she sits here; a conversation while attending Berkeley’s Homecoming. Bored and hoping David would want to retreat early from the alumni stories, she wanders over to the Bear’s Lair. There, while reviewing the appetizers, Lisa interrupted, “Is that a Tri-delt ring?”

“Yes it is. How’d you know? Are you a Tri-delt?” Jennifer pried.

“Of course; that’s how I knew. Although I admit I’ve never seen that design. Where’d you pledge?”

“Stanford, Omega chapter; David had this ring designed for me while we were dating. Where’d you suffer your rush humiliation?” Jennifer gibed.

“UC Berkeley; it was a foregone conclusion that I’d pledge Tri-Delta Sorority before my senior year in high school. My mother and grandmother are both Tri-delts. Any other sorority choice would’ve been considered subversive. I’ve been the subject of enough gossip with the family – no need to add to that,” Lisa assured.

“Uh Duh,” Jennifer cynically recanted. “That was a stupid question; obviously Berkeley is where you’ve pledged. After all, we are here at their Homecoming weekend.”

“By the way, my name is Mona Lisa, but please call me Lisa. I’ve tried to forget that my mother felt it necessary to bestow her obsession with Leonardo DaVinci on me. That’s how I got my name,” Lisa confessed and began feeling a slight buzz from the beer.

“I like that name; Davinci was so much more than his art represents. Have you ever seen any of his work?” Jennifer urged reflecting on her love of the Renaissance period.

“Originals? No, but that’s probably because my parents didn’t send me on international trips during the summer like you and your classmates probably went on. I worked my way through school,” Lisa justified losing decorum each time she spoke.

“A wee bit harsh don’t you think? I haven’t seen any of his original work either and believe it or not, I worked my way through school too; that’s how I met David. Not all Stanford students have silver spoons; we’re just brilliant is all!” Jennifer exclaimed.

“You wouldn't want to say that too loud here in the lair. Hey wait are you talking about blond David from the tennis team? Was that you I saw with him and Brad at the Alumni Dinner yesterday evening? I can’t remember if y’all were at the table to my right or left. I knew you looked familiar when you came in here earlier,” Lisa slurred slightly.

“Yes that was me last night. You know David?” Jennifer asked hoping Lisa was not a former girlfriend.

“Yea I know David and Brad, I used to date their team mate Jonas and always went to them for advice. After we broke up, I was still good friends with them. We’ve lost touch since graduation but it’s been good seeing them again. How do you know them?”

“Well David is my husband; we dated during undergrad and since he and Brad are best friends, that’s how I met Brad,” Jennifer casually explained reaching to sip more beer.

“David is your husband?” Lisa queried mockingly almost dropping her glass.

This woman must be drunk. Why is she acting like David and I being married is preposterous? Indeed he’s handsome, but I’ve never been hard on the eyes I’ll have you know. Look at those young guys over there that have been eyeing me since I got here. I’m even more in shape than the day he and I got married. I’m a seven on my worse day if I do say so myself. What’s with these insinuations she’s been making since first mentioning David? Clearly subtlety is not her strength. She’s been somewhat brusque as if she’s unclear on how to behave. Yet it’s apparent she doesn’t want me to sit elsewhere. I guess with all the tree hugging she’s forgotten how to treat actual people. How does one get that way? Who knows, I’m only here for the weekend thank God. “Yes, he’s my husband; surprised?”

“That depends on whether you play for the other side or not?” Lisa declared well past being buzzed. Reserve has been tossed to the wind.

“Excuse me!” Jennifer offered squinting her eyes.

“You seem confused so let me be clear and not let political correctness stand in the way. Are you a carpet muncher or a dyke?”

“How rude; absolutely not; what is the meaning of your questions Lisa?”

“You asked me was I surprised about you being married to David and I wouldn’t have been if you were gay because I’d have assumed it to be a marriage of convenience so to speak. However, since you seem to be appalled at my questions about your sexual preference, I assume you’re a card carrying member of the heterosexual club and traditional marriage; which, I might add, has me speculating about that brilliance you were hailing a few moments ago. Am I to understand you’re totally in the dark about where I’m going?”

“Not at all; I have a pretty good idea of where you’re heading and I’m disgusted. I understand you being drunk but aren’t you supposed to be his friend? Yea, you are and yet you’re trying to suggest something cruel and sadistic.”

Motioning the bartender over, Lisa gets off her stool and stands next to it and ordered, “Would you get my friend here a Pedro’s Porter?” Then turning to Jennifer she contended, “As a fellow sister of Tri Delta I’m going to ignore your condescension and give you a little advice. I can’t speak for anything that’s changed since our glory days here but I’m curious about how much you know about your husband. I haven’t seen him in years; nonetheless it seems I’m privy to some things to which you are unaware. Unlike you, David is NOT a card carrying member of the same club you are. I have never and I mean never seen him without Brad being far behind. When I saw you all last night, I assumed you were with them. I hope you haven’t convinced yourself that Brad is the third wheel. You may want to look within if the thought of outsider has ever crossed your mind when the three of you are together. I’d find all of this comical if it weren’t so sad. Oh by the way, if by some clever arrangement Brad has a woman too, don’t be naïve. They were always more than best friends and practice partners. Even the other team members knew it. Everyone ignored it because it was clear they didn’t want people to know. They’re one of the reasons I gained understanding about people who love the same sex. I had no idea it was the same as everyone else or what we like to call straight people; although one wonders about those theories. Before them, I had so many assumptions and judgments about what it meant to be homosexual. Their intensity made me want that type of devotion for myself. Now perhaps most of us here on campus were mistaken when we thought that they were more than just team mates, but I don’t believe that. As for what or who they are now, who knows? I just hope you know what you’re doing—Stanford.”

Too paralyzed to rebut, Jennifer watched Lisa settle up her tab and exit the pub. Confusion, anger and hurt simultaneously flooded her mind and it was those same emotions from that day that now deluge her mind while she sits lying in wait for David to come out of the building. Was Lisa just a drunk girl? Why would she say such things? David and Brad? Not possible, I’ve seen them together. What about Karen? She and Brad look like the perfect couple. Surely they wouldn’t do this to us. Should I wait and see before telling David my news? Maybe I should. Why am I questioning David’s intentions? He doesn’t deserve that. He’s not done anything. This is all based off the ranting of a drunk. I shouldn’t be here; I haven’t a reason to not trust my husband. We’ve not had any real bumps in our marriage. I’m letting my imagination run away and I’m not being logical.

