Monday's Tale

Hi Everyone,

I'm flying back today from meeting PK.  I hope to have a post up by mid week to tell all. She will probably beat me to it though, so I'll fill in the blanks.  

As I've said in the past, my writing brain is on vacation.   So, instead of a new story today, this is an excerpt from my book Taming Maria. The thing is, if you want to read more, the rest of the story is already written. :)

Life resumed much as it had prior to the earthquake. The difference was that she and Juan now worked together. She continued working in the vineyard as well as overseeing the horse breeding operations while Juan worked both in the office and in the orchard. His love was the cultivation and experimentation of grafting different varieties and types of fruit. He had learned much in college and wanted to put the knowledge to use. Their aim was to improve the quality of their products. He was more involved in this area of the ranch than with the cattle. That had never been his interest so although he was still the overseer of all ranch operations he hired people to handle that end.

Cole Redding was the person he hired to handle that chore. He was new to the area but came

with great recommendations from his former employer. A friend of a friend had inherited a ranch in California and offered Cole a job assisting him during the settling and consequent sale of the estate. Cole jumped at the chance to remain in California. He was born into a ranching family in Wyoming and although he loved ranching, he hated winter. Ranching during a Wyoming winter was a lot more difficult than a California winter. He was tired of trudging through frozen snow and ice to disburse feed to the cattle, tired of breaking through two-inch thick ice in a watering trough and having to make the same rounds every hour to be sure it hadn't frozen over. He hated going out in the dark and coming home in the dark, so tired and cold that it literally took all night to get warm only to go out and do it all over again the next day. Granted winter was only a season but it took a season to get ready for the winter and a season to recover from the winter, leaving the summer season, which sometimes seemed as if it only lasted six weeks, to do everything else.

Cole settled into his job quickly. He didn't come with many possessions, so instead of moving into the Ranch Manager's house, he chose to stay in one of the bungalows the seasonal workers used. His long lanky frame and easy gait along with his blond hair, and often a day or two's

beard growth, turned female heads wherever he went. He never paid much attention. He had grown up around women. He had two sisters of his own and a myriad of cousins who also lived on his family's ranch, so his attraction to women was more of a brotherly one rather than a romantic one. He was no saint and took pleasure when it was offered but he hadn't experienced any long-term romantic entanglements during his first twenty-seven years. That's why his reaction surprised him when he noticed one of the vineyard workers while coming home one evening. She was having a very animated discussion with his boss and based on what he overheard, he hoped she still had a job in the morning because he planned to get to know her name and much more.

                                                     ---oOo---

.

The following morning Cole stepped out of his bungalow and headed toward the stable. Today he had to go to the far pasture and went out to the stable to saddle the horse he'd been told was available to him. He enjoyed riding rather than driving the truck. The other workers could bring out the truck later if he needed any supplies. The horse was a beautiful chestnut stallion, about 16 hands. As he laid the blanket over the stallion's back, he was whispering to him when he heard someone speaking.

"His name is Diablo Roja. We call him Diablo for short. He is a beauty no? He makes beautiful babies, too."

He turned toward the sound and saw the beauty he had seen arguing with Juan yesterday.

"Yes, he is. Have you ridden him?"

"Many times, but my horse Domingo gets very jealous when I ride anyone but him."

"I can understand. Males get jealous when a beautiful lady looks at or gives her attention to another."

He flashed a grin, and the little lines around his eyes crinkled as the smile reached them.

"Save the flirting for someone else, vaquero. I am not interested."

She turned on her heel and walked out of the stable. Cole watched that pert little ass sashay all the way out the door. He still had no idea who she was, but she was a spitfire and he was more interested now than before. He wanted to get to know her better, wanted to smooth his palms over the peaks and valleys of her body and feel the texture of her skin. His jeans grew tighter just from his thoughts. Stop it, he told himself. He continued to saddle Diablo while thinking of ways to make her change her mind about him.

Maria was riding back toward home after her disappointing tryst with Juan at her usual breakneck speed. She spied the new vaquero on his way out to the southeastern pasture. He is a handsome looking man, he did seem interested in me, and maybe instead of rejecting him I should encourage him. Would it make Juan jealous enough not to reject my romantic requests? I bet it would.

