Daphne hadn’t given much thought to furnishing her own home. Her years in the Army had taught her to live simply. Occasionally she thought about getting more furniture, but she hadn’t ever been bothered enough to get around to it. The first time she had invited Sparrow over, she’d suddenly seen the worn, mismatched furniture through different eyes and felt the need to apologise for her meagre surroundings. Sparrow had laughed away her attempted apology. “I don’t care if you live in a shoe box,” she’d said, taking Daphne’s hand. “If that’s what makes you happy, then that’s fine. You don’t need to impress me with fancy furnishings. I’m impressed already.”
Sparrow handed Daphne the corkscrew, drawing her back from her reflections.
“Could you do the honours with the wine,” she asked, indicating the bottle Daphne had brought with her, “while I arrange these flowers? We are having rack of lamb and roast vegetables, and then strawberries and homemade ice cream for dessert. Does that sound all right with you?”
Daphne closed her eyes. “That sounds wonderful.” She groaned appreciatively. “And it smells even better.”
“Well, I always think a roast is safe. It’s hard to meet someone who doesn’t like roast lamb.” She placed the vase of sweet peas in the centre of the low table in front of the sofa.
Daphne paused, studying her host for a moment. Sparrow was looking particularly stunning in a pair of loose-fitting black pants, a black and gold silk blouse and soft black leather sandals. Small diamond earrings winked in the light and her grey hair looked so soft that Daphne longed to run her fingers through it.
“I just want to say how lovely you look this evening,” she said softly.
“Thank you,” Sparrow murmured, smiling as a faint blush spread over her cheeks. Taking the proffered glass of wine, she lightly touched Daphne’s hand. “You’re looking very handsome too.”
Sparrow was unable to tear her eyes from Daphne’s face until the soft chime of a timer in the kitchen broke the spell between them.
“Well, that brought us back to earth.” Sparrow laughed as she reluctantly returned to her preparations for the meal.
They chatted easily together, discussing recent events, until Sparrow announced she was ready to serve dinner.
“Do you need any help?” Daphne rose from her stool at the kitchen bench and refilled both their wine glasses.
“Well, as a matter of fact, I was wondering if you wouldn’t mind carving the lamb. I always seem to make rather a mess of it.”
Daphne smiled. “I would be more than delighted.”
As Sparrow picked up the wine glasses, Daphne took the platter containing the fragrant roast, and followed her into the small dining area. Placing it gently on the table, she stepped back, overwhelmed at the scene in front of her. The table had been set with one of Sparrow’s beautifully hand-embroidered tablecloths, the threads adding splashes of colour against the soft butter cream of the linen. Small silver bowls of steaming vegetables had already been placed on the table, together with an ornate silver gravy boat and a crystal bowl containing mint jelly. The heavy cutlery at each setting shone, and the crystal glasses reflected the light of two candles that burnt softly at the centre of the table.
“Sparrow, this is just…beautiful,” Daphne whispered.
Taking Sparrow’s face in her hands, Daphne leant down and kissed her gently. Delighted by Sparrow’s passionate response, Daphne leant in, pulling her closer as their kiss deepened, momentarily lost in Sparrow’s soft lips. After a moment, her senses buzzing, Daphne gently broke the kiss.
“I want to kiss you until the sun comes up,” she murmured softly, “but it would be a terrible waste not to eat this wonderful meal first.”
Sparrow reached up, running her hands across Daphne’s strong shoulders. “I hope you want to do more than just kiss me,” she whispered back.
Groaning, Daphne ran her thumb over Sparrow’s lips, already missing the feel of them against her own. “Oh, you have no idea, my darling.”
Daphne smiled as she felt a shiver run through Sparrow at her words.
Sparrow took her hand and led Daphne to the table. “Well, I had better feed you so that you have plenty of energy.”
Watching Daphne carve the lamb, Sparrow luxuriated in the joy that had been cautiously growing over the last weeks. For the first time in years, she had found someone she really cared for, someone she believed she could love. The fact that neither of them had been looking for someone added yet another layer of magic to the romance. When Daphne handed Sparrow her plate, their eyes met, and Daphne’s smile caused Sparrow to catch her breath.
