Tête à Tête

She slides off the bed, slips her ankle from under mine. I open my eyes and watch the gentle sway of her as she walked to the balcony. Her pale flesh causing my loins to stir as she glows in the moonlight. I want to join her, but exhaustion sets in.

My first memory, her in the moonlight. Pity that she leaves so early for work. I better get up or I'll be late. What's this? A thank you note?

Hey love,

I need to fill you in on a few details about my past.

We had discussed that honesty would be what makes us or break us, well, I'm hoping that some more truth will keep us strong.

See you tonight. I'll let myself in.

A

I better prepare a romantic evening. Something where she'll feel comfortable enough to open up. I've reassured her that past experiences build character and that as long as you learn from mistakes the past is just that, the past. I hope she doesn't spend the day worrying. I'll send her a bouquet of fresias and roses.

*******

"You brought the flowers here? Those were for you, to enjoy at work."

"The combination of fragrances is intoxicating, distracting."

"I was going to prepare dinner for us, but I see you beat me to the punch. Did you leave anything for me to do?"

"You'll get to me soon enough."

She's in a good mood, I'm glad.

*******

"Dinner was lovely. You'll have to teach me the recipe."

She's taking my hand. Off we go to the balcony. Candlelight, linen, flutes, chilled champagne. Marriage proposal? We've only known each other these past six months.

"I have a story to tell. My hope is that you will listen without prejudice."

Don't let go of her hand. Wrap it in both of yours. Comfort her, listen. A tear. Gently squeeze her hand, reassure.

"I don't know if after today we will continue to be together. If we are, there are things that you need to know first, before you decide to stay or no. I hope that you can let me finish. This is otherworldly for me. Nothing makes sense at the moment.

I was at the Sienne en Paris, pardon. At the river Sienne in Paris. A statuesque brunette with mesmerizing green eyes approached. Before I realized what was happening, we were locked in a kiss that made my head spin. I woke up in her arms. My mouth was on her neck. I took in life. Her past unfolded before me. She finally separated us and I have been regretting my choice since."

"My dear, I mean no disrespect, but you're sounding like you're telling a fiction."

"I promise not to hurt you."

*******

"You're safe in my arms. Look past my shoulder. Can you see where we are?"

"I can see the Pacific. How?"

"Look at your body. Whoa! Keep your feet on my boots. I don't want you to fall. As long as I am touching you, you won't feel the cold. Let's go back. You can get dressed and we can keep talking. As always, you can ask me anything. I won't hold back the truth.

Your heart is racing. Are you afraid?"

"No. I want you."