Silvertongue

by Sidney Wood

  On Friday night, Lisa called Noah from work to say she’d be late. She explained that a customer named Pete had asked her to come with him on a job installing security hardware. He owned a contracting business setting up security at businesses in Anchorage and the Valley. She said it might help her land a job closer to home and promised to be home by 10 pm.

  Noah silently called bullshit. “Nobody invites someone to work with them late at night, especially not out of the blue. She’s smoking hot and he’s trying to get laid.” As usual, Noah bit his lip.

  When Lisa’s self-imposed curfew came and went, she still hadn’t called or texted. Noah went to bed.

  Lisa finally arrived home around 2 am, and Noah heard her quietly slip under the covers.

  The next day, he asked her about the job as he fed Nicky pieces of pancake with peanut butter and syrup.

  Lisa answered excitedly, going on and on about the security system and how it took longer than expected because of the building’s shitty wiring. She said Pete treated her like a sister, and that she looked forward to another install in a couple of nights. Despite her enthusiasm, Lisa watched Noah closely as if gauging his reaction.

  Noah noticed that she wrung her hands as she spoke. “You were out pretty late,” he said, feeling each of the words as they left his lips. “Is there anything I need to be worried about?”

  Lisa laughed, shaking her head. “No, baby, but I love that you’re jealous. You don’t need to be. Pete is a great big teddy bear. Besides, he looks like a giant meatball.” She puffed her cheeks for emphasis and giggled.

  Noah smiled and went back to feeding Nicky, but he didn’t buy it. Not one bit.

  Chapter Twenty-Two (April)

  In the final weeks of her first year at grad school, Ulie worried over the upcoming final in her Cultural Studies class. The professor posted an updated syllabus, but the update completely removed his previous notes about the final. “Are the old instructions still good, or does this mean he changed them?” Ulie had enough uncertainty in her home life. She didn’t need it at school.

  Ulie approached the professor after class, politely waiting next to the lectern as he gathered his things. Before now, she failed to realize how handsome he appeared.

  Professor Tuttle stood slightly shorter than Ulie, and several years her senior. His slight build didn’t detract from the graceful masculinity of his manner and attire. He reminded Ulie of a movie star from the black and white era. The professor regarded Ulie with deep pools of green crystal.

  He stared through her rather than looking at her, and Ulie got the distinct feeling that someone lurked behind her. She nearly turned around, but at the last moment, his eyes focused on hers and the professor put her at ease with a warm smile.

  “Ms. Hanson, what can I do for you?”

  His voice, slightly higher than most men, reminded Ulie of Radar from the old television show, MASH. In combination with his diminutive size, the professor’s voice made him seem kindly and approachable. Ulie observed that his emerald eyes sparkled as he spoke and there were laugh lines at the corner of each almond shaped eye that extended nearly to his ears.

  She returned his smile, comforted by his tone. “Yes, sir, um, I just wondered…did you make a change to the final? I noticed that portion of the syllabus didn’t make it into the update.” Ulie looked down, suddenly embarrassed for questioning him when the mistake almost certainly lay with her. There’s probably a note about it in big bold letters, and now he thinks I’m an idiot.”

  Professor Tuttle mumbled as he sifted through papers in his briefcase. “Here it is,” he declared. He laid a single piece of paper on the lectern, gesturing for Ulie to join him.

  Side by side, they scanned the syllabus together. Ulie suddenly became distracted by a mysterious aroma. As odd as the action would appear, she couldn’t resist investigating. She leaned toward him and stealthily inhaled, treating her olfactory senses to a full taste of the spice infused scent. “Oh, my goodness! He smells amazing!”

  “I must admit that I made an error,” Professor Tuttle confessed. “I will post a new update this evening.” Turning to face her, he froze. “Umm, I…,” he stammered. They were nearly nose to nose. He visibly swallowed and leaned back.

  “Oh!” Ulie gasped. She stepped back, eyes darting to the floor as her cheeks flushed a rosy pink. “I’m sorry to crowd you,” she offered meekly. She had obviously frightened him, and she worried he might be embarrassed or cross.

