Period of Adjustment Ch. 12-14

I couldn't argue a single thing she said. She had pulled all my emotions into perspective. There is no substitute for good advice, and Cassie was loaded with it. I couldn't help a smile. She had become my surrogate mother. The older woman who could keep me from making mistakes. A woman with experience in life that would help guide me.

I phoned Kayla just after six that evening, asking if I could visit her later on. She agreed and I said I would be there before eight. I wasn't giving myself much time to think about what I was going to say. I had already booked my flights to Kelowna. I would be there mid-afternoon tomorrow, rescue my car, and be back in Vancouver by noon the next day.

I rang the chimes just after seven thirty, realizing I was anxious to see her again. She opened the door and stood for a moment, smiling at me. I stepped into the foyer and shed my coat, hanging it on the stand by the door. She welcomed me into the living room and offered tea, which I accepted.

"Kayla, I've decided to go back to Vancouver tomorrow. It's time I began to organize myself and start my new job. I'm going to miss seeing you for the next ten days or so, but I think it's necessary that I go."

She nodded, not looking sad, but certainly not smiling. "I'll miss seeing you too, Colin, but ... it won't be for long. Where are you going to stay?"

"Downtown. There's a residence hotel near English Bay that I've booked for the next two weeks. I can decide to stay longer if I need to. It will give me a chance to look for a place at the same time. It's a two bedroom unit with two bathrooms. You're welcome to stay there when you come out. No strings attached," I hurried to add.

She smiled. "Maybe I'll take you up on that, as long as I can contribute to the cost. It would be more convenient, wouldn't it?" I must have sighed audibly when she said that, because she almost burst out laughing. "Are you really that nervous of me?"

The pressure was off, all of a sudden. "Yeah. Yeah, I guess I am. I'm trying very hard not to do or say the wrong thing."

"Why?"

"That should be obvious. I'm very attracted to you and I want to get to know you better and I'm hoping you want the same thing. I'm just being very careful."

"You sure are," she said, still with a cheerful look. She rose from her chair and came to sit beside me on the sofa, sitting sideways and putting her arm around my shoulders. She leaned in and kissed me. I mean, she really kissed me. I couldn't help but respond. I don't know how long it lasted, but it wasn't quick.

"Ohhhh ... Kayla ... that was nice."

"Mmmmmm ... I thought so too." She pulled me in again, and I turned more toward her, my arms going around her to pull her even closer to me. Again, it was a long, sensuous kiss.

She looked at me carefully, almost studying my features, my expression. I couldn't read what she was thinking, but it seemed like she was trying to decide something.

"I think it's time we got to know each other even better," she whispered, rising from the sofa. She took my hand and I stood, following her to the back of the house. Her bedroom was nicely decorated, softly lit, but not overly feminine. The bedspread was partially pulled down, ready for a single occupant. She stopped at the side of the bed and turned back to me.

I held her face in my hands as she began to undo the buttons on my shirt. She was removing all doubt about what she wanted, and I was just as sure it was what I wanted as well. It took very little time for us to undress one another and I marvelled at her incredible body. Soft, womanly curves with a hint of muscle in her arms, abdomen and thighs. She was what I imagined a female athlete would look like.

I was strangely at ease with her. I'm not sure why, but it was a relief that I could concentrate on pleasing her and not worry about myself. I didn't expect it, but that was how the evening played out. I spent a great deal of time in foreplay, which she appreciated. She was quietly demonstrative, and I slowly and deliberately attended to each perfect part of her.

When we finally joined, it was almost a natural, familiar movement. We were completely in tune with each other. Nothing needed to be said and nothing was held back by either of us. We were finding pleasure in each other without any constraints. It was a first for me, and I wondered if it might be a first for Kayla.

"That was lovely, Colin. I didn't expect it to be so perfect and so satisfying," she said as we lay beside each other. She rolled on her side, facing me. "You didn't surprise me, though. I sensed you weren't going to rush me. You spent a long time proving that." Her sultry smile and compliments were my reward. There wasn't anything I needed to say in response.

