Chapter 6
Alison was surprised to see Helen’s name on the screen so early in the morning.
“Helen, are you all right?” she asked
“I’m just fine, honey. I called to see if you have time for lunch. Both of my men are occupied today and I didn’t want to spend such a beautiful day alone. What do you say?”
“I guess we could, if we meet early. I have my coaching call with Henry at 2:00, and I won’t miss that for anything.”
“I understand. Can we agree on 11:30 at George’s by the river?”
Alison thought for a minute, calculating the time she’d have to leave.
“Let’s make it 11:00. I want some time back here to prepare for his call.”
Helen’s head flipped back and she emitted a heartfelt laugh. “That’s it, girl. That’s why he kept you and fired me. See you then.”
Alison was suddenly unsure if she’d done the right thing. She found herself outgrowing their relationship. She could not imagine sitting down to talk trash for two or three hours, especially about her two men. Her thoughts turned to Henry. She hoped he was all right and the chose to proceed on that basis.
Going into her desk, she pulled out notes she had written for this call, almost a dozen questions, far too many for a forty minute session. She wished he was here to go over them. There was so much to learn. And, she just wished he were here.
Helen looked stunning in a new summer outfit, a gift from George she said, who went with her to pick it out. He didn’t mind sitting while she modeled some new arrivals. Alison knew then that this was the last they’d lunch together. As they waited for their entrees, Helen announced her decision to accept George’s proposal.
“He’s a wonderful man,” she said gleefully, and he loves me. What’s more he’s not so pushy, sexually, I mean. Lou, that’s all he wants is sex. Dinner out and sex.”
Alison looked longingly at her phone, praying for a call. To her surprise, it rang. She did not recognize the number.
“Hell-o.
“Yes, this is she.
“Yes, I remember. That was some months ago as I recall.
“Yes, I’m very interested.
“Monday at 9:45 a.m. That’s fine. I am looking forward to it. Thank you for calling.”
Helen stared at her for a moment before asking, “So, who was that?”
“It was the HR department at Morgan Engineering. They called me in for an interview on Monday morning. For a supervisor’s job. I don’t remember sending them a résumé.”
“That’s great!” Helen exclaimed to the annoyance of other diners. “I’m so happy for you.”
“Don’t be too hasty. First of all, it’s a manufacturing company. I know nothing about manufacturing. Secondly, I’m not sure if it’s what I want to do. Thir…”
“Stop a minute, honey. Think about this. You’ve got an interview. With fifteen million people out of work, you got an interview. Second, it doesn’t matter if you get the job or not. You get the opportunity to experience the interview process, to hear their questions, to ask some of your own. Honey, you’re going to need that experience when you decide you’re ready. This is a gift.”
Alison sat quietly for a few minutes considering Helen’s counsel.
“You’re right. It’s been so long since I’ve sat across from someone to discuss my future, I guess it doesn’t matter how it goes, as long as I put myself out there in a professional way.”
“That’s my girl. Of course, that’s why I’m marrying George, so I won’t ever have to do that. My pre-nup will take care of that. But, for you, it’s perfect. Wait ‘til you tell Henry.”
“Oh, right, Henry.” Alison looked at the time and sighed in relief. There was still plenty of time. She ate slowly, and thought about what Henry might say. She left early, with apologies to Helen.
Henry’s call was right on time.
“Alison?”
“I’m here, honey, are you all right?”
“Everything’s fine here and we’re getting a lot done here.”
“And the war?”
It’s not a ‘war’. Well, maybe for them it is. But we’re far from it. I’ll be fine. Are we ready?”
“Yes, but first there’s some news.”
Henry sat up in his chair as Alison recounted the conversation with the HR department. He was quiet for some time. When he spoke, it was in a low voice and paced.
“That’s a wonderful opportunity. And Helen is right, even if it’s only an interview, it gives you valuable experience.”
“But manufacturing?”
“So you’ve never done it before. You have worked with people, you know how to influence and lead others. Don’t over think it. Just do your homework on the company and demonstrate your talents. We both know you have them.”
“I’m not so sure.”
“I am. Trust me.”
Smiling, her head tilted to one side. “I miss you.” Thank you for your guidance.”
“You’re welcome. Let’s stay on track. I will call you tonight to regale you with all my successes and to tell you what’s in my heart.”
“You’re right. For starters, I have some questions. …”
Alison’s spirits soared as she finished her conversation. She knew they couldn’t get through all the questions but what they did discuss served to pump her up. She understood what he meant, that she was ready for a trial run and the interview was step one. She went straight to the internet to research the company using some sites Henry knew of that would help. She actively filled the hours between their talks with work and play, taking some time to meditate and maintain her balance. She realized how much Henry meant to her, and how far she had outgrown Helen. It was perhaps time for new friends.
They passed the next few days happily engaged in learning more about each other and finding so much to like. For Henry’s part, it was like a dam had burst, one of his own making. He found himself sharing more and laughing like never before. On Sunday night he told her that his clients said he was different, a bit less formal. They had always enjoyed him and his quick mind but they felt like he was holding himself back. “They like the new me. It is your gift to me.” he told her, and it brought them both to tears. Just eight more days, he told her, to her surprise. The new, happier Henry is also more productive. “Anything to get back to you.”
Monday morning at 9:45 a young lady from HR greeted Alison and took her for a battery of tests, followed by a brief meeting with Maria Rodriguez, Assistant Plant Manager. At just 36 years old, Maria was one of the youngest managers in the company, responsible for over 300 employees. Alison was impressed by her poise, confidence and apparent command of her job, which she had assumed less that a year before. Their conversations, scheduled for 20 minutes, lasted over an hour. Maria told her that, if she made the cut, she’s be invited back for a second interview.
Alison was as eager to share her experiences with Henry as he was to hear them. He listened intently as Alison detailed almost every sentence. Then he spoke.
“You did a great job. They now know who you are and what makes you a prime candidate. And you know what they’re all about and what they want. So, what are your thoughts about them?
“I’m still not sure why they would talk to me, especially with my lack of experience and no education – not to mention my age. Damn, I felt old being interviewed by a woman almost my son’s age.”
“Look, she’s only been in the role for a few months herself. Ask yourself, ‘Why her’? In a county that small, how many people do you think they have to choose from, even in this market? Take a deep breath, pat yourself on the back, and wait for the call. If it never comes, you still learned a lot.”
“Can we talk about something else? Can we talk about you, and coming home, and how much time we have this trip?”
Henry’s voice deepened. “Where are you right now?”
Smiling, Alison’s ears perked up. “In the bedroom, sipping wine,” she replied her voice taking a sultry tone.
“Then we should talk about all of that – and more.”
Alison shook her head as she nestled into bed for the night, her mind replaying the last hours with Henry. Her body relaxed, moisture filled her loins and she felt complete. Wow, she thought, phone sex is amazing. Soon she slept.
She rose early on Friday, relaxed and feeling quite nice. She remembered why, and smiled to herself. After a brisk shower and a light breakfast she went to the garden. She marveled at how many weeds can grow in just a few days. Gloves on, she proceeded to remove them all. A couple hours later, a very happy Alison shed her gloves and headed for lunch in the kitchen. She heard the phone beep to tell her she had missed a call. Helen. Erased.
She looked at the clock. Noon. It would be the wee hours of the morning in Bangkok. She thought for a moment to call anyway, just to let him know she was thinking of him. Then she thought better of it and moved forward on her lessons.
The call came at 1:15. She had made the cut. Could she be there on Monday, again at 9:45 a.m.? Of course. Thrilled and dying to share the news, she restrained herself. She took time to record their earlier conversations and to try to anticipate what they would ask next. More to ask Henry when he calls.
As her thoughts turned to him, she found herself having sexual fantasies. Is that right?, she asked herself. A woman my age lusting like this. She decided it was just fine but reserved it for later when they could encourage each other.
Wednesday, May 16, 2012
Chapter 5
Chapter 5
The month went by much too fast. Every day was a different adventure. They sailed the lake, walked the trails in the State Parks, dined at restaurants and picnicked by the stream. They hugged, held hands, made love at every opportunity. They laughed and, at times, they cried.
Throughout all this, they maintained free space, time away from each other. They kept to their scheduled calls but now there were no set limits. Forty minutes gave way to hours. Still, she received his suggestions, and she followed them through.
