Hunting Party (Still Alive; A Lesbian Love Story in an Undead World Book 3)

by Leigh Ann Scott

Puberty is never an easy age, but add girl crushes when society insisted boys should be her focus of attention… it makes that awkwardness even worse. Jaimee remembered gazing in rapture at actresses and female rock musicians. Yet, the ‘realistic’ infatuations at school – those set her stomach into knots or butterflies when the girl paid her any attention. It was during those years that she began to stretch her sketching talent in earnest, asking friends to pose or attending softball, basketball and swimming events, madly drawing. By the time she reached high school, art teachers encouraged her to consider art as a career.

  Financially, a University was out of reach and Jaimee thought about trying a two-year college – even tried attending for a semester, but just could not focus on the non-art classes to make a successful run at it.

  The middle school days though…oh how I wish I would have had the courage to make a move on some of those girls. I probably would have been shot down, or worse, as there weren’t very opened minded kids there. But, if only one returned my affections…

  Jaimee sighed. It took a long time, well into high school before I finally found someone to experiment with….if you could call kissing an experiment. I really didn’t hook up with anyone until I went to that two-year college. ‘There’s a time and place for everything, and that’s college’, as they say.

  Jaimee remembered her ‘first’. She was modeling for a painting class Jaimee enrolled in – not nude, but she did not need to be in order to see the curve of hips and breasts through form fitting clothing. Her brown hair fell ever so perfectly over her shoulders while she sat on a stool in the middle of the classroom. Jaimee recalled the red flush creeping up her neck until her face shown like a beacon while trying not to stare, but also studying the model to create an image on the canvas.

  She was making progress with the study until the model picked Jaimee out of the class and focused her gaze at her, which only served to create more heat emanating from Jaimee and made it difficult to concentrate. The model’s dark eyes locked on Jaimee’s hazel and at times would slowly look up and down, examining Jaimee thoroughly.

  I remember not knowing what was going on. I’m sure I stared at some of my crushes in high school like that, but they never caught on and I gave up. This…this was different. I was admiring her, but to have the attention on me instead of the other way around blew me away. She looked ’hungry’, and I was ‘starving’ too.

  *****

  The model came to class for two weeks or four scheduled periods. By the third meeting, Jaimee had gathered herself enough to make good progress on the painting. It was at the end of this class that the woman approached Jaimee. She did not comment on the painting, but let a small smile sneak onto her face as she glanced at the canvas and then back at Jaimee. Her eyes a dark brown with an amber glow.

  Attempting not to seem a fool, Jaimee smiled back. “Hi. I wanted to thank you for sitting for our class. You’re really beautiful and I am enjoying getting to paint you.”

  “I think you are beautiful too and would love to go have coffee together some time,” the other woman boldly stated. She had a slight accent, not one that Jaimee could readily identify.

  Floored at the bluntness of the invitation, she hesitated before accepting.

  “That’s if you want too of course,” the other woman continued.

  “What? I mean yes. I - I do!” Jaimee stuttered.

  A smile and quick nod. “Good. Do you know where the Steam Room is?”

  “Yeah, isn’t that the place set in a basement under office space? A mile off campus?”

  “Yes. It’s a wonderful coffee shop, especially in the evening after most of the business people go home to their little suburban lives.”

  “When did you want to meet?” she swallowed anxiously. “Oh and uh, I don’t even know your name. I’m Jaimee.”

  Taking a hand in both of hers, the woman answered, “How very nice to meet you Jaimee. I would very much like to see you tonight if you are free. Say seven?”

  She’s definitely not from around here. Even her mannerisms are a little foreign or erotic…wait I mean exotic. Ugh, I hope I didn’t say that out loud! Falling mute, Jaimee nodded and felt her pulse quicken.

  “Oh, and as for my name. You’ll have to wait until we meet tonight, and then I will tell you. I will tell you anything you want to know…as long as you share too.” She winked and released Jaimee’s hand.