We were silent for several minutes, basking in the afterglow. At last, I expressed my hopes. "I'm sorry I have to go. Perhaps when you get to Vancouver, we'll be able to do this again?"

She smiled. "Count on it. I could use a steady diet of a considerate lover. You've left me with a very complete feeling, and I'm going to want more. It's a very nice experience."

When I left later that evening, I was walking on air. Out of nowhere we had connected, and Kayla made it plain she not only had no regrets, but she wanted to further our relationship. What more could I ask for?

I said my good-byes to Cassie and Denis the next morning at the breakfast table. I was very grateful for their hospitality and their support during a very difficult three weeks. The vacation had been an inspired idea. Just the separation between the violent events previously, and the wonderful distraction of Kayla, had made my visit extraordinary.

I called Kayla's cell later that morning as I waited to board my aircraft. We talked about staying in touch, which I promised I would do daily. She was already counting the days until the following Friday, when she would be free to fly out to the coast and join me. I would be counting along with her.

My flights were on time and I rescued my Maxima from the parking lot and began the long drive to Vancouver. By the supper hour, I was past the summit of the Coquihalla Pass and decided to call it a day almost where I had started this journey three weeks earlier. The motel in Hope still had a vacancy, and the nearby pub was open with a few patrons.

Throughout the flights and my drive, my mind was almost exclusively focused on Kayla. The unexpected encounter last night had been a wonderful surprise. I was inventing all sorts of scenarios relating to our reuniting next week. She seemed willing to share the residence hotel suite I had booked. I didn't want to take anything for granted, but I was thinking about trying to talk her into our looking for an apartment or condo that we could share.

I was going to call her when I realized it was almost eleven pm in Toronto. I would call her tomorrow morning as soon as I got up. In the meantime, I flopped in one of the pub's lounge chairs and waited to be served. A pint of ale and a steak sandwich later, I was feeling very relaxed and fairly certain I wouldn't have any trouble sleeping that night.

"Hi Kayla. I'm sorry I missed calling you yesterday. I forgot about the time change."

"Don't worry about it, Colin. I'm glad you called this morning. You arrived safely, I take it."

"Yes, it's crazy ... me forgetting to call you. I was thinking about you all the way out here."

"I've been thinking about you too. You were ... very gentle, very caring." "I didn't feel as nervous as I thought I might be," I admitted.

"Cassie told me you were someone special. I didn't really know what to expect. If she knew what we did, she'd be laughing right now, probably thinking what a brilliant matchmaker she is."

"Well, in fairness, it wouldn't have happened if she hadn't introduced us. I owe her for that. She always seems to be looking after me ... one way or another."

We talked a little more before we said goodbye with my promise to call her tomorrow. I drove directly to the hotel and checked in before noon. There were plenty of suites available and I chose one on the eighth floor with a view of the bay. It didn't take me long to get settled, and I struck out to find a restaurant for lunch. It was a sunny Friday, and the streets were full of people hurrying in both directions along the sidewalk.

I left a message for Harold that I had arrived in town and would check into the office Monday morning if that was convenient. He had my cell phone number to confirm an appointment. I left the car at the hotel and caught a cab, asking the driver where I would find some decent menswear shops. It was time to improve and expand my wardrobe. The driver's English language skills were limited, but he got the message and a short while later he deposited me at a busy city intersection.

Some careful exploration, I turned up a very nice independent men's shop in a large upscale mall right at the city center. I was under no financial constraints, and with the assistance of an experienced salesman, I found three suits, three more pairs of slacks, two sport coats and a navy blazer, several shirts, sweaters, and ties. I think I made his sales quota for the week that afternoon. Then again, he had what I wanted, and he figured out what I looked best wearing.

I took the shirts, ties, some socks, the blazer, the sport coats, and sweaters with me while the rest of the items required minor alterations. They would be ready Monday afternoon, and I could pick them up then. I was about to go to work for a professional organization and I wanted to look professional.

I had the weekend to myself and I chose to go exploring in my new city. I took a tour bus from the hotel and counted it as a very good decision. The driver was knowledgeable and the sights and sounds of this modern city were interesting. Fortunately, I had chosen a sunny day. On the spur of the moment, I decided to take the Skyride to the top of the local ski mountain and have dinner there. Again, I chose a cab for transportation.

