by Nesly Clerge
Garrett’s—who could call it love-making?—paled in comparison to Luke’s. The double-entendre made her smile.
She took care with how she dressed to meet Luke at Books and Brew. And she planned topics to talk about so they didn’t sit in awkward silence.
At ten till eleven, Chelsea drove to the coffee shop. Luke waited outside, held the door open as she approached. He went to get their coffees, she found a table against the far wall. Their first meeting here seemed a lifetime ago, when their feelings for each other were still unencumbered.
Luke put their cups on the table and sat. “You look well, Chelsea, except for the circles under your eyes. Aren’t you sleeping?”
Chelsea ran a polished nail around the rim of her cup and shrugged. “I have a lot on my mind.” She looked up and gave him a half-smile.
“We’d had too much to drink.”
“You don’t believe that anymore than I do. The alcohol did nothing more than remove our inhibitions.”
“You’re right. That was a stupid thing to say. Well, we’re sober now.”
Chelsea chuckled.
Luke smiled. “Want to share what’s funny?”
She shook her head. “I shouldn’t say it.”
“Please. I need to know what you’re thinking.”
“It’s just that I find it difficult to imagine that it would be even better if we weren’t somewhat inebriated.” Her smile faded. “Your expression tells me I should have kept that thought to myself.”
“That’s not …” His gaze held hers. “I was thinking how much I’d like to find out.”
“Maybe it won’t be as spectacular.”
Luke’s cup stopped halfway to his mouth. “You said won’t, not wouldn’t. As in there’s a possibility.”
“You could get a room at the same place and text the number to me. So we don’t show up together.”
“There are rooms and parking in back. But we agreed: coffee only.”
Chelsea stroked the back of his hand. “Only one kind of coffee I want. And I want it now. If you have the time and inclination, that is.”
Luke bumped the table in his rush to stand. “Leave in a few minutes. I’ll text you as soon as I get the key.”
Chelsea, sheathed in perspiration and breathing hard, started to ease herself up and off of Luke.
He kept his hands on her hips and pressed down. “Don’t move,” he said. “I want to look at you.”
“I must look a mess.”
He caressed her breasts. “You’re a goddess.”
“A sweaty one.”
“A radiant goddess.”
“Who needs to work out more.”
“That’s up to you, but I think you’re perfect just as you are.”
“Thank you, kind sir. But I refer to my out-of-practice thigh muscles.”
“You don’t hear me complaining.”
She trailed her fingers up his chest. “The sounds you made could never be construed as complaints.” She reached for his watch and sighed. “Time can be so inconvenient. There’s only one thing to do. C’mon. Into the shower. Maybe the hot water and my soaping you will recharge you.”
Luke growled and grinned. “You aim to have your way with me again in there, don’t you?”
Chelsea crawled on all-fours to the edge of the bed, stopped and looked back. “Are you coming?”
“I don’t think I’ll be able to help it. But, it may take a few minutes.”
CHAPTER 59
Penelope pulled a turquoise silk sundress from the rack and held it up. “What about this? It’ll show off your eyes and tan. By the way, is that tan real or spray-on?”
“Real,” Chelsea replied.
“Since when do you lay out in the sun?”
“I don’t. I discovered I have a large pool in my backyard and decided to use it.”
“Looks good on you.”
Chelsea took the dress from Penelope. “I like that. I’ll try it on. Back in a few.”
Penelope followed her to the dressing room and stood outside the closed door. “Okay, give.”
“Give what?”
“The glow. Swimming. The inches you’ve lost—you’re looking fabulous, I add. There’s also your new interest in attractive clothes, or I should say, clothes that you’ll look attractive in.”
“You really think I look better?”
“Is all of this for Garrett? Are you trying to rejuvenate his interest in you?”
“Not likely.”
“You must have a reason for all of this. What is it? You are trying to seduce Garrett. Aren’t you?”
“You’re dreaming.”
“This is me. Your oldest and dearest friend since elementary school.” Penelope opened the dressing room door. “What the hell? Since when do you wear a thong? Now I know something’s going on.”
After a few seconds, Chelsea said. “Not here.” She closed the door.
“Ha! I knew it. It’s the hunky—”
Chelsea stuck her head out. “I said not here.”
Chelsea tossed her shopping bag into the back seat and got behind the steering wheel.
Penelope slid onto the front seat and closed the door. “I’ve waited long enough. It is the author, isn’t it? I want details. Leave nothing out.”
“What kind of details? It’s not like you’ve never had sex before. You know what the parts look like and where they go.”
“You know what I mean. Is it true?”
Chelsea started the engine. “Is what true?”
“Are all black men especially well endowed?”
“I wouldn’t know about all of them.”
“You know what I mean.”
Chelsea put the car in gear and pressed on the accelerator. “Any bigger and I’d have trouble walking.”
Penelope laughed. “Damn. I really have to try one on. Or, I should say, in.”
Chelsea slammed on the brakes and turned to face her friend. “Joking’s over. It’s not like that. I care about him. I care deeply, in fact.”
“Don’t get your thong in such a twist.”
