“It’s all me,” she replied proudly. “I love flowers of all types so any you chose would be appreciated, believe me. When I was renting an apartment, I planted flower boxes. It was gratifying to see something I created, something so lovely. But it was rather limiting and, when I bought my house, the desire to really get my hands dirty, so to speak, took hold. It allowed me to expand my knowledge of plants and flowers. This lot is the perfect size to manage. I spent a lot of time researching so that I could have a garden that would bloom from the earliest of spring right through to the first frost. As one plant finishes blooming, another is just getting ready to pop.”
Thomas looked impressed. “You must really enjoy it to plan and plant such an exquisite garden,” he replied.
“I do. It’s one of my true passions.” Silence filled the room.
Thomas stood gazing at her in an almost trance-like state, then blinked. “Do you know anything about the meaning of flowers?” His question was asked with an inquisitive, amused expression on his face. “I ask because I chose the specific flowers in that bouquet not only for their beauty, but because of the meaning behind them. I’ve always been fascinated with the use of flowers to communicate sentiments, especially when using specific combinations to provide the receiver with a hidden message.” His boyish enthusiasm was apparent as he spoke.
Annie felt the warmth of a blush crawl up her face. She did indeed know the meaning of these particular flowers. Her garden had all three types of blooms in the bunch and she was very familiar with the Victorian tradition that appointed flowers with specific meanings. She was thankful for the knowledge, given the playful challenge laid by Thomas. “I know that white lilies mean purity and new beginnings. I have several varieties of lilies in my garden. They are one of favorite flowers.”
Annie saw his sly smile, clearly delighted that he chose one of her favorite flowers, even if inadvertently. “White roses mean innocence. If I recall correctly, I think they could also mean new beginnings,” she confidently replied.
“You’re right!” Thomas exclaimed. “I liked the sentiment of new beginnings. Did you know that white lilies have another meaning? ‘It’s heavenly to be with you.’” Thomas paused. Moving his body in closer proximity to hers, he added, “And it is, Annie. Heavenly to be with you. I’m very glad to be in your company this evening. I find you quite enchanting, which is the meaning of the lavender roses.” He gave her a conspiratorial wink.
His close proximity provided Annie with another opportunity to catch a whiff of an aromatic mix of masculinity, leather, and spice. Annie’s body immediately responded with all of the tell-tale signs of arousal. Her nipples hardened and she feared they were noticeable. Her breasts tingled with heaviness. Her belly clenched and her pussy felt swollen and moist. New panties damp already.
Annie had to pinch herself. Thomas was just too good to be true. She was unsure if Thomas was aware of the other meaning of lavender roses, which was ‘love at first sight.’ She wondered if he meant to convey that specific, very intimate meaning. Deciding it was best to leave it out of the conversation, she desperately tried to think of a more benign topic of conversation.
Nervous butterflies flittered in her stomach and got worse with each passing moment. She always felt so awkward and unsure in these types of situations. Not having extensive experience with dating, she feared doing or saying something stupid. Usually confident in interacting with others, she was out of her element in the dating world. The feeling of inadequacy was exacerbated by the fact that she liked Thomas so much. Taking a deep breath, she asked, “Were you able to find my house alright?” Talk about a benign, boring topic. Way to go, Annie! She walked toward the kitchen to find a vase.
Thomas followed behind her. “Yes, no problem at all…” Standing in the doorway to the kitchen, his statement tapered off as he took in his surroundings. “Wow! What an impressive kitchen. How unique! I’m not sure where to look first.” There was wonder in his voice.
The kitchen was covered floor-to-ceiling with Coca-Cola memorabilia. The walls were covered with pictures and trays, depicting the historical advertisements that made the brand famous around the world. There were knick-knacks lined along the top of the kitchen cabinets. In the middle of the room stood Annie’s pride and joy in the collection. It was an authentic 1950s style Formica table with a white tabletop edged with shiny chrome. Surrounding the table were chrome chairs covered in vinyl, the color a familiar signature red, scripted in white with the Coca-Cola logo across the back of each chair. In the center of the table sat a vintage napkin holder and salt and pepper shakers.