All of these thoughts were going through her mind and she neglected to pay attention to the low-hanging tree branch in her path. Domingo was safely under it but the branch caught Maria's forehead and knocked her backward. She was so startled she let go of the reins and Domingo kept moving forward while Maria was lying back in the saddle with her arms at her sides. When Cole first spotted the horse, he thought the rider was just enjoying the ride, and thought how dangerous it was to ride so fast and not pay attention to the terrain. There was something in the way Domingo was running that seemed almost out of control. He turned Diablo and headed toward Domingo and the rider. As he approached, he realized the rider was the black-haired beauty. Cole reached for Domingo's reins several times before he succeeded but was finally able to bring the horse to a halt.

The girl was unconscious and he could see a large cut on her forehead. He managed to get her down from Domingo. She awakened as he was easing her down to the ground. She recognized him as she opened her eyes. Realizing she was in his arms she started kicking, causing him to re-balance them both.

"Ouch!" he yelled as her leg made contact with his hip.

"What the hell do you think you are doing? Unhand me, you fool."

"I will Miss as soon as I get you down so I can check that cut on your forehead."

"What are you talking about?"

"Apparently you had a mishap and somehow managed to get quite a gash in your forehead. I think whatever happened must have knocked you out for a bit. I was able to get the horse under control and get you down and here we are."

"Oh," she said quietly.

"Is it safe now for me to take a look at that cut, or am I in further danger from that foul mouth or any other moving parts?"

"I'm sorry," she said, and flashed him one of those earth-shattering smiles and he felt his temperature rise.

Cole poured some water from his canteen on to his neck scarf and cleaned the wound. Luckily, it did not look too deep and would not need stitches. She might end up with a little scar but it was close enough to her hairline that it would not mar her beautiful face. When he was finished, he put on some salve from his kit and offered her a drink.

"Thank you. I cannot keep addressing you as vaquero. Now that you have rescued me, I think I should know your name so I can thank you properly."

"I'm Cole Redding. I am the new -"

"I know who you are," she interrupted. I was in Juan's office when he was checking your references. I know all about you."

"And yet, I still know nothing about you, Miss."

"I think you probably know more than you think. I'm Maria Elena Bartolá."

"Bartolá, as in Diego Bartolá?"

"He is my Papa, so now you know who I am," she told him and flashed him that smile once again.

"Pleased to make your acquaintance Miss Bartolá and now that I know who you are, may I apologize for my earlier remarks."

"Please call me Maria, and your apology is accepted but I don't think…

 "I think you probably know more than you think. I'm Maria Elena Bartolá."

Without even realizing it, she was flirting with Cole and was enjoying every minute of their exchange. Maria began to notice him as a man, not just another vaquero, the way his hair fell over his eyes, his strong solid chest that filled out his shirt and the way his back muscles rippled as he bent over to retrieve his canteen. She noticed his sinewy arms beneath his white rolled up shirt sleeves. He had large manly hands, tanned and calloused, and she wondered how they would feel wrapped around her neck. She was angry with Juan and wanted to make him sorry for turning her away. Cole recognized the behavior but wasn't sure how to act or react. Not that he didn't want to wrap his arms around her and get the taste of her. He wanted her scent to fill his nostrils like the fresh sea air that surrounded them.  But for the moment, he thought it best to continue in the employer/employee mode.

"I have a job to do Miss Bartolá and should get to it. Are you well enough to get back home on your own, or should I accompany you?"

"My name is Maria, remember. I think I would feel better if you would ride alongside me, at least part of the way home, I still feel a little groggy," she answered him coquettishly.

 "I will explain to Juan if you get in any trouble."

I'm already in trouble, Cole thought to himself. Maria chatted to Cole all the way back to the house. He tried thinking of her as if she was his sister rather than the desirable woman she was. It wasn't easy but he liked this job and wanted to keep it. His daddy had always told him to stay away from the help. He assumed it meant both ways. Once they reached the courtyard entrance, he helped her down and guided her horse back to the stable. He told the stable hand to unsaddle and groom Domingo and to check for any cuts and then headed back out to the southeast pasture, hoping his tight pants didn't give him away.

"Lord, what a woman."

Since it's my book, I've taken some poetic license here so the story flows. See you later for more Aimless Ramblings.  This book and the others are available by clicking the icon on the side.

An Adventure

It began in the dead of night with a trip to the airport for both of us.  Boarding planes, wondering what we had gotten ourselves into.   After all, we were going to spend a weekend with someone we had never met in person.  Questions abounded.  Then, the moment arrived.  Sitting there watching the aisle and suddenly from fifty feet away I spotted her.  She had no need to find me, I was waiting, dressed in black and ready to pounce.

What happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas.

See you later for more Aimless Ramblings.

