| Subject: The Ubiquitous Mr. Lovegrove Part Five |
Author:
Schnee
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Date Posted: 14:34:30 03/03/01 Sat
In reply to:
Schnee
's message, "The Ubiquitous Mr. Lovegrove" on 14:10:08 03/03/01 Sat
With our arrival at the Knowles’ yacht, La Luna, Michael and I are greeted warmly, as Desiree bids us to come aboard. Our bags are taken by Pierre, as we exchange introductions and pleasantries with Desiree. I soon find myself annoyed with her flirtatious manner toward Michael. But before long, Richard joins us on deck.
“Michael, I’m glad you were able to accompany Nikita today. Keeps the testosterone/estrogen levels more equal aboard the ship. With just Desiree and Nikita, I’d be forced to endure conversations about fashion, hair, and make-up,” Richard quips.
Uncertain that Richard’s attempt at male bonding was as sincere as he sounded, I look toward Michael to see his response. Michael politely smiles and replies, “This is quite an impressive boat you’ve got here. Must have set you back a good bit.”
“Ah, yes. But it’s well worth the price. Let me show you both around.” Richard says as he bids us to follow.
Michael steps aside, allowing Desiree and I to follow first. Going below deck, we start by touring the modernly equipped galley and elegant dining area. We soon come to know that the Knowles have several crew members aboard, one of which is their cook, who is preparing lunch.
Next we enter the spacious living area with a full entertainment center stocked with movies on DVD and music CDs. Additionally, there is bar stocked with a large selection of liquor. Richard offers to prepare drinks for everyone. Desiree and I opt for a white Zinfandel, while Michael asks for a brandy. Richard pours himself a brandy as well.
Heading toward the rear of the boat, we reach the master bedroom. This room has a nautical theme, with blue and gray colors. Next we reach another bedroom, where our items have been placed. The colors of this room are warmer, with corals and sandy beige. A seashell and fish theme pervades.
With our tour complete, we return to the front deck to sit and enjoy the view as the boat begins to cruise up the coast. Michael appears unlike I’ve ever seen him before. Wearing a light shirt unbuttoned halfway and jean shorts, he appears very much at ease. Desiree begins asking about where he grew up, since she detected his accent.
As he explains, I fade away, watching the rocky coastline and the other boats on the Mediterranean. With the sea air blowing through my hair, I find myself caught in my own reverie. Finally, I turn back to find his green eyes smiling on me.
~~~~~~
As I explain to a very intent Desiree about my upbringing near Marseilles, I notice that Nikita is staring off toward the coastline. Her blonde hair whips behind her as she peers into the wind. Her blue bikini top shows through her thin, almost sheer shirt. As she turns back, I see a hint of cleavage peaking through. My beautiful valkyrie, wild and mysterious. What secrets do you hide?
Avoiding more of Desiree’s questions, I move to sit beside Nikita on the padded bench. I casually place my arm across the rail behind her. Nikita turns the conversation to travel destinations on the French Riviera, indicating this is her first trip in this part of France. Desiree begins to answer her first.
“I just adore Cannes. The nightlife, the people. It’s a beautiful city that attracts beautiful people.”
“Cannes is nice off-season. I like to explore it when the crowds are gone. But I prefer Marseilles. It’s richer in history and tradition. And it will always feel like home to me, even though I don’t get there much anymore.” I reply. From her art background, it does not surprise me that she looks for the beauty in the things around her. But I am surprised how superficial she appears. Perhaps it is only for show?
“Then you haven’t taken Nikita to Marseilles, yet?” Richard deduces.
“No. It’s not so simple considering she’s not mine to take.” I reply. Nikita looks away in response. “But perhaps one day.” The duality of my statement is intentional.
I begin to trace my fingers along her neck. She leans forward, shrugging away my touch, but I see a smile cross her lips.
“Lunch should be served very soon.” Richard switches the topic. “Louis is a master. I can assure you that anything he makes is pure heaven. I don’t look forward to the day someone steals him away.”
Then looking around, Richard asks, “Anyone need a refill?”
I indicate that I’m fine, but Nikita and Desiree ask for another glass of wine. Richard returns below to get the drink refills.
