Note: This story was dynamically reformatted for online reading convenience.
 
 

   They met at the Met

   He Said: The cubism exhibit at the Met was crowded but that was to be
expected.  He wondered if he should have come on a week day to avoid the
crowd but he was here now so he headed in.  After all he was here to learn
about cubism, people watch, kill some time and he just liked the Met.  As
he looked around he thought to himself one thing about New York, it was a
great place to people watch.  Especially the female people.

   He had finished reading the introduction to cubism when he saw her.  She
wore stylist tights with a short frilly skirt.  She held a notebook and was
writing as she examined the painting.  He is a leg man and she definitely
had a great pare.  As he pondered that thought the crowd moved and she was
gone.  Oh well back to cubism.

   He moved through several galleries reading and looking at the paintings.
He was beginning to wish he had ponied up for a audio guide when there she
was right next to him.  She was jotting notes moving to different angles.
He guessed she was late 30s, maybe 40s.  A little younger than him.  He
worked up his nerve and said 'I see you writing are you an art critic?' She
smiled at him and replied 'only in my own mind'.  Please with her smile he
said 'I should have picked up the audio guide, I would be learning more. 
He noticed that she wore no ring so he move his hands to show that he was
ring free.  'I disagree' she said with a smile.  'You should let the work
speak to you, not listen to was someone else thinks.  I let it speak, make
notes, come back and listen again'.  'Interesting, I'll give that method a
try'.

   They talked a bit more but then people got between them and she was
gone. He used his 6'2" height to track her for a bit but then he lost her.
Oh well more fish in the sea.  He spotted a hot 20 something in short
shorts and black stockings, legs again!, but she didn't know if the
painting was upside down or sideways.  He just couldn't do stupid even for
a great pare of legs !

   It was a bitter cold day so he had checked his coat.  He retrieved it
and was about to pull it on when there she was.  She had on a colorful
puffy jacket that confirmed his assessment that this lady had style and
class.  She smiled at him and said 'Did you try my method?'

   'Why yes, yes I did.  Thank you' he replied in a surprised but very
pleased voice.

   'Did it work?  What did you think?' She asked.

   'Well if you have a few minutes I'd like to talk about that.  Would you
like to have a cup of coffee at the cafe?'

   She smiled and said 'That place is hideously expensive but I know a nice
warm place a few blocks away we could go there'.

   'Lead the way !'

   She Said: She anticipated the crowds, she hated the crowds.  They always
got in the way and had no consideration for others.  But what can you
expect at the Met.  She made her way to the gallery where the Cubism
exhibition was being held.  Thankful for all those prior visits there,
while in school, she took her shortcuts.  The first gallery had a crowd
starting their audio tour.  She sighed as she moved at least two or three
works ahead of them.  She had a love hate relationship with Cubism.  These
were the men that started it all.  Everything deconstructed and then put
back together again.  Some looked like 3-D pictures, with so much depth,
but that wasn't the purpose of the style.  With notebook and pencil in hand
she wrote down some thoughts.  She wondered if Frank Gehry got his museum
inspirations from some of Gris' work.  Picasso was her favorite.  How can a
man who loved women so much make them look like that.  Out of the corner of
her eye she saw a man coming closer.  He looked lost.  'Attention K-Mart
shoppers we have a lost male.  Tall, unmarried (no ring), not bad on the
eyes for his age.  Did we mention tall?  Can anyone claim this man?' It's
rare to see single men on their own at the museum.  Usually they are
accompanied by wives or girlfriends.

   She saw the small talk coming.  He asked if she was an art critic! 
Offering a smile she answered his questions and moved on.  Moving through
the rest of the galleries she realized museum lag was setting in, so she
proceeded to make her way out.  There he was at the coat check.  He smiled
at her.  She made a mental note, Museum guy -- has a killer smile.  She
smiled as he approached her.  'Hi.  How'd you like the rest of the work? 
Did you try my suggestions?' She asked.  'I did!  He responded.  'Do you
want to compare notes at the cafe?' She laughed.  'You must not be from
here.  It's too pricey there.' Did she dare take him to her little place?
What could it hurt?  'I know of a better place.  Would you be willing?' 'If
you lead the way!' 'Follow me.' She said.  She zipped up her jacket, making
another mental note, get a new jacket, as she walked out of the museum and
started down the steps....  He Said: They introduced themselves complete
with the correct little smiles and the proper little hand shake then it was
out the door and down the steps.  It was bitter cold but he was annoyed
that her puffy coat went to her knees.  It obscured what was still a very
nice view.

   They walked several blocks passing some nice but crowed cafés.  'You do
have a Metro pass?' She asked.  'Of course' 'If we run we can get that
bus'. With that she turned and ran for the bus.  She had good moves, very
good.  Was she trying to ditch him?  Not today sister!  He was right behind
her as they climbed on the bus.

   She turned and gave that smile 'it's a few more blocks and it's way to
cold to walk'.  They engaged in small talk which revealed that he had been
in town about 6 months and she was a native New Yorker.

   'Yes we do exist' she said with a laugh.  'We have a love hate or a hate
love relationship with this place depending on what day it is !'

   They got off the bus and walked down the block to a door.  'This doesn't
look like a cafe' he said in a puzzled voice.  'The service is better, the
price is right and it's less crowded' she said as she unlocked the door. 
'How do you know I'm not some psycho killer' he asked with his best
fiendish grin.  'In my experience psycho killers don't go to cubism
exhibits'.  'You have experience with psychos?' 'Just men in general'. 
'I'm not sure that's a complement'.  'Have a seat an I'll put some coffee
on'.  'Actually I don't like coffee'.  'Would a glass of wine do?' She
asked with that killer smile.  'Excellent!'

   The wine warmed him quite nicely.  She brought several art book to the
table and they discussed cubism and Picasso through the entire bottle. 
'Yes Picasso loved women, many women maybe that's why he painted then that
way.  He hated them for making him need them so much' he said as she got up
to open a new bottle.

   He watched her take the few steps to what she said was a kitchen.  Not
only is this gal smart as a wipe she's damn good looking.

   She turned and faced him, open wine bottle in her left hand.  'An
interesting theory, he hated women because he loved them too much.  Do you
hate woman?' She asked.  He looked at that smile.  It was wonderfully
seductive.

   Leaving the museum, she pondered where to take him.  It was late
Saturday afternoon all the cafes would be crowded with weary museum goers
and holiday shoppers.  Should she?  After a few blocks, there it was... 
the bus!

   `We need to run for that bus.  Do you have a metrocard?  She asked.  He
didn't respond but she felt him right behind her.  The bus would take them
back across town to her safety zone.  He did have a metro card.  They
caught their breath as they made their way to the back of the bus for
seats.

   `The ride will make it faster.' She stated.  "So are you native to the
city or a transplant?  Wait!  Let me guess?  Divorced, new job brought you
here for a new beginning?  Or married, wife is a workaholic.  You've been
keeping yourself busy.  Oh no?  You're a bachelor who never grew up or
doesn't want to?'

   He laughed, a deep genuine throaty laugh, his eyes crinkling, as he did.
She felt that all the way to her toes.  `Do you always talk so fast?' he
asked.

   Only when I do stupid things she thought.  `What can I say some of us
New Yorkers talk fast.' She noted he avoided the question.

   `Were you born and raised here?' He asked.

   `Unfortunately, yes!' She said with a laugh in her voice.  `I have a
love/hate relationship with this fair city.  Sometimes it's exhilarating
and exciting and sometimes you just grow weary of the hustle and bustle. 
It all depends on the time of day or the season.  Here's our stop.  Just
down this block.'

   She wondered should she really be doing this.  It was too late night
now. She loved her garden apartment in the brownstone, what better place to
discuss art and have coffee.  Lets hope he wasn't some kind of crazy man
and had some sense of normalcy.



   He Said:

   She moved to the couch, kicked her shoes off and tucked her very nice
legs under her.  As he got up to join her he wondered what Picasso would
do. He knew what Picasso would do.  He would grab her, carry her to the bed
and make insanely passionate love to her.  He heard that woman like men who
are aggressive, to take them like Picasso would but that was not his style.
That may be why he was not with anyone.