HOORAY

Today is the day.  Depending on what time you are reading this, I am either in the air or have already met up with PK.  We've been planning this trip for what seems like forever and I'm so glad it's finally here. I told PK to look for a little old lady to be coming her way and decided to dress all in black like all serial killers do.

See you later for more Aimless Ramblings.

SMART????

Yesterday, I joined the ranks of millions.  I finally came out of the dark ages and got my first smart phone.  It's taught me something already.  I'm not very smart.

I was perfectly happy with my old phone.  I could talk and text - I didn't need all that other stuff.  However fate stepped in and when we were in Galveston I laundered my old phone.  It didn't like it at all.  Unfortunately for me, I relinquished my upgrade to my grandson at Christmas and wasn't eligible for a new phone and would have had to pay a ridiculous amount of money unless I waited.  Instead I bought a 'burner' phone and some minutes to get me through the crisis.  

For someone who isn't very techo, a smart phone can render you stupid in no time at all. Others, my nephew who, of course, is of the techo generation, assured me I would become smart with a week or so.  He ran through about six thousand things I could do with my new phone.  So far, I know how to call, text, retrieve messages and take a picture. At least I think so.  Not bad for me.  He downloaded a flashlight - I guess so I could see what I am or am not doing.  

Just hope I remember all those things tomorrow when trying to meet up with PK in the airport.  Wish me/her luck.

See you later for more Aimless Ramblings.

The Townsend Solution

James and Rosalind were getting dressed to attend the third charity dinner of the week.  Tonight’s event was an art auction with the proceeds going to the Scherer’s family’s medical bills. Bill Scherer, a ten year old boy, was riding his bike home from school when he was hit by a hit and run driver.  He survived but the medical bills were staggering and the family didn’t have any medical insurance.

James sat on the bed watching his wife Rosalind.  She was a beautiful woman, even more so than when he first met her thirty five years ago. She had grown into her looks and now knew how to enhance those looks and use them to her best advantage. Back then, she was very different than she was today. She was wound up tighter than a drum at all times now and he hated what she had become. She was a grade A bitch, and was meanest to those closest to her.  She no longer had any contact with their daughter Josie, and they were unable to see their grandkids because of her treatment of their daughter-in-law Meg. Their son Jeff told her not to contact them until she apologized.  The only people she hadn’t managed to alienate was their housekeeper, Shandy, and him. Shandy needed the work and gave back as good as she got from Roz.  He, however, was a different story. He found himself spending less and less time at home.  He considered leaving her but couldn’t bear the thought of life without her.  Unfortunately, life with her was harder and harder to tolerate.  Wanting to give them every chance, he decided to have a “Come to Jesus” meeting with her very soon.

Arriving at the auction, she immediately headed toward her circle of society snobs leaving him to traverse the event by himself.  One of the other husbands came over and offered him a drink.

“Same old thing, isn’t it, friend.”

“Yes, and I am getting tired of it.  I feel like a book that is taken off the shelf periodically to prove it’s still of use.”

“I know what you mean.  I don’t understand it, why can’t they treat us the way they treat each other.”

“They do, don’t you notice the backstabbing that goes on at these events.  It’s a bitchfest.  Do you mean to tell me your wife doesn’t go through the whole litany of who said what who and who did what to who after each event.,” Jim said.

“Come to think of it, you are right.  They are not even nice to each other.  At least they pretend to like each other, I don’t even receive that much the last couple of years.”

“The way Roz has acted lately, I don’t like her either. She acts like a spoiled brat and I would love to just take her over my knee and spank the bejeesus out of her. Can’t believe I blurted that but that’s the way I feel.”

“Jim, I’ve often thought the same thing about Claire, so don’t be embarrassed.”

                                      ____________________

When the bidding started, Roz came over to Jim to tell him on what items to bid and not bid. One of the items on the Do Not Bid list was a romantic getaway for two.  The item included airfare and a ten day stay at a secluded lodge in the Blue Mountains of Jamaica.  Just the thing, thought Jim.

When he started bidding on the item, Roz pinched his thigh and gave him a look that would freeze ice.  He wasn’t deterred and the bidding continued well over the retail value of the prize but Jim refused to drop out.  He watched Roz’s face – there was that fake smile but her body was rigid.  Too bad , he thought, this is something we are doing.  When the other party finally dropped out, Roz sneered at him and sotto voice said, “you better plan on going alone because I’m not going.”

He smiled at her an in the same way replied, “we’ll discuss it later.”

“Go to hell,” was her response and she was off with her ‘friends’.

