Cherish and Simon- the First Year

by Eva Morian

  Without thinking about the compromising position their normal sleep looked to the outside world, Cherish gripped the pillow close and nodded, “You’re right. The bed isn’t what it’s cracked up to be.” She said in response with a yawn. As she curled her body against him, her eyes shut before she paused and felt…his skin against hers. Her eyes opened wide as she stared at the lamp on the side table and cleared her throat, “Simon. You’re not wearing underwear...are you?” she asked.

  Simon was nearly asleep before his eyes snapped open. His stomach did a flip and his hold around her tensed, “Uh…” Without saying anything, he slipped away, sat up, and slid from the bed. Shuffling around in the darkness, he returned with sweatpants and curled back into her again, “Of course I am.” He muttered.

  She rolled her eyes before she buried her face into the pillow and laughed, “Uhuh. Of course, you are.” She echoed in response. Her hand fell over his as she settled in again and shut her eyes, “Goodnight, Simon.” She whispered under her breath.

  “Goodnight.”

  He couldn’t stop the heavy beating in his chest. He had his eyes shut and his face dipped against the back of her shoulder. With her in his arms, he knew it wasn’t normal, but he was willing to feign ignorance and indulge in her for as long as she allowed.

  Chapter 13

  Waking up earlier than the parents the next morning, Cherish snuck out of Simon’s bedroom and went towards the kids’ room. She peered within and stared across the way at the two cribs where they still slept. That was unheard of. Florida was two hours ahead in time and usually they would be awake by 8 A.M. Here it was, 7 A.M. in Colorado and they had yet to lift their little heads.

  Good.

  Taking advantage of the situation, Cherish shut the door behind her and crept into her bedroom. Rubbing her arms, she hurried to the bathroom with the intent of taking a hot shower to warm up. Their desires to go skiing after breakfast didn’t make sense to her. Without warm enough jackets, she didn’t want to go out unprepared. Now, she had to spend all day in the unforgiving cold. Somewhere, deep down inside her stomach, she felt as though she wouldn’t return home with all her fingers intact. Getting the water as hot as she could, she stripped down and tied up her hair before she stepping into the large glass shower; washing.

  Slowly, Simon managed to get himself out of bed. Rubbing his eyes, he inhaled a deep breath and paused mid-stretch. He realized Cherish wasn’t there and it was much later in the morning than he was used to. Getting out of bed quickly, he followed the same path as she did and opened the door to their room. Finding them still asleep, he could hear Cherish’s shower running and decided she had the right idea.

  Not long after the duo upstairs, Jack had gotten up with Miriam and the others. They were soon cooking breakfast as he went upstairs for the babies to feed them. Miriam and he weren’t fans of the cold long term either and wanted to take an opportunity to be alone with them. Their plans were to watch them while everyone else skied and wanted to make sure that they were full and bundled tight.

  Once Simon was finished with his shower and had gotten dressed, he went to Cherish’s room. He rapped his knuckles against the door, opened it and, peered inside, “Do you need some help?” he asked stepping in.

  Jack stalled at the sight of Simon sneaking in before he quietly went to wake the babies. Sitting up, Jasmine rubbed her eyes while Jr. laid there and stared upwards. Picking them up, he hurried down the steps and cleared his throat to gain Margaret and Miriam’s attention, “I think our boy is a little too eager this morning.” He said.

  Margaret flipped a pancake, “Which boy? Because Jr. looks quite peaceful.” She stated.

  Jack shook his head before he pointed towards the second floor and mouthed, “Simon.”

  Margaret’s mouth dropped all while Miriam looked between Simon Sr. and her husband, “Now, let’s not jump to any conclusions everyone. We know how Simon likes to protect and look out for Cherish.” She stated. Nodding, Miriam agreed with Margaret only for Simon’s mother to continue, “But let’s hope they relieve some stress while they’re up there.”

  Miriam sighed out loud, “For God’s sake!” she replied.