  Chuckling nervously, Professor Tuttle downplayed the awkward moment. “Nonsense, you did nothing of the sort, Ms. Hanson. I’m a bit foolish sometimes, that is all.” He gestured toward the door with his briefcase, indicating that he wished to leave.

  Ulie took another step back, letting the professor walk past. “Thank you, sir,” she said weakly as he strode through the doorway. Ulie watched him go.

  “Hmmm,” Ulie thought, smiling to herself. She inhaled again, enjoying the lingering odor of the handsome professor’s cologne. As she left the hall, Ulie realized that she looked forward to the professor’s next Cultural Studies lecture, and it had nothing to do with the course material. Feeling giddy and a little foolish, Ulie hurried to her car.

  She had much to look forward to in the coming weeks and months. With her first year of graduate school nearly over, Ulie realized she had a good shot at reaching her goal. She visualized a decorative Master of Architecture Degree certificate hanging on her wall, and she knew just the spot.

  She had also accepted a promising job at an architectural firm just twenty minutes from her apartment. Not only were they close, but the salary eclipsed her previous job. They surprised her further by being supportive of her graduate degree aspirations. They regarded it as “A powerful sign of her devotion to the industry.” Ulie drank wine and flitted about gleefully in the privacy of her apartment, when she received the news.

  Best of all, Miranda was due to arrive the week before finals. The two of them would travel to Alaska for a short visit Ulie’s mom, and just in time. Ulie needed a break from Washington and the monotony of a divorced, single mother’s life. She planned to soak in every bit of Miranda’s love and her mother’s attention.

  She drove home, singing along with the radio and dancing when she thought no one could see her.

  ****

  Lying on the new sofa she had purchased as part of a living room set, Ulie let her mind wander. “What would my mother think about me dating an older guy?” she wondered. “Is it weird that I care?” Ulie laughed, twisting and reaching for her glass of wine. Taking a sip, she licked her bottom lip.

  That simple action combined with the wine’s familiar taste, recalled a specific memory. Ulie closed her eyes, urging the remembrance to desist. “Leave me alone,” she whispered half-heartedly as Noah’s tongue skillfully invaded her partially opened mouth. Her heartbeat quickened at the vivid tactile recollection. Warmth stirred in her belly. Ulie’s cheeks flushed a rosy pink as she reminisced, and her free hand moved to her breast, caressing it gently. She inhaled sharply, sucking air through partially open lips and cooling her wet tongue. It extended, lightly stroking the smooth underside of her upper lip.

  The professor hadn’t caused a stirring like that. Even his enticing scent, couldn’t compete with the overwhelming desire Noah’s simplest touch aroused in her.

  Ulie took another drink of wine, trying to wash away the memory of Noah’s tongue delicately tasting her lips. “Silvertongue… his name is Silvertongue.” The illusion faltered and the warmth in her belly dissipated.

  ****

  The following week, Ulie arrived at the hall early, securing a front row seat to Professor Tuttle’s final lecture on Sacred Sites. She usually preferred the privacy and anonymity offered by seats farther back, but this morning Ulie’s interest lay in studying her professor, not listening to his lecture. Her usual attire had also changed. She took extra time to prepare that day and hoped it showed. Ulie wore a sharp black skirt and flawless white blouse. She pinne
d her hair up, leaving the collar of her shirt unbuttoned to reveal her neck and collar bones.

  Shortly after arriving, the professor glanced at Ulie. His eyes lingered longer than usual, and he smiled as he recognized her.

  Ulie blushed, smiling back. She shifted in her seat and crossed her legs. Throughout the lecture, she watched him intently, admiring his unique voice and handsome features as he delivered an otherwise dull lecture.

  At the conclusion of class, he said, “Ms. Hanson, will you stay for a moment?”

  “Um, sure,” Ulie answered. She stayed seated as sixty or more students exited the lecture hall.

  “Thank you,” Professor Tuttle said. “Follow me, please.” Briefcase in hand, he began walking out the lecture hall’s side door. It led to a back hallway where staff offices were located.

  Nervously, Ulie followed. “What does he want?” she wondered. “Oh god! He’s taking me to his office to reprimand me about the other day!”