His house was, as he had said, not such a big deal. Or, she was growing used to it. The wonderful parts of it were external: the view, the orchards, the trails and the stream – and the bedroom, a lush patch of lea upon which a multi-colored blanket was set by them, for them. It was on this bed nestled in the woods that they spoke of his returning to work.
“You’re deep in thought,” she said. “Our time together is coming to an end?”
Henry sat quietly for a moment, his arms wrapped over his knees. “Yes, it is.” Next Tuesday I’m off to Thailand, then on to Australia and China.”
“Sounds like quite an adventure.” Alison moved closer, her left arm behind him supporting her weight, her body touching his and her left cheek on his shoulder. Without warning, she pulled back slightly and pushed him gently on to his back so she could see his face fully.
“It is. Or, it was, until you. I no longer feel the pull to step into one more plane or to hand my bags to another porter.”
“Yes, but your friends need to see you. And there are problems that need solutions. That’s what you do, is it not?”
She watch his face closely, expecting a smile. It did not come.
Instead his face grew serious. He sat up, his face inches from hers. “It is what I do, and I love it. But I love you, too, and I’m torn.”
Alison’s arms slowly enveloped him and her body pushed him to the ground, Her lips met his and she pressed them forcefully against them. His lips yielded and accepted hers, followed by their tongues filling their mouths. Slowly she raised herself to sit, her left hand holding him down.
“These days have been the most wonderful times in my memory. I wish they wouldn’t end, either, but they are. It doesn’t mean we are ending. It’s three weeks, after all. And we have our phone calls, and I have my personal growth to attend to.”
With the softest of touches, she pulled on his belt, releasing its hold. She unzipped his fly and pulled his shirt from under the slacks. Then she began to unbutton his shirt slowly from the bottom.
“When we first met, I was in search of my new self and my new life. I still am, and you are still my guide.”
His chest exposed, Alison massaged his breast, her fingers toying with the hair. His nipples hardening at her touch.
“All my married life, I had a fixed identity, and I loved it. I was the perfect wife, supporter, mother, volunteer, the list goes on. Then it all went away.
Her hands traced the sides of his body, moving slowly toward his pants.
“Now I am becoming, what exactly I don’t know. But I love whatever it is, and I have to continue, so I can discover it. I know I don’t want to be a housewife, I’m beyond being a mother, and I no longer want to be a secretary.”
“I am a woman. I am a sexual animal thanks to you. I have a mind that I want to exercise, and I want to achieve. All this I know. I also know that I want you. And that means accepting you as you are. And you, me.”
He lay silent as she spoke and responded to her touch. He lifted his buttocks to ease her removal of his slacks, and felt himself growing harder as her fingers caressed his testes and slowly closed around his shaft. Her head moved gracefully and disappeared below his sight as her mouth swallowed him deep within, her falling hair tickling his abs.
He moaned happily as his hand caressed the back of her head. He felt her fingers gently skimming his sac, his testicles growing with her touch,
“Now!, he said, alerting her to the fluids about to explode. “That’s it! Oooh” he screamed as they rushed into her mouth. His body lurched in response, up, down, then up again. Finally his back came to rest on the blanket. Her mouth released him slowly inch by inch.
She felt the hot liquid flow into her, down her throat, enjoying the sensation to the fullest. She then leaned forward and laid with him, her head on his chest, her hand caressing his cheek.
“Life is good,” she said, her head to his chest. “It will be good for us.” She listened to his heart beating as they napped a while under the sun.
When they awoke, the sun had moved toward the horizon. Henry was quiet as he looked around for his clothes. Gathering them into a pile he set them aside and moved toward Alison, who sat quietly in meditation facing the sun, her back to him. His arms reached out to her shoulders, pulling her gently to the ground. She gracefully acceded, smiling up into his eyes.
“You’re right,” he said in a low voice. Life is good, and so are we. You are still a student and I am still your coach. But now I think we are more.”
His lips found hers then, her neck. “Boy, that’s an awkward position,” he said laughing, and he moved to lay at her side. “While you were growing, so was I. My growth was a direct result of our time together.”
Henry moved to look into her eyes, his hand finding hers and placing it on his heart. “I know all about problems, process problems, financial problems, social problems. In the process of being a solver of problems, I inadvertently, or maybe intentionally ignored a problem of my own, loneliness.”
He raised himself to face her, supporting himself on his elbow. Instinctively, Alison lifted her hand to caress his face. He kissed the soft part of her palm.
“We’ll play this by ear, one day at a time -- for now. There is a harmony to all this and a pattern. Let’s see if we can make this last.”
As their lips met and yielded to each other, Henry’s hand cupped her breast and squeezed it gently. He smiled as he manipulated the buttons on her blouse. “ What you did for me, I want to do for you.” Alison’s face lit up, a broad smile filled her as she eagerly worked to release herself from her clothing.
Tuesday was spent largely in his bed, sharing themselves to their limits in the knowledge that a barren time laid ahead. After a leisurely lunch, Henry moved his bags to the front porch.
“That’s not much luggage for three weeks. Do you always take a limo to the airport?”
“Yes. It’s foolish to leave a car at the airport. I don’t carry many bags because I have clothes in every city. I never know for sure when I’m coming back. In the past, if I got an emergency call form a client, I changed my plans. If I discovered some off the wall adventure, I had the option of taking a side trip instead of coming here.
“I’ve only been back three times since we first began our calls together. Some times I stayed a week or so where I was because I didn’t want to spend another two days in airports only to leave again in a week.”
A rush of sadness filled her. She could understand the difficulty his lifestyle put on him. Hotel to hotel, airline to airline. The fatigue. She realized their time together was, for him, a respite. Henry immediately understood the look on her face and moved to assuage her doubts.
“That was before I met you, before I found myself eager to get home to see you and to see if there was something there – or if it was just in my mind. I am already planning my trip home. You will be with me throughout. Please, don’t get nervous and fearful .” His voice was almost pleading.
The sound of tires on crushed stone announced the limo’s arrival. Henry took Alison into his arms. “You can stay here if you’d like.”
“No, I think it’s best if I go to my place.”
“I understand. But here’s a key if you need it.”
“I might like to use the library,” she said softly.
She moved into his arms and held him tightly to her.
Alison felt awkward as she wave good-bye from his front porch. This was not her house, and maybe he wasn’t her man. She just hoped their calls would keep coming. Losing him was less important than losing her mentor.
Wednesday morning brought reality home. She awoke without him by her side and she missed him. She showered alone but her memories filled with time they spent together under the spout. Breakfast for one added to the angst. I am a woman, she told herself, and she moved ahead resolute.
She immersed herself in her studies. After lunch, she took a ride to clear her head, then returned home to listen to CDs. Thursday was their scheduled call. She wanted to be prepared.
Henry called as she was sitting down to supper. Seeing his name on the screen, her heart rate doubled and a smile filled her top to bottom.
“Hi, there!, she said energetically. How are you?”
“I’m fine, thanks, and I miss you. I hope you feel the same.
“I do, and I am back on my schedule to fill the time until you return. Are we still on for our ‘regular’ call tomorrow?”
“Of course, our regular call is on my calendar. This, I hope will become a regular call as well.”
“I’d like that.”
“So, where are you?”
“I’m in my hotel in Bangkok. Looks like our meetings will be held here instead of the usual place. There’s a strike going on across the city and my clients feel it’s better all around if I stay here and they take the drive.”
“Are you in danger?,” she asked, suddenly fearful for him.
“No, I don’t think so. This kind of turmoil goes on here all the time, with brief periods of calm. If things get out of hand, they send in the troops.”
Alison clutched the phone, her knuckles turning white.
“The troops?”
“Darling, youre well read. Surely you’ve known that these things happen in Thailand – and China, and …”
“Yes, of course, but I never had someone I love in the middle of it, and so visibly not a native. Henry, I am afraid for you.”
“I love that you’re afraid for me, and even more that you said you love me. But I’ll be fine. Things will be fine.”
The sound of the bomb exploding in the lobby caught her by surprise. The impact sent Henry to the floor. Still gripping the phone, he heard her voice.
“Henry, what was that noise! Are you alright?
“Everything’s fine here, darling. Just some partiers. Look, I have to go. My clients are here. I love you. I’ll call you.. “
The line gong quiet was disconcerting. Was it a bad connection, or was something wrong? Alison went to the computer to access CNN and the BBC. When nothing popped up, she returned to her supper, starting with a large sip of wine. Hours would pass before she would read of the bombing, and fear would overtake her.
