Part III

    Well good morning, mind if I sit here?  I looked up to see his smiling face, and just nodded my head weakly at him.  He folded himself into the seat next to me and tried to make himself as comfortable as possible.  You’re the girl from Morellis’ bakery, right?  I talked to you the other day.  I’m Liam, and I’m sorry but I didn’t happen to catch your name yesterday.  He raised an eyebrow as if encouraging me to answer him.  I’ve wanted to kick myself ever since as well he thought to himself, I finally had the chance to find out who this graceful creature is and I totally blew it. He could smell the faint scent of green apples clinging to her hair, and he wondered what it would be like to unclip the butterfly clip that held it piled in a knot upon her head, and to see if cascade over her shoulders like a waterfall.  Her delicate earlobes, held tiny sapphires which were brilliant in the morning sun, but could not compete with the intensity of the blueness of her eyes.  The colour of the sea, that a man could spend a life time drowning in them and yet never cry out to be rescued.  Those lips that so often curved into a Mona Lisa like smile as she sat lost deep in thought on the bus each morning, and he had longed to discover her secrets.

 

   I’m Lorelei, I said softly, almost inaudibly in response to him.  As in the rock in Germany he said?  How it suited her he thought, thinking of the folk lore behind the naming of said rock.  A bewitching creature that could lure men and have them lost in her spell.  That’s right, how on earth did you ever know that?  I asked rather amazed.  I was quite intrigued that he would know such a thing. Would you believe I’m great at Trivial Pursuit? He flashed me that endearing grin of his and I found myself grinning back at him.  Suddenly I found myself at ease with him, and felt the tension in me melting away.  How could I resist that grin?  I’m sure you are a most worthy adversary over the Trivial Pursuit board, but I’d be willing to wager that you are either an avid reader or that you travel a great deal, to know something like that Liam, I teased him. She is a clever little minx to be sure he thought.  We’ll have some wonderfully, brilliant conversations over the years to come, and he smiled at the thought of all those years that lay before them.  Like so many blank pages waiting to be filled with love, laughter, tears and the adventures of their lives together. It was intoxicating and buoyed his spirits. He fully planned to capture her heart, this Lorelei, the woman who was destined to be his rock.  To be a firm anchor in his life, and harbour him from the storms.

 

    All too soon they must part company for the time being and it would be sheer torture for him not having her by his side.  He longed to take her face in his hands and tilt it up towards his face. To study it intently before leaning in and oh so gently kissing her for the first time, his lips would barely graze hers at first, as he did not want to ever overwhelm her or be brutish with her and frighten her off.  He could tell from her eyes, that there were deep hurts there buried there, and that  lingered even to this day, and he wanted to erase that look from her forever.  Make her secure in the knowledge that he would protect her now and always.  It dawned on him as surely as the sun rose in the sky each morning, and the moon and stars shone in the ink black sky at night, illuminating the darkness that he loved her.  Simple as that he loved this woman, and he had from the first moment he had laid eyes upon her, so many months ago. I can’t pull the wool over your eyes can I? he grinned rather sheepishly.  No I’m a pretty smart cookie I quipped back.  I enjoy reading and travelling so it’s a bit of both you could say. The easy banter continued between us causal and getting to know you sort of things.  There was something familiar about the way we conversed and I felt so at ease, as though it was the most natural thing in the world to be sitting here next to Liam.

The bus pulled into the station all too soon for my liking, and I rather felt the same as he sighed as the bus rolled to a stop and the doors opened and people began to pile out.  For the first time since we’d started talking it was awkward between us.  We walked down into the subway together taking the steps as opposed to the escalator, just to prolong our time together if only for a few moments more. Well I guess this is so long for now he said looking down into my eyes and his own eyes seemed to mirror back my thoughts.  An inner knowledge that there would never truly be a “good bye” between us ever, just so longs, and I’ll talk to you laters.  I’ve got to run for now but I’ll see you soon, make it a great day Lorelei.   I noticed that he said “make” it a great day not merely “have” a great day as so often people do.  He realizes we all have choices in life no matter how large or small to control our happiness, and the thought thrilled me to my inner core. The way he rolled my name off his tongue, was like music to my ears.  It had to be the sweetest sound in the entire world to hear the way  his voice caressed it, as gently and serenely as a father serenading a child with a song.

    Later Liam, I returned, and we both reluctantly parted company, I couldn’t help but look over my shoulder as I walked away from him, and was elated to discover he was doing the same.  His face lit up, as I know mine did, caught up in the moment we were sharing.  Separate and apart from each other but still connected by invisible threads that bound us together. I carried on to work but my mind was a blur of thoughts and emotions.  My mind, put the physical me onto autopilot so that I would board the subway car, and get off at the proper stop and make my way towards work, which permitted me the luxury of further dreams and thoughts of Liam.  My heart was so filled with affection for this man and it was almost dizzying the heights it was taking me too.  It was a perfect day, and as giddy as a school girl I began to skip.  I was vaguely aware of a few curious glances and bemused smiles that I was receiving as I tripped along blissfully.

    I pranced into the bakery still in high spirits and ended my dance of joy with a little twirl and a curtsey to Mrs Morelli.  “Good morning’, I sang out.  She smiled warmly and chuckled at me “Someone I know is in good spirits this morning.”  I grinned, and continued to the back or the shop to get changed and on with my day. Being Friday, it was going to be a total zoo.  Orders getting picked up for birthday and anniversary parties, so much prep for the next day as well.  Wedding cakes, retirements, birthdays, showers and the list went on and on.   Happy events, that would give way to happy memories which would be cherished now and forever.  I had to get cracking , and there was a ton of things to be done as I had the weekend off.  So I set my mind to it and tucked into my days tasks,  crossing them off my list as they were completed.  The day was fairly flying by. I hardly realized the time until the swinging door to the bakery flew open at 4 pm.  It swung open with the energy that could only be mustered by that of a 10 year old boy.  “Lorelei, we won the playoffs for the soccer championships and the final is tomorrow!  You gotta say you’ll come!!  Nona, said it was okay to ask you cuz your off tomorrow, please say yes!!  I raised my hand and we high fived, you got it Joey, I’m there for you buddy.”  Cool and in a saving the best for the last kind of voice he added “and win or lose Patrick’s Uncle says he’ll take us out for ice cream.”  You name the time and the place and I’ll be there sport.  Tomorrow ten am sharp, the field at Christie Pitts, got it?  Yes I smiled and nodded at him, I’ve got it.  Cool, now I gotta go I promised to help Nona out front.  And with that announcement the whirling dervish that was Joey was gone. 

