by Myra Nour
"I'm not crazy. Every word is true."
"Then prove it to me.” Maybe challenging her delusion would cause a total break with reality. Or, she hoped it would jar some sense into Sarah.
Her friend knitted her brow, then it smoothed out. “Simple, come home with me."
"And then what?"
"My husband will tell you the same story."
"This I have to hear.” Were the two of them in on some colossal joke at her expense?
Amber followed Sarah to her lovely Colonial house. Will met them at the door, sweeping Sarah into his arms. He seemed surprised to see her, but was as pleasant and charming as always.
After some chit chat, Sarah abruptly said, “Will, I want you to tell Amber how we met."
He stared at them both, and then shrugged. He started telling the same story she'd heard many times of the chance encounter at the museum.
Sarah interrupted. “No. Tell her how we really met."
Will's blue eyes widened and then he turned those breathtaking blue orbs on her. The tale he spun was the same as Sarah's, except it was from his point of view.
After he finished, she stared at them. “Why are you doing this to me?"
"Oh, Amber,” Sarah grabbed her hands. “We're not lying to you, or playing some kind of sick joke.” She turned toward Will. “I thought maybe the Goddess could help Amber find her soulmate."
He nodded.
She felt numb. The world suddenly was turned on its ear. Were her friends crazy? Or were there magical elements in this world she never had a clue existed?
Sarah brought her a glass of wine and then talked her into spending the night.
"I don't want you to drive like this.” She had only drunk one glass of wine, so Sarah was speaking of her state of mind.
Later, in bed, she questioned her own sanity. How could she have let them talk her into staying when she was wondering about their minds? Well, it was done now and she felt too exhausted to get up and leave. She had locked the door, something prior to this, that never would have entered her thoughts. Still a bit anxious, she had cocked a chair beneath the door knob.
She slept fitfully. Images of Will and Sarah engulfed by strait jackets filled her mind.
The next morning Sarah served a full breakfast; eggs, biscuits and sausage. Everything seemed normal, and her friends acted the same loving couple as always.
Will suggested they drink their coffee on the deck. The sun was gently warming their bodies, and the birds chirped. Yet, Amber's world felt out of synch.
"Do you still think we're crazy,” Sarah asked softly.
"I don't know what to think. I am confused."
"I understand.” Sarah placed one hand over her hand that lay on the table. It was comforting. She remembered how Sarah had been there for her after Richard's death. Tears formed in her eyes, sorrow and confusion making a disorderly mix.
"Why don't you take a few days to think about it, and then we'll talk again when you are ready."
Amber nodded, not sure if that would help. While she and Sarah finished a second cup of coffee, Will disappeared into the house. He returned with a museum book, and laid it in the center of the table. It fell open, indicating these two pages had been examined often.
Amber pulled the large book toward her. One side depicted two pictures of ships, while the opposite page was filled with a painting of a pirate. She stared at the familiar face and then up at Will.
"It could be a relative."
"I guess,” Will shrugged, his blue eyes challenging her to refute the evidence in front of her.
She glanced back down at the handsome captain and a shiver shot through her. It was him. How, she didn't know. But no doubt remained as she looked back up at her friends.
The conversation that flowed between them was lively, and she felt like she'd been swept up in the middle of a romance novel. Amber left later, after having promised Sarah they would meet for lunch again the next day. Her dreams that night were filled with pirates, ships, and Will was at the center of it all.
They met at the same cafe for lunch. Sarah was happy to see her, but Amber wasn't sure how she felt.
With no preamble, Sarah asked, “I told you Will and I have been discussing vacation plans?"
She nodded. At least Sarah didn't hit her with their magical relationship first thing.
"We've decided to go to South America."
"Why?” Suddenly her radar was up.
Sarah chuckled. “Honestly, I didn't explore the region like I wanted to last time I was there. And Will has some contacts."