  After her last class of the day, Jaimee sped back to the three-bedroom apartment she shared with two friends. Honestly, I don’t know why I even bothered to go to any other classes today, I couldn’t concentrate to save my life! I have just enough time to have a snack and get changed. I’m not sure if we’re eating anything or just drinking coffee. Don’t want to have my stomach start growling in the middle of everything.

  One of the roommates was home and waved as Jaimee raced inside the kitchen to grab leftovers from the night before and hurried into her bedroom. She did not know what might happen tonight, but wanted to be prepared. She had just enough time to shower, shave, fix her hair and pick out an outfit to wear.

  “I own one hot looking skirt, but I know I won’t be comfortable in it. I’ve already made a dope of myself, so I have to wear something I’m relaxed in. She liked me today, even in my scruffy t-shirt and shorts. Maybe if I wear a pair of tight jeans with a nicer shirt?”

  Eventually, she picked out what to wear and added a necklace and a couple rings as accessories. Getting her hair to fall in the right direction was always a struggle, but she won and applied just enough make up to enhance her eyes and lips.

  Doing a last minute check in the mirror, Jaimee said, “Damn, yes. That’s what I was going for. Edgy, but not ‘hard’ or too ‘slutty’. I hope she likes the way I look.”

  A glance at the clock showed she was a few minutes earlier. She walked out into the front room where one roommate sat glued to the sofa, watching TV.

  “Hey Erika, I don’t know how late I’ll be tonight. If I’m late, I’ll try to be quiet coming in.” Jaimee hesitated and then continued, “I may even have somebody with me. Not sure yet.”

  Erika turned around. “Heyyy, that’s awesome! I’ll let Francine know. Have fun!”

  Chugging a quick drink of water, Jaimee walked out of the apartment and down the stairwell into the street. She lived near the campus and less than two miles from The Steam Room. It was a nice evening and she had plenty of time to arrive for their date, so decided to walk instead of calling for a taxi or ride share. It would give her time to think, and bring her nervous energy under control. Eventually her anxiety settled as she walked to the date.

  Arriving at the coffee house, she headed towards the restroom immediately to check her reflection. Jaimee wanted to make sure she was at her best, especially for this woman.

  Brushing stray hair from her eyes, Jaimee thought overall she looked good. “This damn hair though. It wish would stay put!”

  She grimaced and gave up on the flyaway hair, tucking some of it behind an ear. Moments later found Jaimee scanning the dimly lit coffee house for the mysterious woman.

  The Steam Room was an odd mixture of coffee house with an underground bar type of feel, although Jaimee did not believe they sold alcohol. No, I take that back. I see people with glasses of wine too.

  Books and games sat on shelves in the main area of the business while alcoves hid occupants here and there throughout the building, allowing some privacy for those that wanted it. Upstairs there was a small balcony overlooking the main space with comfortable sofas and retro beanbag chairs scattered along it.

  There was a narrow flight of stairs leading to a basement. Jaimee did not know if the cellar was used for storage or another area for customers to gather. If I don’t see who I’m looking for right away, I’m going to wander around and check it out. This place is amazing! She took a deep breath. I can smell their beans too. The coffee must be divine.

  Bronze piping ran here and there along the ceiling and walls making Jaimee wonder i
f it once was truly an old boiler room for the rest of the building or the end product of a brilliant decorator.

  Pausing after leaving the brightly lit bathroom, she let her eyes adjust to the dark interior. A barista approached her and nodded toward one of the dimly lit booths in the far corner of the room. Jaimee strained to see who sat in the booth, but could only make out a waving and then beckoning hand. She waved back, assuming this was her mysterious date, put in an order at the counter and joined the figure in the dim alcove.

  The alcove booth was light enough to create an ambience of warm privacy with candles fluttering in the middle of the table. Most of the direct lighting of the building was aimed toward the serving bar and center of the room. Jaimee saw the other woman smile as she slipped onto the seat. The booth seat was made of dark leather upholstery which wound around in a half circle and large enough to potentially hold four patrons. In this case, Jaimee and her date had it all to themselves.

  “I am glad you came, Jaimee.” She reached across the table and placed a hand over Jaimee’s.