    He was a cute kid, olive skinned mediteranian looks, large dark eyes, and a mischievous smile.  I’d watched him grow up over the years I’d been at Morellis’ bakery and he was like a nephew to me.  So spending a couple of hours on a Saturday supporting the little guy was the least I could do.

Finally the work day was done, cakes were in neat rows in the walk in fridge with the order sheets attached to them, boxes were pre folded and ready to have waiting orders slipped into them, and things on my work space were neat and orderly once more, and it was time to call it a day.  I changed and freshened up a bit before I headed out to the front of the shop. “Big plans tonight Bella?” Mrs. Morelli inquired as I came into the shop. Nope, nothing major pick up a slice of pizza on the way home for dinner. Then a quiet night at home with Barclay, a good book and a lovely long soak in the tub.  Am I a wild woman or what? I laughed. She seemed a bit surprised, and looked as if she was about to say something to me then thought better of it.  Well then I guess I’ll see you at the big game tomorrow then.  Sounds good I responded, eager to be on my way and be alone with my dreams of Liam.  I slipped out the door of the shop with a friendly wave and was gone.

 

     I did my errands on the way home, making sure to pick up a side order of anchovies as a treat for Barclay. I was relieved, when I walked into the door of my apartment and I slipped off my backpack and let it land on the floor.  I placed the bag with tonights dinner on small table in the entry way and kicked off my shoes.  Barclay who had obviously been sleeping on the couch when I arrived, was giving himself one of those arched back, feet forward, nose down stretches that any yoga enthusiast would have envied, being able to accomplish.  He hopped down of the couch and trotted over to me and leapt into my arms.  I gave him a cuddle, and kiss on the top of his head before I walked over to the sofa and placed him on it once more.  I flopped down beside him, and sighed, been one heck of a week buddy.  He clamored on to my lap and made himself at home.  Meow, and he curled up and settled into a ball on my lap so I could pet him and tell him about the events of today.  I recanted every little detail about spending time with Liam, glowing as I did so.  I finished up by telling him I was deserting him tomorrow morning for Joey’s big game.  

    Okay, time for a bite of dinner, and then I’m going to treat myself to a long hot soak in the tub and a glass of wine, I told him.  I retrieved the bag from the entry way table and made my way to the kitchen.  Barclay tailgated me the whole time, meowing madly for his treat.  I got one of his bowls out of the cupboard and dumped the side of anchovies into it.  I placed it on the floor and he dove right in.  I debated the merits of warming up my pizza or just eating as is over the sink.  Eating over the sink won out, less clean up.  Man I hated eating alone, and though I could cook, I didn’t often unless I had friends or family coming around.  I mean what was the point for just one person?  I thought of what pleasure it would give me to make meals for Liam, and see his smiling face across the table from me. I finished dinner, rinsed out the sink and put Barclays bowl in the dishwasher, as he sat washing his little face and paws.

   I went into the bathroom and turned the faucet in the tub on, and put the stopper in the drain when the temperature was just perfect.  I tossed in some bath salts and a few drops of essential oils.  Then went into the kitchen to pour myself a nice robust glass of red wine, and stopped on my way back to the bathroom to flick on the stereo, and slip a CD into the player.  Now all I needed to do was light a few scented candles, get undressed and slip into my own little watery nirvana.

I turned off the faucet and slipped out of my clothes, flicking off the light switch.  Then I stepped into the tub and slowly slipped down into its warm soothing depths.  The flickering candles gave a soft glow to the room and the shadows they cast did a hypnotic choreographed dance of their own design upon the walls and ceilings.  I took my glass of wine from the small pedestal marble table that sat by the tub.  I was placed there for just such a purpose, and I loved the decadence of soaking in bubble bath with a good glass of wine, and perhaps a truffle or two if I was feeling extremely naughty.

An Etta James song was softly playing in the background and the words could not have been more perfect to me.  “I found a dream that I could speak to, A dream that I can call my own, I found a thrill to press my cheek to, A thrill that I have never known……………….At last” she crooned. 

In my heart I was so certain that Liam already loved me as much as I loved him, and that this was the love of a lifetime, something so precious and rare that few are lucky enough to ever experience a love of this magnitude.  When I dreamed of Liam, they were always with a future to them, from the way he would court me, to the altar, to delicious nights of passion, to my belly swollen with the child we had created together as we became one, to struggles and challenges, to growing old, grandchildren, listening with rapt faces to how Grandpa and Grandma met and was so evident that that same love had endured and deepened.

   I sank deeper into the soothing warm waters, and thought how lovely it would be to share this moment with Liam. To be naked and unashamed with him, to sit face to face looking intently into one another’s eyes as we sat and talked about life, love the universe and anything that took our fancy.  To really see one another, as no one else ever had or ever could.  Able to reach out and touch one another, I could feel his fingers running along my face, stroking my cheeks, running a finger along my lips before leaning in to kiss me first sweetly and chastely upon the tip of my nose.  A smile that began so innocent and morphed into a sexy naughty one filled with promises of mischief. His lips that would brush against mine thrilling me to the tip of my toes and warming more than the robust glasses of red wine that we had been sipping.  A kiss that encompassed a myriad of intense emotions.  His one hand rested upon my shoulder drawing me closer to him the other trailing lightly up and down each and every vertebrae of my spine, slowly and deliberately.   