“Doing this isn’t easy for me.”
Penelope grinned. “Especially if he’s huge.”
“Pen!” Chelsea’s attempt to maintain a severe expression failed.
“One more question?”
Chelsea blew out a breath. “Go ahead. Otherwise, you won’t leave me alone.”
“How does his technique compare with Garrett’s?”
Chelsea started to drive. “After careful consideration, I believe Garrett’s opinion of himself is highly overrated.”
“Ouch.”
“He used to be better at it. Maybe he is better with his women. All I know is that his most recent effort was a poor demonstration.”
Penelope faced Chelsea. “When did this happen?”
“Fairly recent.”
“You didn’t mention it. Since you refuse to give me specifics about Luke, at least entertain me with ones about Garrett.”
“Believe me. I’d rather forget. Where do you want to have lunch?”
CHAPTER 60
Dr. Moore assumed her usual position at the end of the sofa, opposite Chelsea. “You’re looking quite pretty. That blue’s a good color on you. And, you seem even more relaxed than last time. I’m glad of that. However, I am disappointed that you canceled last week’s appointment. I thought we agreed it’s important to meet each week, at least for a while.”
“I didn’t feel it was necessary. Life is improving. In fact, this is my last session. Although, it’s not really a session—I’m not staying. I respect you, so wanted to come by in person to tell you that. And to thank you. I’ll pay for the hour, of course.”
“Are you saying your relationship with your husband has improved significantly? Has he changed in some particular way?”
“I’ve changed. And because of that, I haven’t been angry with him or nagging him about his hours—or about anything—for a few weeks. He’s happier. I’m happier.”
>
“I see.”
“I knew you would.” Chelsea stood. “So, I’ll pay for my non-session and be on my way.”
Dr. Moore motioned for Chelsea to sit. “I think there’s something important we need to discuss. I’d like you to stay. At least for a few more minutes. Please.”
Chelsea shrugged and sat. “Such as?”
“The first blush of a new relationship makes us feel remarkable, ecstatic even. Everything is brighter. We’re ebullient nearly every moment of the day.”
“What are you on about?”
“I don’t think it’s your husband inspiring this change in you. Or swimming or a diet.”
Chelsea’s cheeks flamed. “I don’t know what you mean.”
“I’ve been there, remember? I bought into the illusion that a new man in my life, one who gave me the attention my husband didn’t, was real. It isn’t. Or, at least, is so seldom authentic that those infrequent exceptions almost don’t count. The majority of adulterous relationships end badly, and painfully for all.”
“You’re wrong.”
“About which aspect?”
“You think I’m cheating on Garrett. I’m not.”
“You agreed to be honest with me.”
Chelsea walked to the window. Keeping her back to Dr. Moore she said, “I told you why I feel better: I decided to believe in myself. That’s all there is to it. We’re happier because of it.” She pivoted and moved toward the sofa. “I suppose it’s the nature of your profession to look for some ulterior motive, rather than the simple truth.”
“I meant no offense. Please. Sit down. Tell me more about what you’re doing that’s making a difference.”
Chelsea shook her head. “No need.” She grabbed her purse and walked to the door. With her hand on the knob, she said, “I’ll pay on the way out. Thank you for your time, Dr. Moore.” She yanked the door open.
“Chelsea.”
Chelsea sighed. “Yes?”
“I’m here if you need me.”
“Thanks. But I’m certain I won’t. I’m managing fine on my own.”
Before Chelsea closed the door behind her, Dr. Moore said, “We all believe that. And we’re always wrong.”
CHAPTER 61
Sweat bloomed on her face as soon as she left the building. It worsened when she got into the sweltering car. Chelsea left the door open and switched the air-conditioner onto High. After a minute or so, she closed the door and directed two of the air vents toward her face. Anything to cool the heat in her cheeks, not solely caused by the unseasonably hot day.
She’d fooled herself into believing it would be easy to lie about what was going on. Dr. Moore had seen right through her. Which felt worse: Lying or getting caught? No ready answer came.
She was, however, aware that anger had flared when Dr. Moore insinuated that what she and Luke felt for each other was infatuation only. There was no point in explaining how moments away from Luke were moments without air. Dr. Moore wouldn’t have believed her.
How it was with Luke—how she was with him—added a new dimension to her life, enhanced with sensations and sensuality she’d never explored. Sex had never been that way with Garrett. She had never acted with him the way she did with Luke, had never felt inspired to. This shift in her, this willingness meant something. It was significant. It clearly indicated the path she needed to follow.
Didn’t it?
But, what if Dr. Moore was right? After all, look at how she’d fooled herself about Garrett, and for how long.
Maybe it was as simple as not being able to trust what she felt. Some flaw in her that made her imagine things that weren’t there, believe things that didn’t exist.
Eyes closed, she returned to the moment she’d looked into Luke’s eyes as he moved inside her, the love transmitted to her, the affectionate words whispered to her.
What it was like to feel cherished.
She’d believed such things before.
And, they’d proven false.