The minute they got in the car for the drive home, she started in on him.

“How could you go against my wishes and bid on that item.  That item was supposed to go to Bill Hutchins.”

“Did Bill Hutchins know that because I didn’t seem him bidding past the opening bid?”

“It doesn’t matter, you overpaid for a trip I’m never going to take.”

“Oh, I think maybe you will take the trip.  As I said earlier, we will discuss it at home,” and he turned on the radio to drown out any further conversation.

Roz stormed into the house, practically slamming the door in Jim’s face.  He accosted her arm and practically dragged her to the living room.

“SIT.” He bellowed at her.

Roz jumped because she wasn’t used to this kind of reaction from Jim.  She started to get up and he pushed her back down.

“I told you to sit and if you get up again you will be sorry.”

“Don’t you threaten me, you overgrown bully.”

“I may be an overgrown bully but I’m your husband and we are going to have this out, like it or not.   I love you, well I love the person you used to be.  This version, I don’t  like. Now sit there and be quiet and listen to the things I have to say.”

Jim began by telling her he had gradually watched her change as his position and salary increased and she entered the ‘club’ circle. He told her he didn’t change who he was and he didn’t understand why she did.  He said they may have more money and more possessions but he was still James Townsend, son of Margery and Bill Townsend. 

“You, on the other hand, turned into some hoity-toity bitch I don’t even know anymore.  Our only social life revolves around your charity functions and your hoity-toity friends because everyone else is shut out of our lives.  Hell, we don’t even get to see our kids or grandkids anymore because they can’t stand to be around you.  Don’t you see something wrong with this picture, because I do?”

“I don’t have to sit here and listen to this.  I’m going to bed.”

“If you try to get up off that couch….

She stood up and headed toward the bedroom.  He watched her go because he was so angry with her he didn’t dare follow her until he cooled down. He fixed himself a brandy and wondered how things got to this point.  He slowly sipped the brandy, the fiery liquid soothed him somewhat and when his emotions were back under control, he walked to the bedroom.

Roz was lying in bed reading.

“Has the brandy calmed you down any?” she asked with a sneer.

“Rosalind Elizabeth Townsend I want you to listen to what I have to say and I want you to listen good.  I will not live like this anymore.  I bid on that trip because it may be just what we need to turn this marriage around.  If we don’t come to some agreement, when we return I will be walking out that door.”

“Don’t threaten me.”

“I’m not threatening you, I’m stating a fact.  If you know what is good for you, you will be packed and ready for the trip two weeks from Saturday.  If you’re not I’m going to do something I never thought I would do.”

“And just what might that be?” she asked him snottily.

“I’m going to take off my belt and tan your hide, something I probably should have done a couple of years back and we wouldn’t be in this situation.”

“You wouldn’t dare.”

“I wouldn’t bet on it if I were you darling.”

The next ten days went on much like the last ten days.  There were two more charity events the following weekend;  a dinner honoring hospital volunteers on Saturday and a brunch on Sunday to benefit the school library.  Roz was being honored at the dinner on Saturday and when Jim listened to all the praise that was being heaped on his wife he wondered what woman they were talking about, certainly not the one who lived with him.

The day before they were scheduled to leave he still had not noticed any signs of her getting ready to make the trip.  He had packed his things and left them in a duffle bag in the bedroom.  Before he left for work, he wrote her a note stating he wanted to leave by 10 the next day and placed in on the kitchen counter right next to one of his belts.  He had a business dinner that evening and didn’t get home until around ten.  Roz was in bed asleep. He climbed into bed and laid awake until the wee hours of the morning thinking about what he was going to have to do in the morning. 

When he awoke, he was alone in bed.  He showered and went downstairs and found no sign of Roz.  He checked the garage and her car was gone. Damn her, why does she always have to make things so difficult.  He wasn’t sure what was going to happen now.  Do I sit here and wait for her and then make good on my threat?  Do I leave and go on the trip by myself?  If I do that, what happens when I get back, do I just pack up and leave?  So many thoughts were running through his head when he heard the garage door open.  He looked at his watch and saw that it was 9:50.  Bracing himself, he stood up and opened the door. 

“Are we taking your car or mine?” she asked.

“Mine,” he answered.

She took a suitcase she had obviously hidden in the garage and placed it in the trunk and then opened the car door and climbed in. 

Lord, that woman confuses the hell out of me. I never know what to expect of her.

“Well, are you ready or not?  You said 10:00, let’s get started,” she said to him.

“Good morning to you too, Roz.  I’m ready, wasn’t sure about you.”