She heard the reports of the bombing first on cable news. A suicide bomber had entered the lobby of a hotel in downtown Bangkok frequented mostly by foreign business travelers and representatives of foreign governments. Damage was limited to the lobby area but it was unsure how severely the infrastructure had been affected, Danger of a collapse was not ruled out and guests were being shuttled to other hotels. Aside from the bomber, whose body parts were strewn throughout, estimates were that 20 or more people were dead or injured, some of them foreigners. No names were given.
Try as she might, Alison was unable to reach Henry’s phone. She had no other way to contact him and she wasn’t even sure if he was staying at that hotel. Her mind raced from scenario to scenario, some of them horrific, others much more acceptable. Perhaps that wasn’t his hotel. Maybe he was in meetings as planned. There was no way to know. She found her way into a lotus position and focused on her breathing.
Her phone rang just after 10;00 p.m. Her heart raced as she heard his voice.
“Hi Alison. I called to let you know everything’s all right before you head off to bed.”
“What time is it there?
“It’s just after 2:00 p.m. here. My clients and I are headed out for lunch.”
“Where are you staying? Are you at the hotel that was bombed? Was that the explosion I heard?”
“ I was at the hotel, yes. And that was the explosion you heard. Some people were killed and others were injured. I am all right. My client is putting me up at his house for a few days. It’s in a a secure area.”
“And the hotel was not in a secure area?”
“Well, we thought it was. Others thought ‘not so much.’”
“But you’re safe now. And you’ll stay that way?”
“Absolutely. Look, there’s more to tell you about this part of the world but it can’t be done over the phone. I’ll tell you everything when we’re together. I promise. Just sleep tight. We have a call for tomorrow afternoon, right?”
“That’s right. I’ll await your call.
“I love you.”
Her fears rose as she hung up the phone. Why? She asked herself. He’s OK, in one piece, with people who should know. Still, she returned to the lotus position before heading to sleep.
Henry returned to his clients, smiling confidently. A server approached their table with ice water and lemon and their talks resumed after a toast.
Lengthy meetings are beneficial after a bombing. Focusing on external problems keeps a body from dwelling on the realities of possible death just a few stories and a lobby away. Discussing the intricate details of a major plant expansion is just what’s needed for times like this. The focus is on construction, not destruction, about improvements and the growth of a nation. It’s the hours after those meetings that are stressful.
In the quiet solitude, whether in one’s room or sitting by the pool, that other, conflicting issues come to the fore. Displacing a few thousand people from their shanty homes to make way for a plant that will employ thousands of people at barely subsistence wages was not on the agenda. Nor would it be. Neither would the attempted subjugation of minorities, or the lack of adequate clean water. Henry always thrilled at the challenges posed by life’s problems but he oftentimes had no control over which problems he would be invited to resolve. In Thailand, it was manufacturing. In Haiti, it was housing and infrastructure. He preferred Haiti but Thailand paid much better.
Now, in addition to his normal litany of activities, he added his relationship with Alison. In many ways, the parallels were obvious. Thailand was business. She was Haiti: beautiful, filled with potential, soul inspiring. He preferred her.
He thought back in depth to their initial conversations. Recently divorced, she was overflowing with optimism balanced with pragmatism. Her résumé was obsolete in today’s economy. A thirty year old degree in home economics, decades out of the workforce, at a time when younger, better educated competition stood in line for any job they could get. But what she lacked, she more than made up for in intelligence, organization, commitment, and fire in the belly.
His initial assignment had long since been fulfilled. In truth, she didn’t need him any more. She had proven she could meet any challenge and master any field. All she needed was a chance. He had thought to connect her with clients in the states who would love to have her. But, he was unsure how they would feel about her as a consultant. More was necessary for that to happen. So he re-envisioned his assignment and proceeded accordingly.
Seeing her as a friend, a lover, perhaps a mate took some time. He had coached many people, men and women, and was able to maintain clearly defined boundaries. Some, like Helen, proved they weren’t a match, even for themselves. In that regard he was happy to help them discover their personal truths and send them along. Alison defied definition. Her energy and commitment struck him with awe. His assignments, given as suggestions, were fulfilled beyond any expectations and the questions she asked afterwards went right to the core of the issues she was studying. By rights, she was him, missing only a degree or two and some contacts. Professionally, he could not have been more pleased.
Personally, however, was a different story. He found himself learning more about himself and his deficiencies than he had planned. He also discovered that he was inept at deeply personal relationships where one has to accept being vulnerable and expose himself to being hurt. He was not unaware that he simply spent too much of his time in his head to leave room for sharing with others. Oftentimes he told himself, “I am not from here” as a self defense mechanism.
Alison changed all that. She captivated him with her ‘professional side’ and awed him with her abilities in interpersonal communication, in expressing empathy, in bringing people out of themselves, himself included. The biggest challenge of his life began when he committed to open himself up to her, and risk both rejection and the loss of a valued student. After their month together, he was confident that he could grow even more with her guidance. Sitting alone by the pool, a smile to filled his soul, and he thrilled that he had taken the chance.
The month went by much too fast. Every day was a different adventure. They sailed the lake, walked the trails in the State Parks, dined at restaurants and picnicked by the stream. They hugged, held hands, made love at every opportunity. They laughed and, at times, they cried.
Throughout all this, they maintained free space, time away from each other. They kept to their scheduled calls but now there were no set limits. Forty minutes gave way to hours. Still, she received his suggestions, and she followed them through.
His house was, as he had said, not such a big deal. Or, she was growing used to it. The wonderful parts of it were external: the view, the orchards, the trails and the stream – and the bedroom, a lush patch of lea upon which a multi-colored blanket was set by them, for them. It was on this bed nestled in the woods that they spoke of his returning to work.
“You’re deep in thought,” she said. “Our time together is coming to an end?”
Henry sat quietly for a moment, his arms wrapped over his knees. “Yes, it is.” Next Tuesday I’m off to Thailand, then on to Australia and China.”
“Sounds like quite an adventure.” Alison moved closer, her left arm behind him supporting her weight, her body touching his and her left cheek on his shoulder. Without warning, she pulled back slightly and pushed him gently on to his back so she could see his face fully.
“It is. Or, it was, until you. I no longer feel the pull to step into one more plane or to hand my bags to another porter.”
“Yes, but your friends need to see you. And there are problems that need solutions. That’s what you do, is it not?”
She watch his face closely, expecting a smile. It did not come.
Instead his face grew serious. He sat up, his face inches from hers. “It is what I do, and I love it. But I love you, too, and I’m torn.”
Alison’s arms slowly enveloped him and her body pushed him to the ground, Her lips met his and she pressed them forcefully against them. His lips yielded and accepted hers, followed by their tongues filling their mouths. Slowly she raised herself to sit, her left hand holding him down.
“These days have been the most wonderful times in my memory. I wish they wouldn’t end, either, but they are. It doesn’t mean we are ending. It’s three weeks, after all. And we have our phone calls, and I have my personal growth to attend to.”
With the softest of touches, she pulled on his belt, releasing its hold. She unzipped his fly and pulled his shirt from under the slacks. Then she began to unbutton his shirt slowly from the bottom.
“When we first met, I was in search of my new self and my new life. I still am, and you are still my guide.”
His chest exposed, Alison massaged his breast, her fingers toying with the hair. His nipples hardening at her touch.
“All my married life, I had a fixed identity, and I loved it. I was the perfect wife, supporter, mother, volunteer, the list goes on. Then it all went away.
Her hands traced the sides of his body, moving slowly toward his pants.
“Now I am becoming, what exactly I don’t know. But I love whatever it is, and I have to continue, so I can discover it. I know I don’t want to be a housewife, I’m beyond being a mother, and I no longer want to be a secretary.”
“I am a woman. I am a sexual animal thanks to you. I have a mind that I want to exercise, and I want to achieve. All this I know. I also know that I want you. And that means accepting you as you are. And you, me.”
He lay silent as she spoke and responded to her touch. He lifted his buttocks to ease her removal of his slacks, and felt himself growing harder as her fingers caressed his testes and slowly closed around his shaft. Her head moved gracefully and disappeared below his sight as her mouth swallowed him deep within, her falling hair tickling his abs.