Realizing her reason for waiting in the parking lot was not based on David’s behavior but more of the tale told by Lisa, Jennifer decides to leave and never mention the accusations made during the Homecoming weekend. Turning the key to start the silver Land Rover, Jennifer pats herself on the back for not letting insecurity get the best of her. Driving by the glass doors where gym attendees enter and exit she catches a glimmer of what looks like David embracing someone but the doors obstruct her view. Trying to be inconspicuous she slows the car down and makes a quick left into the first parking row to avoid getting to the stop sign and having to leave before confirming if it was him at the door. Half way up the first row, Jennifer looks back at the door and sees Brad exit the gym and David right behind him. Dejected and disillusioned her mind crashes and her eyes fill preventing her from seeing the female pedestrian walking with her gym bag directly in front of the truck. Coming out of the fog just in time, Jennifer quickly swerves and avoids hitting her by more than a foot. Wanting to see where David and Brad were now and wondering if they came together or in their own vehicles, she surveys the lot unaware of the concrete barriers that lie less than 50 feet ahead.

*******

Stay tuned and find out what happens next, Monday (5/24/2010)

And The Story Goes ... Episode VI

2010-05-10T18:03:00.000-07:00

“I’m sorry honey, did I frighten you?” Mike presents noting the deer in headlights gaze from Michelle.

“You scared me Mike. Let me take a second to put my heart back in my chest.”

“You headed out?”

“I was gonna chill with Andi because I was missing you so much and didn’t wanna be by myself. I’m so glad you’re here daddy,” Michelle endearingly exposes.

“That’s my baby girl. Let me hit the shower real quick.”

“No need to hit it by yourself, I’m coming with you,” Michelle offers jogging behind Mike pushing both hands in his back propelling him towards the bathroom. I’ll have to call Andi tomorrow. I’m sure she’s gonna have a drama fit over me not showing up.

*******

“This is really getting tired; there’s never enough time. We’re not teenagers, we’re both professionals doing this cloak and dagger routine. Are you okay with this?”

“I cherish any time we have with each other,” David assures firmly grasping both of Brad’s arms.

“Don’t do that! You know what I mean,” Brad continues through clinched teeth.

“I’m not sure I do. I’m here, you’re here; we’re devoting time to each other; let’s enjoy it. Why revel in what we don’t have?” David queries while planting little kisses all over Brad’s face. Why does he have to get so serious? Can’t he just enjoy the time we have with each other? I’ve got enough pressure with work and home, this is my respite. Can I please do something I like?
Gosh! It’s so good to be in his arms, this is home. I need this. No! Uh un! I can’t get caught up into this. We need to talk now. Brad steps back eliminating the opportunity for smooching to continue. “That’s just it, a moment here or a piece there is all we get. We’re sneaking around and we never have any quality time anymore. You have Jennifer; and I have Karen, which has made matters worse. Things are so outta hand; how could we let it get this far?”

“Talk, talk, talk—that’s all you wanna do these days. Fine, let’s talk about it. Let’s talk about the case of amnesia ailing you. Yeah let’s talk about whose idea it was to have our lives like this. Shall I recap for you? Hmm—I guess I should since you’ve conveniently forgotten some crucial decisions in our relationship. Yeah, let’s take a trip down memory lane; shall we?” David asks rhetorically.

“There’s no need to get sarcastic. I’m not trying to just talk. I like our time together too. I’m just missing you is all. Don’t get mad; I’m not complaining,” Brad renders hoping he hasn’t been overbearing with emotion.

“Don’t try to go back now; we’re here. So let’s talk about it. It was me, not you that wanted us to be more. Maybe not in public but certainly not skulking in the shadows; do you remember that? How about this one? It was me, not you who said we shouldn’t get involved with women. I believe I said it would make things far more complicated and could have life changing ramifications. Remember that? Maybe it’s not coming to you yet--was it not you that threatened to leave me because—me not having a woman was starting to make people ask questions. You had your pseudo-girl friend and was irritated I didn’t follow suit. Do you have any idea what that did to me? You surely didn’t at the time; but what did I do? I sucked it up and adjusted so that we could be together. Now you’re complaining about time, how fair is that? This crap we have now was manufactured by you, and I did it because I love you. There’s no reneging now. You’re so selfish!” David scolds.

“I’m selfish because I wanna spend time together? Oh that’s rich; and it’s all my fault we’re in this predicament? I didn’t tell you to marry the woman did I? Don’t put that on me Brad.”

“You’re missing the point – it’s like I told you all along; things get complicated the more other people are added to the equation. How long did you think I could date Jen and nothing serious happen? Regardless of her being a woman, a relationship grows, it doesn’t stand still. Did you think I wouldn’t love her? I warned you about what could happen yet you still felt it necessary for us to take this road. What do you plan to do with Karen? Surely you don’t expect to just date her and never go any further. You just gonna date women and break up when they want more? Not likely; won’t that be suspicious? Isn’t that what you were so worried about before? We can’t have folks questioning your sexuality now can we?” David puts forth sarcastically.

Taking a deep breath before exhaling aloud, Brad concedes, “I have no idea what I was thinking back then. Somehow I must’ve made sense of it at the time. What does that have to do with now? I’m telling you how I feel now and what I want for us. Would you rather I not say anything? You want me to live my life for these other people?”

“Don’t play altruist. What is it that you’re doing for these other people? By other people I assume you mean me and Karen. Gosh you’re incredulous!” David rants. “What about what’s been done for you? The sacrifices I’ve made that now seem to be meaningless even though you posed them to me drenched in ultimatum. Now that I’ve done what you coerced, you want something else. You want us to carry on like people who don’t have other love interests. How much collateral damage is enough?”

“I don’t know how all of this became my fault. I thought we were a couple in love; how silly of me. What about you David? You’ve had demands along the way too. Don’t get all altar boy on me. We’ve both made choices to be together. Neither one of us wanted to be out; I’m just the one that was bold enough to admit it. Next time I won’t bother to tell you how I feel if it’s gonna be like this.”

Not tell me? That’s unlikely; you’re always telling people what you think whether they wanna know or not. Bold? Yeah right, so bold that you couldn’t handle us in love and decided we needed to fake affairs with other people. Yeah you’re a b word alright but bold ain’t it. “You’re a lot of things, but quiet isn’t one of them,” David fires.

He’d better remember that when he doesn’t hear from me later. “Good one,” Brad affirms while making sure his gym bag has all of its contents. “Look, I don’t wanna argue. We can talk about this later. I need to get to work.”

