“Well, I really appreciate hearing that, David. It means so much to me that you'd come here to say that. But I still want to know what brought this on?”
David's face flushed, and his lips twisted in a scowl. “Dad's a pig,” he said.
Oh dear. Robin had always done her best to shield her children from the difficulties in her marriage. She believed whatever happened behind closed doors between a husband and wife should remain just that, private and between them.
Andrew's behavior toward her didn't necessarily translate into bad parenting. She believed he deserved the benefit of the doubt, and the kids deserved to have their father be a part of their lives.
She'd chosen to take the high road and had refused to speak badly about him or to poison the minds of the kids against their own dad, regardless of his less than stellar behavior. Just because she thought he was a huge asshole, didn't mean his children didn't love him or that he didn't love them.
Robin had seen enough Oprah and Dr. Phil episodes to know anything less would be hurtful to the kids. Parents should never use their children to get back at a spouse or talk negatively about the other parent. Putting kids in the middle of marital problems hurts the kids terribly.
“What happened, David?”
She braced herself for the worst, having no clue what the big jerk might've done to upset David so badly. He was so out of sorts, looking so vulnerable and hurt. It was strange to see her usually strong, stubborn and difficult son reduced to looking somewhat like a lost child who needed his mommy.
His lips trembled; he could barely get the words out. “He hit on Peggy!”
Robin closed her eyes, in a silent plea. Oh, Andrew, what the Hell did you do? Could it have been a misunderstanding?
“Are you sure, dear?” she asked.
David tensed and looked full of repulsion and rage as he replied through gritted teeth, “Oh, yeah, I'm sure. She was working at the bar, waitressing, and he came in.
She introduced herself; you know, ‘Hi, Remember me? I'm Peggy, you're son's girlfriend?’
Dad says to her, 'age makes a wine even better,' and then he says he wanted to 'lick her pussy all night long!' Mom, practically everyone in the place heard him! He wasn't even drunk! And it wasn't like he didn't know who she was...she told him!”
David's frustration and distress caused him to pound his fists against his knees, repeatedly, until Robin laid her hand gently on his arm.
“I mean, what you're doing with Robert, at least it’s private and it doesn't hurt people! This...this was right out in front of everybody! God! So many people heard what he said to her! Plus, he said it to his own son's girlfriend!"
Robin shook her head, feeling very sorry for her son. Poor kid, it must really stink to be betrayed like that by his own father. Resentful, David had subtly let her know he’d thought she was to blame for her divorce. His father had no doubt told him who was to blame. Now he could see how happy she was, he’d have to adjust to this new reality.
On top of that, David had experienced a shock and a sudden awakening. He discovered, in a terrible way, what a huge letch and bad person his dad was. How could Andrew do such a hideous thing?
Robin was surprised to hear about her ex's actions. She'd known for some time he was an asshat with questionable morals, but she'd have thought even this behavior would've been beneath even him.
She also couldn't help but feel more than a bit resentful and angry that the cheating, lecherous asshole wanted to 'lick' his son's girlfriend's 'pussy all night long' but he'd never go down on his own wife for any amount of time! The fucker!
“Mom, I want to beat the shit out of him! What kind of person… I mean… what kind of father...?” He couldn't finish the sentence, hurt and anger practically radiated off of him in waves.
Robin hugged her son as hard as she could, giving him her healing warmth, support and love.
The best part?
David hugged her back, every bit as hard.
Chapter 31.
SCENIC DRIVE
Robert decided they'd take a scenic drive together to get out of the house, away from the intense physical and emotional arena his home had become for them both. He thought they needed some “down time,” to be just two ordinary people, sharing ordinary pleasures. A drive down Route 5, next to Lake Erie was just the thing.
The New York State Thruway was faster and more efficient, but Route 5 had charm. They enjoyed the beautiful views of the lake as well as various lakeside communities. Route 5 went through little hamlets and scenic lakeside vistas. It was lovely.
About an hour later, Robert parked by the harbor at Dunkirk.
“Let’s stretch our legs,” he said.
Robin emerged from the car, stretching her stiff muscles. Her arms reached wide in a joyous stretch as she enjoyed the autumn sunshine. She looked at the beach; very few people were there, this late in the season.
A boarded-up refreshment stand reminded her of how quickly summer had turned to fall. She thought about how dramatically her life had changed and how much she'd changed since she'd attended the munch, back in June.
She felt a sudden pang of worry. What does the future hold for me and for US? Master's won my heart. I love him so much. Could he feel the same about me?
No! Don’t do this now, not today. It's so lovely here and we're together. Don't risk ruining this beautiful day. It's too special for that.
Robin struggled to put these upsetting thoughts out of her mind, at least for the day. She tried to shift her focus so she could enjoy the moment.
Robin took off her shoes, digging her toes into the sand, relishing the soft gritty feeling. She walked through the shallows, looking for interesting rocks and shells. Master walked near her, but chose to keep his sneakers on.
Down the beach a ways, was a man by an easel. He was tall and spare with a receding brown hairline. His eyes, behind his glasses, flickered constantly between the view of the water before him and the painting, as he recreated the scene on the canvas. He seemed oblivious to their presence as Robin peered over his shoulder to catch a glimpse of his painting as they passed.