He moaned happily as his hand caressed the back of her head. He felt her fingers gently skimming his sac, his testicles growing with her touch,
“Now!, he said, alerting her to the fluids about to explode. “That’s it! Oooh” he screamed as they rushed into her mouth. His body lurched in response, up, down, then up again. Finally his back came to rest on the blanket. Her mouth released him slowly inch by inch.
She felt the hot liquid flow into her, down her throat, enjoying the sensation to the fullest. She then leaned forward and laid with him, her head on his chest, her hand caressing his cheek.
“Life is good,” she said, her head to his chest. “It will be good for us.” She listened to his heart beating as they napped a while under the sun.
When they awoke, the sun had moved toward the horizon. Henry was quiet as he looked around for his clothes. Gathering them into a pile he set them aside and moved toward Alison, who sat quietly in meditation facing the sun, her back to him. His arms reached out to her shoulders, pulling her gently to the ground. She gracefully acceded, smiling up into his eyes.
“You’re right,” he said in a low voice. Life is good, and so are we. You are still a student and I am still your coach. But now I think we are more.”
His lips found hers then, her neck. “Boy, that’s an awkward position,” he said laughing, and he moved to lay at her side. “While you were growing, so was I. My growth was a direct result of our time together.”
Henry moved to look into her eyes, his hand finding hers and placing it on his heart. “I know all about problems, process problems, financial problems, social problems. In the process of being a solver of problems, I inadvertently, or maybe intentionally ignored a problem of my own, loneliness.”
He raised himself to face her, supporting himself on his elbow. Instinctively, Alison lifted her hand to caress his face. He kissed the soft part of her palm.
“We’ll play this by ear, one day at a time -- for now. There is a harmony to all this and a pattern. Let’s see if we can make this last.”
As their lips met and yielded to each other, Henry’s hand cupped her breast and squeezed it gently. He smiled as he manipulated the buttons on her blouse. “ What you did for me, I want to do for you.” Alison’s face lit up, a broad smile filled her as she eagerly worked to release herself from her clothing.
Tuesday was spent largely in his bed, sharing themselves to their limits in the knowledge that a barren time laid ahead. After a leisurely lunch, Henry moved his bags to the front porch.
“That’s not much luggage for three weeks. Do you always take a limo to the airport?”
“Yes. It’s foolish to leave a car at the airport. I don’t carry many bags because I have clothes in every city. I never know for sure when I’m coming back. In the past, if I got an emergency call form a client, I changed my plans. If I discovered some off the wall adventure, I had the option of taking a side trip instead of coming here.
“I’ve only been back three times since we first began our calls together. Some times I stayed a week or so where I was because I didn’t want to spend another two days in airports only to leave again in a week.”
A rush of sadness filled her. She could understand the difficulty his lifestyle put on him. Hotel to hotel, airline to airline. The fatigue. She realized their time together was, for him, a respite. Henry immediately understood the look on her face and moved to assuage her doubts.
“That was before I met you, before I found myself eager to get home to see you and to see if there was something there – or if it was just in my mind. I am already planning my trip home. You will be with me throughout. Please, don’t get nervous and fearful .” His voice was almost pleading.
The sound of tires on crushed stone announced the limo’s arrival. Henry took Alison into his arms. “You can stay here if you’d like.”
“No, I think it’s best if I go to my place.”
“I understand. But here’s a key if you need it.”
“I might like to use the library,” she said softly.
She moved into his arms and held him tightly to her.
Alison felt awkward as she wave good-bye from his front porch. This was not her house, and maybe he wasn’t her man. She just hoped their calls would keep coming. Losing him was less important than losing her mentor.
Wednesday morning brought reality home. She awoke without him by her side and she missed him. She showered alone but her memories filled with time they spent together under the spout. Breakfast for one added to the angst. I am a woman, she told herself, and she moved ahead resolute.
She immersed herself in her studies. After lunch, she took a ride to clear her head, then returned home to listen to CDs. Thursday was their scheduled call. She wanted to be prepared.
Henry called as she was sitting down to supper. Seeing his name on the screen, her heart rate doubled and a smile filled her top to bottom.
“Hi, there!, she said energetically. How are you?”
“I’m fine, thanks, and I miss you. I hope you feel the same.
“I do, and I am back on my schedule to fill the time until you return. Are we still on for our ‘regular’ call tomorrow?”
“Of course, our regular call is on my calendar. This, I hope will become a regular call as well.”
“I’d like that.”
“So, where are you?”
“I’m in my hotel in Bangkok. Looks like our meetings will be held here instead of the usual place. There’s a strike going on across the city and my clients feel it’s better all around if I stay here and they take the drive.”
“Are you in danger?,” she asked, suddenly fearful for him.
“No, I don’t think so. This kind of turmoil goes on here all the time, with brief periods of calm. If things get out of hand, they send in the troops.”
Alison clutched the phone, her knuckles turning white.
“The troops?”
“Darling, youre well read. Surely you’ve known that these things happen in Thailand – and China, and …”
“Yes, of course, but I never had someone I love in the middle of it, and so visibly not a native. Henry, I am afraid for you.”
“I love that you’re afraid for me, and even more that you said you love me. But I’ll be fine. Things will be fine.”
The sound of the bomb exploding in the lobby caught her by surprise. The impact sent Henry to the floor. Still gripping the phone, he heard her voice.
“Henry, what was that noise! Are you alright?
“Everything’s fine here, darling. Just some partiers. Look, I have to go. My clients are here. I love you. I’ll call you.. “
The line gong quiet was disconcerting. Was it a bad connection, or was something wrong? Alison went to the computer to access CNN and the BBC. When nothing popped up, she returned to her supper, starting with a large sip of wine. Hours would pass before she would read of the bombing, and fear would overtake her.
She heard the reports of the bombing first on cable news. A suicide bomber had entered the lobby of a hotel in downtown Bangkok frequented mostly by foreign business travelers and representatives of foreign governments. Damage was limited to the lobby area but it was unsure how severely the infrastructure had been affected, Danger of a collapse was not ruled out and guests were being shuttled to other hotels. Aside from the bomber, whose body parts were strewn throughout, estimates were that 20 or more people were dead or injured, some of them foreigners. No names were given.
Try as she might, Alison was unable to reach Henry’s phone. She had no other way to contact him and she wasn’t even sure if he was staying at that hotel. Her mind raced from scenario to scenario, some of them horrific, others much more acceptable. Perhaps that wasn’t his hotel. Maybe he was in meetings as planned. There was no way to know. She found her way into a lotus position and focused on her breathing.
Her phone rang just after 10;00 p.m. Her heart raced as she heard his voice.
“Hi Alison. I called to let you know everything’s all right before you head off to bed.”
“What time is it there?
“It’s just after 2:00 p.m. here. My clients and I are headed out for lunch.”
“Where are you staying? Are you at the hotel that was bombed? Was that the explosion I heard?”
“ I was at the hotel, yes. And that was the explosion you heard. Some people were killed and others were injured. I am all right. My client is putting me up at his house for a few days. It’s in a a secure area.”
“And the hotel was not in a secure area?”
“Well, we thought it was. Others thought ‘not so much.’”
“But you’re safe now. And you’ll stay that way?”
“Absolutely. Look, there’s more to tell you about this part of the world but it can’t be done over the phone. I’ll tell you everything when we’re together. I promise. Just sleep tight. We have a call for tomorrow afternoon, right?”
“That’s right. I’ll await your call.
“I love you.”
Her fears rose as she hung up the phone. Why? She asked herself. He’s OK, in one piece, with people who should know. Still, she returned to the lotus position before heading to sleep.
Henry returned to his clients, smiling confidently. A server approached their table with ice water and lemon and their talks resumed after a toast.
Lengthy meetings are beneficial after a bombing. Focusing on external problems keeps a body from dwelling on the realities of possible death just a few stories and a lobby away. Discussing the intricate details of a major plant expansion is just what’s needed for times like this. The focus is on construction, not destruction, about improvements and the growth of a nation. It’s the hours after those meetings that are stressful.
In the quiet solitude, whether in one’s room or sitting by the pool, that other, conflicting issues come to the fore. Displacing a few thousand people from their shanty homes to make way for a plant that will employ thousands of people at barely subsistence wages was not on the agenda. Nor would it be. Neither would the attempted subjugation of minorities, or the lack of adequate clean water. Henry always thrilled at the challenges posed by life’s problems but he oftentimes had no control over which problems he would be invited to resolve. In Thailand, it was manufacturing. In Haiti, it was housing and infrastructure. He preferred Haiti but Thailand paid much better.