    Parting his lips just enough that the tip of his tongue traced over my lips moistening them and then slowly and seductively working it between my own lips which parted to greet him.  Our tongues danced their own heated duet, as if competing with the flickering shadows upon the wall.  My hands reached out and caressed his chest, and continued to explore his body as though I were a woman devoid of sight, trying to see a sculpture, and etch it into my brain the ultimate depiction of beauty and only my imagination could limit me. He plunged his tongue deeper still as my hand sank beneath the waters, fingers gliding across his flesh, until I wrapped my hand around his hardening maleness.  He gasped as our kiss deepened to the point neither of us cared should our lips become bruised from the feverish crescendo that was building between us.  His lips left mine as as I tossed back my head and began to mewl softly.  Instinctively his mouth found my breasts, as he held them reverently at first, before lowering his head once more and smothered them with a plethora of kisses.  He worshiped them as though I were a goddess and thus deserved to be revered. 

   My own response to this was to continue to stroke his rigid member and I marvelled at the power my own small hand wrapped around his girth was commanding.  I could feel him trying to rock his hips in response to my ministrations, but I wanted more from him I want to consummate this union with him.  He seemed to have plans of his own as his hands slip to my waist and he began to guide me up out of the water and on to the edge of the tub.  My legs seemingly had a mind of their own and drew open to allow him a view of my intimate of areas.  My will was no longer my own I belonged to this man heart, body and soul.  I had to steady myself by grasping his shoulders, as his fingers deftly parted the flesh between my thighs, as though he were coaxing open the petals of a flower by his sheer will. His fingers probing gently but deliberately, as he found the delicate pink pearl nestled with in my oyster shell.  On his knees now which must have been sheer torture for him on the hardness of the porcelain tub, but he would not be daunted.  He would not deny me pleasure no matter what the cost to him might be, oh how I loved this man, and all I wanted was to please him and treasure him the way he did me.

   Rrrrowwww’ brought me back to the present.  There was Barclay standing on his hind legs one paw stretched over the edge of the tub, tentatively having touched the water I figured as I felt a fine mist of water as he waved his paw about trying to get the wretched water off of him.  With a Sigh I figured I may as well shave my legs before I hopped out of the tub and rinsed it out.  So I quickly lathered my legs and zipped my little pink razor over the contours of my legs.  I giggled as I wondered if Liam would one day find himself vexed or amused if I used his razor for the same purpose?  I pulled the plug in the tub and watched it drain then took a quick rinse under the shower, before stepping out and wrapping myself in a fluffy bath sheet, so that it appeared I was wearing a strapless dress with a seductive slit up the side of it.  I wanted to feel extra soft and feminine for some reason, more than likely fueled by thoughts of Liam, and I grabbed a bottle of baby oil and massaged it into my still dewy flesh.  I could almost feel Liam’s hands roaming my body and massaging the oil into me as I did so and the thought of his touch caused my body to quiver, and butterflies to flit about in the depths of my tummy.  My skin glistening I blew out the candles, picked up the rest of my glass of wine and headed into my bedroom.

   Sigh, as I viewed the still unmade bed from this morning.  It would be one thing if it had been left askew the sheets tangled after a night of passion with Liam but at the moment I just viewed chaos.  I decided I might as well put some fresh linen on the bed, so I stripped the sheets away and pulled a fresh set out of the wardrobe where I stored linens on the top shelf.  I quickly made up the bed with the crisp white cotton sheets, arranged the duvet over top of them, and smoothed it down.  Next pillows were plumped and artistically arranged as though I were readying it for a photo shoot with some home décor magazine.  I loved this bed, a king sized four poster bed, made out of cherry, and polished to a rich sheen.  A bed in which I could totally loose myself in the depths of, and I hoped it would be comfortable enough to allow Liam to stretch out in, as he was well over six feet.  I smiled a bit wickedly and thought, it’s perfect for the day Liam would finally begin sharing this bed with me, thus making it “our” bed. I picked the dirty linens off the floor and tossed them into the wicker laundry basket I kept in my bedroom closet.  

     I looked around the room with a sense of satisfaction it looked warm and welcoming.  From the gleam of polished wood, to the freshly made bed, the vase of flowers compliments of Mrs. Silverton and her horticultural skills, to the moonlight which flooded into the moon through my open window, the warm summer breeze ruffling the curtains.  An almost magical place, which I longed to share with Liam, one day I smiled softly, one day. I pottered the rest of the evening away, catching up on some e mails on my laptop, phoning a few friends to confirm plans for various upcoming events, painted my toenails a bright shade of pink and while they dried, I took out journal and recorded my thoughts and feelings about Liam. 

    Noticing the time on the clock on the mantel over the fireplace in the living room, I decided it was time to call it a day.  I stretched, and went into the bathroom to brush my teeth.  The toddled into the bedroom, no need to turn on the light as the moonlight illuminated the room, casting its magical spell.  I’d never bothered to get dressed having spent the evening wearing my towel.  I was feeling a bit naughty after my earlier dreams of dalliances with Liam so I let the towel drop to the floor and climbed into bed, between the crisp cool sheets.  I tried to lay back and fall asleep but couldn’t for some reason.  Something was missing, and I knew what it was I wanted Liam there, and for us to be entwined in one anothers arms…  Well that wasn’t happening at least for tonight, so I would have to make the best of it.  I plumped up a pillow and wrapped my arms around it and snuggled into as though I were curled in Liam’s arms, my head resting on his chest.  Just as corny and silly as any besotted school girl had ever been or ever would be, but it seemed to do the trick for now and I drifted off into a blissful slumber a soft smile upon my lips.

The Tale is continued, just click on the "chapters" button up on the top right  for more! 

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Tales of the Amoristicpillow

Part II






Matt was like a big brother to me, we’d met at culinary school years ago, but we’d remained firm friends ever since. I was looking forward to catching up with him. I finished changing, pulled off my baseball cap and brushed out my mane of hair. I looked in the mirror as I did and wondered, could this man that filled my thoughts ever come to care for me, the real me. I sighed, time to go meet Matt and try to chill out. I walked through the back of the house and through the swinging door into the front of the house. Mrs Morelli was cashing out the till and organizing the receipts for the day. She looked up when I entered the room, and smiled at me. Good night Bella, be safe, and remember what you have to do dear. And with that she turned her attentions back to the tasks at hand.