   He sat on the couch, close but not to close.  She filled his glass.  He
thought about that hot little 20 something.  It would have been no trouble
to get her out of those short shorts, get his rocks off, listen to her
giggle and scream but what then......

   'Do you hate woman or any one in particular?'

   The question snapped him back to the present.

   'What?  Me?  No not at all.' Then it clicked.

   'No I'm not married.  I was for a short period years ago and I don't
hate her.  Actually I don't think much about her at all.  Oh and no kids'.

   'Girlfriends?'

   'There have been a few but none for awhile'.

   'What brought you to the big city?'

   'I do historical research.'

   Her face lite up 'that is fascinating tell me more.'

   Her reaction caught him by surprise.  Usually people's eyes glazed over
and that ended the conversation.  He did do research but that was a cover
for how he made his big money.  He countered with 'what do you do my
charming young lady?'

   She looked away and said 'oh I'm in the medical field'.

   He thought about challenging that evasion but the wine was so good, she
was so good to talk to.  He felt so relaxed.

   How long?  How many bottles ?  She got up talking about food, cooking,
going out.  He reached out and took her hand for the first time.  Was that
static shock ?

   'I hear that in NYC you can get on the phone an order anything.  Even a
great meal.  Plus I owe you three, really three?, bottles of the best wine.
Take my card and order' he said in a hurried voice.  He didn't want the
evening to end, not yet.

   She took his card and said 'I have expensive taste in wine and gourmet
dinners, are you sure?'

   'It's a gold card so go for it' he said.  He felt a bit sheepish, as a
man he should have ordered or taken her to a top restaurant.  Maybe
tomorrow.  He didn't want this to end.

   She hit disconnect on her phone and moved toward him.  'Dinner will be
served in 30 to 40 minutes'.

   He took her hand again.  'I also ordered more wine.....'

   He pulled her to him and kissed her passionately.

   She Said:

   Seems he was lost in thought, but he followed her lead to the couch, as
he answered those women questions.  Short marriage and no woman in his life
made her wonder.

   He noticed the carpet.  `Should I remove my boots?' he asked

   `It's not necessary but if you'd like to...  by all means.'

   She watched him remove his boots.  He was comfortable in his own skin.
Handsome in his own way; his confidence made him even more so.  The way his
jeans fit and that sweater didn't hurt either.  Oy!  She shook her head...
shouldn't have these thoughts...

   As he made his way towards her she broke out into laughter.  `What's so
funny?' he asked, smiling?'

   `I love your socks!  It's not often you see a man wearing socks with
penguins all over them!' She couldn't stop laughing.

   He chuckled, `my niece gave them to me last Christmas, shes five.  I
kinda like them I also have a pair with gingerbread men and a pair with the
Yeti from Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer.'

   `That's awesome!  I love people who wear fun socks.' She said as he sat
down and she handed him his glass of wine.  'What brought you here to the
city?'

   'I do historical research.'

   `Really?!  Historical research?  As in what was behind Churchill and
FDR's friendship during WWII?  What led to the Bay of Pigs invasion to
fail? What principles inspired Jefferson to write the Declaration of
Independence?  Or is it just the history of the potato chip?' Whichever it
is sounds great?'

   He smiled, asking what she did.  He avoided her questions again.  'oh
I'm in the medical field'.  She countered.  She wasn't going to share
anymore than he would, she thought to herself as she stood and asked `Are
you hungry?  Should I cook something?' He grabbed her hand surprising her
in the process.  It sent a shock through her.

   `Why don't you order for us?  Anything you want.  And you can replace
those bottles of wine too?'

   `Anything?' She said.  `That's quite open ended since I like good
stuff.'

   `I owe you at least that.'

   She took the card from him.  Gold card?!  The wine must be affecting his
vision, she'd never seen a Platinum card!!!!!

   She called the wine shop first and ordered five more bottles of wine. 
Dinner she had to wing it.  She didn't know what he would like.  They
didn't have the filet mignon for delivery.  And that was her favorite.  I'm
sure he would have liked it.

   'Dinner will be served in 30 to 40 minutes.  I ordered us the Chilean
Sea Bass and the Chicken from Ocean Grill since I didn't know what you'd
like.  She said as she walked back into the living room and noticed he was
standing there, all 6 foot and god knows what of him.  I also ordered.....

   He didn't let her finish, as she returned his card to him, he held her
hand and pulled her toward him for a kiss.

   When he pulled away, she was suddenly lightheaded, didn't know if it was
from the wine or that kiss.  She held on to his arm, as she looked into the
pool of greenish- blue eyes, and caught her breath.

   He grinned, `You okay?' he asked.

   `Yes, yes I am.  Give me a moment'.  She took his hands and walked him
back to the couch.

   They sat down, this time closer in proximity.  Tucking her legs back
under her made her eye level with him.  Jesus!  He had these beautiful
piercing eyes.  Looking down, she noticed she was still holding his hand.
She rubbed it with her own noticing how soft they were.

   He brought his head closer to hers nuzzling her neck.  It felt quite
good.  The bit of stubble he had, scratched in a good way.  His warm breath
felt good.  As she brought her hand to the back of his neck the buzzer went
off...

   Damn wine shop and their fast delivery.  Should have called it last...

   He Said: That damn buzzer !!!

   She slowly rose from the couch an moved toward the door.  Those black
tights, almost translucent, that short skirt and that raven black hair. 
Blonds, he just didn't get that.  She moved so nicely, legs, hair, arms. 
Get up and help her you idiot !

   She insisted on paying the tip.  They carried the wine to the kitchen an
after a brief discussion decided to not open a new bottle until dinner
arrived.  They set the table and moved back to the couch.

   Those eyes.  Those deep dark eyes were pulling him in like some
whirlpool.  He leaned forward an kissed her.  Her hand was on his neck. 
His arms enclosed her.  He squeezed her body against his.  Her mouth opened
as they kissed.  His to tongue entered.

   The buzzer !  Again an again.  With difficultly they untangle and she
answered the door.  As they unpacked the dinner he felt a bit embarrassed
and she looked a bit flushed.

   The dinner was very good and the white wine was an excellent match. 
This gal knew good wine and how to pair it with the correct meal.

   'Early nineteenth century' he said as he took another sip of wine.

   'Excuse me?'

   'I thought I would answer your question about my historical research. 
That's my favorite period'.

   Her eyes don't glaze over but became brighter.  'Tell me why' she asked
with genuine interest.

   He explained his theory that this next generation after the founders
produce leaders of natural brilliance an intelligence.  Few attended
universities and the few who did received a limited education.  There was
no extreme wealth or a defined ruling class.  The great men of the day like
Jackson, Webster, Clay and Calhoun where largely self taught.  Lincoln had
little schooling.

   He also explained how he did all the research for authors who's books
became famous and then turned into hit movies.

   'I basically wrote those books they just connect my research with a few
sentences'.  He proclaimed in his most self important voice.

   'A tiny bit jellous?' She asked with that wonderful smile.

   He was instantly embarrassed and said 'sorry I went off on a bit of a
rant.  They can write and I can't.  It's a bit annoying although I have
published articles on why the greatest generation was not all that great'.

   'So you do the Churchill & Roosevelt era' she said with interest.  'Why
was the greatest not great?'

   He took a big sip of wine.  He had got into trouble with this idea in
the past, cost him some very lucrative research jobs but those eyes, that
smile.  Besides Churchill said the truth must have a bodyguard of lies,
well the full truth of what he did used a bodyguard of other truths.

   'In short Hitler had conquered all of Europe and was knocking on the
gates of Moscow and the greatest generation was content to do nothing,
wanted to do nothing and in fact would have continued to do nothing if the
Japs had not made up their minds for them'.  There he said it !

   'Fascinating' was her response.

   As they cleaned up the table he thought about asking her about men in
her life, more to the point if there was one now.  He decided he didn't
want to know, not now.

   When they finished they stood there for a few awkward moments.  Her lose
sweater hung just right.  She turn and move toward the couch, her short
skirt moving just right.  He reached out and took her hand, turning her to
face him.  That raven black hair, those dark eyes, her wet lips.  He pulled
her to him.