  Wrapped in a towel, Cherish sighed as she pulled on a pant leg and rubbed the material between her fingers. Everything she owned felt so thin compared to the wintery hell that awaited her just beyond those walls. She glanced back at Simon and shook her head, “If by help you mean, finding a store in town so I can purchase something actually warm in this climate, then yes, you can help. Give me all your money.” She replied. Met with his chuckle, she tightened her grip on the top of the towel and pulled out one of her jackets, “Look at this. I don’t think your sweater and this jacket is going to protect me.” She sighed tossing it on the bed. Placing a hand to her cheek, she then looked to Simon, “I might have to stay indoors with Jack, Miriam, and the kids.” She admitted.

  Simon shook his head right away. There was no way she was going to bail on her first time to play in snow and see Colorado. Not on his watch. She would get to experience the whole thing. “Oh no, you’re going to know what it means to ski on powder. Here, get dressed, put on my sweaters and I’ll find the rest.” He replied backing away and rushing downstairs.

  Just as they were sitting down to eat, the entire kitchen fell silent as Simon came down no more than two minutes after Jack. Margaret looked to her husband and leaned over, "My god I really hope it wasn't that quick." She whispered worriedly.

  Passing the kitchen, Simon opened the closet by the front door and stepped within. There were snow suits, thick winter coats, gloves, mittens, hats, and scarves for the guests to borrow as advertised. He was satisfied with his find while pulling most of the garments out and hauling them to the living room.

  Resting the pile on the back of a loveseat, he made his way around the fireplace and kissed each child on the forehead. Miriam kicked at Margaret under the table and widened her eyes. Laughing out loud, Margaret rubbed her shin lightly, "Good morning, son. Is Cherish awake?" She asked.

  Jack handed Simon the squeeze tube of baby food for Jasmine and a bright plastic spoon his way. Simon nodded as he sat down, “Yeah, she’s awake. She just got out of the shower and getting dressed now.” He answered.

  A smirk crossed Margaret’s lips as she thought about her son seeing Cherish in the shower. Seeing her mischievousness, Miriam perked up at Simon's presence and pushed more of the dark purple liquid into her grandson's mouth, "How did you sleep?" She asked to distract him.

  Squeezing out apple and pear flavored mush for Jasmine, Simon fed her spoonful by spoonful while he munched on a piece of bacon for himself; repeating the process, “Great, the mattresses here are as good as the reviews say.” He answered.

  As the conversation continued, Cherish finally emerged dressed in two shirts, a pair of leggings, jeans, and Simon’s sweater. Entering the kitchen, she was greeted with an eruption of good mornings, which only caused her to slow down. Everyone smiled at her over exaggeratedly except for Simon, who wore the same look of confusion as she. Cherish slowly turned her head away and grabbed a plate, “…good morning.” She replied. She glanced over the eggs, bacon, cut fruit, and pancakes, “Wow, this is a lot. You guys didn’t have to make all of this.” She said making her plate.

  Margaret clasped her hands together and rubbed them, “Of course we did. There’s so many of under one roof, we must make sure we’re all fed and accommodated for. Are you ready to get out on the slopes?” She asked.

  Cherish sat down beside Simon all while Jr. began to kick his feet and lean over Miriam for her. Miriam ignored what he wanted and scooped another batch into his mouth to keep him quiet. Cherish flicked a glance to Simon before she rocked from one side to the other and situated herself, “I don’t think ready is the word. I believe it’s terrified, but I trust that I won’t be buried under an avalanche or go careening off a cliff, right?” she asked. Margaret quickly lowered her head while the other parents refused to look in her d
irection. Simon gave her a clueless shrug because they acted weird to him too. Cherish glanced over at him and nudged his arm, “Right?” She asked again.

  He thought about the actual risks, tensed his jaw, and looked away from her, “Yeah, about that…” He wiped his mouth and gave Jasmine another spoonful, “…there shouldn’t be any issues, but let’s just make sure to be safe.” He answered with a reassuring smile, “We’re not going to any cliffs and we’re not in an avalanche zone. We should be fine.” He added. She looked at the parents again and finished her meal quickly.

  The chatter went off to normal topics like weather and temperature. Cherish had eaten her food and decided to top Jr. off before the group began to get dressed up in their heavy gear.