I still had some time before I met Matt so I decided to walk, maybe some air would help to clear my head more than anything. I passed by the other little shops in the market place, closing down for the day, vendors taking their wares inside, security gates being pulled across and thick pad locks clicked into place. On I walked my thoughts still filled with that most wonderful man. I had to laugh at myself, I had to wonder how I ever got anything accomplished as I thought of him so often, a miracle I can even tie my own shoes. I liked thinking about him though, it gave me this warm fuzzy feeling, inside, and it was a nice feeling to have. I arrived at the bar and pushed open the heavy oak doors. The music rushed out to greet me as I did so. I glanced around to see if Matt had arrived yet and there he was at a table for two, away from the bar. He waved me over. Hey Cupcake, over here. I grinned at his greeting, he’d called me that ever since our days at the culinary institute.
He got up and gave me a big bear hug. So to what do I owe the pleasure of this impromptu night out on the town and your company? He studied me for a moment, stroked his face a couple of times, leaned into me and said I don’t have to kill anyone do I?” I burst out giggling hysterically , he always knew how to make me laugh. No, no nothing that drastic, I protested still laughing. Okay tell Matt all about it then. Suddenly it came spilling out, rushing like fast running water over rapids. Matt sat back in his chair, as though the force of my words had hit him and were physically knocking him back. He leaned in when I’d finished, simple Cupcake you tell him. I tossed my hands up in exasperation, Do you hang out with Mrs Morelli by any chance? Nope nice lady though, he chuckled. Would you kindly get real? I said rolling my eyes at him for effect. This man probably isn’t even mortal, he is sooooooooo out of my league, I don’t stand a chance, haven’t got a prayer I moaned.


Listen up Cupcake you are always selling yourself short and its one of your less appealing qualities. The thing with you is you are a hopeless romantic, and you aren’t the sort of woman that will settle as so many people do in life. You want Prince Charming, and hearts and flowers in your life, the happy ever after. You’ve never once settled in all the time I’ve known you, so why stop now go out and get him. He punched me lightly in the arm. So I’m supposed to go out and win one for the Gipper am I? I grinned at him, Great analogy if we were going to have a pickup game in the park buddy. Fair enough maybe you’ll like this one better, remember when we first started hanging out and we’d go out to play pool. I nodded affirmatively, not sure where he was going with this. Well you were pretty dismal at it, I’m still not brilliant at it, no you aren’t he smiled, but remember when I told you to put it in terms you’d understand. That you were a smart cookie, and if you thought of it as if it were applied geometry and physics it would make more sense to you? I grinned yep and it I really did get heaps better at it when I thought of it as angles and the force of the connection.

See you just need to put things into a perspective that works for you. So let him see the wonderful things about you. The woman who is loyal to her family and friends almost to a fault, the girl that takes in stray animals and finds homes for them, cries during sappy movies, volunteers for so many things, you’ve got a good heart, kiddo, and if this guy can’t or doesn’t see those things then I’d say he’s a real tool and not worth your affections. Oh Matty, I’m just me, I sighed, exactly my point he countered back. You’re a pretty good you, the best. But he continued sometimes we guys I am sad to say and he leaned in trying to look menacing but the twinkle in them gave him away, are sometimes big dopes when it comes to noticing great girls like you, and if you ever told anyone I told you that, I’m out of the boys club he said drawing his finger across his throat. I’ll keep it under my hat.


Now how about something to nibble on a couple of drinks, and a game of pool? Sure, why not, as long as it doesn’t turn into one of those, one tequila, two tequila, three tequila, floor nights. You have my word, as a gentleman and a scholar he said gravely, and we both broke into grins at the thoughts of some nights that had turned out exactly that way. By the time we enjoyed some food, I’d had a couple of glasses of wine and was triumphant over my win at the pool table, I was feeling much more mellow and in control. Hanging with Matt was comforting, but it still didn’t have me any further ahead as to how I was going to capture the future father of my childrens heart.
After a thanks for everything and fond farewell with Matt, I hailed a cab and headed home. I paid the driver, dug my key out of my bag, and walked up the front steps of my building. I loved this place I called home. It was a classic older Victorian that had been converted into three apartments. Which meant the rooms were spacious, there was a window seat, perfect for curling up with a good book or to daydream in, and my pride and joy a giant claw footed bathtub.

I slid the key in the lock, turned the door and entered. I picked up my mail off of the table in the entry way where the landlady Mrs. Silverton always left it waiting next to a vase of freshly cut flowers from the back garden. I then mounted the stairs holding on to the polished oak banister as I began to mount the stairs to the third floor. Ah, home sweet home I sighed inserting the key in the door, I could already hear Barclay meowing plaintively, as if to say “you’re late, and I’ve been worried about you, why didn’t you call and let me know you were going to be late?” Sorry Barclay I said as I caught the orange projectile of fur that launched into my arms, demanding some attention, as I opened the door. I cuddled him to me and kissed his fuzzy little head. Now I’ve got to put you down for a bit while I get sorted out. He purred his assent, as I put him down on a wingback chair, covered in a shade of dusty rose. He looked at me as if to say, all right out with it young lady why are you late?? It’s like this Barclay, I said as I put my things down and wandered down the hall to the bathroom. He hopped off the chair and followed me to better hear my explanation. I’m going to take a shower first, get into something comfy then I’ll get you a snack and tell you all about it, deal? He flicked his tail several times, and seemed to be assessing the offer, a simple but direct “meow, seemed to indicate this was acceptable to him.