“I’ve been collecting since college,” Annie offered. “I studied business administration. We had to choose a company to analyze and write about for a finance class. I always found the story of how Coca-Cola was created interesting, so I wrote about it and studied the corporation’s history and financial information. Somehow it manifested into an interest in the popular subculture of collectibles.” She shrugged her shoulders.
“Your collection is outstanding, Annie. It’s very unique and intriguing.” He added, “Just like you.”
“Again with the sweet talk, doctor?” Annie said, looking over her left shoulder as she stood in front of an open kitchen cabinet looking for a vase. Thomas was standing in the doorway just inside the kitchen. His grin was irresistibly sexy. Annie could swear that his intense gaze was penetrating her soul. Unnerved, Annie offered for Thomas to have a seat in the living room while she put the flowers in water. Watching his retreating form, she was awestruck by his physique. Broad shoulders outlined his blue suit jacket as he moved with the grace and confidence of a lion. Annie could not help but think that she was more than happy to be his prey.
* * *
Thomas was happy to have a few moments alone. Taking a seat on the overstuffed sofa, he needed to take a few deep breaths to slow the beat of his pounding heart and slow the racing thoughts. His attraction to Annie was strong and primal. Just the simple act of her reaching into an upper cabinet to pull down a vase made his cock grow fully erect. When she reached up on tiptoe, he was given the pleasure of seeing the muscular definition in her calves. Her heels slipped out of her shoes, which, for some reason, he found very sexy. Annie was all woman. A voluptuous, full-figured beauty. Soft and curvy. Delicate like the flowers he bestowed upon her.
Thomas also enjoyed watching the shape of her bottom under the full skirt of her dress. Annie had that feminine, hourglass figure that he adored. Her pretty, modest dress could not hide her ample round ass. An instant picture came to his mind. It was of him sitting on the couch, his sleeves rolled up. Annie splayed over his lap, bottom high up as her head hung down almost to the floor. Her legs moving, trying to gain traction but unable as he held her firmly. His arm lay across the small of her back as the other hand rubbed over her clothed bottom, eager to pull her dress up and reveal what was underneath. He surmised that she had a very spankable derriere and he would love the opportunity to verify it.
Annie’s appearance brought Thomas out of his fantasy. “Do we have a few minutes to sit and chat before we leave?” she asked, placing the vase on a side table.
Looking down at his watch, he replied, “Sure, our reservation is for eight and it’s a short drive so we have a few minutes.” Slipping one shoe off, she elegantly tucked her leg under her as she sat on the other end of the couch, turning to face him. He had an immediate desire to reach over and kiss her senseless, but he remained planted firmly on his side of the sofa.
Annie appeared anxious. Her hands were folded in her lap, but he noticed that she kept spinning the gold chain bracelet on her right wrist, then smoothing down the skirt over her thighs. Wanting to put her at ease, he made small talk. “How long have you owned your house?”
Annie stopped the unconscious movement and tipped her head slightly to the right, the curves of her full lips turned upward into a shy smile. “I’ve had it for about two years now. It was right around the time of a bad breakup.” He
r smile faded slightly. “The apartment I was living in had too many painful memories and I needed a change. I was tired of renting and decided to become a homeowner. It was a logical next step in the progression of my life. How about you? Where do you live?”
Thomas felt the immediate pang of jealousy at her reference to a bad breakup. He wanted to know more about her past relationship, but needed to tread lightly. It was too soon to press her for the information. “I live in a historic brownstone in the Back Bay. The location is great. It’s in close proximity to the hospital and my medical office.”
“Nice area,” she said, sounding impressed.