I phoned Kayla each day, just let her know how much I missed her and looked forward to seeing her again. She had made her plane reservations and would arrive late Saturday morning. It couldn't come too soon. In the meantime, I arranged some flowers to be delivered Saturday morning to our room. I bottle of good champagne would be in the refrigerator, along with a nice selection of red and white wines, cheeses and fruit. A very elegant restaurant was available just around the corner from the hotel, and I booked a reservation for seven pm. I could always cancel it if Kayla was too tired.

I met with Harold on Monday. He had left a message late Friday afternoon that I could come in anytime on Monday morning. He was delighted I was back and was anxious to get me started. We would delay the indoctrination process until Kayla arrived, but I got an opportunity to familiarize myself with some of the staff and their assignments. It kept me occupied, which was good. It seemed like the ugly events of the past were slipping away and I was ready to start again. A new life and someone to share it with? That was my hope.

The days seemed to stretch out forever until Saturday finally arrived. Even though we had talked each day, sometimes twice, I was as excited as if I hadn't seen her for months. When I saw her walk into the baggage collection area I felt a jolt of relief. I walked quickly toward her. I could see her smile the minute she saw me and I knew everything was going to be great. She walked right into my arms and the kiss we shared was long and passionate.

"Welcome. I can't tell you how happy I am to have you here," I murmured.

"Me too. It's all I've been thinking about. A new life in a new city and ... maybe ... a new man too?"

"Only maybe?" I asked, a bit disconcerted.

She smiled, "We still have a lot to learn about each other, Colin. But ... I definitely like what I've learned so far."

I must have breathed a sigh of relief. She was almost laughing at my concern. The luggage finally arrived and I took her large, wheeled bag and a garment bag while Kayla picked up her carry-on. Within five minutes we had checked out of the parking lot and were moving toward the city.

As I drove, we talked about her trip and what she had been doing in the past week. She had supper with Cassie and Denis last night and had a chance to thank them for introducing us. I seconded that. She had made arrangements to ship her furniture and motorcycle out when she found accommodation. She had sold her car to a neighbour at a reduced price. Their son needed transportation to college.

The townhouse had been listed for sale and her agent said he expected some very aggressive bidding on it. He seemed confident that the rule of location and the hot market for the product would surprise and please her. In the meantime, the rest of her clothes and her furniture were in heated and protected storage.

I was sure she would like the hotel suite. It was a small apartment and would do until we found a place or places to live.

"That's something we should talk about, Colin. I'm not sure about us living together yet. I'm fine with the hotel for now, but ... you'll forgive me if I'm being cautious. I want to be sure about us before we make a big commitment like that. I hope you understand."

I nodded. I didn't like it, but I understood. I thought I was sure, but she was not. I wasn't going to screw up this opportunity by trying to force it. "I'm fine with that. Let's let things happen at their own pace. You are definitely worth the wait," I said as upbeat as I could be.

She leaned over and kissed my cheek. "Thank you."

When I ushered her into the suite, she was all smiles. I had left the living room drapes open, and the view out over English Bay and the North Shore mountains was at its best. Kayla stood before the window, gazing out over the vista. A dozen freighters sat at anchor awaiting berths in the inner harbour. Vancouver Island was silhouetted in the distance. It was a picture-postcard welcome and it buoyed her spirits.

"When I was here a couple of weeks ago it was a bit gloomy, raining off and on. This is lovely. Now I know why people love this place."

"Yeah. No snow on the mountains yet, but a month or two from now, you'll be skiing if you want to, or sailing, or playing golf."

"Or maybe riding my Harley," she grinned.

She took a nap that afternoon to prepare for our reservation at the restaurant. It was going to be a long day for her; she was still operating on adrenalin. The excitement of the trip and new city was still fresh. I didn't want to wear her out. I slipped into my bedroom and turned on the TV, watching a college football game while Kayla slept. I fell asleep myself sometime during the half-time. The excitement of having her here must have gotten to me.