I pulled back the curtain that encircled the large claw footed tub, and turned on the water for a shower. I slipped out of my clothes and dropped them into the wicker laundry basket. I carefully stepped over the high edge of the tub and pulled the curtain around it. Man oh man I thought as the hot water, cascaded over me, what a day I’ve had. I ran my fingers through my hair, as my mind played back the day’s events as if I were watching it on a movie screen. No matter what had happened and even if I had made a complete fool of myself in front of him, I just knew he was the man for me. The man of my dreams, and somehow I would have to overcome my awkwardness and shyness and let him know, just how much I cared for him. I grabbed the shampoo bottle and squirted a dollop into my hand and began to work it through my hair, my fingers massaging my scalp and making it tingle. I began to wonder what it would be like to do something as intimate as this for him. To massage his scalp with gentle hands, watching the suds forming, wondering if it made him feel relaxed and loved by having this small thing done for him. I rinsed the soap from my hair, and started with the conditioner. I wanted to leave the conditioner in for a bit so I picked up a washcloth and wetted it, before I added a dollop of body wash to it and began to get a good lather going. I stroked my arms, coating them in lather, raising each arm in turn I washed the delicate underside of my arms, and stretched to do my shoulders. Then back to my neck which I stretched out to elongate, as I lathered it too.


The water pulsated down in a steady stream, little droplets of water running in beads over my lightly suntanned flesh. I noticed the tiny freckles from the sun and started to wonder if he would find the freckles endearing or if he would chide me for not taking more care of myself in the sun. I imagined if he were here, he’d take control of the situation, lathering me up and making sure I was squeaky clean, when done. Large, firm hands that would be ever so gentle in their touch. Fingertips that would explore, the soft curves of my flesh, and would deftly probe those intimate spots that yearned for his touch. Expressing all the love and desires, he harbored within him that he had never shared with another, as he would lean into me from behind, nuzzling the nape of my neck and trailing soft delicate kisses down to my shoulders. His strong arms wrapped around me, pulling me into him, his hands gliding along the soapy curves of my body. Feeling his arousal for me grow, as he pressed against me. The warmth that spread throughout my entire body began at the crown of my head to the tips of my toes, the tingling in every fibre of my being lighting up my face.


Mrrrrowwwwwwww, and the spell was broken for the moment. Coming Barclay, I haven’t forgotten, you want your treat, and I’ve been a very inconsiderate roommate, coming home so late. I quickly rinsed of and grabbed a towel. I dried off, and ran a brush though my hair then fluffed my still damp hair with my fingers. I couldn’t see into the foggy mirror about the sink anyways, so I just turned and padded out of the bathroom and down the hall to my bedroom. Barclay followed and hopped up on the bed to keep an eye on me, he couldn’t run the risk I would escape and forget his promised snack. I pulled open a drawer in the bureau and pulled out a well loved and faded but very soft and comfortable, oversized baseball jersey, which had been a gift from one of my brothers years ago. I slipped it over my head, and it fell practically to my knees. Okay buddy snack time to the kitchen we go. Barclay leapt off the bed and landed on the carpet, eagerly leading the way to the kitchen. I opened the cupboard and got out his favourite dish a crystal dessert dish I had picked up some time ago at a yard sale. I opened the fridge and removed a container of vanilla yogurt, and ladled a judicious amount into the dish for my feline roommate. He entwined himself around my ankles rubbing against me, purring like a mad man. I carried the bowl into the living and placed it on the coffee table where he promptly hopped up and started to early attack the yogurt with his rough little pink tongue.


I I flicked on the tv with the remote control and channel surfed looking for something to distract me. My legs were curled up beneath me and I snuggled into the cushions on the sofa. Some sexual goddess I am I thought thinking of my current attire. He probably only wants some woman that’s a flawless beauty, who never freckles or has a sunburnt nose perfect figure, would rather go to the gym than eat warm cookies fresh from the oven, someone always in the latest fashion, not someone that was comfy wearing jeans and a rugby shirt, and a real femme fatale with only sexy lingerie with lacy edgings. But I just know he’s not. He’s the sort of man that would accept me as I am, find me sexy as hell in one of his dress shirts, laugh at me for having a smudge of flour on my cheek, and gently wipe it off, he’d think me a beauty whether I was in jeans or dressed up in stockings and a bustier, because he would know it was for his eyes only. My mind went back and forth on the issue so much as to what he would want from me and what I knew he would want from me that I was driving myself mad as a hatter. I finally flicked off the tv in frustration, time to try and get some sleep I decided. Barclay sat still perched on the coffee table daintily washing his hands and face after his treat, and licking his little chops. Oh well, at least I have one man that I know wants to share my bed for certain. I picked up Barclay in my arms and gave him a cuddle, come on old man, bed time. I silently padded barefoot to bed and climbed under the duvet. I opened the drawer of my nightstand and pulled out my journal and a pen that I kept there. I carefully recorded the events of the day and sighed as I tucked them both back into place, switched off the light and snuggled in as I closed my eyes.


I awoke the next morning feeling remarkably refreshed, and slowly stretched my limbs out. Sweet memories of my dreams the previous night, caused a faint smile to spread across my lips, until it became as wide at the Cheshire Cat from Alice in Wonderland. It seemed as if I had been dream walking and had invaded his inner most thoughts, and connected with him in way that only kindred spirits who are also soul mates could do. Thoughts of tender love making, sweet kisses that became ardent and demanding in their need and desire. The tantalizing thrill of his touch, longing for more never wanting to break that sacred connection we shared. Lying in one another’s arms in the afterglow, our bodies still pink and warmed, my head resting on his chest, listening to the steady even beat of his heart and his breath once rapid becoming slow and even. His arms enveloping me in their strength and yet so loving and gentle, as though his sole purpose was to protect me and keep me safe by his side. Drifting off into, brrrrrrr, brrrrrrrr, brrrrrrrrr, rudely interrupted me.
Snapping back to the real world I was confused for a fleeting moment until I realized it was nothing more than a ringing phone which interrupted my thoughts.