Now, in addition to his normal litany of activities, he added his relationship with Alison. In many ways, the parallels were obvious. Thailand was business. She was Haiti: beautiful, filled with potential, soul inspiring. He preferred her.
He thought back in depth to their initial conversations. Recently divorced, she was overflowing with optimism balanced with pragmatism. Her résumé was obsolete in today’s economy. A thirty year old degree in home economics, decades out of the workforce, at a time when younger, better educated competition stood in line for any job they could get. But what she lacked, she more than made up for in intelligence, organization, commitment, and fire in the belly.
His initial assignment had long since been fulfilled. In truth, she didn’t need him any more. She had proven she could meet any challenge and master any field. All she needed was a chance. He had thought to connect her with clients in the states who would love to have her. But, he was unsure how they would feel about her as a consultant. More was necessary for that to happen. So he re-envisioned his assignment and proceeded accordingly.
Seeing her as a friend, a lover, perhaps a mate took some time. He had coached many people, men and women, and was able to maintain clearly defined boundaries. Some, like Helen, proved they weren’t a match, even for themselves. In that regard he was happy to help them discover their personal truths and send them along. Alison defied definition. Her energy and commitment struck him with awe. His assignments, given as suggestions, were fulfilled beyond any expectations and the questions she asked afterwards went right to the core of the issues she was studying. By rights, she was him, missing only a degree or two and some contacts. Professionally, he could not have been more pleased.
Personally, however, was a different story. He found himself learning more about himself and his deficiencies than he had planned. He also discovered that he was inept at deeply personal relationships where one has to accept being vulnerable and expose himself to being hurt. He was not unaware that he simply spent too much of his time in his head to leave room for sharing with others. Oftentimes he told himself, “I am not from here” as a self defense mechanism.
Alison changed all that. She captivated him with her ‘professional side’ and awed him with her abilities in interpersonal communication, in expressing empathy, in bringing people out of themselves, himself included. The biggest challenge of his life began when he committed to open himself up to her, and risk both rejection and the loss of a valued student. After their month together, he was confident that he could grow even more with her guidance. Sitting alone by the pool, a smile to filled his soul, and he thrilled that he had taken the chance.
Chapter 4
Chapter 4
The pavement on the old country road was barely distinguishable from the shoulder. Alison was happy that Henry knew the way, and that he drove slowly on it. She was surprised when he slowed abruptly, seemingly in the middle of nowhere. He coaxed the car cautiously until he found what looked like a cow path. He pushed a button on the console and a barrier pole raised from its perch on the right. The vehicle maneuvered slowly onto the path and the pole returned to its rest.
Sensor lights lit two at a time as Henry made his way along the drive. In the distance, a house appeared, fully resplendent in an array of light. He parked the car on the circular drive and proceeded to open the passenger door for her.
“Welcome to my getaway.” He said as she stood for a moment in awe.
“Come on in. There’s a fire in the fireplace.”
Henry led her to the front door and opened it with a gallant movement of his arm. Slowly she took in the vaulted ceilings and candle lighting. He stood quietly as she walked in and turned around to take it all in.
“It’s amazing, “ she said softly.
With a flick of his wrist, Henry turned off the lights, exposing the night view of the lake in the distance, the water reflecting the moonlight, and lights from homes in the village breaking through like so many earthbound stars.
As her eyes adjusted to the natural light, she began to realize how much of the home was windows. Slowly, she moved into the large living room, careful of the furniture.
“I like it here,” he said softly. It is a great place to regain life balance.”
“I can see that. And there’s a garden outside I imagine.”
“Indeed, and a small fruit orchard. But I have a local guy maintain it. I just don’t have the time.
“Come. Walk with me.”
Beyond the living room, an oversize kitchen awaited. Doors opened from both rooms onto a deck, where a late dinner had been set for them.
“You knew I would join you?”
“ I hoped.
“Are we moving to a new phase? I’m confused.”
“That’s uncertain. I think we should get to know one another first, don’t you?”
She smiled and nodded her head. “Yes, I do. Thank you for that.”
“Good. May I pour you a merlot?”
She did not reply immediately, taking some time to wander the rooms, to regain her bearings, which had been shaken. He waited patiently.
“When you see this place in the light of day, you’ll see it is not as glamorous as it appears. It’s not much bigger than your home, and not as well appointed. It doesn’t have a woman’s touch.
“I think it’s the lights, and the view that capture your imagination. That will pass.”
“Where are we relative to my place?” she asked cautiously.
“Only thirty miles, more or less. You’re on the West side of the city. This is North East, about the same distance. “If you’re uncomfortable, I can have you home in forty minutes.”
“No, please. I was just trying to get my bearings. I never knew such places existed, certainly not so nearby.”
If you’re comfortable, then come sit outside with me. We can talk some more.”
Over the ensuing few hours, they spoke of many things. His adventures, her past, and her hopes for the future. In an evening, they grew close as few ever do.
“Look”, she said, surprised, “Is that the sunrise?”
“Yes, it is. Soon it will be time for breakfast. Are you getting hungry?”
“I am. But I feel like I am still dreaming, so I am not sure.”
“Well, I’m hungry, and I want to eat. What’ll it be?”
The ride home was pretty much as he had said, certainly under an hour. As soon as they hit the interstate, Alison knew where she was, and was happy for it.
As he parked the car in her drive, she turned to him.
“I enjoyed myself immensely, Henry. There’s so much to process. I haven’t been with a man, or on a date in decades, and this was nothing like those days. We talked about so many things, my head is still reeling.”
He turned to face her, looking directly into her eyes.
“Let me put things in some perspective, then,” he said softly, “ We have spoken weekly for over 7 months. In that time I have learned a lot about you, and my interest in you has blossomed.
“You see me as a guide. I took a chance that if you saw me as a man, you might like me and perhaps our relationship would change. Maybe I did too much, too soon. Take your time to think about it. We have a call scheduled on Monday. Let’s get back on schedule.”
“ I don’t know. May I call you sooner if my heart tells me so?”
“Let’s play it by ear. I’ll walk you to your door.”
As they reached her door, she turned to face him. His hand grasped the small of her back and he pulled her to him kissing her firmly on the lips. His touch was electrifying, and she responded in kind. Her heart raced apace. She felt the rapid beat of his heart against her chest and the steady growth in his loins, He stepped back slowly looked at her.
“I should go,” he said calmly.”
“Please don’t” she replied, moving back into his arms. Please don’t.” Her left hand went gently behind his head as she pulled his lips toward her. His body moved gently against hers and his mouth went into the curve of her neck. She released her hands and turned briefly away to find the house keys. As she opened the door, her hand took hold of his and ushered him inside.
As the door shut behind them, she removed his blazer, setting it on a chair, and led him into the bedroom. Slowly, she disrobed. First the dress, revealing her sumptuous breasts rising and falling gently in a lace bra. He mimicked her moves, slowly removing the white crew neck shirt to expose a taut body, slim and muscular. His slacks bulged and he worked methodically to remove them, exposing himself completely before her. Her hands moved gracefully along her hips and legs to shed her panties and she moved to turn down the bedding.
He slowly moved behind her, pulling her back to his chest, cupping her freed breasts in his hands, feeling the nipples harden at his touch. His mouth found her neck and his tongue licked its length.
Slowly her hand reached behind her as she found his shaft. Her fingers gently toyed with his testicles and she turned slowly to fall ever so gently into bed, her hand still firmly on him.
As he moved to join her, his hand spread her legs and his fingers opened her loins, wet and apart. She screamed as he penetrated her and their fluids enveloped them.
“Yes!” she cried out. “Yes!” and her buttocks writhed wildly beneath him raising him while her hands on his haunches pulled him ever harder into her. Henry’s back arched as he thrust himself to climax and he continued his movements until she was fully spent. Then he lay himself gently atop her as their breath slowly abated. And she held him lovingly atop her. After a few minutes, Henry rolled gently to one side, coming to rest on his back. Alison turned her body to cover him with hers and they drifted off to sleep.
When she awoke, she moved cautiously so as not to wake him. To her surprise, he was watching her.
“I thought you’d be asleep.”
“I was, on and off. I enjoyed watching you sleep, the rise and fall of your back. Your skin is wonderfully soft to the touch.”