“Me too; I was supposed to review an RFP last night but put it down. I was so distracted,” David admits.

“You couldn’t focus? Brad sympathizes.

“No babe; you were on my mind,” David confesses brushing Brads face tenderly. “I was thinking about us and the quandary we’ve made for ourselves. It seems to get deeper as time goes on. I don’t want us to screw up our lives and everyone who loves us too. We need to come to some resolve and we need to do it sooner rather than later.”

“You’re right; we do, but we need to head to work first right babe?” Brad directs putting his gym bag on his shoulder and motioning David to his.

“Right,” David acknowledges as they exit the 24 Hour Fitness Locker Room unaware that Jennifer, his wife, is waiting in the parking lot.

*******

Having finished their Perdomos and the strawberries, Shaun continues running lines with Toni while eyeing the chocolates that Toni sat out earlier.

“I thought you didn’t like chocolate.”

“I usually don’t, but that looks like the white chocolate candies that Lindt makes,” Shaun suggests.

“They are; go ahead and get some. Bring me some too,” Toni instructs watching as Shaun stands up. Her silhouette rhythmic, eliciting Toni’s attention. Thank goodness you can’t hear my thoughts. You make me wanna forget we’re just friends. Damn you fine. How about we talk about more than friendship?

“Is this enough or you want more?” Shaun asks showing Toni a handful of candy.

I want more, so much more. You have no idea how much I want, Toni appraises then responds, “Oh yeah, I don’t need even that much.”

Changing the subject Shaun calls upon Toni, “Do you mind if I crash here? I don’t really feel like driving now.”

“Of course not; unless you’re housing an extra four hundred pounds under those clothes, I think my bed should be big enough or I can get you some covers for the couch.”

“Shoot, I don’t want the couch.”

“I figured not,” Toni retorts and they join in a chorus of laughter.

*******

Stay tuned and find out what happens next, Monday (5/17/2010)

Why is Jennifer parked outside the gym, does she suspect something?

Is Michelle gonna sleep with Mike even though she made plans to sleep with Andi?
Does Toni really want to be more than friends with Shaun?

Is Karen still searching for answers about her desire for women?

And The Story Goes ... Episode V

2010-05-03T12:46:00.000-07:00

Chasing after Carmela while calling out her name, Jane is thankful she’s in shape but hoping she can stop running before her lungs demand she stop. What was I thinking? I shouldn’t have brought Carmela to that meeting, that wasn’t cool. I don’t even need to be at that meeting. She’s right; they don’t know me. She’s the one that’s been there for me and our family. That was real dumb on my part.

Letting down the driver side window Carmela asks, “Exactly why are you running Jane? I’m not gonna leave without you, I just had to get outta there.” Scrambling to get to the passenger side, Jane gets in and embraces Carmela.

“I’m so sorry for bringing you here. We don’t belong here. I know what I want and I know what’s right for me. Can you ever forgive me?” Jane solicits.

“Of course I can forgive my lovely. I’m just relieved you realize that group is not for you. We’ve been through too much of people trying to tell us how we need to live and who we need to be; to chill with a group of people that think like that is not us.”

“I know, I know; it’s just that …” Jane trails off not finishing her thought before reaching to wipe her eyes.

“No need to cry babe, we’re gonna be just fine. Nobody’s perfect and I’m not sure I would want to be with such a person anyway,” Carmela chides in while massaging her back, hoping to abbreviate any negative feelings.

Grinning and clearing any residual tears, Jane teases, “Don’t touch me like that less you trying to make something happen.”

“Well I guess I better keep going then.”

“Please do,” Jane insists then slides her skirt up making it clear Carmela can extend her massage to between her thighs. Reclining the seat she affirms, “I love you.”

Leaning over, Carmela surveys Jane’s chocolate curves and partakes of her lips. Kissing soft and slow savoring the moment, she says, “I love you too. Let’s go home baby.”

“Okay … let’s.”

*******

“It’s nice to finally get together. You are definitely one busy lady Ms. Kennedy,” Sophia announces sounding relieved.

“Yes mam it’s good to have a chance to meet up. I wish I hadn’t had to reschedule before; and thankfully, you’ve been so accommodating given the lateness of the hour,” Kennedy graciously replies.

“Do you believe in God?” Sophia interrogates with earnest.

“Absolutely, why do you ask?”

“Do you know that He loves you?”

“Thankfully I do, I’m curious as to what’s prompting your questions.”

“But Kennedy, do you really know? So many people say they believe in God and that they’re aware of his love but may not truly know his grace and mercy.”

“I guess I should count myself lucky then. I’m fully aware of the vastness of the Universe and am thankful for the love bestowed upon us,” Kennedy declares.

“I noticed you said The Universe and not God. Why is that?”

“I find them to be synonymous don’t you? I believe many names are used to refer to God. Some say The Universe, others say Higher Power; Jehovah and Yahweh are also names used. I can’t help but to notice that you haven’t answered my questions. Is this the reason you wanted to meet; to have a religious discussion?

“Not at all; I apologize, I didn’t mean to not answer your questions,” Sophia gently retorts.

“So what brings you to me Sophia? I’m glad you’ve set aside some of your time just for me and I for you. As you know, I don’t have to be at work until early afternoon so we have all night to discuss the items you feel are pertinent. Perhaps I’m mistaken but it seems that part of the reason you wanted to meet is spiritually based. Is that what this is about?”

“Yes actually it is,” Sophia admits feeling a bit extinguished yet intrigued.

“That’s good to hear. I look forward to sharing as I’m sure we both will learn a lot from each other tonight. I’m gonna get me some water, would you like some?” Kennedy asserts.

Relieved to have a moment to recompose, Sophia is curious about Kennedy’s comfort level; why is she so happy about our meeting? This is a different. Meanwhile Kennedy gets two bottles of Fiji water and quickly texts Cyan to inform her that they will have to get together another time.

*******

“It’s people like you that give bisexuals a bad name,” Karen chastises, while trying to get ready for work.

“Don’t try and judge me, I know where you came from. Don’t try to get all high and mighty now that some fool laying pipe to you every night. I thought you were supposed to be my girl,” Andi vindicates.