   He kissed her hard.  His tongue working furiously.  He pulled her close,
his hands on her back.  He felt her arms around him.  He felt her body
pressed against his.  His left hand moved down her back.  His fingers felt
the nice tight curve of her ass.  They kissed passionately.  Fingers found
the zipper on her skirt.

   Click click click was the sound as those fingers moved that zipper down.

   She Said:

   She sighed as she got up to answer the door.  She couldn't decide if the
interruption was a blessing or a curse.  She felt his eyes on her.  As she
grabbed her wallet, he made his way to the door.  He wanted to tip the guy,
she made him carry the bags instead.  He already paid for it the least she
could do was hand over a tip.

   `Should we open up another bottle or wait for dinner?' she asked, as
they unpacked the bottles.  The Sancerre was chilled and she couldn't wait
to have some.

   I think we should wait for dinner we still have some in our glasses. 
Let's set the table now as I am getting quite famished.  Food was not the
only thing he was hungering for.  Settling back on the couch he didn't miss
his chance as he leaned in and kissed her wrapping his arms around her and
pulling her close.  She did not resist as she gave into the kiss...

   BUZZ!  BUZZ!  BUZZ!  Interrupted again?!  That damn buzzer was a
buzzkill she thought.  Or maybe not, maybe it was a sign.  They unpacked
dinner in silence he seemed shy all of a sudden, she noticed.  She was hot
and might need to open a window.

   `So do you want the sea bass or the chicken?' she asked, breaking the
bit of silence.

   `How about we just share family style?' he offered.

   `I was hoping you would say that!  I love Ocean Grill and I wouldn't
have been able to decide anyway.  I'll get the wine and fresh glasses.'

   As they ate and drank he noticed she was humming...  `Are you humming?'
He asked curiously.

   She grinned and giggled, as she sipped some wine.  `Sorry, yes I was. 
Am.  Good food and wine makes me happy and I sometimes end up humming.  Is
that weird?  I'll stop.' What she better stop is the wine, she thought.

   He laughed, `No!  It's not weird.' It's okay.'

   Suddenly she felt self conscious.

   He saved the moment, `Early nineteenth century, that's what my
historical research encompasses.'

   `Really?!  Why?'

   Watching him become so animated talking about the likes of Lincoln and
society, at large, in those times made her smile.  He's passionate about
something, she thought, you don't see that too often.  `You make some valid
points.' she said.  `It was such an important time in the US, and the
world, with so much rapid growth!  Men of that era were risk takers.  I
think it's the lack of education that makes you fearless.  Once you know a
little more you tend to be overly cautious and over think things.'

   `So true.  I have also done plenty of research that others have used for
their gain and never gotten credit for.'

   `Do you need to be recognized?' she asked.  `Or are you ok with the sort
of ghost writing?'

   `Well I am not that great of a writer, he stated, so I guess I am okay
with it.  But I have had some things published.'

   `What things exactly?  Poetry?' She grinned.

   `Just some articles on why I think the greatest generation was not all
that great.'

   `For shame!  What makes you think that?' she asked.

   `Just that if the Japs...' he began

   `Japanese.' she corrected.

   `Japanese had not bombed Pearl Harbor this so-called great generation
would have sat on their asses and done nothing!!  Hitler would have taken
over Russia and the rest of Europe.'

   She thought to herself, when push came to shove we acted.  WWI was
fought the same way.  Took us a while to get involved, in the end, Stalin
pushed through.  We ended up stronger.  Can't dwell on the past she
thought. And focus on what might or might not have happened.  Not many will
agree.  She decided to leave it alone.

   `Fascinating...' she said as she began to clean up and clear the dishes
from the table.

   The silence was deafening and the attraction palpable.

   As she made her way back to the living room he stopped her, pulling her
against him.  Those eyes of his, you could drown in them, she thought.  He
kissed her, his tongue seeking hers, their bodies pressed together as her
arms wrapped around him.  His hands caressing her back searching and
finding...  he began to undo the zipper on her skirt.  Like the buzzer it
brought her back and out of the moment.

   `No, it's better if we don't.' she sighed.

   He wouldn't let her go.  `What's wrong he whispered?  Did I do something
wrong?'

   `No, no you did not.  You've done everything quite right actually?  She
answered.

   You're married?!  he asked.

   `No, no I'm not.' she said

   Her thoughts were all over the place.  She promised herself she wouldn't
do this to herself again.

   `It's just...maybe we should just call it a night...

   He Said:

   The uber had arrived.  They stood touching hands.  He knew if he held
her, kissed her, he would not be able to go but he must go.

   'I would like to see you again' he said as he looked into those eyes.

   'You have my number' was her reply.

   'Dinner soon?'

   'Maybe, you have my number' she said as she gave his hands a gentle
squeeze.

   He sat in the uber and thought yes yes it's good we didn't go to bed. 
This girl is a keeper.  She's great.  We have so much in common.  Don't let
sex screw it up.  Sex.  Oh the sex would have been great.  Will be great !

   Maybe.  Maybe what did she mean maybe !  You have my number, maybe ! 
God damn that annoyed him !  Now he was annoyed and horney !  He pulled out
his phone.

   God damn that sun was bright!  He lay in bed opening his eyes just a
bit. It must be late and all the shades are open and his head was pounding.
All that wine!  Red wine!  Those shots later didn't help.  The girl was
just sliding out of the bed.

   'Hay baby could you close the blinds, please' he managed to say.

   As he watched her young naked form move across the room he thought ya I
sort if remember that.  Stupid.  Stupid.  Why did I do that.

   'Could you get me some water an Ibprodin from the bathroom, please?'

   As she handed him the water he got a chance to look over that naked
young body.  Firm breast, nice nipples and a shaved pubic mound.  All the
young things shaved now days.  He missed a neatly trimmed bush.

   'Thank you dear that makes a big difference' he said as he drank the
water and looked her over.

   'I gotta go now' she said in a flat voice as she bent to pick up her
thong.

   For reasons he didn't quite understand he found himself saying 'can you
stay a bit longer?'

   She picked up her phone and began keying.

   This is nuts I should tell her to go.

   'Card' she said.

   As he handed her his card he thought this gal is no aspiring actress,
must be in the music scene.  He should call and complain, only actresses
who can act like they want to be there.

   She swiped his card and handed him the phone.  Tip included, wonders of
the 21st century.

   He lay back and she moved between his legs.  She took his limp member in
her mouth and began to move her head.  The girl is not without talent he
thought.

   Thoughts of his wonderful art lady came to his mind.  No!  Get them out!
It was like cheating.  How about his ex girl friend, no not her.  His ex
wife.  Yes, she was crazy but they had crazy sex, crazy wild sex.

   The girl had moved up on him and he opened his eye to see her open her
vagina and sit down on his very hard cock.  He reached up and grabbed those
firm tits and squeezed.  His ex had been crazy hot in bed and out for that
matter.  The girl bounced and moved.  She felt so good!  He looked at her
face and closed his eyes quickly.  Don't spoil the mood, not an actress.

   He came hard.  Pushing up into her and holding her hips with each spasm.
He lay there catching his breath.  When he opened his eyes she was almost
dressed.  Why do whores always dress like whores he wondered.

   'Here's my number you can call me direct when ever you need me' she said
as she laid a card on the nightstand.  Then she was gone.

   He staggered into the bathroom and saw a condom on his cock.  The gal
really did have talent.

   He called his art lady several times and left messages but to no avail.
He was beginning to lose hope.  Damn!  She could be the one!  They had so
much!  Should he text her?  Why not what had he to loose.

   'May I take you to dinner friday???' He texted

   His hart sank when he read 'can't make it'.

   He replied 'Saturday?????'

   'Where???'

   'Del Friscos on 6th'.

   'What time?'

   'Will pick you up at 8'.

   'I will meet you there at 8'.

   Yes!!!!  He yelled and did a few fight pumps.  Screw the people looking
at him.  She wouldn't let him pick her up but she did say yes and that was
all that mattered.

   He had arrived early and was seated at the bar.  His suite was freshly
cleaned and he checked his tie for the thousandth time.  He wondered what
she would be wearing.  He was sure it would knock him out.