Alison sat up resting on her haunches, holding the sheet against her chest. She watched curiously as Henry’s right hand slowly pulled the sheet away, exposing her upper body to the light. She said nothing as his hands caressed her arms and her breasts while his eyes took in every inch of her exposed skin. Silently, he raised himself to a sitting position as he gently eased her onto her back next to him and he removed the sheet completely.
His fingers caressed her breasts, and excited her nipples. She gasped as his thumb and forefinger gently squeezed her nipples to full erections. She lay quietly in anticipation as his hand spread her legs and his fingers touched the lips of her vagina. Fluids again rushed from her as his fingers penetrated her and made their way to the roof of her vagina. She felt her back side lift in response to his touch and soon the intensity was so great that her body arched in response. Yet he would not take her.
His face came closer to hers as his fingers moved deep inside her and his tongue penetrated her open mouth, meeting hers in a willing dance. Her hand reached for him and pulled him into her and she then clasped his buttocks and began to write methodically to a crescendo whereupon they spent each other anew. Exhausted, the slept.
Henry awoke to the sight of his lover sitting on the edge of the bed facing him, with a wet, soapy towel, she smiled at him as she began to wash the fluids from his loins. She gently lifted his penis to expose unwashed areas and cleaned them. She took his testes in one hand and washed them thoroughly with the other, She followed these actions with a dry towel. All the while, she noted how it had changed from large, rigid, turgid to smaller, soft, malleable. She noted, too, that Henry was comfortable with her, and willing to expose his vulnerability,
A robe alone covered her as they sat at the table for their first meal of the day. Alison watched Henry’s every move for signs of impatience, indications that their first liaise was drawing to an end. There were none. After their shower, they walked hand in hand through the neighborhood, taking in the sun and making small talk. As the day turned to evening, Henry said he had to leave but asked if she could join him in the morning, his place or hers. She chose hers.
Alison stood unsure of herself as Henry drove off. After thirty years, she had nothing to compare to. He was handsome, suave and comfortable in his skin. His actions were above reproach, and his desire was obvious. And, he was nothing like Harold. Fatigue overtook her and she relented. Soon she was nestled in her bed, sound asleep.
She awoke refreshed about 10:00. After a small meal and a coffee, she hit the books and watched a youtube video of Muhamad Yunus, a Nobel Prize winner for his work with microfinance. She marveled how a modest man, a former professor of economics at Middle Tennessee State University, could have conceived of and implemented the plans to bring micro lending to the poorest people in his nation. She listened intently as he recounted the journey from teaching in a state institution in the United States to creating a banking empire built on tiny loans to the poorest of the poor, without collateral. She laughed aloud as he stood at the podium in very modest clothing and told the story of the Nobel Committee asking him if the owners of the Grameen Bank would be coming from Bangladesh to accept the award. All Grameen clients are owners, he explained, all 7.5 million of them. Yunus chuckled as he explained that there are only 4.5 million people in all of Norway. Wow, the things Henry gets involved in. Her head shook in amazement.
She awoke early next morning to the sounds of birds and the early morning sun. She stretched languorously, feeling more desirable than she had in years. She chose to keep that feeling a bit longer.
Later, she went to work in her garden. She let the day take care of itself, relying on intuition to give her insight. Henry called about 9:00 and they set their plans for the day.
As she knelt to prune the roses, thoughts of him flowed through her mind much as a gentle stream makes its way over its bed. The sounds of water breaking on boulders and over small stones made her smile. Perhaps she should add a waterfall to the garden, she thought.
For a moment she wondered if things had not gone too far, too fast, and she feared for the briefest moment what the loss of their talks might mean to her. She put it all to rest as she realized the fallacy of her thinking. They were not new to each other. This was not a one night stand extended. For months they had spoken, And, after each conversation there was reflection. She had been thinking about him almost every moment of every day.
Sometimes she would reflect on what he does; other times, what kind of man his is. She threw herself into her learning for its own sake but also because he had suggested the path, and … her mind stopped for a moment to catch itself. The point is, she told herself, is that she did know him, what he thought, how he felt, what made him laugh and what made him sad. Those things had come out over time, as they got to know each other and their defenses came down. That’s why he had stammered when he asked her for the date. He was vulnerable and he chose to take the chance she would turn him down. She sat back on her buttocks, folding into a lotus position, back erect, hands in her lap and sent a silent message to the ether asking him to hurry.
The pavement on the old country road was barely distinguishable from the shoulder. Alison was happy that Henry knew the way, and that he drove slowly on it. She was surprised when he slowed abruptly, seemingly in the middle of nowhere. He coaxed the car cautiously until he found what looked like a cow path. He pushed a button on the console and a barrier pole raised from its perch on the right. The vehicle maneuvered slowly onto the path and the pole returned to its rest.
Sensor lights lit two at a time as Henry made his way along the drive. In the distance, a house appeared, fully resplendent in an array of light. He parked the car on the circular drive and proceeded to open the passenger door for her.
“Welcome to my getaway.” He said as she stood for a moment in awe.
“Come on in. There’s a fire in the fireplace.”
Henry led her to the front door and opened it with a gallant movement of his arm. Slowly she took in the vaulted ceilings and candle lighting. He stood quietly as she walked in and turned around to take it all in.
“It’s amazing, “ she said softly.
With a flick of his wrist, Henry turned off the lights, exposing the night view of the lake in the distance, the water reflecting the moonlight, and lights from homes in the village breaking through like so many earthbound stars.
As her eyes adjusted to the natural light, she began to realize how much of the home was windows. Slowly, she moved into the large living room, careful of the furniture.
“I like it here,” he said softly. It is a great place to regain life balance.”
“I can see that. And there’s a garden outside I imagine.”
“Indeed, and a small fruit orchard. But I have a local guy maintain it. I just don’t have the time.
“Come. Walk with me.”
Beyond the living room, an oversize kitchen awaited. Doors opened from both rooms onto a deck, where a late dinner had been set for them.
“You knew I would join you?”
“ I hoped.
“Are we moving to a new phase? I’m confused.”
“That’s uncertain. I think we should get to know one another first, don’t you?”
She smiled and nodded her head. “Yes, I do. Thank you for that.”
“Good. May I pour you a merlot?”
She did not reply immediately, taking some time to wander the rooms, to regain her bearings, which had been shaken. He waited patiently.
“When you see this place in the light of day, you’ll see it is not as glamorous as it appears. It’s not much bigger than your home, and not as well appointed. It doesn’t have a woman’s touch.
“I think it’s the lights, and the view that capture your imagination. That will pass.”
“Where are we relative to my place?” she asked cautiously.
“Only thirty miles, more or less. You’re on the West side of the city. This is North East, about the same distance. “If you’re uncomfortable, I can have you home in forty minutes.”
“No, please. I was just trying to get my bearings. I never knew such places existed, certainly not so nearby.”
If you’re comfortable, then come sit outside with me. We can talk some more.”
Over the ensuing few hours, they spoke of many things. His adventures, her past, and her hopes for the future. In an evening, they grew close as few ever do.
“Look”, she said, surprised, “Is that the sunrise?”
“Yes, it is. Soon it will be time for breakfast. Are you getting hungry?”
“I am. But I feel like I am still dreaming, so I am not sure.”
“Well, I’m hungry, and I want to eat. What’ll it be?”
The ride home was pretty much as he had said, certainly under an hour. As soon as they hit the interstate, Alison knew where she was, and was happy for it.
As he parked the car in her drive, she turned to him.
“I enjoyed myself immensely, Henry. There’s so much to process. I haven’t been with a man, or on a date in decades, and this was nothing like those days. We talked about so many things, my head is still reeling.”
He turned to face her, looking directly into her eyes.
“Let me put things in some perspective, then,” he said softly, “ We have spoken weekly for over 7 months. In that time I have learned a lot about you, and my interest in you has blossomed.
“You see me as a guide. I took a chance that if you saw me as a man, you might like me and perhaps our relationship would change. Maybe I did too much, too soon. Take your time to think about it. We have a call scheduled on Monday. Let’s get back on schedule.”
“ I don’t know. May I call you sooner if my heart tells me so?”
“Let’s play it by ear. I’ll walk you to your door.”
As they reached her door, she turned to face him. His hand grasped the small of her back and he pulled her to him kissing her firmly on the lips. His touch was electrifying, and she responded in kind. Her heart raced apace. She felt the rapid beat of his heart against her chest and the steady growth in his loins, He stepped back slowly looked at her.
