by C M SHORT
Like a nearly empty Pandora’s box, hope remained: of life-after death.
Right on cue, the rescuing wings of destiny flew in, and a split second later-the hell born horror disappeared straight backward: seemingly, yanked by its tail! Afraid to dare hope it wouldn't come back, they stared out the hole-all breathing stopped-and then, a sickening feeling emerged: of being in a hopeless, uncontrollable spin!
“We're going to die”!
Hugging her tight, he closed his eyes and wondered if she was right.
Unexpected, was the end of the spiral and the plane veering hard to the right.
“Missed it”!
That jarred his eyes open and strangely enough-he was back in the taxi!
“Sorry about the swerve. An animal was in the road; it wasn't like any animal I've ever seen or heard of! Must’ve been a mutant. You two ok?”
“We're fine,” she answered, and noticed a troubled face.
“You ok, sweetie”?
“I just had a really bizarre dream, but I'm fine.”
His thoughts questioned: was it really a dream? It had been so real, yet, what other explanation could there possibly be?
In another hour, the taxi was pulling up to a quaint little fishing village. Life looked relaxingly slow there: sun soaked fishermen were mending the nets of weathered boats, a handful of children were sailing Frisbees to their fetch playing dogs, and a small string of shops at the waterfront was attracting several people.
“A wonderful step back in time”!
“That it is! Would you like a tour?”
“Sure”!
“This way, pretty girl.”
She enjoyed the feeling, of a warm hand enveloping hers throughout the romantic day of walking the soft, pristine beach, exploring the shops that overflowed with local handcrafted items, and delighting their taste buds with the town’s exclusive cuisine. As if always knowing each other, talk was about anything, and everything.
Toward evening, the almost two-hour ride back started, followed by a dinner of French pizza and Desperado beer.
“Guess what, pretty eyes”?
“What”?
“I've decided, to see if there's an extra room at your hotel, so we can be close”!
“I hope there is”!
As it turned out, a room was available for a week-right across the hall! Both of them were happy about that, but not about saying goodnight.
A light stroke on her face, and endearing words, brought a smile.
“I'd like to keep seeing you, pretty eyes”!
“I’d like that”!
“Goodnight, gorgeous! I’ll go get my things, and see you tomorrow”!
“Goodnight”!
She saw a longing in his eyes-that was hard to pull away from!
CHAPTER 2
SECRET PLACES
Sleep was elusive for a while that night, as sweet thoughts of the charming man next door-swirled-in the endless sea of possibilities. After finally getting seven hours of pleasant dreams, the warmth of softly filtered sun, mingled with vibrant sounds of a beautiful summer day already in full swing. A sense of excitement filled the air, with an anxious desire to get ready. Heading out to the kitchen to make coffee, a little yellow surprise was discovered: a handwritten note had been pushed under the door.
“Look on the other side of your door.”
A silky red rose was taped to the knob, with another handwritten message.
“I'll fix us some breakfast. Come over when you're ready. Jean-Leuc.”
Like a volcano erupting-the words exploded!
“Wow! This guy's really romantic”!
Her knock was swiftly met with a broad, boyish grin.
“Hey, gorgeous”!
“Hey, handsome”!
His boyish grin got even bigger.
“Come on in! I've got fresh coffee made”!
“Coffee would be great! I was about to make some, when I saw your note.”
At the breakfast bar, a cup of coffee came along with an offer.
“If you like, we can have a bigger breakfast, since it's almost noon; perhaps coffee, and croissants, will not be enough this time.”
“My tummy agrees”!
“What are you hungry for, pretty one”?
“I’m hungry, for an American style breakfast! How about scrambled eggs, and do you have any ham slices?”
“I do! We have the same tastes! You relax with the coffee, and we'll chat while I cook it up.”
Soon, a tasty breakfast was being enjoyed, and the chef just couldn't take his eyes off the wondrous creature sitting close to him!
“You really have the most stunning green eyes I've ever seen-they're like jewels-like emeralds”!
“Thanks! Boy, you sure are a good cook! And Americans, really know how to have a good breakfast”!
“They do! I have a gift for you”!
“What is it”?
With a big smile, he replied.
“My favorite place in Toulon. It’s a one-in-a-million place, that’s off the beaten path.”
“Ok, I'm game. When do you want to go?”
“How about today”?
“Today is good”!
“Cool! You'll need a swimsuit under your clothes, and a beach towel, sunscreen, and change of clothes.”
After talking another hour, they packed a few things, while the soul warming summer day whispered a promise: another show stopping adventure was just around the corner!
I can't wait to show her!
The anxious thought kept repeating, while leading through the downtown streets, and out into the back edge of the city, where a desolate road ran parallel to the beaches. There were few businesses and homes for the next 45 minutes, but then, an interesting object came into view: a large, run-down building with smokestacks. It had a history, that would not have been guessed: it used to be a button factory! Soon, the road ended at a handful of old houses that were built right beside a hill, and the next step-would be into someone’s yard!
“Are you sure we can go in there”?
