Cloaked

by Shore, Lauren

  “Alright, everyone will be here soon, so us women are going to finish in the kitchen and Glen why don’t you make yourself useful and pick up some fresh fruit at the convenient,” Amy ordered. After all, she did enjoy certain privileges since she was the oldest.

  Glen sighed, looked at Catherine, gave her an assuring smile, and walked out the door undoubtedly going to get some fruit. He looked so sheepish, nothing like what she saw at the office and couldn’t help smiling.

  “Would you mind helping us out Catherine?”

  Getting back into the swing of things, she looked at the girls and decided today would be a great day. She was still smiling as they headed into the kitchen. “Not at all.”

  The rest of the day was a blur to Catherine until she was on the drive home. She was asked and asked about her relationship with Glen all day. The members of his family did welcome her in as one of their own and Catherine wasn’t sure if that was a good or bad thing. She loved all of them. How could she deceive them like this? Catherine thought she could really feel at home with them and knew of the shame she felt because of her Uncle. It was a great day for her but the entire ride home she wouldn’t help thinking of the pain that would be caused because of her. For the first time in her life, Catherine really felt like part of something. She never had that with anyone her family besides her mother and she was gone. Catherine missed her so much and the day really helped Catherine more than she ever dreamed. Catherine knew she had Glen to thank for it all. Catherine couldn’t believe his family was so welcoming and knew how lucky she was to know him. Catherine’s hair was flying through her face and she knew how wonderful Glen was.

  When they arrived back to Catherine’s apartment, she knew she needed to express her gratitude. “Thank you so much for today, Glen. It really meant a lot to me.”

  “Meeting my family? I’m just glad you had a good time.”

  “Yes, Lauren and I are even going to get together soon, I promised to call. All of them are such nice people and anyone can tell you love each other. It is so apparent in the ways you act around each other. You talk with such ease and sincerity.”

  “You never had that with your family?”

  All of his comments hit way too close to home. “Only my mom, really.”

  “It’s always really been like that for us. I bet you didn’t have a lot of it because you are an only child. Either way, you are welcome with my family anytime.”

  “I don’t know how much your family would appreciate me intruding all the time.”

  “Nonsense, they all loved you. I’m sure you could tell by their joking. Everyone was completely at ease. You really need to stop feeling so inadequate. I’m going to change that, you know.”

  “Really?” She answered skeptically. Catherine doubted he could change anything in the way she felt. The truth needed to come out and until then, she could barely look at Glen without feeling guilty.

  “Yes, Catherine, I am.”

  Glen put his hand on Catherine’s leg and they sat in silence for the rest of the trip to the city. He was thinking how much Catherine meant to him and not only in a physical way. Just by the way she acted with his family and everything that has happened between them, he knew she was perfect for him. But, Glen knew this was something he needed to talk to his father about first and perhaps the rest of the family. When Glen’s mind was made up the only thing he wanted to do was get it done as quickly as possible. So, when they arrived at Catherine’s building, he just wanted to get back to his family. But, she leaned over, kissed Glen and said, “Thank you again, I had a great time. You want to come up?”

  He knew he wanted to, but couldn’t. The temptation was there though… “I’m not sure, I need to do a few things…”

  “Come on, just for a nightcap.” Catherine tried to convince Glen.

  “Alright, maybe just for a quick drink.” Glen said as his will folded and took the keys out of the ignition and got out of the car. He walked over to Catherine’s side and opened her door to help her out. Both walked inside and said “Hello” to the doorman on the way up.

  Once inside Catherine’s apartment, she took out two glasses and asked, “What would you like?”

  “Anything you have is fine.”

  She knew something strong was in order. But, reminded herself to remember the other night and it shouldn’t be too strong. “Vodka tonic alright?”

  “Yes, that would be fine.”

  “On ice?” She asked as Catherine was at the bar.

  “Sure.”