He picked up his bag, closed the door and stepped into the garage.

A half-hour into the ride, not a word had been spoken.  He decided to take the bull by the horns.

“I’m glad you decided to come on this trip, Roz.  We need this.  I don’t know how you feel but these last couple of months, I don’t know why we are married.  The only time we seem to communicate is when you tell me what it is you expect of me.  Would you rather we separate?  Is that what you want?”

“No,”

“No, what?” he asked.

“No, I don’t want to separate. I’ve been thinking about the things you said.  I agree.  I don’t like who I’ve become either.  I think I’m going to need your help in changing the bad habits I seem to have taken on.  I hate that Lori and I don’t talk and I miss seeing our grandkids, and most of all, I miss us.  We used to have such fun together.  I can’t remember the last time we laughed together.”

“We’ll talk it out and figure out something.  The most important thing is that you want to change.  I have a couple of ideas that might help.”

“Does one of them include your belt on my backside?”

“Yes, that would be one of the things I had in mind.  How do you feel about that?”

“I’m not sure. I do know I took the threat seriously, then that little reminder on the counter yesterday made me squirm a little.”

“I’m glad you took it seriously because I meant it.  I would have hated to do it and I will hate if I have to, but I will because we are worth it.  So how about being the girl I married and everything will be fine?”

“I’ll try,” she said and reached for my hand, which was the first honest contact we had in months.

                                                 ___________________

The first week was great.  Roz was happy and cuddly.  They made love several times throughout the days, but on the eight morning, she woke up her old bitchy self.

“What’s wrong?” Jim asked.

“Leave me alone.”

He gave her space for a couple of hours.  He asked if she wanted lunch.  Her response was another snarky answer. 

“Okay, that does it,” he told her.  “Give me a reason for this latest snit,”

Her look had “fuck you” written all over it.  He unbuckled his belt and removed it and guided her over to the couch. He pushed her down over the back and his left hand held her in place while he raised his right hand and brought down the belt on her backside. 

“Are you going to answer me?”

“I will not.”

“Well then, I guess I have no choice.  When you’re ready to give me a reason for this snotty attitude, I will stop spanking you.”

Seven fiery spanks later he heard her mumble. He stopped and asked if she said something.

“I said, I’m sorry.  I was just testing you.”  He grinned to himself, she always was a piece of work.

He gave her three more strikes and laid down the belt.  He pulled her up and nestled her to him.  He was surprised when she didn’t pull away. He ran his fingers through her hair and rubbed her back.

“I didn’t think you would do it,” she told him.

“I’m a man of my word.  I like the way we’ve been the last couple of days, I won’t tolerate that kind of attitude any longer.  Your backside and this belt will become very well acquainted if you continue to act out and the next time I will bare your bottom.

Roz was on her best behavior the rest of the trip.  She now knew that Jim wouldn’t tolerate her bad behavior any longer.  Once she got back home, she made inroads in her relationship with their children.  Jim was so proud of her and loved having his old wife back.

The following week there was a scheduled charity event.  Jim wasn’t taking any chances that Roz would slip back into her bad habits.  Earlier in the week he purchased something he felt would help her remember.  The night of the event he told her he was going to give her a reminder to be a “good girl”.  She was sure he was going to spank her when he asked her to lay across his lap. Roz was waiting for that first spank, and was surprised when Jim began caressing her behind.

“What are you doing?”

He showed her his purchase and she cringed.  “I don’t need this Jim.  I promise I will remember to behave.”

“I didn’t intend to use it this evening, but I did want you to know that it’s another tool in my arsenal to make sure you continue to be good.  He continued to caress her behind and she was beginning to think Jim wanted to fool around before they left. 

“Jim, we don’t have time for this now.”

“Oh, honey, I know that.” He slapped her tush and stood her up.  She finished getting ready and they were out the door.  On the drive, she began feeling a strange sensation in her tush.

“Honey, do you have the seat warmers on?”

“No, Babe, I gave you your own personal seat warmer.  You’ll feel it for a while.  He reached into the glove box and handed her the tube of Capsicain Cream. 

“It will be handy in case of behavior emergencies,” he laughed

Roz didn’t think it was so funny.

Kicking Up

This had me rolling on the floor, hope it does the same for you.

Have a great weekend everyone.  I'm over at the other blog today  A  new story will be up on Monday.  See you then.

Spring into Spring

Happy Spring Everyone

Enjoy the day.  See you later for more Aimless Ramblings.