“I should go,” he said calmly.”
“Please don’t” she replied, moving back into his arms. Please don’t.” Her left hand went gently behind his head as she pulled his lips toward her. His body moved gently against hers and his mouth went into the curve of her neck. She released her hands and turned briefly away to find the house keys. As she opened the door, her hand took hold of his and ushered him inside.
As the door shut behind them, she removed his blazer, setting it on a chair, and led him into the bedroom. Slowly, she disrobed. First the dress, revealing her sumptuous breasts rising and falling gently in a lace bra. He mimicked her moves, slowly removing the white crew neck shirt to expose a taut body, slim and muscular. His slacks bulged and he worked methodically to remove them, exposing himself completely before her. Her hands moved gracefully along her hips and legs to shed her panties and she moved to turn down the bedding.
He slowly moved behind her, pulling her back to his chest, cupping her freed breasts in his hands, feeling the nipples harden at his touch. His mouth found her neck and his tongue licked its length.
Slowly her hand reached behind her as she found his shaft. Her fingers gently toyed with his testicles and she turned slowly to fall ever so gently into bed, her hand still firmly on him.
As he moved to join her, his hand spread her legs and his fingers opened her loins, wet and apart. She screamed as he penetrated her and their fluids enveloped them.
“Yes!” she cried out. “Yes!” and her buttocks writhed wildly beneath him raising him while her hands on his haunches pulled him ever harder into her. Henry’s back arched as he thrust himself to climax and he continued his movements until she was fully spent. Then he lay himself gently atop her as their breath slowly abated. And she held him lovingly atop her. After a few minutes, Henry rolled gently to one side, coming to rest on his back. Alison turned her body to cover him with hers and they drifted off to sleep.
When she awoke, she moved cautiously so as not to wake him. To her surprise, he was watching her.
“I thought you’d be asleep.”
“I was, on and off. I enjoyed watching you sleep, the rise and fall of your back. Your skin is wonderfully soft to the touch.”
Alison sat up resting on her haunches, holding the sheet against her chest. She watched curiously as Henry’s right hand slowly pulled the sheet away, exposing her upper body to the light. She said nothing as his hands caressed her arms and her breasts while his eyes took in every inch of her exposed skin. Silently, he raised himself to a sitting position as he gently eased her onto her back next to him and he removed the sheet completely.
His fingers caressed her breasts, and excited her nipples. She gasped as his thumb and forefinger gently squeezed her nipples to full erections. She lay quietly in anticipation as his hand spread her legs and his fingers touched the lips of her vagina. Fluids again rushed from her as his fingers penetrated her and made their way to the roof of her vagina. She felt her back side lift in response to his touch and soon the intensity was so great that her body arched in response. Yet he would not take her.
His face came closer to hers as his fingers moved deep inside her and his tongue penetrated her open mouth, meeting hers in a willing dance. Her hand reached for him and pulled him into her and she then clasped his buttocks and began to write methodically to a crescendo whereupon they spent each other anew. Exhausted, the slept.
Henry awoke to the sight of his lover sitting on the edge of the bed facing him, with a wet, soapy towel, she smiled at him as she began to wash the fluids from his loins. She gently lifted his penis to expose unwashed areas and cleaned them. She took his testes in one hand and washed them thoroughly with the other, She followed these actions with a dry towel. All the while, she noted how it had changed from large, rigid, turgid to smaller, soft, malleable. She noted, too, that Henry was comfortable with her, and willing to expose his vulnerability,
A robe alone covered her as they sat at the table for their first meal of the day. Alison watched Henry’s every move for signs of impatience, indications that their first liaise was drawing to an end. There were none. After their shower, they walked hand in hand through the neighborhood, taking in the sun and making small talk. As the day turned to evening, Henry said he had to leave but asked if she could join him in the morning, his place or hers. She chose hers.
Alison stood unsure of herself as Henry drove off. After thirty years, she had nothing to compare to. He was handsome, suave and comfortable in his skin. His actions were above reproach, and his desire was obvious. And, he was nothing like Harold. Fatigue overtook her and she relented. Soon she was nestled in her bed, sound asleep.
She awoke refreshed about 10:00. After a small meal and a coffee, she hit the books and watched a youtube video of Muhamad Yunus, a Nobel Prize winner for his work with microfinance. She marveled how a modest man, a former professor of economics at Middle Tennessee State University, could have conceived of and implemented the plans to bring micro lending to the poorest people in his nation. She listened intently as he recounted the journey from teaching in a state institution in the United States to creating a banking empire built on tiny loans to the poorest of the poor, without collateral. She laughed aloud as he stood at the podium in very modest clothing and told the story of the Nobel Committee asking him if the owners of the Grameen Bank would be coming from Bangladesh to accept the award. All Grameen clients are owners, he explained, all 7.5 million of them. Yunus chuckled as he explained that there are only 4.5 million people in all of Norway. Wow, the things Henry gets involved in. Her head shook in amazement.
She awoke early next morning to the sounds of birds and the early morning sun. She stretched languorously, feeling more desirable than she had in years. She chose to keep that feeling a bit longer.
Later, she went to work in her garden. She let the day take care of itself, relying on intuition to give her insight. Henry called about 9:00 and they set their plans for the day.
As she knelt to prune the roses, thoughts of him flowed through her mind much as a gentle stream makes its way over its bed. The sounds of water breaking on boulders and over small stones made her smile. Perhaps she should add a waterfall to the garden, she thought.
For a moment she wondered if things had not gone too far, too fast, and she feared for the briefest moment what the loss of their talks might mean to her. She put it all to rest as she realized the fallacy of her thinking. They were not new to each other. This was not a one night stand extended. For months they had spoken, And, after each conversation there was reflection. She had been thinking about him almost every moment of every day.
Sometimes she would reflect on what he does; other times, what kind of man his is. She threw herself into her learning for its own sake but also because he had suggested the path, and … her mind stopped for a moment to catch itself. The point is, she told herself, is that she did know him, what he thought, how he felt, what made him laugh and what made him sad. Those things had come out over time, as they got to know each other and their defenses came down. That’s why he had stammered when he asked her for the date. He was vulnerable and he chose to take the chance she would turn him down. She sat back on her buttocks, folding into a lotus position, back erect, hands in her lap and sent a silent message to the ether asking him to hurry.
Chapter 3
Chapter 3
There are many ways for a woman to get over a man, and vice versa. In some places, they say the best way for a woman to get over a man is to get under another one. Not so everywhere.
Alison had chosen another path. Abstention. After thirty odd years of marriage, she needed time to find herself. Her old identity no longer applied. Finding her way with Henry’s guidance was working beyond her expectations. She was discovering a heightened appreciation of herself and her abilities. The more she read, the more confident she became. Attending seminars and meeting people, she found herself increasingly comfortable in her own skin.
And now, this. The thrill of seeing Henry again, in person, was compelling. Yet she feared it would be the end of a process she wasn’t ready to give up. Perhaps she should cancel. “Let’s see it through,” she told herself.
Over the next few days, Alison kept busy with her assignments. She took some time off for lunch with Helen but she determined not to tell her about their pending date. They met at Henri’s, an upscale restaurant over looking Nomos Lake. She heard her name as she approached the receptionist.
“Alison! Over here. Across the room, at a doorway leading to the veranda, her friend motioned to her. She smiled at the receptionist and proceeded to the doorway.
“Helen, honey, I am so happy you’re here early. There’s so much to tell. I’m about to explode.”
“First, let’s order our drinks.” Helen motioned toward a round table for two at the water’s edge and flagged the waiter. Two ice teas please, one sweet, the other regular.”
“Come, sit, tell me everything.” Helen said.
“First of all, Helen, I have to thank you for connecting me with Henry. I have grown so much over these last months, I can’t believe it’s still me. Truth is, I’m not me – or more accurately I am not the person I was, and I owe it all to you.”
“Honey, if you’re different, and I agree, you are, it’s because you recreated yourself. Honestly, I hardly ever see you anymore, so I know it wasn’t me. Now I do agree, Henry may have played a part. I ask him about you every time we have a session but he refuses to comment. He is so, oh, you know what I mean.”
“Yes, I do know what you mean. He likes to maintain confidentiality, as well he should. But I can tell you anything you want to know. So, should I start, or do you have specific questions?”