  Catherine poured two drinks, added ice, handed one to Glen, and took a big sip of the other herself to calm her nerves. “Your family is great.”

  Glen agreed as her took a swig of his drink. “Of course, I’m partly biased.” Glen moved closer on the couch and put his arm behind Catherine. “You know they think the same about you, right?”

  Catherine rested her head on his shoulder. “If only I could be so lucky.”

  Glen leaned closer to her, “They do and you know, I think you’re great too.” He leaned in and firmly pressed his lips against hers. Immediately, Catherine felt the same warm reaction as when he kissed her the first time. She couldn’t help shifting into him moving her hands over Glen’s strong chest. She immediately felt his muscles tighten and his arms come around her. Catherine liked the reaction she had over Glen and moved her hands further into Glen’s hair and pulled his shoulders closer to deepen the kiss. He needed no more of an invitation and put his tongue on hers. As Catherine let out a moan, Glen moved his hand down to Catherine’s legs. He then proceeded to move up her body, under her skirt to feel her warm and inviting. She had no concept of what was going on and only felt the sensation of heat come over her as she felt a finger go inside her and immediately lost all of her thoughts. Her body tingled everywhere, “Glen—”

  “Mmm, Catherine—” He continued and wanted to kiss every part of her body and discover areas of her body Glen could only dream about before they stopped. But, a noise brought Catherine back to Earth and she realized it was her bird and immediately fell back to where they where and realized they were on the couch in her apartment. Catherine knew at that moment that nothing was a fluke. They were just as compatible as she thought. She knew she had feelings for Glen before, but now knew how strong her feelings were for Glen and needed to tell him the truth about her job, about everything. She knew that was something she needed to do before anything went further between them. So, she started pulling away. “What’s wrong?” Glen barely got out between deep breathes.

  A little depressed and still out of breath, Catherine said, “Nothing is wrong, in fact everything is right.”

  “I don’t quite understand then.” Glen was wondering if he should be glad or not Catherine stopped what could have happened.

  “It’s just not the right time…and…”

  At that moment, he realized Catherine wasn’t a normal type of girl he was usually with, the type that had one night stands and all. But, he did know that all along and was enraged by himself by almost loosing control. He wanted commitment and didn’t want to cross the line of shame with Catherine. He needed to make her see that he was serious first, very serious. “I’m sorry, Catherine, but I have to go. I’m going back to my father’s house and I’ll see you on Monday.”

  “I didn’t mean to lead you on at all, I’m sorry. Please stay for just a little while more?”

  “I can’t, actually I forgot something I left with my father. So, really don’t worry about anything, there was no damage done.”

  “Are you sure?”

  “Yes, I’m sure. I really do have to go and will probably end up staying there until Sunday night, so I’ll see you on Monday, first thing.” Glen said as he got up and put his glass down to leave.

  Catherine stood up to kiss Glen goodnight but he just quickly pecked her on the cheek and walked towards the door. “Goodnight.” As the door closed behind him, Glen knew he needed the time to think, on the drive, what was most appropriate to
say to his father.

  Glen walked out of Catherine’s apartment and she sat back on the couch and wondered what was so important Glen needed to see her father about, but chalked it up to business. He always had his mind on business, why should it surprise her he did when he was with her? She finished her cocktail, showered, and thought she would spend tomorrow reading after spending a long night’s sleep. Perhaps she would even take a nice long bath. But, after that Catherine knew some serious thinking needed to be done about her future and when she was going to tell her boss. It was no longer a question if she was going to tell him, but only a question of when.