“So Michael, what do you do for a living?” Desiree asks.
I sense a bit of tension in Nikita’s body. But I’m prepared for the question and answer it with ease.
“I’m a security consultant. I design security systems for both businesses and residences.”
“Ahh…I see. A technical field I’d know nothing about.” Desiree muses, then changes the topic again. “I’m glad to see you came prepared Nikita. After lunch, you and I can lounge out here in the sun, while the men can try out some fishing. I think Richard brought along a new pole. You do fish, Michael?”
“I haven’t in years. But I’m sure I’ll manage.” I answer.
My suspicions are heightened as the actions of our hosts appear too polite. Too friendly. Like the spider enticing the fly into its web.
Though the question remains—what is their angle?
~~~~
Having spent the afternoon in the sun, Desiree and I go below deck to freshen up. I’m taken off guard as Desiree follows me into my room. She comfortably plops down on my bed as if we were old chums.
“I know it’s rather forward of me to ask this, but….” She starts. “What is the nature of your relationship with Michael?”
Her question throws me for a second as I try to fathom what she’s really asking.
“Nature?”
“Is it only about the sex? Is he just your boy toy? Or does it go deeper?” Desiree asks bluntly.
A choking laugh escapes. I really wasn’t expecting such directness. What does she want from me? Permission to fuck him? I’ve seen her eyeing him all afternoon. I turn away from her, afraid of what could come out of my mouth.
“The sexual chemistry between you is quite apparent. You both hold such beauty. Strength. Passion.” Desiree now stands behind me, accentuating each word. Her fingers brush my cheek before running through my hair. I see the intent expression on her face in the mirror. Intent on me!
“It’s not often that Richard and I find the same woman attractive.”
I suddenly feel naked. Vulnerable. It takes all my strength to keep myself from pulling away from her touch. I had not expected this turn of events. Acting too receptive could backfire while shunning her may prove to be detrimental. I need to find some middle ground.
“My relationship with Michael is more than casual. I’d venture to say he even loves me.” I turn towards her.
“So you’d say it’s on solid ground? Despite your husband?” she further enquires.
“Yes.” I say with some uncertainty, unsure where this is leading. I repeat my affirmation more strongly, not wanting her to misconstrue my tone. Desiree smiles at my response.
“Perhaps an arrangement can be made, if all parties are agreeable and open to alternatives. Think about it.” Desiree grazes her fingers against my chin in an admiring way. As she walks to the doorway, Michael appears. She presents a large flirtatious smile to him, before exiting.
Michael gives me a questioning look, undoubtedly witnessing the stupor on my face.
Still in disbelief I merely utter, “We’ve just been propositioned.”
~~~~~
“I see.”
That’s all he could say. As if it had been no surprise to him. Instead his eyes carefully study me. Unblinking.
I turn away, annoyed with his lack of reaction. Kneeling down, I root through my duffle bag, looking for my hairbrush. When I finally locate it, I turn toward the mirror and begin to vigorously brush my wind-tossed hair. Ripping through the knots is almost therapeutic for me at this point.
How could I love a man I find so aggravating at times? One so difficult to read or understand.
After several strokes, Michael takes hold of my hand, removing the brush from my grip. He motions for me to look forward. As I comply, he begins to lightly brush my hair. Closing my eyes, I try to relax with each rhythmic stroke. But his proximity has my skin tingling. Only Michael could make such a simple thing become so erotic.
With the sound of my hairbrush hitting the surface of the bureau, I open my eyes. Focusing on the image in the mirror, I see Michael gently pushing my hair from my bare shoulder. He leans in, brushing his moist lips against my skin. A soft gasp of delight escapes my lips as he reaches for my breasts, stroking their firm tips beneath the fabric.
I know I shouldn’t let this progress, but I lack the will to stop him. We are acting as lovers, after all. But I fear I will only hurt him more in the end. That’s the last thing I want to do.
I turn toward him, taking his chin in my hand. I feel myself getting choked up as his deep green eyes filled with passion meet my pale blue ones. I look away with uncertainty, fearful he can see the secrets I hold inside. Still angry with myself, I don’t want him to forgive me so easily.