“It is, I agree. Went to school here in Beantown and loved it from day one. I grew up in Marblehead so we were always coming into the city when we were kids, but it is an entirely different experience when you live in Boston as an adult and completely immerse yourself. That combination of history and tradition mixed with the exuberance of up-and-coming youth. The rich academia mixed with art and culture. It’s a great place to live.”
“Sounds like it with your colorful descriptions. Clearly you are happy with city life. I’m not so sure how I would adapt. I love having a little yard to putter around in.” Her expression was wistful.
“Putter around? Why, Annie, it looks like you have a professional landscaping company tend your yard. I’m amazed that you manage it all by yourself. What you have created is absolutely breathtaking.” He paused, wanting to make sure that Annie could hear the suggestive tone in his voice. “Just as you are, my dear Annie.” Thomas held her gaze intently until she looked down and away. The blush in her cheeks deepened in color and she started to play with the bracelet again. Thomas was happy to see the effect that his words had on her. Submissive. His intent was not to embarrass her, but he wanted to make his intentions clear. The more Thomas was in her presence, the more convinced he became that he wanted Annie for his own.
Moving back to a more benign topic, Thomas added, “You know, my grandmother was an avid gardener. She belonged to the Boston Horticultural Foundation and volunteered at their annual flower show.”
Annie bounced with excitement. “Oh, I love going to that flower show. It’s usually in March, when the promise of spring is right around the corner. I’ve gotten some great ideas from their displays and picked up some cool gardening tools at the vendors expo.” Annie paused, her voice softened. “Is your grandmother still with you?”
“Yes, she’s still alive. Sadly, she is in the final stages of Alzheimer’s disease. She requires round-the-clock care now. My family and I were able to place her in a nursing home down the street from the hospital so I can frequently visit and watch over her.” Sadness filled his voice.
Annie leaned over, placing her small hand on his arm. It was such a sympathetic gesture, demonstrating the depth of her compassion. “Oh, Thomas, I’m so sorry. It’s such a terrible disease.” She was so warmhearted, radiating a goodness that touched him deeply.
“It is a heart-wrenching disease,” he agreed. “There is nothing worse than watching someone you love slowly slip away until they cannot recognize you any longer. She’s still alive, but… not present.” He looked away, swallowing down the heaviness of his emotions.
Annie was gently rubbing up and down his forearm, providing comfort. “I understand what you mean. I have several clients who suffer with Alzheimer’s. I cannot begin to imagine the agony of watching the affliction consume a loved family member.” Annie truly was an old soul, one who held great wisdom and depths of humanity. He appreciated her empathy and was touched by her compassion and comforting words. He resisted the strong urge to scoop her up into his arms, wanting to feel her embrace as much as he felt compelled to envelop her in protection. Her next question broke him out of his stupor.
“You are close to your family?” she asked, withdrawing her delicate hand.
Thomas resisted the desire to reach out and place her palm right back where it was. “Yes, most assuredly. My parents are retired now. My father was a lawyer, partner in a large law firm specializing in business and labor law. My mom is a retired fourth grade schoolteacher. They are great people and I don’t just say that because they are my parents. They are compassionate, loving people who would take a stranger into their home and make them feel as if they were related.”
“I can hear the fondness in your voice,” she replied. “How wonderful that you had such good role models to instill those values in you.” Thomas noticed the longing in her brown orbs. Before he could try to uncover the reason why, Annie continued. “Knowing what I do about you, I’m sure it was your parents’ loving influence that helped you to become the skilled and dedicated doctor that you are. I can only imagine the endless hours your career demands. I’ve no doubt that men and women who become doctors and nurses have a higher calling to their profession. The heartbreaking situations you must encounter, not to mention the lack of sleep you must experience!” Annie chuckled. Thomas watched the tip of her tongue lick her bottom lip. It was innately sensual, yet innocent. I’d love to lick that lip myself.