  Chapter 11

  Glen woke up on Sunday early morning, he was still rather exhausted from driving Catherine into the city and then coming back to sleep at his old home. But, the noises were so nice and serene; he couldn’t help falling quickly asleep. He walked downstairs and found his two sisters having breakfast with his father. Glen sat and had breakfast with them, at the same time listening to the talk about Catherine. It brought joy to his heart that everyone embraced her into the family. Both of his sisters had great things to say about her, especially Lauren. Glen loved the fact that everyone approved of his choice in a woman, it never happened before. The comments coming from his sisters confirmed that they never liked his taste before. But, Glen knew it was different this time, real. Every other time there was always something wrong, something he could never put his finger on, women who never challenged him, made him heat up inside, but Catherine was so special. Glen knew that already, so why was he reassuring himself? Glen knew he didn’t know Catherine for too long of a time, but knew how he felt and he was never so sure of anything in his life. Even business deals he knew were going to be hits were not close to what he knew of his feelings.

  Ever since Catherine walked into the office for the first time, Glen knew he wanted her. His feelings were building since that very moment. Perhaps he loved her sooner, but Glen was positive of his feelings since yesterday. He knew he loved her. So, while his sisters were asking question after question and raving about Catherine, Glen decided to ask their opinions. “What would you think of adding a new addition to the family?”

  Amy, stunned, almost screamed, “Are you serious? Is Catherine pregnant? And you aren’t married!!” She started over to hit Glen a few times.

  Seeing what was about to come, Glen immediately answered, “No, no, no. I didn’t mean like that. I meant by marriage.”

  Amy backed up, “I see.” She immediately sat back down.

  Everyone else sat silenced. After what seemed like years, all at once Glen’s family came over and hugged him. There was a fury of excitement within the group. They were all happy about the news and sat through breakfast ecstatic, asking question after question of Glen. It was one thing after another, like when he knew he loved her. After his sisters got warn out and realized they were way behind schedule, they quickly made their excuses and went to get up from the table. Right before they got up, Glen added, “Oh, and no one says a word to Catherine until I do. That is not one word.”

  Lauren mimicked Glen, “Don’t use that stern tone of voice with us bro.” Then laughing added, “We won’t say anything, don’t worry. But, you better hurry up and ask though or we just might slip.”

  “Don’t you dare!” Glen came up behind Lauren and gave her a noogy, something he still did even though they weren’t kids anymore, and they playfully wrestled with each other.

  Amy started getting frustrated knowing they were late and had a reputation for always being at least five minutes early. “Come on Lauren we have to go.” She practically grabbed Lauren and nudged her towards the door. “We’ll see you later Glen. Remember, be good and make sure you’re happy.” Amy and Lauren left the room to meet up with some of their old neighbors and go out on the small town for the day.

  When Glen and his father were left alone at the table, he knew now was the time to talk with him. “You haven’t said much father, you do like Catherine right?”

  “I do, very much actually. She’s quite an improvement from that girl you used take out that hung around the office; Samantha something or other. But, I can see you are very serious and happy, after all you have never wanted a girl to meet the family. I just want to make sure you are happy and I can see you are; the smile you’ve been wearing tells wonders. Besides, there’s no point in me asking questions; I was having such a good time watching your sisters play firing squad instead of me.” Albert smiled and rose from his seat. “Wait here for a moment.” Five minutes later he came back with a small black box. “Now, son, you are sure she’s the one for you?”

  “Yes, dad, I am.”

  Albert knew his son spoke with sincerity. “I know you are, I could tell when you walked through the door with her. I just needed to ask again. Your mother left something in my possession before she died for me to give to you when the time came, and it has. My great grandfather gave this to my great grandmother when they were married. They passed it to my grandfather who gave it to my grandmother when they got engaged. They passed it to my father who gave it to my mom when they were engaged. Then, in turn it was passed to me and I gave it to your mother. Now it is time for you to have it, to give it to the woman you love. So, with my blessing, I give you this ring, the ring that has passed through our ancestry. I hope you and Catherine will cherish it as your mother and I did.” Albert was close to tears and was fighting back great emotion, but never cried, at least in his son’s presence.

  Father and son embraced as Glen stood and he said, “Thank you dad, you know I will. Thank you.”

  Sniffling, Albert sat back down. “You better treat her well; then again, I know you will.”