I glanced at the alarm clock and winced, only one person would possibly dare to phone at this hour of the day, and I winced slightly, as I picked up the phone and cradled it against my ear. “Good morning Mom”. I wish you wouldn’t do that, I mean how do you know who’s on the other end of the line it’s very rude of you. Yes Mother, so what’s up? Well I was wondering if you were planning on coming home some weekend soon, Mrs. Cummings , boy Jeffery just moved back and you know he’s single dear, and he’s got a job at an investment firm. I rolled my eyes, as she prattled on about the many virtues of Jeffery. I mean I love my Mom but just when would she let me lead my own life? Unlike my brothers I was the rebel in the family. My brothers both married, local girls they had known all their lives, bought homes, settled down, raised families and had nine to five jobs. I on the other had left after finishing high school, moved to the big city, attended the Culinary Institute, did an apprenticeship and often worked freakishly long shifts. I was the one that if told by some stuff shirted corporate bigwig “that you should dress for the job you want, not the job you have young lady”, I would more than likely take that as a personal challenge and show up the next day in a leather suit dressed like Cat Woman and find myself at a disciplinary hearing as a result. Just no pleasing some people in life I suppose, and not unlike a corporate stuff shirt , my Mom was someone I would rear up against and protest having limits placed on me and expectations of what my life should be and who I should share it with. “Mom I’ve got to go, Barclay needs to be fed and I’ve got to get dressed and head into work……yes Mom, I love you too, give Daddy a kiss for me.” And with that I cradled the phone.


Okay Barclay, let’s look alive buddy. He glanced at me through two little slits barely exposing his eyes, as if to say get real you know I’m NOT a morning person, as he snuggled even deeper into the depths of the pillow he had commandeered. Oh well at least I won’t have to make the bed, mustn’t disturb the lord of the manor.
Having showered the night before and running a bit late now thanks to Mom’s phone call, I quickly dressed, stopped long enough to fill a bowl of kitty kibble and put a fresh bowl of water down for Barclay, grabbed by bag and went tearing out the door, with a final call of Love, ya, Barclay be a good boy, and I’ll see you tonight. I thundered down the stairs, as though I were being chased by a pack of wolves and bolted out the door. Oh crumb, I didn’t make coffee this morning, my mind wailed at me as I trotted down the street to the bus stop. I quickly checked my watch, and darted into the Perc on the corner for a cup of magic elixir to start my day, and don’t forget the toasted bagel, with herbed cream cheese and tomato on it grumbled my stomach. Breakfast in hand I made it to the bus stop with only moments to spare, and leapt up the steps , as the bus doors were about to close. Morning I grinned awkwardly, Metropass in my mouth, coffee and bagel balanced in my hands and bag slug over my shoulder. Fortunately I found a seat and settled in to enjoy breakfast and watch the early morning entertainment, provided compliments of my co commuters.


I quickly polished off breakfast and tucked the wrapper from the bagel in my coffee cup and tucked it into my backpack to toss out later. My mind soon drifting, to thoughts of the magnificent man that I would one day make mine. Suddenly I was struck almost dumb by the realization that I’d have to face him in a few short minutes time. I felt my body begin to tremble as my heart rate quickened. My eyes started to dart about, for a single seat on the bus, as I’d plunked myself down in a double seat this morning, not a single one as I normally did so I could day dream to my hearts’ content and not have to engage anyone in polite early morning banter.Nearly at St. Clair and totally at a loss as to what I should do. We pulled up to the stop and I was in the process of trying to decide if I should bolt off the bus and catch the next one, or should I, and never finished the thought as I looked up and it was already his stop.

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Tales of the Amoristicpillow

the Tale of Liam and Lorelei 

   Half asleep I stumbled on to the bus, and flashed my Metro pass at the driver, still unaware of what the day had in store for me. I was an optimist though, so you know positive thoughts, positive results. Maybe, just maybe today would be the day “he” noticed me. I found a seat and glanced around at the usual Monday to Friday crowd I had become accustomed to seeing each day on my route to work. Nameless souls, whom my small town self could not reconcile to that fact.  I’d been raised in a town where if you locked yourself behind a closed door and sneezed at midnight, there would be dozens of polite enquires the next day asking how your cold was or if your allergies were flaring up again.  I smiled at the thought.    So in an effort to give these people more colour and meaning I would paint my own canvases of who they were and what their lives were like in my thoughts as I journeyed to work each day.  There were the “Mario Brothers” as I had dubbed them, two paunchy little older Italian men, clutching their battered lunch boxes, loving packed and brimming with a scrumptious feast by wives of thirty plus years.  Laughing and joking about the bambinos in the family, the latest soccer matches, and gesturing wildly with their hands, as only the Italians seemed able to master the entire time.

Then there was Negative Nelly, I swear that woman never had a kind thing to say, and you couldn’t help but hear her with the shrewish pitch of her voice, single and staying that way I well imagined.  Her seat mate the Mouse, sitting quietly and listening yet seemingly disinterested, valiantly trying to be attentive and nodding and chipping in softly now and again with a “oh yes indeed”.  I wondered what had caused her to become so compliant and cowed by this wretched creature beside her.  A bullying co worker perhaps?  There was the Librarian, a conservative looking woman of a certain age, in her high necked blouse, pinstriped skirt and sensible shoes, her nose forever buried in a book.  I happened to glance at the title on one occasion, surprised to see she had fallen into the hype and was reading Fifty Shades of Grey.  I had to smile inwardly, well I guess we all have our little secrets from the world don’t we?  Never judge a book by its cover, even in the case of those staid looking literary ladies.    The Madonna sat so serene and calm even when the child she carried in the snuggly against her breast was wailing, she would only smile and coo softly at the chubby little bundle wrapped in blue and thus   lulled  him back into a dream land , his little face blissful once more. 