At first glance, it appeared to be a perfectly ordinary replica of the view before them: a beach scene, with a large powerboat anchored in the foreground and a sailboat farther out on the lake. Then details caught Robin’s eye.
The motorboat wasn't merely anchored; it was tethered, fully restrained. Its power and the potential of its engines lay coiled within its big hull, waiting to break free. In contrast, the sailboat leaped in the waves like a cavorting dolphin, unbound, without limits. The spray from its plunging bow seemed alive with delight.
Robin hummed with pleasure, surprised by the artist’s ability to move her emotionally, with mere swipes and daubs of his brush.
She realized she'd encroached too far when the artist turned to her, pushing his glasses up his nose. He grinned at her with warmth shining through in his expression.
Robin blushed as she bowed slightly. “I’m sorry, sir. I didn’t mean to intrude…”
He shook his head, still smiling. “That’s OK, miss. Feel free to look all you want, it takes nothing away from the painting. My name’s Joe.”
Master stepped forward and shook his outstretched hand. “I'm Robert and this sweet, little lady is Robin.”
Joe pointed further along the beach, where an attractive older woman sunned herself, lying on a blanket. “That's my wife, Sue,” he said, with pride evident in his words.
Sue noticed them looking her way and waved. Joe smiled broadly, waving back.
Master studied the painting, which appeared to be near completion. “You’re very talented,” he said.
Joe nodded modestly. “Thanks,” he said, in a distracted manner, as his attention was once again drawn back to his work. His brush met the paper again and a long blue line appeared as the result.
As Joe slipped back into his state of intense concentration, Master gently drew Robin back by her elbow, whispering in h
er ear.
“Back to the car now, Little Bird. We have more places to see and people to meet.”
She quickly grabbed her shoes; shook off the sand and off they drove.
~~~
ROBERT
As he drove, he watched her out of the corner of his eye.
She's such a sweet sight, better to look at than any scenic view. Beautiful in so many ways. I'd enjoy looking at her all day and night. She’ll likely have a touch of sun showing on her skin by tomorrow. Umm, I get to see a slightly different version of my very sexy lady.
It felt so good to be out with Robin. He loved being with her in more ways than just sexually. He wanted to delight in all of her, to explore and to find out more about her. As they shared new situations, they'd glean more information by observing each other interacting with the world. It would bring them closer.
Their relationship would grow stronger and their lives would likely become further enmeshed.
He already learned when Robin was away from his house, and more specifically his bedroom, even without any overt D/s situation, she still fell naturally into her submissive state, unconsciously and beautifully.
She’d intuitively been drawn to the painter, probably without consciously realizing the hints of his dominance. She'd simply responded naturally and unthinkingly.
She also followed Robert's lead, in whatever she did. God, she's utterly captivating. How does she stir such strong feelings in me? I'm overwhelmed by the affection, lust, respect, protectiveness and even the love she evokes within me. These emotions have grown and swelled since I'd met her.
I never knew I was capable of feeling such a deep and beautiful love. I'm truly changed by her. She's enriched my life and expanded my horizons. My world and my life are forever changed by her presence. I've learned so much from her, not only about her but also about myself. It seems I'm not the only teacher among us. Just look at how she's taught me to love.
What does she feel for me? Does she just consider me a good teacher, maybe a proficient Dom or a temporary lover to explore her sexuality, to discover and scratch her itches? Could she possibly return my feelings of love?
He looked away from the road briefly to ogle her luscious hips and her sturdy legs.
Mmm, our time away was a wonderful change of pace for us. Now I'm sure we'll have an especially delicious time later, when we return home.
With Robin, I always have something to look forward to—as long as she's in my life.
~~~
ROBIN
It was so beautiful, driving along the lake, hearing the gulls call and the waves washing up on shore. Those sounds evoked such delightful memories and stirred something within her. She loved feeling the breeze tug at her hair and dance over her skin. She felt so happy, content and at peace. She was where she wanted to be.
She glanced sidelong at the incredible man driving the car. A small smile tugged at his lips, almost hidden by his beard. She wondered what he was thinking.
He’s so beautiful, sexy and confident. He's so at ease. He's so…masterful! Hmm, I guess that's another reason why the title and name 'Master' suits him.
How in the world can this amazing man possibly desire me?
Shut up and stop those thoughts, Robin! Enjoy the moment.
Another hour had passed when they'd pulled up at a gated entrance to a cottage community called, Lily Dale. Master parked and helped her from the car. Together, they wandered hand in hand through the narrow streets of the small hamlet.
Master explained that Lily Dale was a spiritualist community dating back nearly a hundred years. Mediums, spiritual advisors, psychics and healers occupied many of its homes. People traveled from all over the country for 'readings' and séances. While some deemed the location a paranormal nexus, others just thrilled at its novelty value.
Master gestured towards a small pink cottage, with 'Mdme Conners, Chiromancy & Palmistry' written elegantly on a sign posted over the door.
“Shall we?” he asked her.