As Daphne sat, Sparrow raised her glass. “Bon Appetit.”
Daphne gently clinked her glass with Sparrow’s, the sweet chime making them both smile.
“Have you seen anything more of Pat?” Sparrow asked, handing Daphne the gravy.
“As a matter of fact, she called in to see me this morning. Bella was having some friends over and shooed her out of the house. We had a great morning together sitting in my living room watching football replays. Then I made us a scratch lunch and we watched the match together and argued about referee decisions. I think she and Bella are starting to work their issues out. Pat certainly seems more relaxed, which is a relief. This morning it was just like old times.”
“Is there any more news on how the chemo treatment is going?”
Daphne took a sip of wine. “No, but they are trying to stay optimistic. Bella was wearing a beanie when I was there last. Pat said she has lost nearly all her hair now.”
Sparrow shook her head. “I can’t imagine what they are going through. The first time would have been bad enough, but for them to be hit a second time, seems so damned unfair. I put myself on the roster with Allie to visit Bella next week. I don’t really know either of them, but I’ll do anything to help if I can.”
Daphne agreed. “Well, the visits to Bella will certainly help. In the meantime, I’ll look after Pat.”
Helping herself to more vegetables, Sparrow looked over to Daphne. “I’m curious, how did the two of you become such good friends?”
Daphne chuckled. “When I first arrived here, I kept pretty much to myself. One day, there was a knock at my door. When I opened it, there was Pat with a six pack in her hand. ‘I hear you are a West Tigers supporter,’ she said. ‘I have beer and no television at present. If you are watching the game, can I join you?’ We have been the best of friends ever since. From that day on, Pat and Bella pretty much adopted me. There were times I was spending more time at their place than I was at mine.”
The meal passed quickly as Daphne regaled Sparrow with stories of some of the antics she, Pat and several other residents had gotten up to over the last couple of years.
Daphne sighed as she swallowed her last mouthful.
“Sparrow, that was the best meal I have eaten in a long time.”
Sparrow beamed. “Well, you have no idea how wonderful it is to have someone to cook for who appreciates food.”
Daphne laughed. “I always appreciate food, but I must say, living by myself has made me lazy. I should eat better, but so many nights it’s just too hard to get inspired. Heaven only knows what I would do without frozen meals.”
“Well, I think you can forget about the frozen meals from now on, don’t you?” Sparrow asked gently, standing to clear the plates. As Daphne rose to assist her, Sparrow motioned her to stay where she was. “No, sit there. I’ll bring out the dessert.”
Daphne listened to Sparrow moving about in the kitchen, incredibly moved that she had gone to so much trouble to ensure that the evening was perfect. Over the last weeks, Daphne had felt herself falling in love with Sparrow a moment at a time. While thrilled at the wonder of it, she was still conscious of her fear of such an overwhelming change.
Realising she felt like a teenager on her first date, Daphne chuckled.
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br /> “What are you thinking about that is making you laugh?” Sparrow asked as she entered the room carrying dessert.
Colouring, Daphne gave a small cough. “Nothing, just…”
Sparrow placed a large bowl of plump strawberries and a salver of thick beaten cream between them, then handed Daphne a large spoon. Sparrow glanced across at her with a coy smile and raised eyebrow.
“Help yourself.”
Over dessert, Daphne was quiet. It felt like a million butterflies had been let loose inside her and even the sweet strawberries were difficult to swallow. She glanced across at Sparrow, their eyes met and she felt her heart race. Putting her spoon down quickly before she dropped it, Daphne took a deep breath, surreptitiously wiping her sweating hands on her napkin.
“Can I help you wash up?” she asked as Sparrow rose.
Sparrow laid a hand on Daphne’s shoulder as she leant in to collect her bowl. “No, I’m going to put it all in the dishwasher and press the button. Why don’t you take a seat in the living room and make yourself comfortable? Would you like tea or coffee? I also have decaf, if you would prefer.”