But he doesn’t let my mixed feelings hinder him. Instead, his strong hands lift me, placing me atop the smooth surface of the bureau. My knees separate as he pushes forward to tease me with his lips, each time coming closer but withholding the kiss. When his lips finally touch mine, I return his kiss hungrily, consumed with my anticipation. He grasps my buttocks pulling me close, pressing his body against mine. My own arousal increases exponentially as I feel his eagerness.
Caught up in our embrace, I’m unaware of his actions, until I feel the bikini top slide from my body. I quiver as his mouth explores my body in search of bringing me pleasure. I thread my fingers in his thick hair as the longing within me builds.
He pauses and looks up at me with a glint in his eye. Michael slides his shirt off with ease, tossing it onto the chair. I bite my lip as my hands caress his bare chest. Leaning in for another kiss, he lifts me from my seat atop the bureau. I cling to him until he lets me down. Then, Michael motions with his hand for me to turn around. Facing the mirror, I see his image behind mine. I grin with the realization of his intention—to have me view our lovemaking.
He reaches to unfasten the button of his jean shorts. Hot and impatient, it seems like I’m waiting an eternity.
“I could help you with that,” I tease.
“I’m sure you could. But I have something else in mind that you can help me with.” Michael leans in and whispers.
His hand reaches around, pressing against my stomach pulling me fiercely against him, as his need matches mine. I expel a moan as I feel his hardness pressed firmly against me. I bite my lip as his fingers reach to test my moist depths and move to stroke me. I whimper with each wave of pleasure, pushing harder against him. Michael tastes my shoulder and neck, nipping me with his teeth as I writhe in his arms. Losing control, I moan his name.
Pushed forward, I reach to grasp the bureau before me. I rest my head on my arms, gazing at the image of Michael above and behind me. He draws a line down my lower back with the tip of his tongue and looks up with a pleased grin. Grasping my hips, he leans in closer. I feel his warm breath on my back. I close my eyes briefly as he moves to enter me with a gentle thrust followed by a more urgent one. Deeper and harder, I’m caught between the building pleasure and pain.
My breathing becomes more labored as does his. With each stroke, dizzying euphoria sweeps over me. One wave after the next, I soar higher and higher. My legs begin to feel weak beneath me, as my body tingles with splendid sensation. Michael’s grip becomes tighter with his last few thrusts. I feel his control crumbling. A cry slips from his lips as he trembles with release.
After a moment, we slip to our knees, spent. Just over my own breathing, I hear him gulping for air as he moves in closer to caress my cheek with his lips. Lifting us back on our feet, he backs me toward the bed. Michael takes a seat and looks up at me with his sparkling green eyes. Childlike, I climb into his lap, exhausted and content. Reaching my arms around his neck, I rest my head against his chest, hoping the moment might never end.
~~~~
Nikita rests her head against my heaving chest, out of breath herself. I touch my lips to her forehead. We just sit on the edge of the bed, content holding each other.
She loves me. She loves me not. Do I believe her actions or her words? Does it even matter?
Yes.
Yes, it matters to me. I want to possess more than her body. I want her soul. The question remains whether Section took it from her. And from me.
I feel her hair against my chin as she rests against me, breathing a deep sigh. She traces her fingers across my chest with care. Nikita always had difficulty with Valentine missions, separating the emotional aspect from the sexual intimacy. Has she overcome that? Or had that always been for my benefit? Was I just an extended Valentine mission? Section’s number one Valentine operative duped by another Valentine. My own material. The irony of that thought brings a stifled laugh to my throat.
Nikita looks up at me with curiosity. I just shake my head and answer, “I was remembering another time. Bauer.”
She raises an eyebrow. “Who could forget that?” She pauses, looking thoughtful. “A lot has happened since then.”
I know she understands what I mean. It doesn’t need to be spelled out. But she fails to realize that it’s a suitable answer to cover for what I’m really thinking. As much as I would like, I can’t blind myself to these possibilities. My ten years in Section has taught me that deception is a way of life—a way to survive. And Nikita is a survivor.
I still see a sadness in her. It’s subtle. Unnoticeable to anyone else. But I see it. She still clutches her secrets deep inside. Our trust remains shattered. Scattered pieces on the ground. Can we piece it back together?