There was the gaggle of school girls the Breakfast Club as I deemed them.  In their matching navy uniforms but trying to be oh so independent and distinctive by the streaks of purple and pink in their hair, that I somehow felt certain was the bane of their parent’s existence.  They chattered animatedly like magpies, and teased each other of crushes, and how stodgy Madame Duckworth the French teacher was, and cute Mr. Braverman the science teacher was, and the nerve of that cow Miss Pringle springing a quiz on them in history.  Ah yes, I remember those days of my youth,  all too well myself.   Einstein always amused me with his disheveled hair style and the utter lack of distain for fashionable clothing.  Comfy and rumbled, and usually dozing off, often catching himself when he began to snore, his head jerking upright and a startled look on his face as if to say where the blazes am I now and how on earth did I get here?  It’s all a matter of relativity, he seemed to reason before drifting off into a slumber once more.

   I checked my wrist watch and glanced out the window, sure enough we are on schedule.  No, I wasn’t referring to the fact that I’ll make my next connections and be at work on time, it was a much more special connection than that.  Soon the bus would come to a stop and the door to the bus that seemed so ordinary and mundane to others would be transformed to a magic portal, and through that opening the most perfect being in the world would alight.  My logical mind knew it was only a door and he was only a man, but my quickening pulse, and heart told me that this man was special, magical. In my mind’s eye he was as god like as any of the ancient Greek, Roman, Norse or Celtic gods of lore.   He was a man with a most regal and commanding presence yet at the same time he was a humble man with kind eyes and I just knew he had the heart to back them up. 

    Dreams of this man often occupied my thoughts throughout my days and nights. Barefoot walks along moonlit beaches hand in hand, stopping only for lingering kisses that began as delicately as the wing of a butterfly brushing against your lips and deepening in intensity and desire.  Arms linked, as we walked through the park on an autumn day, kicking at the piles of leaves on the ground, sniffing the crisp air that only autumn can bring, and sharing smiles and laughter over little inside jokes as only lovers can.  Building a snowman, and gently teasing each other if we should name him Parson Brown, then going home and lighting a fire in the hearth and snuggling into each other, and knowing what a perfect fit that we were for one another.  Tenderly planting seeds in our small garden together, feeling the earth on our hands, and the sun on our faces, and knowing that we be both would be enjoying the fruits of our l labours both then and in the months to come.  Just to be in the same room as him and be reading the paper, separated but still joined together by an invisible thread Looking up and realizing he was watching me silently and just being happy in the fact that of anyone in the world I choose to be near, and I was his and belonged to him and with him heart, body and soul. The stolen moments ….”ST. CLAIR” bellowed out the driver, breaking my reverie and snapping me back to the here and now.

   I willed him to be on time, with every fibre of my being.  The “HE” I was willing to appear was none other than the man I had come to jokingly refer to as the “Future Father of My Children.”  Of course he didn’t know that, at least not yet, not did anyone else for that matter with the possible exception of my orange tomcat named Barclay.  Thankfully Barclay was a saint in the fact that he could and would hold his tongue and keep a secret. He was beyond handsome to me, and I thanked his parents whoever they might be for coming together and creating this magnificent piece of perfection. It wasn’t just his outward appearance that had drawn me towards him, like a magnet towards steel. It was what I sensed was beneath the surface that gave him that ethereal aura.  Eyes are said to be the windows of the soul and his seemed to sparkle and say “All right world give me your best shot, game on.”  The crease around his eyes would crinkle in an endearing manner as well when he laughed. 

   He exchanged pleasantries with the bus driver as he boarded the bus and flashed his Metropass.  He seemed like a stand up sort of a guy, you know the type, helped elderly people on the bus with parcels, helped harried mothers with strollers, gave up his seat to the infirm, just an nice thoughtful sort.  Also if I’m honest, I wasn’t immune to the way in which he wore his jeans, moulded snuggly to him in all the right places. My thoughts were broken, and the magical trance I was in ended for the time being, as we were pulling into Bathurst Station, and it was time to gather my belongings and head down into the subway a bit like a mole heading into its hole.  I followed him off the bus but then quickly lost sight of him as I rushed with the rest of the crowds down crowded escalators towards the trains.  One pulled in immediately and I quickly stepped on and headed off to Spadina Station where I would disembark and change to another bus route.  I disembarked when I reached Kensington Market and trotted off towards the little bakery I was employed at.

   It was cozy inside the shop, the intoxicating scent of freshly baked loaves of crusty Italian bread greeting my nostrils as I sniffed the air appreciatively.  Mingled with the sounds of mixers humming away, and knives tapping on wooden table tops, it was a cheery environment.  I could hear the booming voice of Mr. Morelli the owner as I pushed the door open to the back of the house where the bakery was and his hearty laughter which was contagious.  I smiled as I entered and was greeted with “Bella, so good to see you my dear, and how is my girl today?”  I’m good Mr. Morelli, I smiled at him, as I walked to the change room.  Bella was his little pet name for me and I was cool with it as long as he continued to issue me my paycheques under my legal one, as banks are so fussy about little details like that.  I buttoned on my white chef’s jacket, and put the apron around my neck, and tied it securely around my waist, pulled on my baseball cap with the Morelli’s bakery logo on it.  Then I was ready to start my day in earnest. Where to you want me to start today I inquired of the boss man himself.  He quickly gave me a list of tasks to complete, decorate the cups cakes for an order for a sweet sixteen party that were for an 11am pickup, but first finish putting out the trays of Italian cookies, meringues and other house specialties in the display cases before our opening at 9.  I happily set to work. 

   In between my exits and entrances between the front and the back of the house there was good natured banter between our own little family we had formed over the years. As I plucked cookies off the cooling racks and arranged them in neatly percisioned rows on display trays.  Mr. Morelli started one of his favourite topics “Bella you’re a sweet girl, why you no, find a nice young man and settle down, raise some bambinos, then you bring them by to see their Nono Angelo?”  He would enquire of me for the umpteenth time it seemed.  I was saved from answering by the arrival of his wife Gina a plump little woman, with greying hair and warm brown eyes that revealed what a sage soul she was.  “Angelo, leave the girl alone” she chided him affectionately “maybe that’s not what her dream is, and if it is, then she’ll find him all in good time in her own way, with no help from you my dear husband.” I silently thanked my lucky stars for having dodged that discussion, and was relieved when Mrs. Morelli asked if I’d watch the front of the shop for here for a few minutes while she ran around the corner to the bank to pick up some change for the till.  Sure thing I smiled, as she disappeared out the door. 