   The door opened and there she was.

   She Said:

   As they stood there waiting, hands touching, she thought, `Great!  I
stopped him cold.  Guess I'll never see him again'.  He set off reminders,
memories, feelings.  It had been so long since she felt that rush.  She
could still feel his warm breath on her neck.  The gentleness in his kiss,
those soft warm lips.  She bit her lip to keep from blurting out that she
wanted him to stay.

   He said he wanted to see her again.  Her stomach fluttered.

   `You have my number'.  she said.

   `Let's have dinner soon?'

   She was afraid her eyes would betray her, she gently squeezed his hands.
`Maybe.  You have my number.' She responded as she looked away.

   He pulled on her hands, she slowly let go, as he started to walk to the
car.  She watched him.  As he got into the car he smiled at her and then he
was gone.  Suddenly she was cold.  It was as if he took the warmth with
him.

   YOU are such a pussy she thought.  A smart good looking man in your
house wanting to do you and you stop him!  Arrggh!  She headed for the
bottle of tequila.

   After her 3rd shot she was done.  She undressed, as she walked down the
hallway leaving a trail of clothes, she'll pick those up eventually.  She
drew herself a hot bath adding some lavender oil to it.  Putting up her
hair she slowly descended into the hot calming water.  She felt her muscles
begin to relax and the tension subside.

   Closing her eyes, she could picture him.  She ran through all the
scenarios of the day.  The museum, at the coat check, where she really got
to see those eyes, those crinkly eyes, when he flashed that smile.  She
added some soap to her wash cloth and lathered herself up.  She was horny
and she knew it.  She added some more water to the tub to warm it up and
rinse.  Laying back she closed her eyes again picturing him.  That smile!
Ugh that smile could charm the panties off of a snake.  That look he gave
her on the bus.  Those few moments on the couch and those moments she knew
he was staring at her, taking her all in.

   She got chills thinking about the feeling of his slight stubble, on her
neck.  His hands rubbing her back, thinking about it she began to touch
herself.  He had the softest hands and a gentle but firm touch.  Damn! 
There's nothing like a man who is sure of himself.  She was quite sure he
would know exactly what to do.

   She opened her eyes and looked up at the hand held shower attachment. 
Crap!  She should have brought it down before getting in the tub.  I guess
it was a good thing.  Her hands were getting all pruney.  She got herself
out of the tub and wrapped herself in a towel.  Off to bed.  Tomorrow was
another day.

   She lay there counting the minutes then the hours.  She couldn't stop
thinking about him.  Their conversation, you don't meet someone often who
actually has something to say and won't back down from being challenged. 
He almost reminded her of...  Stop it!  No comparing the men!  She got up
to look for her toy.  Aw c'mon!  Really?!!  Fuck me and die!  No batteries.
This is like a sick joke.  She tossed and turned til three in the morning.

   She heard a phone ringing.  Then it rang again.  Really?!  Who the hell
calls someone at 10am on a Sunday?!  She hadn't slept well.  Her neck and
back hurt.  Phone rang again.  Maybe it's him.  She smiled as she went
looking for her phone.  Wow!  He actually left messages!  Big bonus points
for him!  As she listened, the text message came through...

   'May I take you to dinner on Friday???' He texted

   She thought about it.  Can't be too eager and ugh no.  She hated rushing
from work for a date.  `Cant make it.' She replied.  She held her breath
picking at her lip waiting for something.  C'mon, c'mon.

   'Saturday?????' he countered.

   YES!!!  'Where???'

   'Del Friscos on 6th'.

   She liked it there.....  'What time?'

   'Will pick you up at 8'.

   `No, I will meet you there at 8'.

   She breathed again.  She didn't realize she was holding her breath.  Oh
my God!!

   It took her all day to get ready.  She didn't know why she was so
nervous.  Maybe excited would be the better word.  So glad she picked up
some batteries earlier that week.  She relaxed herself with some wine and
pictured him undressing her, caressing her back, kissing and nibbling her
neck.  She reached down between her legs her pussy was wet just thinking
about his tongue teasing her clit.  His mouth sucking on it, making her
moan.  She used her toy to tease herself bringing herself closer to cumming
and then pulling back.  After three or four times of this she let herself
go.  Now she was relaxed.

   She decided on the blue cocktail dress with the full skirt.  It always
accented her curves and did her cleavage some good.  Stockings, a kitten
heel and her perfume finished it off.  She wished she could have worn her
other heels but the accident had left her back a mess she wouldn't even be
able to see how they would look.

   She was running a little late.  Its okay the anticipation might do him
some good.  To be polite she texted him, `On my way.'

   She entered and saw him right away at the bar.  The smile he gave her
made her all wet or maybe she was already.  She walked up to him `Hi.' She
said.

   Hello.' He offered as he pulled her into his embrace and kissed her. 
`You're glowing, you look good enough to eat.' He whispered into her ear.

   `I know you want to.' she replied smiling all the way to their table. 
His hand on the small of her back....

   He Said:

   Yes !  Yes!  She said yes.

   Now get organized.  First item would be actually getting a reservation
at Del Frisco for 8 on a Saturday night.

   Assholes !  The girl said in a very disinterred voice 6:15 or 9:30.  He
frowned as he considered his options.  Call her with a new time or place?
No way.  He had her commitment and he wasn't going to give an out.  He
would have to pull some strings.

   Joan was the author of hugely successful historical books and he had
done a lot of the research.  Plus she was in town pitching a book on the
Great Triumvirate, Webster, Clay and Calhoun.  That was right in his wheel
house and they had been in talks about a very lucrative research contract
if the book was picked up.  He was reluctant to ask a personnel favor as
Joan was nun to happy about his Greatest Gen article.  She was a big fan of
FDR to say nothing of the books she had written about Eleanor.  He took a
deep breath and keyed her private number.

   To say the call had been awkward would be an understatement.  She hemd
and hawd and he ended the call as quickly and gracefully as possible hoping
he didn't damage his research possibilities.  Now what?

   String number two.  Silvia could do it, of that he was sure but she
would ask about last night.  Feedback she called it.  He would have to talk
about the need for acting lessons.  No.  He needed to keep a zone of purity
around his art lady.

   She had a nice name but Art-Lady, he liked that, it has a nice ring.

   There was only one string left and he hated to pull it.

   As he paced about the room he considered going to the place and offering
the reservation people a $100 but there was an art to that and he didn't
have it.  So as much as he hated it he keyed in the number of his Ex wife.
He had seen her picture in the style section along with her latest
billionaire hubby at some charity gig and he knew that she would love it
that he was asking her for help.

   Of course she had been all giggles and laughter.  Wanted to know all
about 'her'.

   'Can you do it or not' he asked cutting her off.

   'Of course dear of course but it will cost you, not sure what or when
but it will' she replied with that devilish laugh he knew too well.

   He arrived early just to be sure all was in place.

   'Yes of course sir your table is ready by the window as requested.  If
care to wait for your party we have a seat at the bar for you'.

   Wow.  The table ready, seat at the bar, she was really showing him who
had the juice.

   He had a Macallan 18 to settle his nerves.  Would she cancel ?  His
phone buzzed.  A text saying she was running late.  Just like a woman ! 
That relaxed him.  He order another Macallan.  Yes just like a woman.  Then
he saw her.

   That gorgeous blue dress!  Long, flowing, her curves, her cleavage.

   She smiled and said 'Hi'.

   That snapped him out of his trance.

   'Hello'

   He reach out, they embraced.  The little kiss sent a shock to his toes.
God damn it!  He wasn't 18!  Her perfume, her hair, her shoulders!

   'You look good enough to eat' the words just came out of him.

   'I know you want to' was her smiling reply.

   He place his hand on small of her back and walker her to the table
earnestly hoping the bulge in his pants was not too obvious.

   The table for two was in the prime spot by the window.  Excellent view
yet intimate.  They where seated not across the table but adjacent so legs
could touch and hands could move unseen.

   She ordered a Cosmo and he a Macallan.  Those eyes, that smile!  The
sexual tension was palpable.  He had to do something to lighten the mood.