Only if she works with me rather than against me. I’m just as uncertain today as I was that day in the woods as to where her loyalty lies. Making love to her has only brought me more doubts than answers.
She looks to me again before speaking. There’s the sadness again. I’m sure of it. She breathes a sigh before breaking the silence.
“We better get cleaned up. They’re expecting us to dine with them. They may begin to wonder what’s keeping us.” Her fingers smooth my hair behind my ear with tenderness.
Instead of releasing her, I lean in to nibble her earlobe, whispering, “I’m sure they already know. More than likely the mirror is two-way and we’ve been added to their video collection.” I grin as her reaction slips through before she catches herself. I finally relent and let her leave my arms.
I lean back onto the bed proudly as I watch her move toward the bathroom to shower. Nikita has always been a challenge. One I can’t seem to walk away from. Even now.
~~~~
After an exquisite dinner created by Louis, we move above deck to enjoy the pleasant evening air. Desiree is already working on a good buzz, chattering at Nikita who looks less than interested. Richard casts his attention at the women’s conversation, since he and I appear to have little in common. The afternoon of fishing exhausted his repertoire of niceties.
Excusing myself, I head below deck. Nodding at Louis in the galley, I walk toward the lavatories. But once out of his sight, I make a detour to stop at our hosts’ room. I’m not certain what I’m looking for, but that has never stopped me before.
First, I look through their drawers. Just clothing. And an envelope of pictures. Finding these interesting, I stash them in my pocket to inspect more closely later. I press on, moving to the bathroom medicine cabinet. There I find a vial of prescription anti-depressants. It seems Desiree has some problems. Besides Richard. Mixing liquor and pills, such a healthy combination. I replace the vial in the cabinet and see nothing else noteworthy. As I retreat toward the door, I hear a faint noise. Closing out the lights, I hide in the shadows and wait.
My body tenses as I hear the door handle turning. I remain very still as my eyes focus on opening door. I breathe a sigh of relief. It’s Nikita. I slowly come from hiding as she shuts the door behind her. Her eyes glare at me.
“What do you think you’re doing?” She whispers with irritation. “If we get caught snooping around in here….”
“I’d just explain.”
“Explain what?”
“That we like the thrill of possibly being caught in the act. The act of trying out their bed.” I say, glancing toward it.
“Oh, wonderful. That way they can offer to join in with us,” Nikita replies, full of sarcasm.
“I’d just indicate that I don’t like to share. I never have. Since I was a boy.” I reply matter-of-factly, touching her face gently.
“Don’t get any ideas, mister. You’ve already had your way with me today. We need to get out of here. Now.” Nikita responds, moving my hand from her face.
“I’d like to think you were a willing participant.” I look her directly in the eye.
Nikita lets my last comment pass and impatiently pulls me toward the door, “Let’s go!” She carefully opens the door and peers out. The coast is clear. Nikita leads the way as we creep down the hall past the empty galley. As we reach the stairs, we meet Richard coming down.
“Ahh, there you two are. We were beginning to wonder.” Richard indicates. “I was going to refresh everyone’s drinks.”
“No more wine for me. It’s gone straight to my head.” Nikita replies. “Some hot tea would be nice, if it wouldn’t be trouble.”
“Not at all. And for you Michael? I’ve got a splendid local beer you may want to try.”
“Sure. That would be fine.”
As Richard gets the beverages, Nikita and I navigate up the stairs to rejoin Desiree.
“Don’t try anymore stunts like that. Please.” Nikita growls in a whisper to me, looking grim. She grabs my wrist tightly, emphasizing that she’s serious. Then, Nikita quickly releases me and replaces a smile on her face as we come into Desiree’s view.
“I was beginning to worry that you might miss a picturesque sunset. But it looks like you’ve made it in time,” calls out a bubbly Desiree.
As Nikita peers over the side toward the reddening sky, I slip my arms around her, leaning my head against hers. ‘Picturesque’ pales in comparison to this marvelous splendor of color splashing onto the water below.
I look on knowing that nightfall will follow shortly. And with darkness, comes much uncertainty on a boat named for the orbiting satellite above. La Luna. The moon.
~~~~
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