   Moments later the bell to the shop chimed and I bustled out front quickly to attend to our first customer of the day. A tray of cookies balanced on my hand and held high over my shoulder as I entered.  I must have looked as startled as deer in headlights who didn’t know where to turn and my powers of speech seemed to fail me suddenly.  I wanted to pinch myself to see if I was dreaming or hallucinating.  But no I was wide awake, and it was none other than the Future Father of My Children.  I scolded myself inwardly and actually audibly squeaked out “oh my stars and garters”, and instantaneously felt the colour rising in my cheeks.  I ducked and slid the tray of cookies into the glassed in display case, hoping my ever reddening cheeks wouldn’t betray me.  He just smiled charmingly and responded with a very courteous “I beg your pardon, miss?’  Trying to gather my wits about me and maintain a sense of professional decorum, I mentally tried to shift gears “Er sorry, sir”, floundering like a freshly caught fish flopping on the dock.  “Just practicing my Italian” I murmured before getting my act together enough to deliver a coherent sentence.  “Good morning, and welcome to Morelli’s” I couldn’t seem to fathom a time I had been more flustered.  Heaven help me if he could read my mind.  The countless hours I had spent dreaming of our life together, gentle tender times, laughter filled joys, and even intimate passions, which always left us panting for breathe and lying cradled together, holding on to one another never wanting it to end. 

    Suddenly feeling very vulnerable, I inwardly quaked, oh why oh why do floors never conveniently open up and swallow you whole when you need them to, I wretchedly thought.

This is sheer torture, having him so close and not being able to tell him all the things I harbour in my heart for him, all my dreams I have for our future together.  I want to touch him so badly, to run my fingers lightly along his jawline before I kiss him tenderly, sweetly, with such devotion.  To feel him envelop me in the safety and warmth of his arms, to cradle him back in my own loving embrace.  I wanted to become one with him, to hold him and cherish him forever.  What had seemed to be an eternity was in reality just moments in time.  I felt euphoric and yet oh so vulnerable as though I were standing there naked on display for him.  Is this what a sacrificial virgin feels like I pondered?  “Are you alright miss”, he gently probed, genuine concern registering on his handsome face.  “Oh I’m fine thank you”, …………..my words dropped off.  I wiped some imaginary flour off my apron, “now what is that I can help you with today sir?”  “A few pastries as a special treat for some co-workers of mine, are there any recommendations you’d make” he asks casually.  It causes me to sigh, thank heavens he doesn’t think I’m stark raving mad, and if he does he’s too much of a gentleman to say so.  I suddenly felt very at ease with him as we discussed the various merits of biscotti, napoleon slices, tiramisu and the like.  

    The time we were sharing together drew far too quickly to a close as he made his selections, and I boxed them, then brought them to the till as he settled his bill with me.  His hands connected with mine as he placed the bills for payment in them, and an electric surge pulsed through my body like none I had ever known.  I’m going to faint I thought grabbing the counters edge to steady myself.  Get a grip on yourself woman I told myself, he can’t read your mind, and he more than likely just thinks your some flakey little shop assistant, and thus are a source of amusement for him. I bid him farewell just as Mrs Morelli came flying in the door from her quick jaunt to the bank.  “Please come again” I called out to him, longing to hear his voice once more before he walked away and disappeared amongst the crowds on the streets, and left my view yet again. “You can count on it.” he said smiling and turning to leave, bidding the two of us a cheery farewell as he did so.

   Mrs. Morelli dropped the bag of coins and small bills on the counter by the till and slipped off her jacket, and folded it over her arm, and started towards the back cloakroom. Then she stopped and seemed to study me intently.  A soft smile crossed her lips, and blossomed into a broad grin “your secret is safe with me Bella” Pardon????, I was genuinely puzzled.  She patted her hand on my cheek in a motherly sort of way and then gave it a gentle pinch, “it is as plain to me as reading a story book to one of my grandchildren, you care about that man, and I’d say you’ve had those feeling for some time now unless I miss my guess. Now you just have to tell him that, and give him the chance to share all you have to offer him.”  She said it so plainly and matter of fact as if the issue were simple, uncomplicated and settled.  She continued to the back to hang her jacket, and left me to let her words sink in. 

   I still to this day have no clue as to how I managed to get through the rest of my work day.  I somehow had busied myself, finishing of decadent cakes, dipping cookies in chocolate and garnishing them with crushed nuts and cherries, piping the creamy centres into canollis , creating a spectacular wedding cake with oodles of creamy swirls of buttercream, and delicate piping.  I refilled trays in the front, and waited on the odd customer or two when it was crowded and cramped in the little store, but it was as if I were on auto pilot, for my thoughts were very much still on him.  How I wished I knew his name and that I could in fact tell him what I feared most, that I was hopelessly, deliciously falling in love with him.  I finished cleaning up my work area leaving it as though no one had ever been there and it would ready when the night bakers came in to start their shifts in the wee hours of the morning.  While they toiled I would be tucked in my bed snuggled under my duvet, Barclay curled up on my chest snoring away, as I dreamed of a future with “The Future Father of My Children.”

I pulled my apron off from my neck, and tossed it in the dirty laundry bin.  I’d drop my chef’s jacket off after I changed.  I needed a diversion of some sort after all that had happened today, and so I’d rang, my friend Matt during a brief break earlier in the day and left a message to see if he wanted to meet me at the “Public Library”, emphasis on the pub part, for a drink, maybe a little nosh and a couple of games of pool.  He’d texted me back, that he’d meet me there about half six or so.

The Tale is continued, just click on the "chapters" button for more! 

while you are awaiting the next installment and you've enjoyed what you've read so far, 

 you will also love this page of short stories of love! 

Tales of the Amoristicpillow