  I’m glad it’s dark in here. It hides the color of my face right now! Which is good. I think I need some self-assurance when it comes to this woman. What the hell is her name anyway? Jaimee took a deep breath. “So…What is your name? I can’t keep saying ‘hey you’.”

  “Ah, straight to the point with you Americans.” She chuckled and smoothly slipped closer to Jaimee in the booth. “No, No don’t worry. I’m used to it by now. In fact, I find it refreshing. When I’m asked to sit for classes, I ask the teacher to not use my name…or any name for that matter. I want the artist to be completely unfettered and open when creating their version of me.”

  Jaimee fought the temptation to back away. She knew the woman was attracted to her. Lack of familiarity made her nervous, but her open nature aroused Jaimee and gave her more confidence. She seemed older, but not too much older than she was, yet definitely more experienced in many ways. She leaned closer, waiting for her to say her name.

  Softly, she said, “My name is Mira. I have been in the states for a number of years.”

  Jaimee let the name float in her mind for a few seconds, relishing its sound before responding.

  “Mira. I like it, it fits you. Beautiful. You also roll your R’s a little bit, but I don’t think you’re Spanish. Where are you from originally?” Jaimee asked, intrigued.

  “Everywhere.” she paused as Jaimee’s coffee arrived. “Originally? Bulgaria. It is a beautiful country, but there are more opportunities here and in other countries.”

  Moments passed as Jaimee sipped her coffee while Mira spoke of living briefly in New York, Chicago and finally Los Angeles. She did not stay longer than a couple years in any location, but enjoyed modeling and meeting new people. “I especially loved New York, but the weather here is so much more enjoyable.”

  “I’ve pretty much just lived on the west coast my entire life, so other than trips to other parts of the country and across the border, I don’t know any better.”

  “That will change with time.” She raised one hand up, gesturing into empty air drawing broad brush strokes. “I can picture you painting along the Seine in Paris, or doing sketches around Prague.”

  “Me?” Jaimee asked incredulously. “I don’t think I’m that good, and besides, I’d have to figure out a way to get there and not be forced to sleep on a bench.”

  Mira fluttered her hands. “Someday, you will do it. Your talent won’t let you rest until you find and create a work of every beautiful thing you see. You make me look better than I am in the painting from your class.”

  “Uh, you’re an easy subject in that respect.” Jaimee admitted. “Seriously, if an artist made you look ugly, they shouldn’t be an artist.”

  “That is kind of you to say.” She smiled, brushed back a stray strand of hair from Jaimee’s face, and guided her fingers tips along her cheek and neck.

  Exciting chills coursed up and down Jaimee’s body as she caught her breath. The closeness of the other woman made it easy for her to react by holding Mira’s arms, trying not to grasp hard with the need and anticipation she felt for intimate contact. She longed to feel her skin against hers and taste her soft lips.

  Unconsciously, she tilted her head slightly and leaned towards her, paused until Mira moved forward, then continued until their lips met. A long, passionate kiss and caress sent electricity coursing through Jaimee’s veins.

  Oh my God, I want her so badly. Please let this be the time… Many times she thought she was close to making love to another woman, only to find out they were straight or not interested in someone who had not had sex before. She never understood that mentality, and hoped when the ‘shoe was on the other foot’, that she would not adopt it either.

  After a long moment, they broke their embrace and breathlessly sat and looked deeply into each other’s eyes. Jaimee wanted to reach for her coffee out of nervous habit, but did not trust her hand not to tremble. Time stretched.

  Mira was first to break the silence. “I am glad you kissed me first. I was not entirely sure that you were into women or not although I was convinced that you were.”

  “I’m sorry, I could tell you were and should have been more obvious. At least we didn’t waste much time!” Jaimee did reach for the coffee and took a quick sip. She awkwardly changed the subject. “I have to thank you for turning me on…to this place. I’d seen it before, but never really dropped in.”

  “It is nice, yes?” she looked around before staring intently again at Jaimee. “I know a nicer place, if you would like to come with me. Smaller. More intimate where we won’t be interrupted.”