“It's ok. Just try to be quiet-going by the house.”
Following close behind, the sneak within just a few feet of the house, was uncomfortable, but trust covered the fear. At the back of the house, a big surprise waited: stairs, carved right into the side of the hill! After a tiring climb up many dozens of steps, the sight at the top was a relief!
“Hey! There's a road up here”!
“Just wait, till you see where it goes! We need to go this way, a little farther.”
He pointed to the left, where the highway tightly hugged a brushy hill, as it continued a long rise that eventually curved to the right. Another 15 minutes, and he stopped.
“We go down here, pretty eyes.”
A road went over the left bank, and forked after only 50 feet: one branch disappeared to the left, and the other, was a lengthy straight down that vanished to the right.
She pointed at the longest route, and posed a question-somehow-already knowing the answer.
“This one”?
“Good guess! The other one goes to a house.”
The road was narrow, resembling a large goat path more than anything.
“It doesn't look, like there's anything down there”!
“Let me show you”!
Hand in hand, they descended-into the unfolding mystery-a mystery he knew would thrill!
Rounding the corner, unveiled a breathtaking wonder that sparkled under the brilliant sun: a peaceful little cove! Sea waves were gently caressing the shore, while the searching cries of seagulls floated on a whisper of a breeze, becoming one, with the brisk magic of the sea. Having withstood the sands of time, a weathered building, sat 200 feet back from the beach. In quiet repose, it waited, waited, to open the doors to forgotten secrets.
“This is amazing”!
“Let me show you the rest”!
“There's more”?
“Yes”!
Going barefoot now, in th
e silky white sand of the water’s edge, their prints immediately filled with the light blue sea.
“This is breathtaking! And we have it to ourselves, at least, for the moment.”
“Not too many people know about this place. That building, is incredible on the inside: it has a restaurant on the bottom, and rooms for rent, on the one floor above.”
“So that’s what that building is”!
“Maybe, after a bit, you'd like to try the mouth-watering food”?
“I would”!
Within a couple of minutes, the beach ended at a large rock that stood in the water’s edge, and against a low rising cliff.
“We'll have to step into the water, and walk around the rock, but it’s easy going: the water here is only about knee deep.”
“What’s over there”?
“You'll see”!
That peaked curiosity to the max, and she followed him around the rock-into-a cave!
“Wow! I would not have guessed this was here!” she said, observing the 10-foot bubble of rock.
“We may be, the only ones that know! Would you like another surprise?”
“There's MORE”?
“For this one, we need to be in the middle of the beach, in our swimsuits. Our things will be safe, in here.”
“I'm game”!
Soon, their destination was pointed out, among the inviting, summer waves.
“See those two pointed rocks, sticking up a bit, about 100 feet beyond the surf”?
“I see them.”
“That’s where we need to go: it's underwater. When we get there, hold your breath and follow me down; you won't have to hold it for long. The water channels between the rocks and makes a swift current, so be careful of that. Can you hold your breath-for a minute?”
“Yes. A couple of minutes, actually.”
“You've got that down-real good”!
If he only knew! she thought.
Once out at the rocks, a few last words spoke encouragement.
“Ready? Deep breath, dive!”
Taking a deep breath, she followed him beneath the calling waves, eager to find out what could possibly be down there-that he wanted to show her! Five feet down, the onset of a strong current made the swimming more difficult. After another five feet, he stopped, and motioned for her to follow through a small opening.
I hope that wasn’t it! she thought.
Heading back up, a glow began to surround them-getting brighter-as they ascended.
Breaking surface, transported them to the inside of a jewel! Hundreds of intense light beams reflected off colorful minerals, for an unexplainable result: light in every direction, and a solid, pulsating shimmer-that felt like a life force!
“Oh my God! This is so amazing! I bet NO-ONE else knows about this”!
“You're probably right! There's a ledge over here, so we can get out for a bit.”
Standing on the ledge, breathless wonder became a special sense of wellbeing: the surroundings slipped away, and she merged with the colors-as if color-were a tangible thing!
The merging was familiar, and alarming!
“Pretty eyes”?
Snapping out of it, she focused on a question.
“How did you ever find this place”?
“I was swimming underwater and checking out the rocks, saw the opening, swam through, and found this! Talk about a major find”!
“It sure is”!
“You’re shivering! Here, let me warm you up some.”
“I am? I hadn't even noticed! I think I could stand here-forever!”
“I know what you mean! The first time I came here, I felt the same way, but I didn't have someone to pull me out of it, and by the time I finally did come back-a few hours later-I was extremely cold”!
“In the center of the glow, I saw the Great Pyramid and Sphinx! Did you see that?”
“I did, when I was here before. The vision must mean something; perhaps this place is a space/time link-to Egypt.”
Her thoughts ran wild, as arms pulled her close.
Here I am, in this enchanting place, in the arms of a tall, handsome man. What more could I ask for?