  The babies were on the floor kicking their feet and babbling as per usual while Cherish lifted one heavy coat to another. She tried on a hunter green one, but the sleeves hung over her fingers. Everyone else was roaming around and gathering what they needed while she took off the coat and tried on a black one. This one barely hung over her behind and that’s the last thing she wanted cold. Sighing, she pulled it off and sifted through the others.

  Simon watched her silently before deciding to join the effort to help. After a minute, he felt as though he’d found the right one. It was a dark red woman’s coat with fur cuffs, looped buttons, and a wide flare around the hips. Holding it open, he helped her put it on, “I think this is the one.” He said. Cherish tugged on the flaps of the jacket and nodded. This one felt better than the others. Simon smiled, “You got it.” He stated.

  Bending over, he pulled out a couple of hats and squinted one eye. He tried to picture either of them fitting over her hair, and after trying the biggest one, it was clear they weren’t going to work. This caused her to laugh out loud because she could feel how awkwardly it sat on her mane of hair. He chuckled lightly while tossing the hat aside and grabbing a pair of earmuffs. He fit them snugly over her head and onto her ears. Her curls puffed out from all directions, but her ears felt much better. Getting gloves, Simon took her hand and fit the fabric around each finger. He took great care to be sure that they were on right before he slid a mitten on top. Even he couldn’t stand cold hands.

  She stared at him with each hand and rolled her lips in quietly. The way his glasses slipped down his nose caused her stomach to twist.

  When she was practically disabled, puffy, and snug, he tilted his head while stepping back, “Hm, you look warm, but there’s something missing. Got it.” He snapped his fingers before he grabbed a scarf and wrapped it around her neck. He bunched the thick fabric around her mouth and nose with enough space to breathe. Backing away from his creation, he got a good look at her, “Perfect.” He said. A goofy smile fell over his lips as he pulled out his phone and took a picture, “You’re so cute. How do you feel? Are you boiling yet?” he questioned.

  She opened her mouth and was immediately greeted with a mouthful of fuzz. Yanking the scarf down, she cleaned her lips off looking to Simon; silly smile and all, "It's the warmest I've been this entire time and I love it." She replied.

  Jack was the first one to enter the room. He took the car keys off an end table and wiggled them, "I'm going to start the car and get her warmed up." He said

  Margaret came in the room and paused, "And just how do you expect to maneuver in that?" She asked pinching her lips together.

  Cherish looked down at herself and pulled the scarf down again, "That is definitely the least of my worries." She said.

  Margaret laughed a bit before she went over to the car seats and lugged them over to the kids, "Well then, let's get ready to go!" She said happily while lifting Jr. and buckling him in.

  Once the children were loaded, the adults packed themselves in tight dressed in their coats and snow suits before they made their way out to the ski hills. Riding up the path that led towards the entrance of the lodge, Cherish stared in awe at the towering villa. Getting out, they were met with valet who took over and rode off once everyone stood outside.

  They entered through the large double doors and the first thing they were hit with was the smell of decadent sweets and vanilla. The interior within was rustic, warm, and inviting. Miriam and Jack brought the babies further past the line for rentals while everyone else held back. Cherish kissed both kids on the cheeks while Miriam spoke up with Jasmine in her arms, "We will be right inside if you need us. Or playing in the snow. You all have fun!!" She said before they disappeared further into the lodge.

  Cherish watched after them momentarily. With Simon’s voice calling her, she stepped in line with and the others. Blowing out, Simon took off his hat and wiped his brow with the back of his glove. He was dying of the heat and felt bad for Cherish. Though it was warm beneath those clothes, there wasn't a chance she would complain about it. He knew he’d have to keep an eye on her.

  Soon enough their time had come to where Simon and his father split the cost of tickets, skis, boots, and helmets rental. As the number hiked up Margaret slowly turned her head away and pointed out of the window, "Look sweetie, it’s starting to snow again." She whispered as the attendant ripped the receipt out for both Simon and his father to sign.