“Decaf would be perfect.” Glad for the opportunity to be up and moving around, Daphne gave a small stretch and felt the tension ease out of her shoulders. She moved over to the living room, leaning forward to catch the gentle scent of the sweet peas as she took a seat on the sofa.
“If you enjoy cooking, you should get together with Allie and Bella,” she remarked. “They often share recipes and experiment with food. As recipients of their efforts, Pat and I are always encouraging them.”
“Allie has spoken to her about that,” Sparrow replied. “Unfortunately, with the chemo, the last thing Bella wants to do is be around food. However, she has promised Allie that once she is well again the three of us will spend an afternoon together.”
As the music flowed through the speakers, Daphne felt a sense of peace steal over her. Her previous nervousness had settled into a heightened sense of anticipation. Watching her prepare the coffee with such care, Daphne knew Sparrow shared her anticipation, and when she swore softly after spilling the sugar, Daphne suspected she also shared her nervousness.
Sparrow walked back into the living room, carrying a tray containing a coffee press, mugs, milk and sugar. Daphne moved the flowers to one side so she could set the tray down on the low table.
Taking a seat on the sofa next to Daphne, Sparrow poured a coffee. Their fingers brushed as she handed it over. For a long moment, neither of them moved, until Daphne deliberately took the coffee and placed it back on the tray. Taking Sparrow’s face in her hands, she gently brushed their lips together.
Sparrow met Daphne’s kiss eagerly. Daphne’s lips ignited a response she had almost forgotten ever existed and a whimper escaped as she deepened the kiss. Daphne eased back to catch her breath, but Sparrow had other ideas. Leaning in closer, she pulled Daphne to her, as if absorbing every ounce of her. As Daphne responded and wrapped Sparrow in her arms, she thought she might explode, the press of Daphne’s body against her own fuelling her desire.
Sparrow drew back, her chest heaving. She stood and took Daphne’s hand, tugging her to her feet. Bringing her close, Sparrow looked up.
“While the last thing I want to do right now is stop, I do think the two of us would be much more comfortable in my bed.”
Leading the speechless Daphne, Sparrow quickly moved to her bedroom. She paused near the bed, turned and slowly began unbuttoning Daphne’s shirt. Sliding the shirt from her broad shoulders, Sparrow slowly reached around and released the clasp on Daphne’s bra, freeing her small, soft breasts. She pressed her cheek to Daphne’s breastbone, feeling the pounding of her heartbeat vibrating through her. Sighing deeply and wrapping her arms around Daphne’s strong body, Sparrow savoured the sheer joy of an intimate contact she had never expected to feel again.
Gently, she turned her face, her lips softly tracking their way to Daphne’s breasts. Taking a nipple in her mouth, Sparrow gently flicked her tongue over the nub.
“Sparrow…” Daphne moaned. She tried to free herself from Sparrow’s mouth, but Sparrow held her tight.
“Shhhh, just let me,” Sparrow whispered. “I have been dreaming of this since that night at the pool when you held me. Remember?”
“I’ve thought of little else since it happened. But you seem to have far too many clothes on,” Daphne murmured, plucking at Sparrow’s blouse.
Sparrow turned her face up and saw the arousal in Daphne’s eyes. Acknowledging Daphne’s point, she smiled.
“Well, then, I think we should undress each other, don’t you?” she whispered.
Sparrow closed her eyes as she felt Daphne run her hands across the front of her body, quickly undoing the buttons and sliding her blouse from her shoulders. Their clothes rapidly dropped to the floor, until both were completely naked.
Sparrow looked at Daphne, hardly able to breathe. Her body offered a strength and softness that Sparrow longed to lose herself in. Drawing Daphne close, she let her hands and mouth sensuously discover gentle contours, finding the tender skin of her breasts, the womanly swell of her hips and belly, imprinting the feel and taste of the woman in her arms.
“God, you’re beautiful,” she breathed, tracing her fingers lightly over Daphne’s breasts, kissing the trail of goosebumps left in their wake.
Taking Daphne’s hand, Sparrow gently led her the last few short steps to the bed. She lifted back the covers and turned to her.