Contacts usually meant local fisherman who knew the possible location of sunken ships. Will salvaged treasures from the ocean's depths. What her friend said made sense, yet she still thought their choice probably centered around the River Goddess and her. Sarah had found Will, or so she believed, by petitioning the Goddess for the perfect man.
Sarah chatted on. “We are going for two weeks, the last two days will be at Manaus, Brazil."
Oh no, just as she thought, Manaus was the city that had been the starting point for Sarah's journey to the Goddess.
"We want you to come along."
Sarah knew she didn't have the funds for such a trip. Of course her friend offered to pay her way, but she kept refusing. She wasn't a charity case.
"You know how bored I get while Will is gone on his business trips."
"Sure.” Her friend had complained enough about them.
"I need some company. How much fun will it be if I hunt for treasures all alone?"
Sarah's treasure hunts were in bazaars, where she scoured through local craftsmen's wares. Her friend referred to jewelry made by local craftsmen, exotic colorful scarves, and interestingly woven purses.
"You talked me into it,” she laughed. “But I pay my own expenses."
"Done.” Sarah waved a hand. “You buy your plane ticket and food, and we'll pay for a two-bedroom suite."
"I don't know.” Amber said. “I thought I'd sleep on a pullout sofa."
"Nonsense,” Sarah laughed. A two bedroom suite will give us more space anyway.” Her eyes gleamed. “Or perhaps we'll rent a little villa with several bedrooms."
Amber was sold. Time passed quickly, and they were soon embarked on their adventure. True to what Sarah had predicted, they had a blast while Will made business trips to local spots.
"I'm pooped.” Sarah flung her floppy straw hat on the bright green couch.
"Me too.” Amber sat on a coral colored woven chair, and put her feet on the invitingly plump ottoman. “At this point, I don't care if we visit the River Goddess or not.” She waved at the pile of newly acquired items they had placed on the breakfast table.
Pieces of finely wrought silver jewelry were on one side, while purses, belts, scarves, and shoes sat beside them. Topping them all in beauty were swatches of silky fabric in a rainbow of colors.
"Do you think you'll ever make anything with that material?” Sarah yawned.
"Yes,” Amber eyed the fabrics, which had been her purchases. “You know how
handy I am with a needle. The question is, will I ever find enough interesting places to wear my new jewelry? I don't think such exotic pieces will go well with my schoolmarm attire."
Sarah giggled. “You do not dress like a schoolmarm, but I see what you mean."
"While you will have wonderful places to wear yours.” Amber wasn't jealous, just
stating a fact. She could picture Sarah decked out in all her finery lounging aboard a yacht.
"Then you will just have to go exciting places more often with us."
"Oh, as an excuse to wear my necklace and earrings?"
"Exactly.” They both erupted into laughter.
The next day they prepared for the trip down the Amazon river. They took a large boat to a tiny village, where Will had made prior arrangements for them to meet a guide.
Amber was nervous, Sarah looked calm, while her husband paced restlessly. Will was upset he could not make
the final leg of the journey with them.
"Only women or locals.” Sarah had made it clear to him when it had first been discussed.
"What about the Goddess?” Will cocked an eyebrow at her.
"Apparently the Goddess overlooks natives, but once you reach her, only women petitioners are allowed in her presence."
"Sounds like a load of bull to me."
Will had only agreed to make the arrangements by paying the guide well. Only when the women were brought back safely would the man receive a large sum of money for such a journey, The tiny, dark skinned man arrived, grinning and chatting in broken English. He seemed very pleased with the job. After quick introductions, Joao was ready to go.
He waved them toward a small, narrow canoe. Amber stared at it, afraid it would tip over once they left the shore. The canoe was surprisingly steady though as she settled into it. Will looked forlorn and worried as they waved goodbye. It was lucky Sarah had wanted to tag along, otherwise she probably wouldn't have the nerve to continue alone on the journey.
They left the larger river almost immediately, their guide paddling them into a much smaller tributary. The huge trees overshadowed the river, not helping with the heat. Their majestic beauty did give her much to consider though.