  “Come in, please.” His voice reached her ear, soft and soothing, as he ushered her into his office and pointed to twin cushioned leather chairs near a bookshelf opposite his desk.

  Ulie sat delicately on the front edge of the first chair, trying not to slouch. Professor Tuttle sat in the other chair, regarding her silently.

  Ulie fidgeted uncomfortably under his gaze.

  Leaning forward, he spoke in the same gentle tone. “Ms. Hanson, I find myself in an awkward position.” His face flushed red and Ulie saw his eyes dart to the open neckline of her shirt. He looked away.

  Ulie sat motionless, fearing things were worse than she thought. “He’s going to kick me out of his class.”

  “I…,” the words stuck in his throat.

  All at once, they spilled out, uncharacteristically rushed. “I’m attracted to you.”

  Ulie blinked, shocked.

  His eyes searched hers, begging for understanding.

  A giggle escaped her lips and she covered her mouth to suppress it.

  His gaze diverted immediately to the floor and he swallowed. “I um... it appears I made a mistake.”

  “Oh no,” Ulie said. Despite no ill intentions, her nervous reaction had skewered the professor. She reached a hand toward him. “I wasn’t laughing at you. I’m just nervous! I thought you were going to throw me out of your class.” Her forehead wrinkled apologetically. She smiled sweetly at the professor, trying to repair the damage. Softly, she added, “I find you attractive too.” She placed both hands in her lap and held his gaze.

  The professor exhaled in relief, smiling with rosy cheeks. “Okay, then, um, I should tell you that we have a fraternization policy. It is quite strict.” As he spoke, his confidence returned. “I’d like to take you out to dinner, but it will have to wait until after grades are submitted and you’re no longer my student. Are you interested in accompanying me to dinner after the school year ends?”

  Ulie nodded slowly, opening her notebook and scribbling something down. “Yes, Professor,” she replied. “I’d like that.” She tore the paper out and handed it to him, beaming. “Call me in two weeks, when the year is over.”

  Professor Tuttle read her scrawled phone number and folded it into his jacket pocket. Leaning closer, he replied in a lower voice than Ulie thought he could muster, “I will, Ms. Hanson.” Standing, he escorted her to the door like a gentleman. “Enjoy your evening.”

  Ulie beamed, smiling with her whole face. “Thank you, Professor. You do the same.”

  Ulie squealed in excitement as she exited the building. She hurried down the walk, making quick time, but all the sudden she stopped, realizing she had no need to rush. Ulie raised her face the sky and closed her eyes, smiling fully and openly. She inhaled the sweet summer air and exhaled freely. “Ahhh,” she sighed. With no pressing need to hustle to the next location, or rush to escape the current one, she could take her time. She could enjoy the moment. Ulie casually strolled to her car.

  “Two more weeks.”

  Chapter Twenty-Three (May)

  Ulie cried with joy when Miranda arrived. She wrapped both arms around her, hugging her close and spinning in a circle as Miranda groaned, pretending to be crushed. Ulie planted kisses all over her head and face then held her at arm’s length to see how much she had changed. “Oh, my gosh, Miranda! You’re so tall!”

  Miranda beamed at the praise. “Dad says I’ll be as tall as you soon.” She hopped, touching the top of her mom’s head.

  Ulie laughed. “No! Slow down! I don’t want you to grow up so fast!” Giggling, she put her arm around Miranda. Ulie couldn’t take her eyes off the girl as they drove home. Miranda had changed, but Ulie still recognized the baby girl she cradled through countless nights and comforted through sickness and pain. Her heart overflowed.

  The following week, Ulie submitted her final papers and closed a year-long chapter of graduate studies. She grinned as she tossed her book bag into the passenger seat of her car and drove home, excited to celebrate!

  Pizza, ice cream, and movies kept Ulie and Miranda up late. They watched comedies that had them both in stitches and ate until their tummies hurt. They laughed endlessly, talking about Miranda’s new school and her friends, and Ulie promised to visit her there one day. Miranda glowed.

  Ulie couldn’t remember ever having more innocent fun. She hoped Miranda felt the same.