“We are friends, but that’s really not the point here. You just finished telling me how you went out on a date with Shaun but that didn’t go well so she went home. After only being home a minute, you called Kennedy; your ex who you knew was gonna want some, and asked her to come over. She reschedules with you, because after all she does have a woman to which she has feelings for, so you decide to hook up with Michelle. Last I heard, from you of course, Michelle has a man with whom she lives with. Then when you could no longer get in touch with her, you called Bishop. Yea he came over and kicked it with you, but then he left shortly thereafter with what you’re calling a lame excuse. I would imagine he had to get back to his woman after a making up an excuse to get to you with your damsel in distress routine. Do you not understand the problem here? Surely you can see why you spent last night by yourself,” Karen rationalizes.

“Check you out being all self-righteous and holy,” Andi contends.

“That’s not me; which you already know Andi. C’mon girl, you know I love you and I always will, but do you hear yourself? Do you really? I don’t know what happened with you and Shaun at dinner; but instead of talking it out with her or working it out, you ran from this person to that person and that is what people think bisexuals do. They think they’re greedy and if one isn’t available, they’ll be with the other and that’s just not how it is,” advises Karen.

“Um okay; where are you going with all of this? It doesn’t even sound like we’re talking ‘bout me. You’re going on and on about bisexuals like you’re on some crusade. I mean what’s really going on with you? This speech isn’t about me, there’s something else going on. What’s up with you Karen?”

“You’re probably right girl; I’ve only had a wink of sleep, I’m trying to get ready for work and my mind is all over the place. I’m sorry if it sounds like I was being judgmental; I’m not really focused. Can I call you a little later?” Karen requests.

“Yea girl, I need to get ready too. I’ll talk to you then,” Andi responds pressing the off button on her ear piece. Perplexed over Karen’s statements, Andi replays their conversation. Why is she acting so funny? Sometimes it’s like nobody’s there for me. I’m there for my friends but when I need them, they’re too busy. If I’d known it was gonna be all about her, I’d have called somebody else. I wonder what Shaun is doing; she hasn’t even called me since dropping me off last night. Why should I feel bad about calling someone over when she pulled off like I was nothing? Kennedy and Michelle are my friends. What’s the big deal about having them over? Karen is acting all self-righteous now that she’s finally got a man. How dare she bring up Bishop? He and I are just friends. Our having sex last night was an accident. He was just trying to be there for me and now she’s throwing it in my face. At least he tried to be there for me; unlike her. She was in Brad’s face. It’s true what they say, the only person you can trust to be there for you is you.

Apparently unaware Andi had ended their call, Karen still tries to get dressed for work. Clothes upon clothes fill the closet; seeming like Pandora’s Box; offering nothing, Karen snippily itemizes recent events after first looking at her phone and realizing she’s no longer participating in a phone conversation. Maybe I should call out today, I feel sick anyway. Sometimes the pain of not having a woman is unbearable. I thought it was supposed to be different now. I pray, I attend church and I love Brad but I still feel so unfulfilled. How selfish of me to have these urges when he has given me his heart. I wonder why he left so early this morning. Hmm, surely there’s something I can do to lessen this pain. I wanna be a good person and feel good at least most of the time. Is that so wrong?

I’m tired of the responses Sophia gives me. They make me feel so low for what I truly feel. First her group told me how unnatural same sex love is and how I need to repent. Now that I have a boyfriend, who treats me well, and I still feel uneasy whenever we connect physically, she tells me it’s because I’m fornicating. I can’t win no matter what I do. I feel bad for wanting to be with a woman. I feel even worse now that I have Brad and I can’t give myself to him without feeling anxious. What karma is this? I need to do something; this is agony. It’s got to be approaching eight, let me call the office and tell them I’m gonna work from home today.

*******

Stay tuned and find out what happens next, Monday (5/10/2010)

And The Story Goes ... Episode IV

2010-04-26T00:01:00.000-07:00

Dear Heavenly Father, please help me to continue on this straight path. I want to thank You for sending me someone to love and understand me. Help me to stay normal and desire him like he desires me. Please God, I ask for forgiveness for my thoughts about women. I don’t want to be gay; for I know it is not Your will. You know my heart. I don’t want to go to hell. Please strengthen me with your love; in Your name, Amen.

As Karen finishes her prayer she looks over to see Brad is not on his side of the bed. With the bathroom door open, it was clear he wasn’t there either. Taking solace in the quiet, she considers calling Sophia. After all it was Sophia who helped her realize she couldn’t possibly be a Christian and a homosexual. She showed her the scriptures in the Bible, where God condemned homosexuality. Prior to their chat, Karen’s intimate relationships were with women without thought. She did what was natural for her and usually treated people well. It was the meetings she attended with Sophia that further curtailed her free flowing relationships with the same sex. The attendees pointed out how her behavior with women was inappropriate and unnatural; and that it originated from deviance not love. Fearing God’s wrath and wanting to live right, Karen repented and asked for forgiveness while the other meeting participants prayed for her cleansing. Feeling like a weight had been lifted; Karen left the meeting with Sophia. It is the promise Sophia made to help Karen through the ex-gay process that prompted her call.

“This is too much Sophie.”

“What’s too much? Who’s this? Karen?” Sophia asks trying to get her bearings.

“Yes it’s Karen. This Brad thing doesn’t feel right.”

“What do you mean? Did y’all argue?”

“No, nothing like that; it’s just that we slept together and I don’t feel right. He didn’t do anything wrong. He was sweet, but I just don’t feel right cuz.” Karen declares hoping her cousin will understand and provide a resolution.

“I do wish I could talk to you about this now, but I can’t. It’s just that I’m on my way to an intervention right now. I understand you’re feeling bad and it’s probably because you’re fornicating. You’re not supposed to be sleeping with Brad. Y’all aren’t married and you’re feeling convicted. Do you want me to pray with you?”

“I’ve already prayed and I still feel conflicted.”

“That’s conviction dear heart. You can never have too much prayer. The Bible says pray without ceasing Karen. I promise I’ll help you through this tomorrow. We’ll put it on the altar of prayer tomorrow. Is that okay?” Sophia poses, more as a statement than a question.

“Sure” Karen murmurs’ holding back her tears, and the call ends.

*******

“I think I’ve had the Patriarchs before, I’ll try the Reserves. Have you tried them yet?” Shaun challenges.

“But of course” Toni retorts, again using a British accent.

“What is with you talking like that? We’re talking about cigars not a spot of tea. You’re a butler now?” Shaun teases.

“Yea you think you’re funny, but let me start talking about Andi and I’m sure you’ll stop that laughing. But seriously; I got the lady-in-waiting part in this new play. I’m supposed to have a British accent so if I sound Scottish I have some work to do. Can you run lines with me?”