   'I have a special surprise for you'.

   'Oh?  Do tell'

   He pushed his chair back moved his leg out pulled as pant leg and
revealed red socks with little green trees and a smiling waving Santa.

   'I just love them!  I must touch them they are so cool, such fun!' Her
laughter was genuine, her smile bright.

   She bent down to closer inspect the socks and revealed quite a bit. 
This was not helping the bulge in his pants!

   They picked up their drinks, clicked glasses and looked into each
other's eyes.  His hand moved under the table.  He felt her thigh through
that wonderful blue dress.  He gracefully slide his hand upwards, closer.
She did not resist.  He felt a very light touch on his very hard cock.

   'May I tell you the specials?' The waitress asked with too much
perkiness in her voice and a wicked gleam in her eye.

   'Yes, yes please' he said as he placed both hands on the table.

   'Thank you, a few minute please' he said to the waitress.

   She sort of looked at the menu, turned and looked at him with deep dark
eye and said 'I know what I want'.

   'Indeed!  Me to but we should look at the menu'.

   Her laughter was easy and relaxed.  'Oh you bad boy!'

   She ordered the filet, medium rare.

   'Ah a lady after my own hart'.

   He grind and did the same.  This gal just keeps scoring points!  Is
there anything negative about her?  He thought about the man questions. 
Past or more important present.  A lady like this could not be free.  Then
he stopped.  He didn't want to know, not now, it didn't matter.

   They touched hands on the top of the table.  Eyes, hair, blue dress.  He
had to talk about something non sexual.  He had scared her away once, not
again.

   'I'm a big fan of Georgia O'Keeffe and have a number of her works'.

   'Oh, originals?'

   'Oh don't I wish.  No they are prints but I did get them at the O'Keeffe
museum in Santa Fe so the are almost originals'.

   They talked about Georgia, her lovers, her work and the southwest.  She
was a bit critical of the Black Masa, one of his favorites but when he told
her his favorite was the New York City sky scraper she said 'that is the
Bryant Park Hotel.  With all the leaves off the trees you can see it quite
clearly and I agree it is beautiful'.

   Drinks, salids, steak, the view, all excellent.  Chocolate moose for
desert was so good but his eyes and thoughts where fixed on her.  They both
had to use the restrooms.

   He used t-paper to dry the end of his cock and his underpants.  Damn pre
cum !  He wasn't some 20 year old!  Not even a 30 year old.  Get control!
Stop thinking sex, sex, sex!!

   He looked in the mirror and said ok get your mind right.  Don't just
think with your nuts.  She's smart, she can carry a conversation, she can
disagree and listen to the other side.  That was huge, super huge.  Oh and
she is scorching hot!

   As they were waiting for their coats he casually said 'I know a great
little place where there is good music, coffee or a drink plus it's not
crowded.  Want to give it a try?'

   She gave knowing smile an asked 'would it have an O'Keeffe on the wall?'

   'I believe it does'.

   'Mmmmm, let's go'.

   He brought up Harry Conic on his iTunes, removed his tie and poured them
a glass of wine.  A fine after dinner wine.

   'May I have this dance?'

   She opened her arms and he pulled her close.  They swayed to the music,
he looked down and kissed her.  Her lips were wet and he wonder what else
might be wet.  He pressed her close, his hard cock pressing against her.

   The song ended and she turned to look at his framed print of the
building.  He leaned forward and kissed her neck.  Her head moved back and
she gave a little moan.

   He stood behind her an unzipped the blue dress all the way down.  His
hands moved to her shoulders and the dress fell to the floor.  The little
sheer bra followed.  He kissed her neck softly and nibbled on her ear as
his hands moved around her front.  He felt her firm tits.  Her nipples were
hard, like little bullets.

   He pulled back just a bit and looked at her.  Neck, back, trim waist,
light blue panties and sheer dark thigh highs.  He moved his hands from her
tits down over her stomach to the top of her little panties.  Down further.
They were damp.  He slipped his fingers in and began stroking her moist
pussy.  She moaned.  He kept kissing her neck and stroking her pussy.

   The panties fell to the floor.

   She Said:

   She opened her eyes.  Ugh!  What a massive headache!  She turned over to
snuggle deeper into her covers.  Wait these weren't her covers.  She opened
her eyes again, looking over she could barely make out the outline of his
back.  His face was turned away from her.  She grinned as everything came
back to her, especially the cause of her headache.  Damn Cosmos!  He kept
ordering them for her.  Does every man think all women were fans of Sex in
the City?!  Why she ordered the first one was beyond her.  She should have
ordered their vodka and pineapple juice or just her usual vodka tonic.

   She could barely remember dinner.  The blue in her dress reflected in
his eyes.  Goodness those eyes, all that banter and innuendo.  The thigh
squeezing and the pant `grazing' she didn't know who was more turned on.

   Georgia O'Keefe!  They spoke about Georgia O'Keefe.  He didn't cease to
amaze her.  Who was this man?

   Mel, Mel, Mel what did you do?  Was there dancing?  He sang to me?  "The
way you look tonight"?  She replayed those moments, `The Radiator'
painting, feeling his breath on her neck as he kissed her making her almost
forget she had knees.  He unzipped her dress and let it fall.  She leaned
back into him `feeling' how much he wanted her.  His kisses were setting
things off in her.  His hands coming around to feel her breasts, Her
nipples responding quickly hurting as they rubbed against the bra., she
shivered a bit as he moved his fingers slowly, torturously toward her
panties.  How wet she was.  He slipped his hands into her panties finding
her pussy wet.  She could feel how hard he'd become as she welcomed his
hand and he began to rub her pussy.

   Her panties dropped to the floor.  She took his hand and licked her
juices from his fingers.  He moaned and kissed her; deeply, hard, hungrily.

   She took his hand.  Bedroom?  she asked.

   `That way.' He said, as he nodded in the direction of the room.

   `Still hungry?' She didn't wait for an answer as she led him to the
bedroom.

   It was dimly lit.  She faced him.  Kissing him she undid his shirt
un-tucking it; smiling at what she found underneath - a v-neck undershirt.
She would never understand why that was such a turn on.  She ran her hands
under the shirt to rub and feel his warm chest, he raised his arms allowing
her to remove it.  She undid his belt and pants, as they dropped to the
floor he kicked them out of the way.  She could feel how hard he was.  He
moaned loudly when she reached out to stroke him.  After removing those
boxers she lay him back on the bed straddling him and leaned over to kiss
him.  His hands caressing her back, he removed her bra bringing his mouth
to her breasts.  Kissing, licking and sucking on them.  A slight nibble
caused her to moan.

   He took her and turned her onto her back staring into her eyes.  Even in
the dim light she could see the devil in them.  As he kissed her neck she
couldn't wait she whispered, `what are you waiting for?' He kissed her all
the way down she moaned and groaned when his tongue reached her clit.  Her
hips rose to meet his mouth.  He teased and sucked starting and stopping
bringing her close to the edge and then stopping.  He licked her pussy
using his fingers to fuck her.  He kissed the inner thigh driving her nuts.
`Oh please!' she begged.

   `Now?' he asked.

   `Yes.' she answered

   He moaned as he entered her.  Inch by inch he began to fill her, he
begans to fuck her, in and out, slow, deep strokes.  He kissed her, her
tongue seeking his, she could taste herself on him.  `Oh yes!  Harder!' She
pulled him closer, her fingers digging into his back.  Their breathing got
faster.  They fucked faster, harder his cock throbbing, thrusting, driving,
pushing hard.  His body slammed and pushed deeper into her.  She quivered
her body pulsating, her hips pushed back, she was on the cusp.

   Both of them moaning, grunting in the heat of the moment.  She felt him
about to cum, and she is ready to release.  Her pussy tightened as he came
- his butt tightening, body shuddering and quivering.  He released more
than once.  He lay over her, his face close to hers as they caught their
breath, neither one of them moving.

   She smiled remembering.  It had been such a long while.  She lay there
not moving wondering if she should wake him.  It would be a shame to.  She
hoped he was a sound sleeper as she literally slid out of the bed.  His
clock said7:43 AM.