The native kept paddling the little boat into smaller branches of the river until she wondered how Joao could find his way back.
"Don't worry,” Sarah said softly. “These people know their way around the river."
"You read my mind."
"Can you imagine them trying to navigate New York?” Sarah laughed softly.
Amber chuckled along with her friend. The trees overhung the river, and frequently a small branch or vine brushed their arms. It was shadowy and there was a dark, earthy smell. She stared down into the water and shivered in spite of the heat.
The water was a deep, ruddy brown. No current moved its sluggish depths, and there was no telling what water monsters lurked beneath its surface.
"I'd hate to fall in,” Amber said.
"Now you quit reading my mind."
The guide suddenly spoke rapidly and pointed ahead. “Look,” Sarah whispered.
Amber noticed the reverent expression on her friend's face. Could it all be true? In spite of all Sarah and Will's assurances, she'd been filled with doubt the whole vacation. She didn't see anything but another curve in the river ahead.
Without warning, Joao paddled to the riverbank and got out. Sarah took the paddle from him and nodded.
"We're leaving our guide?” Amber couldn't keep the anxiety from her voice.
"He has to stay here. Remember, no males in the Goddess’ presence."
Her friend efficiently paddled the tiny canoe around the bend ahead, and Amber saw the statue. It was small and sat in the center of an area that was clear of undergrowth, except for a few vines that wound around the feminine figure. Someone must keep the jungle cut back.
"Hold my hands,” Sarah commanded after she stopped paddling. There was no current in the sluggish water, so the canoe stayed put in the center of the river.
They had discussed how they would mediate together, to help overcome her doubt. After a few minutes, Amber felt her body relax.
"Now,” Sarah opened her eyes and stared at Amber. “The gift."
Amber fumbled in the pocket of the safari jacket she'd worn. Taking out the delicate heart necklace, she fingered it gently. It had been given to her by Joe, her first love in junior high. She'd always treasured it, even after they broke up, and often wore it throughout the years.
Stretching out her arm, she dangled it above the water as Sarah had instructed. She stared at the statute. It didn't look impressive.
"Close your eyes, think of your perfect man, make your wish, and drop the gift."
Amber's mind went blank for several seconds. She'd been prepared for this for weeks by Sarah, but now her mind refused to think. She latched onto her friends words.
Perfect man.
There was no perfect man for her, at least not in this world. Her mind flashed back to their silly conversation in the cafe about aliens. A bump underneath the canoe startled Amber as she dropped the necklace. She held her breath as she stared at the muddy water. Her necklace. It was gone, sunk forever in mud at the bottom of the Amazon River.
"Are you all right?” Sarah looked puzzled.
It's just... I didn't realize how much the necklace meant to me,” she said to cover her distress.
Sarah clapped her hands. “Oh good, that should mean a good gift for the Goddess and a good wish for you."
Amber nodded and turned from her friend, as if staring at the rainforest. She was furious. It was a quiet trip back to the village, and then back to the hotel. Sarah chose to leave her alone, perhaps thinking she was overwhelmed by the experience.
She had a throbbing headache by the time they reached the room. Sarah brought her some aspirin, and then kissed her cheek.
"Do you mind if we go to the pool?"
"Of course not.” Amber grimaced. “I am going to take a nap and hope this headache goes away."
Sarah smiled sweetly. “We'll talk about everything later, when you feel better."
* * * *
[Back to Table of Contents]
Chapter Three
She stretched out on the comfy bed. Amber was upset that she lost her necklace for nothing. Mostly, she was angry at herself. If there was the least chance this Goddess thing would've worked, she had screwed it up. She choked at the finish line.
"What was so freaking hard,” she said aloud. Holding up one hand, she flicked one finger up. “The perfect man. Hmmm, what do I like—a great physique."
"Still too wishy-washy.” She lowered her finger and sighed. “He must look like a gorgeous Viking warrior to start with.” Her finger went back up.