“Take me to bed, Daphne, and show me all those things you want to do to me.”
Daphne stood stock still, trying to comprehend the boldness of this tiny woman, not daring to move for fear of breaking the overwhelming feelings that were consuming her. Sparrow’s earnest entreaty jolted her out of her fugue.
Daphne gently eased Sparrow onto the bed. Sparrow held her close, while Daphne tried to hold some of her weight off Sparrow. As a tremor ran through Daphne’s arms, Sparrow spoke quietly.
“Daphne, I’m not going to break. We may not be in the first flush of youth and neither of us are up to Kama Sutra positions, but I need to feel you against me, all of you, and I need both of us to be comfortable. Just take your time and love me. Trust me, if it becomes uncomfortable, I’ll let you know.”
Daphne relaxed, planting whisper-soft kisses along Sparrow’s jaw line. As their lips met in a searing kiss, Daphne slowly lowered her body fully onto Sparrow. Sighing in wonder, she felt Sparrow’s legs wrap around her thighs, her wetness warm against Daphne’s belly. Unable to maintain her control, she let her body take over.
“I need to touch you,” Daphne panted, lifting herself up and positioning herself next to Sparrow. Daphne lowered her head to Sparrow’s breasts, while her hands moved to the other woman’s centre.
As her fingers explored Sparrow, she felt the urgency in her response and met Sparrow’s surge with her own, the mixture of such strength, power and incredible tenderness bringing them both to shattering orgasm much sooner than either was prepared for.
Cradled in each other’s arms, the two women slowly recovered.
“If I had known you were going to cause that reaction in me, I would have suggested this much sooner,” Sparrow whispered sometime later, running her hands over Daphne’s body. “I know it’s been a long time, but I think you’ve melted my bones.”
Drawing her close, Daphne chuckled. “You know, there are people out there that would say we’re too old for this.”
Sparrow gently slapped her. “Don’t you dare say that! Sex isn’t just for the young, you know, no matter what they tell you.” Sparrow kissed Daphne’s breast. “We’re never too old, we just take a little longer to recover. I may not be able to walk properly for the next week.” She laughed.
Daphne looked at Sparrow in alarm. “I didn’t hurt, you did I? I was trying so hard to be as gentle as possible. If I…”
Sparrow interrupted her with a kiss. “You would never hurt me,” she said gently. “It’s just that our bodies don’t always cooperate like they used to.”
“Oh, I don’t know,” Daphne murmured, nibbling Sparrow’s shoulder. “I thought your body cooperated beautifully.”
“Hmmm,” Sparrow breathed softly in Daphne’s ear. “I think we need to work more on yours. I am told you can never have enough practice.”
“What an excellent idea,” Daphne agreed as she felt Sparrow move down the bed. “They do say practice makes perfect…”
CHAPTER 13
Louise parked the car in what seemed to be the last available space for miles. Berry’s bimonthly farmer’s market was already in full swing and it was only nine-thirty in the morning. Louise had planned to spend the day working, but Caro had had other ideas.
“You can’t just keep working,” she’d remonstrated. “It’s the weekend and we both need a break. We’re going to the markets and that’s that.”
After locking the car, they followed the sizeable crowd to Berry Memorial Park. Boasting over 200 stalls, the market attracted people from all over the region. Caro and Louise tried to visit as often as possible; they loved the rich assortment of local produce for sale, as well as the opportunity to catch up with many of their friends.
Looking around at the crowd, Louise shook her head. “I think it’s even busier than the last time we came,” she said, neatly sidestepping a small child with a large stick of fairy floss.
“Well, it’s been a while since we were last here. Probably three months at least,” Caro replied.
The market was divided into three distinct sections. At the far end were the sheds that held the livestock. Farmers from all over the district came to buy and sell, and as a younger, more affluent group of farmers moved into the region, the livestock on offer had expanded from the usual cattle, pigs and sheep to include exotic breeds such as alpacas and llamas. A small shed displaying homemade craft works was dwarfed by the largest and most popular of the three, which housed the locally made foods and organic produce.
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