I awoke just before six pm and I could hear Kayla moving about in the living area. I gave myself a few moments to stretch and gather my senses before opening the door and joining her. Maybe I should have given myself more time. When I walked into the room, I stopped and stared at the sight before me. Kayla was in the midst of calisthenics. What caught my immediate attention was what she was wearing: a one piece spandex outfit that only barely covered all the essentials. There was no possible way she was wearing anything beneath it.

I stood and watched, transfixed. If she was aware of my presence, it wasn't apparent. She was going through some sort of aggressive routine that was obviously familiar. When I caught my breath, I leaned against the doorway and took in the sensual beauty of her movements. Kayla was no lithe ballerina or gymnast. She was all woman, and the spandex was straining to contain that fact.

My erection was becoming increasingly obvious, but I wasn't about to disturb her efforts. It was too erotic and too fascinating to do anything but watch. I finally figured out that she was aware of my presence. Some of the exercises required her to turn her head and she couldn't help but see me as she did. Still, I stood unmoving, mesmerized by her fluid movements.

At last it ended. She bent over, her hands on her knees, breathing heavily as she began to recover from her efforts.

"That was incredible," I said, finally finding my voice.

She looked over at me and smiled. "I've been neglecting my exercises. I had to get back into my routine."

"I know what you mean. I've been a month with very little workout myself. I did a bit when I was in the Caribbean, but very little since."

"We'll, we can always work together, you know." It was all I needed to hear.

"Done! Just name the time. Finding a spandex outfit like yours may be a problem, though."

She laughed as I hoped she would. "I don't think that's what you need. Something more conventional I'd say."

"You're not going to wear that out in public, are you?"

"Well ... if I do I might add some undergarments. Wouldn't want to upset the natives, would I?"

The banter had definite sexual undertones to it. "The natives aren't ready for that. Overkill, I'd say."

She smirked and strolled around the living room, walking off her tightening muscles, stopping to stretch now and then. I remained leaning against the doorway, watching this elegant woman as she paraded in regal fashion. Her posture and stride were something to behold, further emphasizing her athletic beauty. It wasn't an act, it was who she was. If she appeared to be aloof, it wasn't on purpose. It was natural for her to be this way. I was simply happy to have broken through that barrier.

"Time for a shower," she said at last, walking toward her bathroom. There was no invitation for me to join her, but I didn't expect one. Besides, I hadn't worked up a sweat other than in my imagination.

Our dinner that night was excellent, just as I had been told to expect. Kayla wore a simple black evening dress, knee length with a modest display of cleavage. She apparently wasn't into more daring exhibitions of her natural beauty. That was fine with me as well. Even so, she had the attention of every red-blooded male in the room.

Unlike the first time we had made love, I was much more keyed up and nervous later that evening. Perhaps it was the expectation, or just my desire to possess her body again. I had to calm myself down and the only way I could think of was to prolong my foreplay. Kayla, however, refused to cooperate.

"No ... Colin. Don't ... I want you now. I've been waiting for this all week and I want you now."

"Kayla ... I won't last too long. I'm sorry."

She put her finger over my lips. "Leave that to me. I'm not going to be very long before I come either. I can feel it."

We were both right. It may have been five minutes, but I doubt it. Nonetheless, she aggressively worked to get me ready for another session and with her expert assistance, it didn't take very long. The second time was much better and much more fulfilling, particularly for her.

"We seem to be a good fit," I said as we lay in the aftermath.

"Hmmmm. You work hard to please me. You're very unselfish. That's a rare thing for me."

"I wouldn't feel as good as I do now if I didn't please you."

"See ... that's what I mean." She was stroking my face with her fingertips and she wore a look of complete contentment. It was a contagious feeling.

"Colin ... why don't we extend our stay here while we look for a place to live. I'll help with the cost. I like this place already, and I haven't even been here for a day."

"Fine. Let's not worry about who pays. Besides, we don't want to rush into anything when it comes to buying property. If you're happy here with me, I'm more than happy to be with you. I get the benefit of two spectacular views; one outdoors and one indoors."