Rainbow's End

Happy St. Patrick's Day everyone.  The world is filled with Irishmen today, whether it's in your blood or not. I don't have to pretend, I actually do have Irish ancestry, and I will be wearing some green today.  Glad you  stopped by and hope you enjoy this week's story.

Katie Byrnes was born and raised in Rockwell.  She loved it and had no desire to leave like many of her friends and all of her siblings.  Winter in Rockwell, a coastal town on the northeast coast of the United States, was a quiet sleepy town except for March 17th.  St Patrick’s Day was bigger than any other holiday.  Not surprising, considering most of the population were either Irish or wish they were.

Back in the 1800’s when Irish immigrants flocked to America, and the Boston area in particular, many of  Rockwell’s ancestors were among them.  They settled in this area because in many ways it reminded them of home.  The rocky terrain, the green hillsides, waves breaking along the cliffs below were all familiar sights.  Life wasn’t easy for those early Irish immigrants and although many of them made a life in the city, some migrated to the outer regions to eek out a hardscrabble life farming the rocky soil.  The Byrnes family was one of the latter.

Her ancestors started out farming on leased acreage and eventually were able to buy their small plot of land.  The old farmhouse still existed, and although no longer habitable for humans, it was a reminder of their heritage and the roots bedded firmly in this rocky land.

The Brynes family no longer farmed for a living, because back during Prohibition Days, Paddy Byrnes engaged in bootlegging.  He transported the liquor from Canada to this sleepy little port.  Not on so grand a scale as to be noticed by law enforcement, they had bigger fish to fry,  but enough to keep the locals happy and fill his family’s pockets.  When Prohibition ended, Paddy opened a restaurant and bar with his ill gotten gains. Paddy’s Place flourished year after year and generation after generation. Katie Byrnes worked her magic in the kitchen and had somewhat of a cult following.

All relatives, friends and friends of friends came back to Rockwell for St. Patrick’s Day.  It grew larger every year, and all the local motels, and bed and breakfasts were filled to capacity.  Naturally,  Paddy’s Place was the gathering place for all. Along with every other family member, Katie’s brother Rob came home along with his work mate Sean and Sean’s brother, Shamus for this year’s celebration.

 Rob and Sean Murray had a successful home restoration business. Their reputation for fine craftsmanship and attention to detail kept them busy – too busy to have time for a personal life but they always managed to make time to get to Rockwell for St. Patrick’s Day.  This year, they convinced Shamus to join them. The three of them walked in the door and Rob scanned the room for his mother and sister. Mary Catherine always helped Katie in the kitchen on this day and through their busy summer season. 

“I wasn’t sure you two would be able to get away,” his mother said as she came to greet them.

“We wouldn’t miss this day here for anything, you should know that.”

“Mam, this here is my brother Shamus, we brought him along because he’s never had a proper St. Patrick’s Day.”

Shamus was reaching in to give Mam a hug when he spotted a vision across the room.  Coming toward them was a slip of a girl with strawberry blonde hair; a swinging pony tail from which some curly tendrils escaped, framing her face. Her bright blue eyes crinkled as she smiled and her creamy complexion called out to be touched.  Mam couldn’t help but notice she had been abandoned in favor of something more compelling and when she turned to look, a knowing grin appeared on her face.

“Ah, I see why I’ve been replaced,” Mam said as Katie appeared and was smothered by Sean and Rob.

“Katie, I’d like to introduce my brother Shamus.” She looked at him and smiled, offering her hand.  He couldn’t seem to formulate a word much less a sentence and merely took her hand and brought it to his lips for a kiss.

“You’re a charmer, aren’t you?” she said to him.

“Oh, yeah, a snake charmer, maybe,” his brother Sean said laughingly.  Rob laughed along with him but Shamus still couldn’t seem to speak.

By this time, the rest of the Byrne’s clan came to greet the newcomers and guide them to the booth tucked in the corner.  After a bit of visiting, Katie excused herself. She had to get back to the kitchen.  Shamus’ eyes watched her go.  He was mesmerized by the gentle sway of her hips as she moved away.

“Katie is a looker, isn’t she?” his brother Sean said.

“That she is, but it seems to be more than that Sean.  It’s strange.  I’ve never had a problem talking to anyone, anytime.”

Rob laughed.  “My sister, Katie, has had that affect on men before.  Growing up all of my friends were in love with her, but I don’t ever recall her being with anyone more than a time or two.  Of course, I’m not around that much anymore but I don’t think it’s changed.”

“If you don’t mind, I’d like to give it a shot.”