Robin blushed and nodded vigorously. Master held the door open, as she entered. The room was decorated with the feel of a Victorian parlor, complete with detailed furnishings and heavy brocade everywhere.
A stout woman was sitting on a fainting couch and held her hands out as they entered.
“Welcome, my children. Please come, come.” Her voice held a trace of an accent, but Robin couldn't place it.
Master stepped past Robin and handed the older woman a sheaf of money, which she discreetly tucked away in her bodice.
“You wish a reading…of your past and your future?”
Master nodded firmly, smiling.
“Yes, my dears.” She nodded slowly and gestured to a divan opposite her. They sat down, facing Madame Conners. She took Robin’s left hand and Master’s right, holding them side-by-side, examining them both.
Robin wondered what she saw. As far as she knew, her palm was totally ordinary.
Her head still bowed over their hands, Madame Conners’ voice emerged darkly, almost as a growl. She tapped Robin’s hand with her thumb.
“You have a long and curvy life line…you express your emotions and feelings freely. Your head line shows you have a taste for adventure, enthusiasm for life. Your life line shows you have suffered an emotional trauma.” Her head came up and piercing black eyes pinned Robin in her seat. She felt as if she couldn’t breathe. Madame nodded slightly, as if to herself, and then resumed her reading.
“Ah, your fate line! Not everyone has one. Yours shows you are affected strongly by others…” Madame stopped for a moment, glanced up again, looking puzzled.
“There is a darkness dogging you, shadowing over your life, yes?”
She must be talking about my ex. Robin decided and nodded.
“Be very careful,” said Madame. She moved Robin’s hand, turning it over and examining the entire area at every angle.
“You are water,” she said, “creative and emotional, but quiet and intuitive.” She patted Robin’s hand. “Things look good for you, daughter, IF you can avoid the Shadow.”
She then let go of Robin's hand and turned to Master’s palm.
“Oh, very different and yet…” Her fingers poked at his hand, stretching the flesh out, her face turned down to examine every detail. “You have a wavy heart line; many lovers, but no serious relationships…but then it breaks? A change will occur. Your head line shows you too, have enthusiasm for life. Your life line shows much vitality. You also have a fate line—it shows you are a self-made individual, you have developed aspirations early in life.”
Robin watched as her gnarled fingers probed Master’s hand again.
“Interesting,” she said. “Your Jupiter mount is well developed…you are a dominant personality. Your Venus mount…a hedonist, as well?” She grinned at Master. “Your future looks bright, my child. Cherish the love that will come into your life. She will be your One.”
Robin tried not to gasp, but her eyes widened.
Madame slumped back on the couch, clearly worn out by her readings. Master took the elderly woman's hand in his, dwarfing her smaller, gnarled hand.
“Thank you, Madame. We'll ponder your reading and try to be true to your words.”
She gave a small smile and patted his cheek gently.
“You’re a good boy, my child, so respectful.” She smiled at Robin. “Take good care of him, my child.”
Robin nodded and smiled as she got up. “Yes, Madame, I will. Thank you so much for your reading.”
Master took Robin’s hand in his and led her from the cottage back to the car.
The drive home was quiet. She was immersed in thought about what had been said about them during the reading.
Was it all a joke, a con devised to give tourists some laughs as she relieved them of money?
So much of what she'd said had been accurate. Robin supposed that random chance, good observational skills and educated guesses could account for at least some of it.
Still�
��
~~~
ROBERT
The palmistry had been a hit with Robin. She was deep in thought the whole ride back. He chuckled to himself as he thought back to the old woman’s intuitive grasp of their personalities. That was the best part. Be it a charlatan or an honest believer, readings were fun.
He parked in his driveway. Robin just blinked at him, looking blankly, as if she was unaware of where they were. He helped her from the car, guided her inside and closed the door.
“Clothes off, Little Bird,” his voice was gentle but commanding.
While she still seemed in a daze, Robin undressed and knelt for him, hands behind her head. He had her stand up and then he guided her to his easy chair, where he sat and tucked Robin onto his lap, holding her.
His erection was pushing at his pants, wanting her. That would be for later. He gently pulled Robin’s head to his chest, tucking her hands against him as he wrapped his arms around her. He held her like that for a long while, stroking her hair and back, petting her, murmuring soothing words. He felt her utterly relax, melting into him as he reveled in her surrender and trust.
He'd like to hold her like that forever.
Eventually, she fell asleep in his arms. It was very late when he carried her up to his bedroom, curled in his grasp like a sleepy kitten, so soft, warm and delightful. It made his heart pound.
This is bliss.
Chapter 32.
ROBIN
The night they'd planned to return to Bottoms Up had arrived, and Robin couldn't quell the butterflies in her stomach. She had mixed feelings about returning to the scene of her humiliation and abuse.
She parked her car at Master's house, and he greeted her warmly at the front door.
“Come upstairs with me, Little Bird, to our bedroom. I have something for you.”
Robin was dumbfounded. Did Master just say “our bedroom?” What did he mean by that? Did he misspeak or was there an intended meaning in his words? Robin's mind whirled.
She followed him upstairs into the bedroom. He sat on the bed, holding a flat wooden box.
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