  Swallowing her anxiety, Jaimee nodded and slid out of the booth behind Mira. Exiting the building, she hailed a ride share service on her phone. While waiting for the car, they tenderly brushed bodies against one another, smiling secretly into each other’s neck. At first glance, any outsider would see two friends sharing a secret joke, but if their gaze lingered may read further into their body language. The vehicle arrived and they hopped into its back seat. After confirming their destination, both women settled back and attempted to control themselves. The driver tried to strike up a conversation with the women, but they were too distracted by one another to pay him much attention.

  This date is moving along so fast, but I’m not going to complain or stop for that matter. Jaimee’s excitement was growing.

  Shortly, they arrived in front of a group of condominiums. Mira explained to Jaimee along the way that she rented a small place fifteen minutes from the coffee house. Thanking the driver, the piled out of the car arm in arm.

  “This is where you’re staying? It’s nice. High rent I bet.”

  “It’s a small place, but perfect for me.” Mira led the way up to the landing, up a few steps. “I rent without a lease because I do not know how long I will stay in any location.”

  “How long have you been in LA?” Jaimee asked.

  “Before I met you in your class?” she unlocked the entrance to the building and beckoned. “A month? Maybe less? I go where there is work. Right now, that is LA.”

  “I find it crazy that you model for a painting class, while also having a contract with an agency. Isn’t that too ‘small-time’ for you?” Jaimee followed the Bulgarian woman past the foyer and up a flight of stairs until they arrived at the door to her place.

  “Oh I enjoy doing that. Not just to meet new talent or gorgeous women.” she flirted as she opened the door and flicked the light on. “Here we are. It’s not much, but it is my refuge in a busy city.”

  In front the entry, a small kitchen sat to the right with granite countertops, a stainless steel refrigerator, stove and sink and dark cabinetry. Mira’s unit was one story with a loft. The main floor included a plush living space and full bath, while the open loft contained the bedroom and a small closet. Other than recessed lighting, strings of delicate light bulbs hung from corners of the space, giving the room a magical glow.

  I wonder if
she has them up in the loft too above the bed. I can’t really see it from down here. Jaimee hoped that she could soon find out.

  As they walked in, Jaimee also noticed that Mira had a flare of design, if she was the person who actually decorated the place. “This is amazing, did you make this?”

  Jaimee ran her hand along a hollowed out acoustic guitar, complete with its neck, wood shelving built within its body, and rounded holes that allowed light bulbs to be run into it from the mounted side. Two small plants sat surrounded by bright bulbs inside, which from a distance looked like candlelight. The light flickered at timed intervals giving the illusion of candlelight.

  “Yes. I had a cheap old guitar that began to crack, so I created a visual piece. It’s nothing special, but it does add character.” she retrieved two wine glasses from a cupboard and a chilled bottle of Syrah from the refrigerator. “Would you care for a glass?”

  “Please!”

  Wine in hand, the women reclined on a small sofa, sinking into the cushions. They talked and sipped until the bottle was nearly empty, and their ardor was full. Mira stood, a little unsteady, and took Jaimee by the hand, leading her up the stairs into the bedroom loft. Enough light filtered in from down below to see each other and generate an ambiance of discovery as they started peeling off clothing.

  Jaimee was excited and nervous, but thankful that the wine created a buzzing high that instilled her with confidence and eagerness to learn what passions drove Mira. Lying down on the soft bed together, they memorized their bodies with fingertips, and eventually lips and tongues. For the first time, Jaimee knew that the keen ache deep inside was soon to be released. Amazed at how quickly she lost herself in the perfect skin and shape of Mira’s body, Jaimee felt a rush of adrenaline like a drug and wanted to have the other woman badly. The only thing that gave her pause was inexperience and not knowing exactly what to do.

  Mira paused and caught her breath, looking at Jaimee’s indecision as realization dawned. “Oh. I had no idea.” She cupped Jaimee’s face with her hands and sighed. “I thought for sure someone like you would be…well, let’s say taken many times by now. I guess we all have to start sometime.”