“Katie’s a big girl and makes her own choices.  Besides, I don’t want to be held responsible if you get your heart broken.” Rob smiled as he watched Shamus’s eyes follow Katie.

                                            _________________________

Shamus didn’t have much alone time with Katie that evening.  It was much too busy and crowded.  He managed to ask if she might be willing to go out with him sometime.  Her response was that he knew where to find her. 

Sean was her brother’s friend and partner but she never experienced anything but brotherly love for him.  Shamus was a different matter, she was in immediate lust.  He was as handsome as Sean.  Not overly tall, but well built, and the way his jeans molded to his body gave her shivers.  He had tons of black hair that he was constantly pushing off his face.  His eyes were the color of cold steel and with the two- day growth of beard he sported, a look that seemed to be so popular today, he almost looked a little sinister.  She loved that bad boy look and Shamus definitely had that look. She knew he had been taken with her but she didn’t get too excited. 

Katie had learned very early on men often found her beautiful and charming and wanted a piece of her.  There weren’t that many eligible men in and around Rockwell, and those that were, she had known from childhood so they were friends, not romantic partners.  The men that came for the summer season, were not interested in a local girl for more than the season and she had never allowed herself to be caught up in one of those summer romances. She’d wait and see if Shamus called, if he did she would take it one step at a time.

                                    ______________________________________

Shamus did call.  He called and asked her to dinner.  Since he didn’t live locally, she offered to meet him halfway between.   He would have none of it.

“I’m an old fashioned guy.  I pick up my dates at the door and deliver them back to the door at the end of the evening and I don’t want any arguments about who’s going to pay for what.  I pay, end of subject.

“Isn’t that a little macho for this day and age?”

“Maybe so, but that’s me.”

“Well, you are certainly chatty tonight.  Last week I thought you might be the strong, silent type and wondered how we were going to get through an entire evening with no conversation.”

“I was so overcome by your beauty…”

“I know your name is Shamus Murray and you’re Irish, but enough blarney, okay,” she told him.  He laughed  and said he would see her on Friday.

                                            ______________________________

 He picked her up on Friday and they went to one of the local restaurants.  They had a great evening.  Shamus talked about his life as a freelance journalist and wildlife photographer. He shared some of his travel stories.  Katie shared how she loved Rockwell and came back after college to take over the kitchen at Paddy’s when her Mam and Pap wanted to retire.  When they finally walked out to the car, it was snowing and had been for some time.  It was a slow treacherous ride home to her house. Katie invited him to spend the night.

“Are you propositioning me Katie?” 

She laughed.  “Not exactly, more like safeguarding you.  It’s a long ride back to the city and…”

“I see.  How can I turn down an offer like that?”

                                               ___________________

At her bungalow, she lit a fire, poured some brandy and they continued getting acquainted.  One thing led to another and soon they were in each other’s arms.

“Before this gets out of hand, I’ll go get the linens to make up your bed.”

“Are you telling me, I’m relegated to this couch, it’s not long enough for me.  I promise I’ll stay on my side of the bed.”

“Don’t whine; it’s not attractive. Maybe it’s not you I trust to keep away, maybe it’s me.  Besides, this couch opens into a bed, so you will have plenty of room.”

“Does that mean if I push a little harder, you might give in.”

“It means you’re sleeping out here,” and she pushed him down on the couch.  He pulled her with him and she landed over his lap.   His natural reflex took over and he gave her a couple of swats on her bottom.

“I’ve been wanting to do that and I couldn’t pass up the opportunity – after all you did  land in my lap.   You have a beautiful ass, well at least what I’ve seen and I’ve been fantasizing about it since we met.  Is that a problem?”

“No problem. It’s better than being an ass and by the way you have a beautiful ass too.”

“Why you cheeky little thing.  You are naughty and I am not at all sorry I spanked you.”

“You call that a spanking.”

“Oh, I can do much better than that.  

Katie woke first and started the coffee.  As the aroma wafted into the living room, Shamus woke and realized where he was.  He followed the aroma of the coffee and found Katie bending over in front of the oven.  Oh, look at that delicious tush, I would love to see that bare bottom over my knee.  His manhood twitched reminding him to quickly head for the bathroom. 

After coffee and a freshly baked scone he remarked to Katie he liked waking up to her.

“Oh, honey, waking up with me can be so much better.  Hang around long enough and you may just get lucky.”

“You, Katie, are a very cheeky girl and cheeky girls can end up, end up.”