   She walked quietly to the living room.  Thank goodness for small favors
her clothes were all there, except for her bra.  Crap!  She'll have to
leave those behind.  She dressed quickly.  She looked around for some
paper. Her eyes caught that painting.  She'll never look at it the same way
again.

   She found his desk, a cup full of pencils, she laughed!  She wrote him a
note and left it on the kitchen counter.

   Call me when you wake.  Went home to change.  I want to do brunch (not
that kind of brunch; stop smiling) Arte Café 73rd between Columbus and
Amsterdam 11am.  Conversation = More O'Keefe and Steiglitz?  Matisse?  Last
night?  Or the art on the walls of the restaurant?  ~Melina by the way...
bring my bra!  :-)

   As she let herself out....

   He Said:

   Light.  Why was there so much light?  Dry.  His mouth was so dry.  His
head didn't so much hurt as just throb.  But last night, oh last night! 
The dinner, the drinks, the blue dress, more drinks, dancing, more drinks
then naked, fucking.  Why was it so bright?  So dry?

   He stretched, groaned and realized he was hard.  No sense wasting a good
hard on.  He rolled over and felt for her.  Nothing.  He felt more. 
Nothing.

   Had it happened ?  Dinner?  Yes.  Drinks?  Definitely.  Did Mel come
home with him?  Did they get naked?  Did they have a night of intense
passionate sex?  What's this ?  A bra!  A wave of relief swept over him. 
It was true!  His blue art lady was here!  She must be in the bathroom.

   'Mel?  Melina' he called out.

   A hot shower.  Yes they would take a nice long hot shower, oils,
rubbing, touching.  He would lift her leg, his hard dick sliding into her
wet pussy.  Warm water running all over them.  He was very hard.

   But she wasn't there.

   'Mel?'

   He walked into the living room.  Clothes?

   Her clothes were gone !  She was gone !

   Oh Eric, Eric you fucked up again!  You scared her off!  You had such a
connection!!  She was so.....

   Damn it !

   But she seemed willing, excited and hot.  God was she hot!  The second
time, there had been a second time?  Yes.  She started it squeezing him
hard, even taking him in her mouth.  They had done so many different
positions.  Why did she go?  What had he done or said?  His once hard cock
hung limp.

   He walked to the kitchen to get some water.  He was so dry, his head
hurt.

   Shit !

   What was that paper?

   Meet her at 11:00 today !

   Ssshhhiiiiitttttttt !!!!!

   It was almost 10:00 !

   He is running late.  Damn C train!  Will she be there?  He should text
but he doesn't.  She has been perfect, brains, looks, conversation and sex.
Oh what sex!  Get control!  Don't let your balls blind you again!  She must
have flaws.  Would she be there?  Would she wait?

   Here is the Arte Cafe.  He takes a deep breath an enters.

   There she is!  His hart leaped.  Damn it settle down.  But there she is,
jeans, boots, sweater and that killer smile.

   They kiss hello and he sits down.  He handed her a little bag.  'Now
wear did you find this?' She said with a mischievous smile.  They order,
talk about the weather and smiled that knowing smile.  He wanted to talk
about last night but didn't know what to say.  You were great or so hot or
I want you NOW, didn't seem right so he talked about art.

   'Renoir is one of my favorites.  When I saw 'The Boating Party' at the
Philips I said this is a true master piece.  Not kings or poverty but
middle class people enjoying life' he said in his best intellectual voice.

   She looked at him with those dreamy dark eyes and said 'Did your wife
leave you because of all your fucking around?'

   'Ahhhh Matisse is.....'

   'Did you fuck her sister?'

   It was going to be 'the relationship' conversation.  Good.  He wanted to
know about her and her past.

   'The answer is no and no.  She's a manic depressive, she tired of me and
moved on to richer and richer men.  I think she cheated on me but I never
caught her fucking.

   I've had two girlfriends.  GF 1 was stupid and hot GF 2 was smart and
hot but we had nothing in common.  I didn't fuck their sisters or their
best friends.'

   He paused to take a drink.  He had fucked a friend of GF 1 but not her
best or in their bed so technically that didn't count.

   He continued 'They all just broke up.  No big fights, no caught in the
sack, just over.  The last almost 2 years ago.  I don't do relationships
well.' There complete, he sat back and look for a reaction.

   She asked more questions, several quite sexual.  Did her eyes gleam when
he answered?

   'So your ex wife is Mrs J.  Lenard Mitchell?'

   'Yes'

   'Isn't he about 90?'

   'More or less'.

   'Smart gal' she said with her killer smile.

   'OK Melina it's your turn.'

   'Let's get out of here.'

   They walked into Central Park holding hands.  They walked past the
Cherry Hill fountain, over Bow Bridge an into the Ramble.

   Should he let it go?  No.

   He pulled her around and kissed her.  Kissed her hard.

   'OK Mel, it's your turn.'

   She Said:

   She really did hate the morning after walk of shame.  Winter walks of
shame weren't so bad because of long coats.

   His doorman wished her a good morning and asked if she needed a cab. 
She thought about it and refused the offer.  She wanted to walk for a bit
and clear her head.  It was bright, sunny brisk.  Good weather for walking
arm in arm.  Halleluyer!!!  A coffee shop.  Coffee!  That would help!

   She hailed a cab, as it made its way to her place the night slowly came
to her in spurts.  She was all smiles, by the time she got home she was
blushing, it was like he had burned his touch onto her skin.  He couldn't
get enough.

   She took a long hot shower dressing for the crisp day.  Jeans, sweater
and boots.  It was only 9:30 she had some time to kill.  As she brought out
her notebook and favorite pen her phone went off.  Woohoo text message! 
From him?
John: Hey.  How'd it go last night?

   A message from her friend.  She was a little disappointed it wasn't from
him.  She sighed but smiled as she typed.

   It went REALLY well!!!
John: REALLY???  OMG you little whore you slept with him didn't you?

   She checked some emails while texting and curiously typed in his name.
She really shouldn't do things like that.

   Mmm Hmmm over and over!  :-)
John: Someone got her groove back?

   His ex wife was now married to....  Holy crap!!

   Not about getting my groove back.  Cant say it was my intention I knew
it probably would happen.  Just....  you know my luck.

   John: Don't think about that.  Just take it one day at a time.  Wanna do
brunch?

   Can't.  hopefully I'll be meeting him.
John: hopefully?

   left him a note to meet me at 11.  he hasn't called to say no.
John: a note?  was it on a post it?

   LMAO!  I couldn't find any.  Gotta go.  ttyl?
John: oh definitely.  maybe dinner.  I want details!

   maybe.  Ciao for now my love!

   Well, so much for the writing she wanted to do.

   She ran her hands through her hair, put on some lipstick and off she
went.  Goodness she loved the city in the winter.  It wasn't too cold today
a good way to walk and stretch her legs.  She got to the restaurant with
time to kill so she sat at the bar to wait.

   She could almost guarantee that he wouldn't talk about the night before.
Either he was a gentleman or a chicken shit.  She grinned.  Something about
him just stirred things in her.  He reminded her of....  Nope, nope he
didn't!  Stop with comparisons Mel!  He's like so many of them, smart,
sharp as a tack.  All of a sudden there he was jeans, boots sweater and
leather.  'Hello handsome!' she muttered to herself.

   She smiled at him as he neared and gave her a kiss hello.  He smelled
good.  It was all she could do not to slip him her tongue.  He gave her
hand a squeeze, almost like he read her mind and handed over a small bag.

   She laughed.  'hmmm where did you find this?'

   'Are you kidding me?  It's like my new security blanket!  I don't want
to give it back.' He said.

   They were seated at their table.  As they looked over the menu he began
to talk about the weather.  'What a great day for a long walk.  We should
head over to the park after this.  You up for a walk?'

   'Sure.  Why not.' She answered, as the waitress approached to take their
order.

   He began to ramble about more art.  Renoir?  Really?  C'mon Eric you're
killing me she thought.  Chickenshit!  Ha!  Let's shock him out of this.

   'Why'd your wife leave you?  Were you fucking around with other women?
Her sister maybe?''