  Cherish turned her attention towards the large windows. A Christmas tree, high and majestic, sat beneath a chandelier. A small smile rested beneath her scarf as she and Margaret approached and stood silently side by side. Margaret glanced at her and wrapped an arm around her shoulders with a tight hug. Cherish returned the sentiment before they pulled away and stared ahead at the other patrons playing around the flat surface of the snow-covered ridge. Kids threw snow in the air, couples held each other's hands, and some parents made snow men with their children.

  As the cashier went around and pulled their gear out of storage, Simon Sr. nudged against his son, “I heard you got adventurous this morning.” He said with a knowing look.

  Simon recognized the perverse glint in his father’s eyes and shook his head, “Not the kind of adventure you’re talking about. So, whatever you’re thinking…” He looked his father in the eyes and paused for dramatic effect to get the point across, “…stop.” He finished.

  Simon Sr. laughed at how coy his boy was being, “Alright, okay, whatever you say, but it looks like you’re missing out, big time.” He stated.

  Before Simon had a chance to reply, the attendant returned and gave them their tickets as well as a map and instructions. When they were ready, their gear would be waiting for them by the door.

  Margaret sighed out softly as she reflected on her last holiday with Emily. Though she felt a slight twinge of heartbreak for a member she’d lost, she wasn't angry when seeing what they’d gained. She was happy.

  When she first heard from Miriam that Simon had another woman in his house and bed, she was livid. She cried hysterically because she didn't understand why her son moved in a stranger so quickly. How broken and confused Miriam sounded only spurred her resentment even deeper. But, alike to her son, she felt that Cherish wasn't a bad woman. She was respectable, humbled, young, and scared.

  In her short years, she'd endured more devastation than any of them, yet she handled their delicate situation with grace and beauty. Margaret couldn’t imagine life without Cherish or her granddaughter. A baby that she never knew she could love as much as her own grandson. There was no difference, even if they weren't blood.

  Margaret inhaled a deep breath as she turned her attention back to the window, "You know..." Cherish pulled the earmuffs off to hear. Margaret crossed her arms together and sighed, "I didn't think God would bless me with another daughter so soon..." Cherish's stomach dropped and her eyes widened. Her heartbeat pounded in her ears as Margaret turned and looked to her, "...but he did, and I couldn't be happier. I've been blessed with three beautiful children. Simon, Emily, and you. I love you and Jasmine. Thank you for loving our family just as much as we love you." She whispered as her eyes glittered.

  Cherish inhaled a deep breath as silent tears broke from the corner of
her eyes and streamed down the sides of her cheek. She swallowed a hard lump in her throat all while Margaret used a gloved knuckle to soak up her own tears. She glanced back at the men who approached them and quickly patted Cherish on the shoulder, "Wipe your face. The last thing we need is to make this adventure mushy. Then Simon and his dad will want to go and watch those cheesy Christmas movies all afternoon.” She whispered.

  Simon waved the women over, “It’s ready.” He said.

  Cherish began to laugh as she placed both hands over her face and shook her head. Discretely, she dried her eyes and cheeks before they turned towards the men and met them halfway, "How bad was the damage?" Margaret asked.

  Margaret looked to her husband and waited for him to answer her question. Simon Sr. answered his wife, “Two-hundred.” Margaret sighed because she knew her husband meant two-hundred each since Simon split the cost.

  Cherish placed her scarf back in its place and followed Simon towards the entrance. The cashier stood there with an assistant and waited until they approached. Cherish’s cheeks were fully inflated as she stepped closer to the man.

  He held out a pair of black skis and boots in her direction, “I hear you guys are only going to be on the small slopes today. Someone is a newbie here?” he questioned gazing over their faces. He then stopped on her and saw how she was dressed. Found her. Cherish slowly turned her gaze towards Simon as everyone gathered their gear.

  The assistant pointed to the exit at the rear of the large building, “Right out there and to the right is where our beginner and kiddie slopes are. Have fun and stay warm!” she exclaimed sending them off.

  Simon smiled to the enthusiastic woman, “Thank you.” He replied.

  Outside, Cherish only felt the chilling pinch against her cheeks and forehead which was fine by her. She carried her equipment towards the benches lined along the large building and watched as the others began to strap themselves in. She stuck her skis in the snow and leaned them against the exterior wall before sitting beside Simon.