“I think you are pretty cheeky yourself.  What you’re thinking is not what I meant.  I meant that I could prepare waffles, or French Toast, or crepes or any number of items far better than scones.”

“Wow, is my face red.” 

She laughed at him.  “You are way too trusting.”

“Why you little minx.”  He pulled her over to him and gave her a couple of swats on her amazing tush. He sat her down on his lap.  “I really think you need a proper spanking and I’m just the man to deliver.”

“Promises, promises,” she said and his manhood was at attention again, only this time she was still sitting on his lap and he was quite sure she could feel his attraction.

Shamus heard his cell phone ringing, the only problem was it was in the other room and he didn’t want to stand at the moment.

“Aren’t you going to get that?” she asked.

“It will go to voice mail.”

“Are you sure you don’t want to get that?” She squirmed around on his lap making his erection grow and harden.  The next thing she knew he was pulling her to him and kissing her deeply.  His twisted his fingers into that strawberry blonde hair and pulling her head  back and give him access to that soft spot vulnerable spot under her chin and down her throat. She moaned her pleasure and her hand drifted to his manhood.

“Not yet, my sweet Irish Lass.  I have other plans for you.” 

He stood, and carried her to her bedroom, dropping her down on the still tussled bed.  He pulled her nightshirt up over her head used it to tie her wrists together.  Rolling her over on her tummy he used his fingers to gently trail down her back, her tush, her thighs, down her calves to her ankles and the bottom of her feet. Then, he traversed the pattern up her calves, to the back of her knee, to her inner thigh and back to her bottom.  The next thing she felt was the flat of his hand on her right cheek. She just processed the sting when she felt the same sensation on her left cheek.  Two more spanks on each cheek and then rubbed the sting away.  His magic fingers trailed down her body again tracing the earlier pattern; and when she anticipated another smack on her bottom, his fingers found her slick wet channel and he pleasured her.  He rolled her over on her back and untied the night shirt.  She reached for him.  He pulled away and rose from the bed.

“Not today, there will be plenty of time for that.  This was all about you my beautiful Irish rose,” and headed to the shower to tamp down his raging manhood.

Katie lay on the bed, listening to the shower, and planning how she was going to lure Shamus back to bed.  Maybe she would have to rely on the luck of the Irish.  “Leprachaun, oh Leprachaun, where art thou?” she laughed as Shamus came out of the bathroom wearing a towel wrapped around is waist.

She smiled. Thank you, she thought to herself.

Have a great day everyone. Not too much green beer now. See you later for more Aimless Ramblings.

The Suspense is Over

There was a heckuva storm here last night but today the sun is shining brightly and I just looked out the window and spied the most lovely bluebird.  Could it be the bluebird of happiness?

If you've visited over at New Beginnings this morning, the suspense is over and you know who I will be getting to meet.  Our very first meeting will be in an airport, how cliche.  We've been planning this trip for over a year (well it seems that long anyway).  Originally, there were going to be others but try as we might we couldn't get it to work, so that will have to wait for another time.

As I commented on PK's blog, I'm not sure what a serial killer packs.  I think Katie suggested I should go all Dexter, now that would be a hoot.  A Dexter Grannie.  lol   So for the next ten days until take off, I will be taking any suggestions.

Don't forget to stop by tomorrow for a St. Patrick's Day Story.  All wearing of the green and all.  See you later for more Aimless Ramblings.

It's Friday

I can't believe it is already Friday.  We pulled into Dallas area Saturday nite.   We stayed at a place called Pilot Knoll, a campground on Lake Lewisville.  We've stayed there before and were only going to stay two nights, ended up staying four.  My brother and his lady came over for a barbecue on our last nite there.  We had a good time and the weather was beautiful.  It's good to see my brother having fun again.  He had a tough time through my SIL's illness and utlimate death, so I'm happy for him.  His lady is perfect for him and the only bad thing about her is that she is too good, (If there is such a thing). 

We're now at his place in our usual spot and it is like coming home.  Between California, Arizona and here, I know how to get everywhere I need to go.  It comes back the minute I get in the car.  It's funny how that works.

Ray and I are off to the movie now, so this is it for a bit.  I have a post up for Saturday Spankings on my other blog, so if you want to stop by and say hi, I'd love to see you.

  

I guess it's still March and question month, so if anyone has any, I will be glad to answer them.  I've enjoyed reading everyone's questions and answers, only wish I could think of some.

In less than two weeks I'm going to get to meet one of you.  I'm excited.  Any guesses?

See you later for more Aimless Ramblings.