Looking up at him-her heart skipped a beat-and she could think of nothing but him! That boyish grin started its charm, as he bent his face toward hers, giving one of the most desirous of feelings: the heart-thumping hope of a kiss! A second later, soft lips were wildly exploring hers, in the most sensuous kiss she'd ever had: long and gentle-yet insistent! Wrapping her arms tight around him, she kissed him back just as passionately, while running her fingers up and down his strong, sculpted back. Trembling with anticipation under his touch, she could feel his whole body quiver, and waited for the next move.
Soft hands cupped her face, followed by the voice of sound judgement.
“Come on baby. Let's get you back to the beach, and warmed up!”
She didn't want that magical time to end, but knew he was right.
Back on the toasty beach, and walking toward the cave, it didn’t take long to warm up in the brilliant radiance of the afternoon sun.
“What a mystical place you showed me! It could’ve been-another dimension”!
“Interesting thought”!
Once beach towels were stretched out directly across from the secret jewel, rich lathers of tanning lotion were applied, for a relaxing soak in the rays.
After 15 minutes on each side, Jean-Leuc heard an amusing remark.
“Hey, are you roasted yet? We should get off this tanning bed, before we burn!”
“Right! Would you like to check out the local cuisine?”
“I'd enjoy that”!
With a covering of shorts and t-shirts, restaurant ready appetites led to the large front deck eating area, which had a mythical decor of mermaids and seashells-perfect accents to the gray weathered building. Over the main door, hung a curious sign that read ‘Chateau de Rousseau’.
“A family business”?
“No, It's just a coincidence.”
Stepping in, revealed a refreshing cool breeze and tantalizing aroma, which seduced them to enjoy a romantic meal inside. A warm and elegant sea life design spiced up the interior, blending with sky blue silk linens, that graced the tables beneath delicate vases of red roses. Richly paneled walls boasted an assortment of art: portraying Parisian life. Walking through the welcoming restaurant, a cozy window table was found, and nestled into.
“This place is exquisite! And we almost have it to ourselves”!
“Not too many people know about this place-not even the locals.”
“Hello, I'm Pierre. Can I get you a drink to start with?”
A somewhat short, paunchy man had arrived; he looked dark overall, with short brown hair, brown eyes, and a dark tan-but he had a bright smile.
“I'll have some lemon water.”
“And you, sir”?
“The same.”
“I'll be back in a minute, with your drinks.”
“What are you hungry for, pretty one”?
“I think, a Tuscan salad, and a summer plate of fruits and vegetables.”
“That would hit the spot! I'll order it for both of us”!
The enjoyment of a light, flavorful meal-blended perfectly-with watching the ever so gentle exchange of kisses between the sparkling sea waves, and shimmering sand. An unheard Ballad played for the two lovers, as the sun danced magically across them. Thankfully, the romance was undisturbed by the few people on the beach.
“What a soothing, romantic place you’ve shown me! I could easily stay here for weeks”!
“We could stay awhile; there is a twenty-four-hour kitchen, twenty-four-hour room service, and maid service! Would you like to stay?”
“Sure! Let's get two rooms for a few days, and during that time, we'll decide what else we want to do.”
With the meal over, a surprise met them at the check-in desk.
“You also run the check-in?” she asked Pierre.
“The person who is no
rmally here, is on break. As the owner, I help everywhere. What can I help you folks with?”
“We'd like two rooms, for three nights.”
“Part of that request is available, sir. I can give you one room, for three nights; it has a large living room, with a couch that turns into a bed.”
The offer was accepted, and a short walk up beautifully carpeted wooden stairs unveiled a spacious, sea life decored room. Setting their things on the plush, blue velvet couch, they walked out to the private balcony, and a cozy view. The view was made so much better, when strong arms hugged from behind.
“What a place! Thank you for bringing me here”!
“I just had to share it with you”!
Ah, this is where I belong! she thought.
His embrace was enjoyed for a minute-then she made an announcement.
“I'm going to take a shower; I'll save you some hot water.”
“Ok.”
The shower was refreshing, even though the set up was different than she was used to: it had no enclosure, and drained into the middle of the bathroom. She'd seen those around Europe, but had never used one.
One thing about it-there's plenty of room for two! she thought.
After the shower, she found the object of her affection relaxing on the balcony, and looking thoughtfully at the sea. He turned upon hearing her-sporting a boyish grin.
“Hey beautiful”!
Slowly, she ran her fingers through his slightly wavy hair.
“The shower's all yours.”
“All right, I'll be out shortly.”
After a few minutes, pleasant tunes were mingling with the falling water.
“He's got a really good voice!” she realized out loud.
Dreamily looking out at the sea, she mused about what fate had in store for them. Her thoughts were busy exploring a multitude of possibilities, and she didn't hear the exit from the bathroom.
“What are you doing”?
“Watching the waves.”
Turning around-he was nowhere in sight! A bit confused, she turned back to the sea.
“Hey baby, did you miss me”?
“I did! Are you just now coming out of the bathroom?”
“Yes. Why?”
“I thought-oh, never mind.”
Momentarily, her face was held by gentle hands, and the earth trembled-as desire pressed warmly upon her lips.