   'No, No and No.  I don't think I was rich enough for her.  Maybe just
not enough for her.  She might have been cheating on me; I never caught her
doing it.  She was a manic depressive anyway.  I've had two girlfriends and
both of them lacked one thing or another.  No big drama, relationships just
ended.  They ran their course and off we went our separate ways.  I'm not
really good at relationships.  It's been about two years since I've been in
one.'

   Their food arrived and they began to eat.  She just looked at him for a
bit.  Felt odd sitting across from him after sitting next to him the night
before.  She battered him with questions.  'Why did he think he wasn't good
at relationships?  Was it the sex?  Was it the intimacy required to
maintain it?  Is it that he just wasn't sated with the sex he had?  Did
they not like his oral skills?  Did he not get enough oral?' He answered
everyone directly.  So sure of himself and comfortable.  Nothing shook him
she thought.

   As they were finishing up their meal she asked.

   'You're ex-wife is now Mrs J.  Leonard Mitchell?  Isn't he ancient?'

   'Yes, more or less.' he answered as he picked up the bill.

   'Let me get that.' She offered.

   'No, I got it.  Let's get out of here.  It's your turn.'

   They walked out into the sunny afternoon and headed toward the park.  He
looked for her hand.  She smiled as she leaned into him.  'My turn for
what?' She feigned innocence.  He stopped and pulled her toward him and
kissed her.  Then he kissed her again hard.  Hands on the side of her face.
Looking into her eyes he said, 'why are you alone?'

   She grinned.  I am never alone.  I have myself to keep me busy.  She
pulled on his hand as they walked through the ramble.  'I honestly don't
know.  I have abandonment issues.  My last long relationship was over 3
years ago.  Like you, no drama we both wanted different things so we
separated.  we were together about 5-6 years.  My last 2-3 relationships
were short lived.  I don't know it's a great connection at first.  The
conversations, the interests, sex is great but I don't know if I bore them,
intimidate them or scare them away.  All I know is that everyone thinks I
am so great.  But for some reason they very easily just walk away.' It hurt
to admit that.  She always gave in her relationships but as soon as she
asked for what she wanted they couldn't provide.  Once she called them out
on it they just walked away.

   'You know, I love to date smart men.  Problem is smart men know how to
occupy their time they are never bored and don't need to rely on anyone
else to distract them sometimes.  So they seem distant, never have time for
you.  Then there are the dumb ones who have tons of time for you but don't
stimulate you intellectually.  So they are like leeches, very clingy.  And
if they are too pretty its too much.  Pretty can only take you so far. 
It's difficult to find the right balance.

   She felt his eyes on her and felt suddenly embarrassed.  'Sorry, I tend
to ramble on.  Don't I?  No pun intended.' She laughed.....

   He Said: He bent down and kissed her.  His tongue met hers and he pulled
her tight against him.  A gaggle of Asian tourist giggled and snickered at
these westerners kissing in public.  When he squeezed her close and her
arms wrapped around him the giggles increased.

   'We're giving them quite a show of western debauchery' he said when they
came up for air.

   They walked in silence slowly through the Ramble and into Shakespeare's
garden.  He liked the way she leaned into him, felt good.  He was thinking.
She had said a lot in those few sentences.  Why was he bad at
relationships? Why did people with so much going for them just drift apart?
He had known her only a week but but.....

   'I'm glad you left this morning'.

   'You are?' Was her surprised response.

   'At first I was disappointed but the more I think about it all we would
have done was have sex, be naked and have sex, we'd probably be having sex
now'.

   'And that's bad?'

   He looked into those eyes that had a magical way of pulling him in and
said 'Mel sex with you is great, fantastic.  You are a wonderful sex
partner.  These words sounds so silly'.

   She smiled that smile and said 'Not to me'.

   He smiled and said ' I'd like to have sex with you right here in Central
Park.  On a warm summer evening with no one around of course'.

   She gave that devilish grin and said 'I can give you sex right now'.

   'Melina, Melina you do like to push my buttons don't you!  I just told
you that I love giving oral and enjoy receiving when we are naked on a bed
like last night.  Mmmmmm last night!  I'm trying to .........'

   'Elevate the discussion above sex?'

   'Yes'

   'But you want to fuck me in the park'.

   'Yes I do!  Maybe it's not too cold!  Let's get naked now!

   They both laughed the easy laugh of friends.

   As they reached Belvedere Castle it began to lightly snow.

   'Mel I want to date you.  Us to date that is.  You know sometimes sex is
just a fuck, you know, fun but that's all, we both been there'.  He
instantly regretted that bit of honesty.  'Not last night.  It's getting
cold, let's go to the boathouse for some hot chocolate'.

   The walk to the boathouse was beautiful.  Falling snow, bare trees, low
winter sun and a great gal leaning into him.  He wanted her to like him.

   They sat down and sipped their hot chocolate.  He told her that his
relationship were hard because he travels a lot for his job plus his job
was all about old dead people and he loved it.

   The smart women his age were attracted to him.  He's tall, looks good in
a leather jacket but he does travel.  The killer seemed to be that he loved
old stuff, history, dead white men.  So smart women could always find
another smart man who didn't travel, made a fortune in bonds or wrote
screen plays.

   He had his adventurous side but he kept that quiet.  It was nothing
illegal but maybe not ethical.  He gathered information for clients who
paid very handsomely and discreetly for the info/research.  This little
business accounted for well over half his income and as it generally
involved sex he was not going to let Mel in on the secrete , at least not
now.

   He told her that the two GFs had been 20somethings and very entitled as
were most of that sort.  But they had been safe, you knew what you are
getting and that it wouldn't last.  He laughed as he told her that the
mother of GF2 told him that the new boyfriends were even more entitled
assholes then her daughter.  He caught himself but Mel didn't ask him why
the mother was talking to him so he moved on.

   He told her he wanted them to date so they could see if they could move
in to a relationship.  To see how she felt about his travel, his career
which he loved.  She was in the medical field but what?  He would wait for
her to provide details.

   Secretly he wanted to see if she would like him.  So many others thought
he looked good, fucked good but had bad politics and was a bit of a bore
with all that history stuff.  He knew he liked her.

   He was finishing his monologue which was beginning to sound to him like
some college lecture or worse a job interview so he switched to sex.

   'Sex is very important to a good relationship so we should continue to
have sex, good sex, lots of sex, great hot long sex!  We should be having
sex now!!!  To be sure we're compatible that is you know'.

   'For scientific research and not for fun?' She asked with dark eye
twinkling.

   'Well maybe some fun, but just a little!' Damn this girl is fun!

   Suddenly he wanted her.  He wanted her naked on top of him.  His hands
on her breast, her head back and him pushing up deep into her.

   He shook that wonderful vision out of his head and said 'your phone has
vibrated about 5 or 6 times in the last few minutes, should you answer it?'
.............

   She Said:

   She could hear some giggling and felt him smile through that kiss in the
park Ramble.  He loved giving that show to those tourists.

   As they walked in silence, hand in hand, she leaning into him it was
like she was holding on for dear life.  She hoped he didn't notice that. 
She tried not to hold on too tight.  She bit her lip and wondered what he
was thinking.  As they walked through Shakespeare's Garden he broke the
silence.

   `I'm glad you left this morning.' he said.

   Oh great she thought.  He was already happy to be rid of her.  `You
are?' she responded.

   He told her about his disappointment but then he mentioned they would've
had even more sex if she had stayed.

   Wouldn't have been such a traumatic experience she thought to herself.
"What's so bad about that?' she asked.

   `I know this sounds silly,' he started, `but sex with you is fantastic.
As a sex partner you are wonderful.'

   `It doesn't sound silly to me!' she smiled feeling herself blush.  She
hoped he didn't notice.

   `I'd like to have sex with you right here in the Park on a warm summer
evening.'

   `Would you like some right now?  she countered.  Giving him a big grin.

   She felt she hit a nerve.  He got so serious.  Here it comes she
thought, he doesn't want anything serious.

   `Melina pushing buttons huh?  I just told you I love it when we are
naked in bed.  I'm here trying to...

   `Elevate the discussion above sex?'

   `Yes.'

   `Yet you still want to fuck me in the park?'

   `Yes I do.'