CHAPTER 62
Coffee cup filled, newspaper in hand, Garrett took a seat at the small table in the kitchen. Frequently, he peered over the pages to watch Chelsea move around as she prepared Sunday brunch. She’d probably dropped a size or two. Three at the most. Top form would take a while. But if she kept at it … Even her thick thighs were starting to tone and were enhanced by a light tan, especially in the sundress that was shorter than she’d worn since college.
He folded the paper and placed it on the table, walked up behind her, put his arms around her waist, bumped his groin against her backside. Kept bumping, feeling the initial stirrings of an erection.
Chelsea attempted to shift away from him. “I’m busy, Garrett.”
“Kim’s at Susan’s until this evening.”
“So?”
He raised her dress. “When did you start wearing a thong?”
“I decided to see what the fuss was about.” She pulled her dress down.
“I’ll show you what it’s about.” He pulled her dress up and the thong down. “Move your hips into position, so I can slip it in.”
Chelsea yanked her thong and dress into place. “I’m tossing a salad.”
“You can do two things at once. Besides, I’ll be doing most of the work. All you have to do is enjoy the ride.”
“Not now. I want to get brunch prepared. I’m hungry.”
He grabbed her breasts and rubbed against her. “So am I.”
She shrugged him off. “We’re not hungry for the same things. Now, stop!”
Garrett backed away. “Fine. Just thought I’d give you a Sunday Special.”
“Maybe another Sunday.”
Garrett stomped into the living room. The throbbing between his legs insisted on satisfaction. No way would he go to the master bathroom to take care of it, or use the pool suction outlet. No way would he take care of it himself then spend the rest of the day with a woman who denied him his due.
He pulled his phone from his pocket and sent a text message. Seconds later, the response made him chuckle. He went back into the kitchen.
“You’ll have to eat alone, Chels. Just got called in.”
Without looking up, Chelsea said, “It is what it is.”
Garrett hurried to his car, started the engine and sped out of the driveway.
What was up with Chelsea? After all her whining about him not giving her any often enough, she refused him? More where you came from, sweetheart. More attractive. More willing to do whatever I want, where I want it and when.
At least she’d stopped nagging him about his hours. It always took a little extra to get his mind off his complaining wife. Fortunately, his women knew how to give extra.
The bulge in his pants diminished. Not a problem. Dr. Jacobs would have him back up in no time. Nothing like an affair that was especially naughty to get the juices flowing. Plus, her text indicated she had something particular in mind.
He licked his lips in anticipation.
CHAPTER 63
The weather turned cold just before the first week in November. Grateful for a heated pool, Chelsea continued to swim laps every day, as soon as she returned from dropping Kimberlie off at school. On the weekends, she got up before the others, preferring to keep her activity private. Her thoughts, as well. The last thing she wanted was for Garrett to join her, or try to join his body to hers.
Time with Luke was sporadic because of his schedule. And hers, because of Kimmie’s increase in school activities before the approaching holidays.
The last time they’d been together was a few agonizing days ago. Luke had told her, “You’re looking good, love. But promise me you won’t go too far. Your body drives me wild just as it is.”
She’d caressed him in the way he liked, and where. “And you’re an extraordinary driver.”
“Wench!” He lifted her with ease and placed her on top of him. Moaned when she slid him inside of her. “What you do to me, woman.”
“Why don’t you tell me?” Ch
elsea began to move.
“Can’t talk when you do that. And I’m rendered speechless when you do that!”
Afterwards, they lay in each other’s arms. Chelsea decided to broach a subject she’d stayed away from but had to know. “Luke, it’s an uncomfortable topic, but please be honest with me.”
“Of course.”
“Do you and your wife still—?”
“Not for a long time. Even before you and I got together. And although she finally got another job, which should have put her in a better mood, we barely talk these days. And when we do, it isn’t at all pleasant. Just functional. We’re polite when my son visits, for his sake. But I sleep in the basement every night. I write then fall asleep thinking about you. Since we’re being honest, what about your situation?”
“I’m lucky. Garrett has one or more women keeping him occupied.”
“He doesn’t ask?”
Chelsea hesitated. “He’s asked a few times, a very few. But it’s easy to put him off, because I know he’s not really interested. He went a number of years without touching me. So, his occasional interest or, rather, sense of marital obligation, doesn’t mean anything. Not anymore. And definitely not since—”
Chelsea’s phone rang. She checked the screen. “Damn. I have to take this.”
“Who is it?”
“Garrett’s brother.” Chelsea took the phone to the window. “Hi, Richard. Yes, we plan to be there for Thanksgiving. Yes, all three of us. I’m fine … No, really, I am. But, I’m in the middle of something now. I’ll call Anna later, to find out what I can bring so there aren’t any duplications. Yes … Later. Bye.”
Luke sat up. “It’ll be our first major holiday. Together but apart.”
Chelsea placed her phone on the nightstand. “It won’t be easy for either of us. Kimberlie will be on break, starting Monday, which means when she gets out this afternoon … She may visit friends while school’s out, but it depends on who stays around and who travels for the holiday. Susan and her family may go out of town. They haven’t decided yet.”