  At bedtime, Ulie tucked Miranda in and gently massaged her back until subdued sounds of snoring told her the soothing had worked. Ulie kissed Miranda’s forehead and tiptoed out of the bedroom.

  Ulie tossed and turned in bed, unable to get comfortable with an overfull stomach. She finally sat up and stuffed pillows behind her back, leaning against the headboard. Wide awake, she scrolled Facebook as she waited for the inevitable sugar crash to coax her to sleep.

  Ulie saw a picture of a good-looking, dark-haired woman and a cute, little boy standing in front of a Harley Shop in Alaska. Silvertongue worked at a Harley shop. Ulie knew she should leave it alone, but curiosity got the better of her. She wanted to see if he appeared in any of the shop’s pictures. She read the caption.

  “At Anchorage House of Harley, we love our Employees and their families. Lisa works in our Parts Department. Isn’t her son, Nicky a doll? Come on in and say hello!”

  The woman looked gorgeous. Did she know Noah? Ulie touched the word, Lisa, which took her to the parts girl’s profile page. Lisa had obviously done some modeling. Her account featured professional photos of her in Harley gear and bathing suits. Some of them made Ulie blush. About to close the app, Ulie saw Lisa’s relationship status and blanched.

  It read, “In a relationship with Noah McCormick.”

  Ulie scowled and turned off her phone. She scooted down beneath the covers. Her heart felt tiny and weak in her chest, like a wet moth that couldn’t fly. Ulie hugged her knees and cried until she fell asleep.

  The next morning, Ulie awoke with red rimmed, puffy eyes. “When are you going to let him go, girl?” she said, staring into the bathroom mirror. Shaking her head, Ulie turned on the shower and prepared for a day of traveling.

  At 9 am, the Uber driver sent a text. “I’m out front, Lic 457UBW”

  “Thank you! On our way out.” Send

  All the way to the airport, through security, and even as she and Miranda boarded the plane; Ulie waited for her phone to buzz. For the fifth time, at least, Ulie checked her phone’s settings. “Did I turn buzz notifications on?” She had. Disheartened, Ulie turned her phone off when the cabin door closed. It had been several days since grades posted, yet Professor Tuttle hadn’t called.

  “What is he waiting for? Did he change his mind?”

  Ulie wondered what Amy would say. She imagined her friend bending her lips in a sideways sneer. “He’s an idiot if he did. You’re hot! I’d date you if I was a guy… or gay.” She’d probably slap Ulie on the butt or give her a suggestive wink.

  Ulie smirked and regarded Miranda sitting next to her. Her daughter peered around the cabin with wide eyes
and a sunny smile.

  Adopting Miranda’s grin, Ulie reveled in her enthusiasm. Miranda had never flown first class, a treat that still felt new to Ulie as well.

  “Mom! There’s so much room!” Miranda whispered.

  “I know! Isn’t it great?” Ulie matched Miranda’s excitement, hoping to make the experience memorable for her. “When we get airborne, we can ask for food and drinks, okay?”

  Miranda nodded. “I’m starving!”

  “Me too.” Ulie’s stomach growled in agreement.

  Miranda heard it and giggled, which made Ulie laugh too. “How did I get so lucky,” she wondered, staring at her daughter.

  ****

  Alaska is always stunning in the spring. By mid-May, the mountainsides and valleys floors are covered in lush green with temperatures in the sixties and low seventies. As the plane taxied to the jet way, Ulie stared past Miranda, taking in the familiar mountainous skyline. “Home sweet home,” she whispered.

  Miranda gave her an inquisitive look. “We don’t live here, Mom.”

  Ulie shrugged. “I think the place you grow up always feels like home.” She switched her phone on, feeling it buzz several times as missed calls and messages loaded. “Grandma called,” she reported. “I’ll call her back once we get inside.”

  She had a voicemail and a missed call from a number she didn’t recognize. She selected the message and held the phone to her ear.

  “Ms. Hanson, or perhaps I should call you Ulie? This is Phillip… er, Professor Tuttle. Please, call me Phillip. Will you do me the honor of joining me for dinner this Friday night? This is my private cell, so you may call at any time. Or text if you prefer, I suppose. Um…I look forward to hearing from you.”