“Congrats on getting the part T; you go! I’m so proud of you! Now what do I have to do to run lines? Pass me that lighter girl.”

Toni exaggerates a few curtsies and thanks Shaun while lighting her cigar. Pleased about Shaun’s willingness to help her learn lines, Toni meanders on Shaun and some of their history. She’s always so encouraging. No matter what I do, even when she doesn’t like it or agree, she’s there for me. She’s the only one who understood my decision to change careers. As a Civil Engineer, with seemingly the right connections, I was on my way. I became a civil engineer for my family. My dad and brother are Civil Engineers, my mom’s an Architect and it’s rumored that my great great granddad worked on the Panama Canal. My brother was a consultant for the Falkirk Wheel in Scotland. Is it any wonder why I was ashamed about wanting to pursue acting full-time? But Shaun wouldn’t let me swim in my pity party. She gave me a big speech about choices, then stood there with me when I told mom about my acting aspirations. How many people would stand by me like that? Not many.

Shaun’s prettiness is above average standards. When entering a room, her Amazon stature of five feet eleven inches usually commanded attention. Her natural thick black tresses, extending just past her shoulders, sported big curls. Her skin, rich like moist brownies, makes me think of the chocolatier: Godiva. Ah chocolate, some chocolate would be nice right now. Do I have any strawberries in the fridge? Hmmm -- chocolate, strawberries and Shaun’s here too. I think this will be a first.

*******

“Hey lover,” Kennedy greets answering her phone.

“I love it when you call me that,” Cyan divulges beaming.

“I’ve missed you.”

“I’ve missed you too and I can’t wait to see you.”

“I was wondering if you’d be able to get away. I know you can’t always move things around. Kennedy returns knowing they’ve had confirmed plans.”

“Of course I can, I’ve been looking forward to this. It’s not me who has trouble fitting people in; that’s you. You know you’re a trip.”

“Well Cyan”

“I should’ve known it’d be something,” Cyan butts-in not letting Kennedy finish her statement.

“Hold on lover – I just want to push the time back a little just in case I’m late. I probably won’t be late, but I didn’t want you to spend any time waiting.”

“Can’t get away?”

“I have a quick work related stop and then I’ll be on my way. Did you hear that lover or shall I speak a little slower?”

“I heard you baby. You have a work related stop and then you’ll be on your way to me. I’ll see you then,” Cyan closes.

“Looking forward to it,” Kennedy assures before pressing end on her Blackberry.

Not wanting to hang up first, Cyan waits for the dial tone and suspects Kennedy’s work related stop has more to do with a coworker than an actual deliverable mandated by her corporate responsibilities.

*******

“Can you talk?” Brad inquires his heart wrangling with emotions.

“Not really; Jennifer’s upstairs sleep, but you never know. Are you okay?” David quietly examines.

“Yeah, just missing you is all. I just left Karen in the bed.”

“You’re not alone, I ache for you. Let’s meet at the gym in the morning?”

“I can be there by seven.” Brad acknowledges realizing he won’t feel whole until then.

“Okay, see you at seven.”

*******

Performing another mirror check before heading out to Andi’s place, Michelle gives herself the thumbs up, grabs her House of Dereon purse and heads towards the door. As she grabs her keys from their holder, the knob on the front door turns and opens, “Hey babes, thank God I got outta there early. You’re headed out?” Mike imparts debatably, glancing down at his watch, and then back at a startled looking Michelle.

*******

Stay tuned and find out what happens next, Monday (5/03/2010) …

And The Story Goes ... Episode III

2010-04-19T09:16:00.000-07:00

David at six foot five inches fits most comfortably in a king sized bed. There, looking over at his wife, his mind turns to Brad. Brad, his lover who went with him on his last business trip to California; Brad, the man who made love to him throughout their entire stay; and now he lie here with Jennifer desperately wanting to be beside Brad. He’s probably with Karen. She’s been a needed distraction to elude any questions about Brad and me. I wish they weren’t together.

Brad and David met when they both played on the University of California - Berkley’s Tennis Team. Coach wanted David to work on the velocity of his serve and paired him with Brad. The attraction was immediate for David as he saw a man his same height in view. Brad’s brown hair lying flawlessly like Zac Efron’s and his sapphire eyes linked with David’s and that practice began their courtship.

*******

     “Sounds like a bootie call to me.”

     “Don’t be sarcastic. Who cares about the time when you’re trying to save souls?” Sophia exclaims nodding her head in agreement affirming herself.

     “Oh I see; souls can’t be saved during daylight hours?” Gabriel poses looking on disapprovingly.

     “Could you come off your throne for a moment? I’ve tried to meet with this young lady on more than one occasion. Each time she has cancelled. So when she asked if I could meet her at night because other times present issues, I said yes,” counters Sophia.

     “Did you say throne? Funny you’d go there. It’s YOU not me who has decided to traipse over a newbie’s house on a crusade even though you know you haven’t completed the counseling course. I don’t think that’s a good idea.”

Preparing to refute Gabriel’s opinion, Sophia steps back on her left leg while lifting the index finger on her right hand to vehemently defend when Jane walks up sophisticatedly dressed cap-a-pie and gives her opinion about tonight’s meeting.

“What a great fellowship. The testimonies are so moving and give me encouragement in my own spiritual walk.”

“Yes mam; the Lord has certainly been good to us,” Gabriel affirms and glances towards Sophia

“We’re glad to have you here. Love and support is vital and we need to be there for one another and our communities. What’s your name again sister?” Sophia asks engagingly.

     Clearing her throat she responds meekly, “Oh I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to intrude, my name is Jane.”

     Smiling with the compassion of older sisters, Gabriel and Sophia overlap each other trying to reassure Jane that an apology was not necessary and that she was welcome there.

     “We hug and love here girl. Don’t be troubled, I just wanted to make sure I called you by your name,” Sophia reassures.

     “Yea honey, you wanna hear us fumbling? We would’ve been saying sister girl or child and we might as well get it right now. Of course Sophia will probably ask you a few more times before it sticks. She has a lot of senior moments ya know?” Gabriel chides.

     “I know you’re not talking about memory. You have to excuse her Jane, she’s a former chiefer if you know what I mean,” Sophia winks.

     Looking puzzled Jane hesitantly shrugs her shoulders and looks over to the corner where two men and a woman are conversing. Recognizing Jane’s ignorance Sophia explicates in an exaggerated Lucille Ball whisper, “She used to smoke marijuana, back in the day they called it grass, or reefer; well now some of the rappers call it chronic.”