Her arm resting on the bed hit a book she left there. Picking it up, she smiled. It was the same book she had meant to reread earlier. Amber brought it along in case there were quiet times during the vacation. But so far they had stayed busy.
She flipped the pages, recalling several reasons why she liked the story so much. The heroine was kidnapped by a handsome warrior, who happened to be an alien. She snorted. This was fiction, and her life had always been steeped in reality. Well, at least until Sarah convinced there were magical elements afoot. Now she questioned that too.
Her second finger flicked up. “Lest we forget, he must be an alien.” Her mood had turned sarcastic.
Amber thumbed the book pages. One aspect she loved about the novel was the fact that the heroine had been kidnapped.
"Maybe I'm a masochist .” She blew out her breath, not believing her own words. She could never see herself going to one of those clubs were the sadistic master thrived on his masochistic partners.
But she did have a rich fantasy life. Naughty. That's how she felt sometimes after
having dreams about being tied up and being made love to by some hunk. Amber became flushed.
Her third finger came up. While her mood was still sarcastic toward herself, a bit of lust had filtered through her body.
A rippling muscled alien who looked like a Viking. This kind of little fantasy was getting interesting. “Okay, three, he must be into playing captive fantasies.” She giggled, picturing this scenario she had just evoked.
"Heck,” her fourth finger flashed up. “Might as well make him a freaking impossible dream. Fourth , he has to love history.” She stared at her fingers. “Sorry self, I can't think of five right now.” Laying her head back down, she yawned. Her headache was fading and she was suddenly dead tired.
"As Scarlett said, I'll think about it tomorrow."
Amber awoke slowly, as if her senses were numb, but were slowly returning to normal. Her head was drooping, so she raised it, and then her mouth fell open. Standing ten feet away was the most gorgeous man she'd ever seen. He was tall, maybe six foot four. His upper body was naked, his chest a masterpiece of hard planes, while his bulging bic
eps called out to be touched. His skin was a light golden brown.
Her eyes went up first. What kind of face topped such a physique? Strong, square-jawed, the edges softened by straight blonde hair that caressed the top of his shoulders. A pair of piercing blue eyes drew her gaze and caused her to hold her breath.
He stood through her perusal, not saying a word.
This was some dream. Amber's eyes flicked down, noting the light scattering of hair across his chest. A thin trail of brown hair started below his navel, the line dipping below his pants. Her hands seemed to have a mind of their own, for they itched to tickle that thin hair and follow it down.
Black leather pants molded to his form, hugging the massive thighs beneath them. Her eyes trailed back up, stopping at his crotch. A nice sized bulge begin to lengthen and widen as she watched. Amber swallowed and thrust her tongue around. No moisture.
"Do I meet your approval?"
Her eyes switched back to his face. A deep voice with a strange accent did funny things to her stomach.
"Yes oh yes,” she murmured. The desire lashing her body and senses was thrilling. She did not hide her lust from him. After all, he was her fantasy.
Her eyes burned with lust as she stroked his body with her gaze, finally latching onto his handsome face.
"Are you comfortable?” There was a wicked glint in his eyes and a mischievous smile lurked on his molded lips.
"What?” Even as she said it, Amber became aware of several things at once. Her knees hurt, and her arms were drawn behind her back. She stared down, surprised to find herself kneeling. Wiggling her hands, she realized her hands were bound. Her fingers worked at bindings. It was rope.
She glanced back up. “So, this is one of those fantasies. Pretty naughty."
"I certainly hope so.” His wicked grin, made her tingle.
She waited, not sure where this fantasy was taking her. As if reading her consent, he took the few steps between them. Now his groin was in front of her head, and suddenly there seemed an overabundance of saliva in her mouth. She licked her lips.
He took another step, and the leather creaked against her face. Her fantasy man rubbed his erection back and forth, exciting her even more. His scent enveloped her, some strange cologne and a musky male odor.