  “You know I will, dad. You know, I might have not admitted to myself until today how much I care for her or even how much I truly love her.”

  “You might be foolish, son. I knew when I saw the two of you together at Rhoda’s party.”

  “You mean Mrs. Upman?”

  “Of coarse I do. But, the way you looked at Catherine and practically hurled her across the floor when she was talking to another man. I’d say you were head over heels even then.”

  “You knew back then?”

  “Son, you really do need to open up your eyes sometimes. We don’t want to prove the womenfolk right that we don’t pay attention.”

  “Alright, dad, alright.” Glen supposed it was really none of his business, but was pretty curious, so he asked, “So, what is going on between you and Mrs. Upman?”

  “Nothing.” Glen thought his father may have spoken a little too quickly. “Even if there was, it wouldn’t have much to do with your concern, would it son?”

  Glen decided to leave the subject alone. But, couldn’t help putting his last two cents in. “I suppose not. But, you do know I support your decision. I know you loved mom and still love her, but perhaps it is time for you to move on. I’m not suggesting you stop loving her, just that you open your heart to someone else as well.”

  “Maybe, son, maybe.” Albert really did not want to talk about Rhoda and changed the subject. “I’m heading down to the store; do you want to come into town?”

  “No, I have a few things to do myself before I go back to the city. I’ll see you soon?”

  “Of course. Remember, don’t work too hard.”

  Glen took the box containing the ring, put it into his inner jacket pocket, and started out the door to spend the rest of the day at the cemetery to visit his mother and then think during the drive back to the city. Once at the cemetery, Glen needed to talk to his mother. He squatted down next to her grave and told his mother how much he missed her. Glen found solace talking to her and knew she understood, although his mother couldn’t answer. Glen took the ring out of his pocket and just looked at it. He imagined his mother wearing it and told her about Catherine and how much they would both now treasure it. He sat by the grave and talked over some other things that bothered him with his mother. He kissed his hand and put it on Roxy’s gra
ve. After a few moments, he got up and left to drive back to the city.

  On the way home, Glen started thinking of Catherine and proposing. By the time he was half way back, Glen had thought up a great way to propose. He immediately called Mrs. Upman to solidify his plans. “Mrs. Upman?”

  “Glen?”

  “Glen is it?”

  She scoffed, “I figure since I’m not working for you and have know you for most of your life, I’m entitled.”

  “I do believe you are. Anyway, would you be able to tell me the emergency number Catherine put on her contact sheet at the office?”

  “Well, I’m at home right now, you know since I’m retired, so I can’t be sure. But, I think she didn’t list one. Actually, I’m pretty sure, I asked her about it too, but she didn’t want to list one on the sheets.”

  Even though Glen thought that probably meant she didn’t want anyone to contact them, but he decided to push on. Her family would need to be contacted if he wanted to give Catherine the proposal of her dreams. “Can you find out how to contact her nearest family member?”

  “I suppose, maybe I’ll stop by the office and see, alright?”

  “I’d appreciate it as fast as you can. So, I’ll see you tomorrow morning then, thank you again.” He added morning because Glen couldn’t stop thinking about putting the ring on Catherine’s finger and almost screaming to the world she was his.

  “What is going on between you and Miss Richmond?”

  “What is going on between you and my father?” Glen countered.

  “Point taken, I won’t pry. I’ll see you tomorrow.”

  “Tomorrow morning, then.”

  He thought tomorrow would be a very special day for Catherine as well as himself. Perhaps if Mrs. Upman could find the way to reach Catherine’s family he would be able to speak Catherine’s family first to ask permission for her hand and perhaps have them present. Even bringing them together, he would fly them out immediately from exactly wherever they were. Then again, Glen did not know if Catherine would appreciate that given the fact that they weren’t close and didn’t know if he was taking things prematurely or not. He pondered what to do about the proposal, made quick business phone call once in his apartment, and then settled down for the night’s sleep so Glen would be well rested.