     “I’m familiar; I think I get what you mean.”

     Gabriel and Sophia begin laughing loudly at the sarcasm in Jane’s voice and she follows suit. As the guffawing minimizes, the woman that was speaking to the two men approaches. Each man’s eyes follow her scarlet pencil skirt and crop jacket with oversized buttons as the distance between she and them grows. Her blonde hair, uncharacteristic of a child born of two Filipino parents, was pulled back into a neat bun on the top of her head. Her light brown eyes, framed with liner and tastefully done shadow, popped as she peered at the ladies she was approaching. Stirring inexplicably, Sophia swallows hard and hopes her reaction is not outward. Gabriel tries to recall the name of the lady as she draws near. Jane smiles and extends her hand to the new guest and announces, “This is my friend Carmela. Carmela, this is Sophia and Gabriel.”

     “Nice to meet you both; I’m ready whenever you are J.”

     “Is this your first time joining us?” Gabriel inquires.

     “Yes it is.”

     “I hope that you’ve enjoyed it.”

     “I’ll just say, I feel enlightened,” Carmela responds.

     “That’s what we’re here for,” Gabriel declares feeling proud.

     “I’m sure you are. Groups like this are here to help people feel like they don’t belong. To tell us we’re undeserving and unequal. It’s all cloaked under so-called love. Beautifully done, I must congratulate you.”

     “Now wait a minute dear, you’re doing a lot of supposition,” Gabriel cuts-off.

     “C’mon Carmela, don’t do this here. These are really nice people,” Jane attests.

     “Oh really; and you know that because …? You don’t even know these people; not just nice, but really nice huh? That’s funny. Were they there for you when you were sick? Do they help you when you’re having financial issues? Of course not, they’re self righteous. Wake up Jane, chak-chak!” Carmela vociferates and walks hurriedly towards the exit.

     “I need to go. Please excuse her, she doesn’t understand. She’s going through a lot,” Jane offers then leaves wanting to catch up to Carmela.

     Temporarily speechless, Gabriel watches Jane’s exit and then frowns at Sophia and argues, “How could you just stand there?”

     As if in a movie, Sophia gazes at the action before her and contemplates, Carmela is stunning. She looks decisive about what she wants. I wonder if she and Jane are lovers. Or maybe they were lovers. There’s obviously something between them. Is Jane the femme? Clearly they’re both feminine looking but Carmela was so aggressive. Look at her run after Carmela. Hmmm, it is gonna be some fireworks wherever they are tonight.

     “Cat got your tongue or are you pretending silence is golden?” Gabriel touts.

     “What?” Sophia grills, coming out her day dream.

     “Did you not hear that arrogant heathen?”

     “Who Gabby what are you talking about?”

     “Have you not been standing here? Where have you been?”

     “Okay, whatever; all I know is that I need to get out of here. Can we pick this up later?”

     “Excuse me?” Sure we can pick this up later. Be safe and don’t you meet with that girl. Go another time and take someone.”

     “Love ya sis. I’ll call you tomorrow. Oh and Gabby; her name is Kennedy,” Sophia finishes while scurrying off.

*******

“Hey Girly”

“Wassup Andi girl?”

“Michelle, Michelle, it’s been an atrocious night.”

     “Why atrocious? Are you okay? Something happen to moms?”

     “First Shaun ragged on me at dinner, and then Kennedy told me I wasn’t worth her time when I asked her for help.”

     “That’s not cool. I thought Shaun was better than that. As for Kennedy, well you know how she rolls,” Michelle asserts. Andi is being her extra self as usual. I highly doubt either one of them did as she claims but the story should be full of adventure.

     “Exactly; I’m hurt and alone and nobody cares. Shaun dropped me off and didn’t walk me to the door or wait for me to get in the house before she pulled off,” Andi whines.

    “Would you like some company? I can be there in twenty; I won’t be seeing Mike tonight.”

     “Can you? I’d love to have you here.”

     “I loved the last time I had you there too,” Michelle acknowledges while evaluating if she needs a quick hit with the razor before leaving.

     “Great I’ll see you shortly,” Andi responds excitedly before ending the call.

*******

STAY TUNED AND FIND OUT WHAT HAPPENS NEXT, MONDAY (4/26/2010) …

And The Story Goes ... Episode II

2010-04-13T19:53:00.000-07:00

The aroma of vanilla assaults Vanessa’s nostrils as she looks over to the seven layer chocolate cake. That would be so good with butter pecan ice cream. I really outdid myself; I didn’t cook it as long this time. I wonder if that’s why it’s moister; it was kind of dry before. Yea, I’m gonna have me some of that. Nah, I can’t; cause I won’t stop, I’ll want more and then I’ll start feeling guilty. Well I could go to the gym and work it off—like that’s really gonna happen. What a joke, Vanessa contemplates chuckling aloud.

“What’s got you laughing babe? Are you and your imaginary friend conversing again?” Kennedy questions interrupting Vanessa’s chocolate daydream. “I thought you were getting coffee.”

“I am getting coffee. I was trying to talk myself out of cutting some of that cake. Why are you standing up? Do you want a piece of cake?”

I’m up because I’m tired of this phone vibrating on my thigh. “No thanks, chocolate and I have a some-timey relationship. I don’t know why you’re trying to talk yourself out of having some. Go ahead and indulge,” Kennedy declares then hastens toward Vanessa closing any gap between them and reveals, “I’m up because I want to be near you.”

Blushing Vanessa softens and sweetly whines, “oh okay honey.”

“So you’re gonna have some cake now, right?”

“I won’t be able to eat just a slice.”

“Who says you have to?”

“I’m going to remind you of that when I can’t fit through the door way and you’re trying to go elsewhere. I’m gonna say, remember when you told me it was okay for me to eat as much cake as I wanted.”

Looking into Vanessa’s brown, almond shaped eyes, Kennedy’s hands glide down her shoulders to her hands and brings her close. “Not gonna happen love,” Kennedy assures then begins softly kissing Vanessa’s right shoulder moving towards her neck and whispers, “You know you’re my honey bear.” Feeling the tingle of excitement and forgetting about the chocolate cake Vanessa submits and finds Kennedy’s full lips exploring her ear. The heat from her breathe radiates, igniting sensations between her thighs. Subtle moans emanate and Vanessa stands at ease as if giving permission for her middle to moisten and indulge. Kennedy begins driving her pelvis forward as the coffee maker interrupts with percolation aborting the kisses.