“No worries there, Annie. I manage to get a good seven to eight hours of sleep per night,” he joked. “Dedication early in my career affords me the freedom to determine my schedule now. It took a long time to reach that level of privilege, but I have full control over myself and my time. I have power over my own destiny, if you know what I mean.” Thomas watched as her pupils dilated and her nostrils flared at a pronounced intake of air. Those words have an effect on her. Hmm, the plot thickens on the Annie mystery.
In the few moments of silence that followed, Annie gazed downward. To most it would look like a gesture of shyness, but Thomas had his suspicions. It was the second time she made the classic submissive gesture. It made him more curious, as he tried to uncover her true essence.
Purposely wanting to keep her off guard so he could continue his assessment, he changed the topic of conversation. “This room is very nice. Pleasant color scheme.” The room was decorated in colors of sage green, cream, and burgundy. “Comfortable and inviting. You’ve created a room with a warm atmosphere. Exactly like its owner,” he complimented.
It had the desired effect. Thomas watched as the flush crawled up from her neck to make her cheeks rosy. He loved making her blush almost as much as he loved watching her nervously lick her bottom lip.
“Thank you, Thomas.” Annie smiled at the praise. She appeared proud of her home and seemed to appreciate the acknowledgement of her hard work.
Thomas was very much looking forward to the opportunity to learn everything there was to know about Annie and thought that dinner out might provide a relaxed environment, lending itself to Annie offering more information about herself. Thomas continued to be taken by her ethereal quality. She was a dainty and refined woman. He was eager and fascinated to uncover the layers of her temperament, especially given her self-confidence and self-reliance. He wanted to know the origins of her personality. It confounded him how he came across this beauty of a sprite, but he was very grateful that he did.
Thomas glanced at his watch. “Shall we head out for dinner?” he inquired.
“Absolutely. I’m starved,” she replied.
Thomas stood, reaching out to assist Annie off of the couch. “As am I, Annie, as am I.” Although Annie was referring to hunger for food, Thomas’ double entendre was not. His hunger was a visceral need to acquaint himself with every aspect of Annie.
* * *
While Annie had moments of nervousness, for the most part, Thomas put her at ease with his gentlemanly charm and attentiveness. They enjoyed a leisurely meal and comfortable rapport as they conversed. Thomas was controlled in his mannerisms, but Annie could see a boy’s wonder in his eyes as he spoke enthusiastically about his life and his interests. Thomas was an interesting enigma. Charming and likeable, he was highly attuned to the environment around him and the vulnerabilities of those in his presence. She had no doubt he could lead a platoon of men into battle as easily and as skillf
ully as he could train a puppy to do tricks.
It was apparent to Annie that Thomas liked control and she found this fact appealing. His pure presence alone commanded respect from those around him. His actions were authoritative and demonstrated competence. He anticipated her needs and took the lead at getting them met—even in small ways, such as opening the car door for Annie or pulling out her chair in the restaurant.
When perusing the menu, Thomas asked her what she wanted just as the waiter returned to take their order. As she was unable to decide between the decadent choices, Thomas made the suggestion and told the waiter what they would have before she could agree or protest. While these acts could also demonstrate that Thomas was just old-fashioned, it was the manner in which he performed the tasks that implied his dominant nature.
As they settled into their meal, Thomas asked about Annie’s job. “Tell me about your work as a behaviorist, Annie. I have only a vague knowledge about it and I’m curious to learn about your background and training in the field.” He leaned forward and focused his sapphire eyes directly on hers, holding her captive. It was as if they were the only two people in the restaurant.
“I’m a licensed psychologist and certified behavior analyst. I work for a human service agency headquartered in Boston, but with satellite offices across the North and South Shore.” She laughed, adding, “Sorry if I sound like a resume.”
“Not at all. So your work requires a lot of travel?” he asked inquisitively.
“Yes, I float between three main sites that have both day programs and residential group homes. Plus there is a school in Beverly. I am needed there only once per month though. The rest of the locations are with adults.” Annie felt uneasy talking about herself so much, feeling a bit put on the spot. Before she could steer the conversation back to Thomas, he asked another question.
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