   They laughed.  She desperately wanted to kiss him then and there.

   `Mel I want us to date.  I want to date you.  You know sometimes sex is
just a fuck, you know, fun but that's all, we have both been there.  Not
last night though.'

   `Eric, if last night had just been about the fuck we wouldn't be here
right now.'

   It's almost like they were separated at birth or something.  Sometimes
sex IS just a fuck.  Those are good.  But leave you feeling so empty.  Once
in a relationship just a fuck is quite fun because it fulfills a need. 
Like a quickie before going out and having to be somewhere by a certain
time.  Like a race against the clock.

   He wanted to date her.  Court her?  What exactly did he mean?  She felt
her phone vibrate in her pocket.

   She sighed.

   `Everything okay?' he asked.

   `Yes everything is fine.  More than fine.' She offered

   It's getting cold, let's go to the boathouse for some hot chocolate'.

   `Ooo yay!  Can we have cookies too?!'

   `Whatever you desire.'

   `Careful what you offer big man.'

   `Oh!  Big man huh?' He laughed

   `Seems more like durty man!' she smiled.  Her phone went off again.  She
thought about turning it off.

   The walk had made her hungry again for more things than one.  She was
thankful for the hot chocolate and the chance to sit for a bit and ponder
what he had just said.  She didn't want to like him so much she knew how
this was probably going to go.  Once again she'd probably be left behind.
Her actual job provided security in that she didn't travel and she always
had work to do.  That monotony was what led her seek out other avenues for
making extra money.  As he spoke, she fed him some of her black and white
cookie.  He took advantage and licked icing off of her fingers.  She
couldn't help but laugh.

   She loved his essence, his presence they sat there, her hand in his lap,
his hand over hers as he told her how difficult it was to sustain a
relationship.  Women weren't always too understanding about his travels;
researching old dead men.  She loved hearing him speak.  She also felt a
bit sorry for him.  But then again what does he expect from dating 20
something's.  And these 20 something's had parents that approved of his
relationships?!  Oh well.  She felt her phone vibrate again.  Hoping he
wouldn't notice she ignored it.

   She thought about separations and how it was always nice to welcome
someone home after awhile.  She wondered how often and for how long he
would be gone.  It might work to her advantage.  It would allow her to
continue pursuing those ideas that fed her writing.  He might not
understand or like her entanglements with other men for those ideas as
sometimes she did sleep with them.  Yet it supplemented her income and she
liked what she did.

   She was also growing weary of being left behind all the time.  She spent
so much time alone, whenever she was in a so called relationship, she
wondered if she could go that route again.

   `So can we date?' He asked.  You know to see how we get along.  Of
course sex is very important to a good relationship so we should continue
to have sex, good sex, lots of sex, great hot long sex!  We should be
having sex now!!!  You know, to be sure we're compatible that is.'

   'For scientific research and not for fun?' She asked with dark eye
twinkling.

   'Well maybe some fun, but just a little!'

   A little?  Well what good is that?!

   'Mel, your phone has vibrated about 5 or 6 times in the last few
minutes, should you answer it?'

   `Wouldn't that be rude?' She asked as she reached for her phone.

   Yes but it's a distraction and I don't want any distractions keeping me
from you he said as he squeezed her thigh

   She had over 20 emails in response to the ad she had placed earlier. 
Looks like she'd have to do some work later.  No emergency texts or calls.

   `It's nothing.' she said.  `Just some friends responding to an email. 
Terrible thing when you put 15 women on an email for brunch.'

   `Oh?  15 women?  Can I come?'

   `You perv!  I wouldn't subject you to that coven yet.  Ready to go?'

   `Where are we going?  And you have to admit you like this perv!'

   She giggled.  Maybe.  Perhaps.  There's a cozy little place around here
that's a little more intimate.  If you need to go home or be elsewhere, I
wont be offended.'

   He thought about it.  `No!  No!  If you lead I will follow.' he said as
he took her hand and led her out.

   `Hey!  I thought I was supposed to lead?!!'

   `Yes, well I think I remember the way if it's the same place I am
thinking of.'

   They settled on her couch all nice and cozy, his feet on the coffee
table, he was wearing a red sock and a purple one.

   She laughed.  `Did you wear those on purpose?'

   `Of course not!!' he admonished, with a devilish grin.  `I have another
pair just like this, only the red sock goes on the left and the purple on
the right.'

   She cuddled up against him not remembering what he was saying it was
easy to be around him.  They both woke with a start when his cell phone
rang....

   He Said:

   As he stepped onto the subway his head swirled with what had happened.
His phone had rang and he had crawled over Mel to see who was calling.  The
shock must have shown in his face but he thought he had recovered well.  He
looked directly into Mel's eyes and said it about the book research
contract.  He let the call go to voicemail saying if it was bad news it
could keep.

   She had swooshed him out soon after and all the reasons were justified.
It was 7:30 on a Sunday evening and she had work to do.  If they went out
to dinner or ordered in they would just end up naked in bed and that would
go on till very late.  This argument was reenforced by her sitting naked on
the bed with the sent of sex in the air.

   He had tried to make a date for Saturday but she had said to call her.
That did make sense, schedules and such plus it would be better to call
with a plan to propose.

   His cell buzzed.  Text from Helen.  'Tickets & reservations done.  Set
for 4 days of ski & screw '.  Yes Helen.  Hmmmm.  What to do.

   His phone rang and it was his ex wife again !  Shit !  What could she
want?  Can't be good.  He killed the call then deleted the voicemails. 
Shit !

   He needed to think, get organized, analyze, that's what he does.  Up out
of the subway and walking to his place and there is the Bier Garden.  The
perfect place to eat, drink and think !  Half way through a big micro brew
beer he had it organized.

   He took a deep pull on his beer, a bite of his braut and thought first
the Helen crisis.  Helen is GF2's mother.  GF2 is a hot 20 something, Helen
is a hot 50 something.  Both she and her husband are very successful, her
in real estate, commercial he thought, him in law or something.  The meet
the parents brunch had not gone well.  Daddy was not pleased but Helen
slipped him her cell number.  He called her several days later and arranged
to meet for a drink at a place by his apartment.  She arrived on time.In
less than fifteen minutes they were in his bed fucking.

   He drank his beer, looked at a leggy thing laughing with her friends at
a high top table and thought Helen is the definition of 'just a fuck'.  In
fact he wasn't sure she cared much about sex.  Oh she made all the noises
and claimed she came but he believed she just loved the excitement.  She
would come in his place minutes after GF2 left in the morning, they fucked
in a Nordstrom dressing room and she loved car sex.  He smiled as he
thought about banging her in her Range Rover.  When GF2 ended she just cut
back on coming to his place.

   He didn't really know Helen.  Except for the one night of a quick ski
weekend, she was a very good skier, he had never been with her for more
than an hour.  So he was having second thoughts about this ski trip.  Plus
how would Mel react to his being gone skiing for 5 days?

   He finished his third beer and ordered another.  Damn he was feeling
good!  Mel, Mel, Mel, she was so great!  He had to set up a real date for
Saturday.  He surfed the net on his phone.  Opera!  Don Giovanni!  Perfect.
A story of a womanizer dragged to hell.  Dinner at La Bernardin before or
after.  No that would be a bit to ostentatious.  We'll figure that out
later.  He looked at the leggy thing, oh Mel your pussy is so good on my
tongue.  The way you roll your hips to drive my dick in deeper.  He took a
drink and sent her a text.  'Thinking of you'.

   Helen, ski trip.  This would be a good test for him and Mel.  How would
she react to his going on a trip.  He did travel for work so yes this trip
would be good.  Yes!  Besides he loved skiing and well Helen was a good
fuck.

   He felt very proud of himself.  Crisis solved!  He could see Mel and him
together on a sailboat out in the Carib.  Sunsets!  Beaches!  Maybe and
maybe..........

   His phone buzzed with a text.  Ah Melina!  He sat bolt upright when he
read the text.  It was from his ex wife and it contained Mel's phone
number. 'Shall I call this number an ask for you???  Call me....now'.

   To be continued......
   Comments, questions or just say ya or na email sgrad42@gmail.com