“I forgot about the coffee,” Vanessa breathlessly whispers.

“You also forgot to tell me your monthly visitor had arrived,” Kennedy teasingly torts while making play jab motions towards the area where the Stayfree was securely locked in place.

“Like that’s ever mattered to you before. Do you want cream in your coffee?”

“You know what I want, but I’ll settle for cream in my coffee. Is it half and half?”

“No, its French vanilla creamer, isn’t that the flavor you like? I got it after the time you brought me the vanilla coffee with vanilla cream. You said you really liked it right?”

Trying to avoid the vibration from her cell phone Kennedy ponders the possible culprits of all the calls within the past hour and the best way to leave Vanessa without incident.

“Yes mami that’s exactly how I like it, that’s so thoughtful of you. You’re always so sweet to me. Do you have any Styrofoam cups?”

“Why are you asking if I have a disposable cup? Are you leaving? I thought you weren’t leaving,” Vanessa insists.

“I don’t want to leave; believe me I don’t, but I have some school work to finish. By the way is it cool to leave five dollars under Kate’s pillow since she lost her tooth today?”

“Of course you can, she’ll like that. Let me get your coffee while you go to her room. Please don’t wake her. You know she won’t like you leaving.”

“Roger that,” Kennedy replies making the salute motion as if a soldier then pivots and heads to Kate’s room.

*******

Punching in the gate code to get entrance into the community Toni lives, Shaun reflects on the dinner with Andi. That girl just loves her some crazy. She seems unbelievably dissatisfied. First she enjoyed the restaurant now it’s boring. After complaining the majority of the evening she has the gall to think I’m bringing her home with me for more crap. Then she decides that because I don’t want to be miserable the rest of the night, I’m going to be with another woman. Since when did we become exclusive? We’re dating. Now if I was trying to be all up under her, she’d want space. Mercy Lawd she’s a nuisance, but she is stunning; that’s probably part of the damn problem. Her thick eyebrows and Betty Boop eyes that look jet black coupled with a button nose, mascara model eye lashes and Niecy Nash lips; I might’ve passed, that night I approached her voluptuous coke bottle figure, had I known this type of drama was going to be a big part of the package.

“It’s too early for my morning paper and too late for drop-bys so this must be an emergency,” Toni muses and looks up to find Shaun standing frozen like a statue in her doorway. Cupping her mouth like a megaphone she teases, “Can you hear the words coming out of my mouth?”

“Hey T, I’m sorry; I was zoning,” Shaun offers.

“No problem chica, c’mon in, shall I get drinks, smoke or both?

“Drinks were part of that horrific debacle earlier with Andi so let’s not do that, do you have any Perdomos?”

“But of course,” Toni offers in a British accent. “I have Madura Patriarchs and Reserves. You know, you are one of only a few of my friends that smoke cigars. Which is your pleasure?”

*******

Welcoming the curtailing of the conversation with Andi, Karen ruminates over the last year while stepping into the shower. I’m so glad to have clarity in my life now. No more drama with women. If it weren’t for Exodus International, I would still be on a merry go round. Not long ago I found women just as desirable and sensational as men. Thanks to my cousin Sophie, I have been delivered. The testimony I heard at that revival made me feel that change was possible. Who knew back then that I would be able to sever my relationship with Tammy? I was so overwhelmed and confused. The turmoil of loving her and knowing my family’s views used to tear me apart. Meeting Brad was a sign that I’m on the right path. We are so good together and my family seems to like him. I don’t miss the
craziness with Tammy. Sneaking and hiding just to steal moments was hard on my heart and made me feel mentally erratic and off balance. In a way, Brad has been a stabilizer. He’s kept me grounded. I finally don’t feel like I’m drowning in a sea of emotions.

“You want some company?” Brad wispily inquires temporarily halting Karen’s trip down memory lane.

“Absolutely,” she exclaims pulling Brad into the shower without first removing his clothing. Unsure, but energized he succumbs when Karen’s sudsy arms and hands begins unbuttoning his shirt. After the second button she rips the rest off and tosses the shirt over the shower curtain onto the bathroom floor. In one motion, before his shirt hits the floor, Brad loosens his sweatpants. While stepping out of them, Karen pushes him back and engulfs his lips. Using the back of the tub and the ceramic wall to post-up, he hoists Karen up with his athletic arms while she wraps her legs around his sculpted waist. Parting her opening was awkward at first due to improper placement but using the muscles in her thighs for balance, the subsequent thrusts invade her walls with perfection. Impulse and juices insist Brad plunge deeper as Karen moans, “yes, like that.” Trying to slow himself to prevent the finale and ensure her pleasure, he thinks about rain and how he doesn’t like rain; and then how it soaks his clothes which reminded him that his member was currently partaking in Karen’s wetness. His release came with euphoric pleasure and immediate guilt followed. “I’m sorry,” Brad whispers as Karen runs the shower head down the front of her body. After slowing the water speed, she lies back and spreads her legs on either side of the tub. She uses her right hand to open her lips and her left hand to grab Brad’s head and put him in position for cunnilingus. “All is forgiven dear,” she smiles.

*******

Mentally mapping out the quickest route to Andi from Vanessa’s house, Kennedy perpends Andi’s many contact attempts and their ensuing conversation; the catalyst to this quick trip. Evasive and dramatic as usual, I won’t really know what she wants ‘til I get there. I don’t feel like her nonsense tonight; Then again, it’s kind of comical how she rakes me over the coals with accusations and innuendo then asks me dumb crap like “you miss me?” and tries to solicit dating advice from me. As if I should give anybody dating tips. I absolutely live by the age old saying, “people in glass houses shouldn’t throw stones”.

Hearing the date alarm from her phone, Kennedy is reminded that she wants to send some flowers to Vanessa. Dialing 1-800-flowers, she orders a bouquet to include tulips (Vanessa’s favorite flower). While holding for confirmation, she bears in mind the time conflicts with stopping over Andi’s place. I need to make sure I’m gone from there by 11:30 because I need enough time to get to Sophia’s by midnight. I don’t want to put her off again, we’ve already rescheduled twice. I need to just call Andi and tell her we need to hook up another time.

Chuckling over the anticipated upcoming theatrics, Kennedy punches in Andi’s number. As the phone rings a third time a glimmer of excitement over the prospect of leaving a voice message arises and then Andi answers sweetly, “Hey you.”

“Hey Sweetie, well don’t you sound all cozy. Listen doll, we’re gonna have to do this another night; how about Thursday,” Kennedy inquires aware that yelling was about to commence.

“What! You’re standing me up? This is BS and you know it! I thought that was you pulling up a minute ago. You cannot be serious. And what’s up with Thursday, that’s two days from now? ”

“I’m not standing you up sweetie. Thursday is a better day because we won’t be rushed. It’s late and I have some school work to get done. Don’t be upset, we’ll talk everything out then.”

“You’re always doing something like this to me. I won’t have time Thursday and I doubt you have school work; more like a person to do”, Andi declares with disdain.

“I understand Thursday doesn’t work for you. Let me know what day does and we’ll work it out. I have a call coming in that I have to take. I gotta go dear, I’ll talk to you tomorrow; okay doll?”

“Hell no it’s not okay! You better not hang up on me! Kennedy? Hello? Hello? You there? Oh no this B didn’t hang up on me.”

*******

Stay tuned and find out next week …

Is Shaun’s friend Toni just “a friend”?

How much does Brad know about Karen’s past?

Who is Sophia and what is she to Kennedy?

And The Story Goes ... Episode I

2010-04-06T11:05:00.000-07:00

     “You’re certainly quiet over there. Are you enjoying the food?” Andi inquires.
   “Very much so,” Shaun replies holding her hand over her mouth as not to expose the masticating food remnants.
   “But why are you so quiet tonight? It’s not like we haven’t been here before. You’re over there tasting like it’s your first time. If you ask me, we’ve been here too much.”
   “I’m simply enjoying my food. I thought you liked it here.” Here she goes tripping for who knows what this time. For the record, it’s called savoring; I don’t want to wolf my food down. What in the hell is her problem now? Shaun thinks while gearing up for Andi’s next probe.
   “I do like it. I’m just saying we can do other things. You’re so preoccupied with your salmon; can you even hear me? Should I be jealous? You’re not even talking to me. What’s the point in going out if we’re not going to converse with one another? Where are we going once we leave here?”
   “Are you finished your rant? I was listening; would you prefer I talk while you’re talking? I AM eating just as I thought you were. Was your lamb unsatisfactory? Is that why you’re sounding so up in arms? As for after we leave here, I’ll take you home,” Shaun declares while motioning the server over to the table.
   “Home, what!? It’s still early. Oh I see what’s up; you don’t want me over your house tonight!”
   “You need to lower your voice Andi. I’m not doing this with you.”
   “Oh not with me, but with someone I’m sure.”
   “Would you like the server to wrap up the rest of your lamb?”
   “Don’t ignore me!”
   “I’m not ignoring you babe. I just want to make sure we take your food if you want it. I’m going to get the car,” Shaun announces after leaving a generous gratuity.
     Shaun is so full of crap. First she stays on mute while we’re out and now she wants to take me home. What happened to us spending time together? She’s up to some BS, I’m sure of it. I wonder if Karen’s home; Andi considers.

*******

     “You’re going to walk him again? Seems like we’re always taking him outside to do his business; he is spoiled rotten.”
   “We Karen? We—as in you and me?”
   “Okay Brad, it’s true, I don’t really take Spike out.”
   “Is that right?”
   “You got me there mister. Taking Spike out is not really a line item on my to-do list. Plus you like doing it.”
   “I like taking him out to run and play which is why we go outside so often; but I could do without cleaning up his mess. So what’s on Karen’s to-do list?”
   “I need to catch up on my reading and I have some papers to grade. Did you want to add something to my list?”
   “Yes, ME, I want to be on your to-do list,” Brad counters barely letting Karen finish the question.
   “Well that can certainly be arranged. How about I move you to the top?”
   Dropping the leash to the floor, Brad pulls Karen close to him leaving about two inches between their lips and whispers in a raspy voice, “Now you talking.” He looks at Spike sorrowfully, “Man I got to take care of mama first then we’ll go on our walk.” Just as he clasps Karen’s left hand with his right hand, her phone begins singing Andi’s ringtone.
   “I’m not answering it; I’ll call her back later.”
   As they reach the top of the stairs, Karen’s phone chimes Andi’s tone again. Brad sighs and proposes, “How about I take Spike for that walk and when I get back we’ll make sure our phones are on silent?”
   “No baby, I’m not going to answer it. I’ll call her tomorrow. She’ll be fine.”
   “Talk to that damn girl, she thinks everything is an emergency. You know she will keep on calling until she gets you. I’m going to walk the dog; now you go and counsel your friend.”
Brad gets his gray WVU sweatshirt while beckoning for Spike. With haste Spike runs to the door, and lets his owner fasten the leash. As they leave, Karen picks up her phone and affirms, “This better be an emergency.”
   “It is, I invited Kennedy over,” Andi confesses.
   “What! I thought you were having dinner with Shaun.”
   “I was, I mean, we did, but then we got into it, and she dropped me home.”
   “More like you started something and she wasn’t having it. You know how you do. Do NOT have Kennedy come there. You know where that will lead.”
   “It’s not going to lead to anything. We’re just friends now.”
   “Andi, are you forgetting who you’re talking to? That’s crap and you know it. Kennedy is your ex with whom you continued to blur the lines several months after the break-up. Remember how you acted when you saw her out with someone because y’all were still sleeping together?”
   “It’s not like that anymore. We’re both in relationships.”
   “Keep telling yourself that and maybe you’ll believe it. First of all, Kennedy is NOT in a relationship and she makes that very clear. You however, are in a relationship and don’t need the drama. Shaun seems cool; don’t blow it over exaggerated expectations. Even if you decide you don’t want Shaun, you’ve been down the Kennedy path too many times and it is everything except cool. She is high intensity, high drama. Sometimes I think you crave the drama.”
   “I can’t believe you said that. I don’t do drama Karen.”
   “Then why did you call her and not one of your other friends, a real friend?”
   “She is a real friend and I would have asked you but I knew you’d be up Brad’s ass.”
     Ignoring the insult attempt, Karen snickers and states, “The reason you didn’t ask me over is because I don’t do what Kennedy does for you; don’t screw yourself Andi.”
   “You know me, I’ll be fine.”
   “Yes I do know you.”
   “That sounds like her car pulling up.”
   “Well alright girl, I’ll talk to you tomorrow.”

*******

Stay tuned and find out what happens next episode
Who is Kennedy and what is it that she “does” to Andi?
Exactly what intimacies Brad and Karen dive into once he returns home?
Where in the world does Shaun go after dropping Andi off?