“No, you go ahead,” Helen said as the waiter placed the iced teas in front of them. “Give us a few minutes, won’t you? I’ll signal you when we’re ready to order.”
“That’s fine, ma’am. Call when you’re ready.”
Helen returned her attention to Alison. “You have put an amazing amount of effort into your transformation. I can’t believe it’s you. I mean, you look the same but your energy level is so much higher, and your intensity, and yes, even the way you think. It’s evident in your every behavior.”
“Did you experience similar changes as you worked with him? Did your awareness grow with every session?”
“No. The truth is, Alison, when we started out, Henry applied his skills for me as he does for you. But I’m afraid I wasn’t as committed to becoming as my words would have you believe. He gave me advice, yes, and he suggested books and activities I could benefit from but in subsequent conversations, he would ask me what I read or how I applied my knowledge and it became clear in short order that I was not filling my commitments – to him, and more importantly, to myself.
“A couple months after I introduced you to him, he suggested that I was not ready to move ahead, so it made little sense to continue. He couldn’t help someone who was unwilling to help herself.”
Helen looked away for a moment, her chin falling to her chest. The fun Helen was replaced by a more reflective one. When she spoke, in a quiet, almost subdued tone she said, “Alison, he released me. I was fired.”
In the silence that ensued, Alison found herself uneasy at Helen’s disclosure. Why would she pass on such an opportunity to remake her life? Did she not see what was before her? One question alone came to her lips. “Why?”
Alison, I discovered that I don’t really want to change. Life is good enough as it is. I have enough money to live modestly, and my social life is really enjoyable. I have a couple good prospects, men that adore me, even want to marry me. Life with either one of them could be thrilling. George loves to dance, and he goes on two or three cruises a year. He has a lovely home. And Johnny…”
“Is that all you’ve found out, that you want a sugar daddy? What about your dreams, of writing of public speaking, of applying your talents for the benefit of the community at large?” Did you not read any of the books? Did you not consider in any deep way the questions he posed? Helen, what were you thinking?”
“Seeing you today, experiencing first hand the transformative effects he had on you, I see what I gave up by not taking things seriously. Truth is, I see what I might have become had I made the commitment to myself. But, honestly, I can tell you that while I am thrilled at what he did for you, I know that it isn’t for me. I know it’s not the best thing for me, long term, but who knows, I may still land on my feet.”
As she absorbed Helen’s words, Alison found herself growing in admiration for Henry, this quiet, unassuming man, with seemingly endless questions and a wealth of suggestions. OK, so it wasn’t for Helen but it worked wonders for her, and that’s all that mattered. She still had a friend at this table. In fact it was the same friend she had always had -- unchanged and possibly unchangeable.
“Say, we still have to order. What are you going to have?” she asked, leaning forward to cover Helen’s hand with her own.
Alison stood before the dressing mirror, double checking her appearance as butterflies held court in her stomach.
She felt at once comfortable in a blue flowered dress and black heels, at the same time a bit uncomfortable as she hadn’t worn something so formal in over a year. Her make up was very lightly applied, thanks to soft, clear skin, a genetic gift from her mother.
Doubts filled her mind, distracting her from the finishing touches. I had been almost a year since Harold had packed his bags. The thought of ‘Alison on a date’ had her a bit unnerved. The ringing doorbell brought her back to the moment, One final look, and she proceeded to her door.
Henry was a commanding presence as he stood before her, in blue blazer, tan slacks and a white crew neck, She had forgotten how tall he was and how confidently he projected himself.
“Welcome,” she said, opening the screen door. “Please, Come in.”
Henry smiled as he entered, his eyes adjusting to the light. “You have a very nice home,” he intoned as he turned to face her squarely. “You look lovely.”
Alison felt her cheeks reddening. “Thank you. You look very nice, too. Would you care for a drink, a Merlot perhaps?”
Henry nodded. “That would be nice.”
Alsion led the way through the living room to the lanai, where a fresh bottle of wine was chilling, adjacent to stemware. “Would you do the honors, please?” she asked, offering him the opener. Henry accepted. He gave the wine time to breathe before pouring, then turned his attention to the garden.
“Is this your handiwork?”
“Yes, and my therapy. I can only get so much from my lessons.”
Smiling, Henry looked warmly into her eyes and nodded. “I know what you mean. Working in the soil has a claming, curative effect on the mind. I don’t do as much as I’d like with my schedule but I have been able to create some gardens in my yards in Thailand and in Spain. I make sure my weekends are my own.”
Returning his gaze, Alison sipped her wine. “My time is in the evenings, after ‘class’, so to speak.
With a gesture, she led Henry along the garden path to share its colors and scents. She points out the flowers as she goes along.
“During the days, I follow your guidance, attend some networking events and seminars and, occasionally have lunch with our friend, Helen.”
Henry’s ears perked up at hearing Helen’s name. “Yes, Helen. How is she?” he asks as he sips from his glass.
“She’s fine. She told me that she is no longer a client.”
Henry’s attention is focused on the red roses, which he inspects gently. “Coaching relationships are difficult to maintain sometimes. Perhaps she felt we weren’t a match. Still, she’s a very nice woman, and I wish her all the best.” He stands taller. “This wine is delicious.”
Alison smiled as her eyes closed briefly, absorbing Henry’s tactful transition. “What are your plans for the next few weeks, since you’re not traveling?”
“I want to spend some time sailing, to refresh myself, and to read. In my field there’s always new things to learn. And, what are your plans for those weeks?”
Before she could answer, Henry catches himself and interjects, “Look at the time. Perhaps we can continue this in the car. The theater’s a fair drive from here.”
Their conversation continued unabated for the trip. Alison shared her plans for the weeks ahead, and Henry, for his part gave her additional insights into his life on the road.
“It’s a pretty glamorous life in many ways, if you don’t consider the hours spent traveling, getting through customs, incessant delays and the like.
“What makes it great is the pursuit of solutions to problems of all types, many of which are regional or local, things which we’d never encounter here.”
“Like what?” she asked, turning her body in the seat to face him as much as possible.
Well, in Africa, it’s the water. Finding it, cleaning it, purifying it for drinking. In India and Bangladesh, its micro financing of tiny mom and pop enterprises. In Haiti, its rebuilding after the Hurricane. That entails almost everything in microcosm. People need food, dinking water, work and the ability to start tiny businesses.”
“Kind of makes what I am learning seem small by comparison.”
“What you are learning is important to all this. Sure, we haven’t introduced you to specifics like micro financing but what you’re learning all comes into play very soon. You’ll see.”
Alison sat quietly for a time, engrossed in what she was hearing, and growing in awareness of what she was feeling. Henry was like no one she had ever met. He was gentle to a fault, calm and self-assured. His life, while challenging and financially rewarding, was centered around giving. Her feelings were hard to explain, and she found that somewhat disconcerting.
The theater filled to overflowing. Yet, in spite of the large number of people, there was a harmony to the activity. Soon, they were seated in private box seats. On stage, music announced the arrival Mr. Tony Bennett. The audience stood to greet their revered entertainer. Alison turned to Henry who was looking at her in admiration of his own. Instinctively, she reached out her hand to squeeze his. His face softened as he accepted hers.
Once again in the car, as the gala disappeared in the distance, Alison turned to Henry and noted. “There were hundreds of people there tonight, many of them notable people. I would have thought someone would have recognized you.”
His eyes fixed on the road ahead, Henry took her hand once more. “I have lived in this area for over thirty years but all my work is done elsewhere. Truth is, I don’t even know my neighbors.”
Turning the car onto the highway, he continued. “I am better known by people in Bangkok and Bangalore than I am in Bangor, Maine or Chicago, Illinois, where I have some pretty heady clients. Six people know me in San Francisco, I think.”
“Then why are you here? And why are we together?”
“I’m here because I started my career here. But there weren’t enough clients here who understood what I do or why I am worth what they pay me. I return here because no one knows me here, and I love my little patch of land. I feel right at home here. My home is large, energy efficient, and self-sustaining. It has a 200° view of the lakes and woods galore, with walking trails and rest stops.
“We are together because one of my old clients asked me to help a friend of his who needed some personal guidance but could not afford to pay. After we’d been together a while, that guy told me that he had a friend, and, you get the pattern.”
“So how many people can you coach with all the other things you do?”
“Just one or two, sometimes as many as six.”
“And, at the moment?”
“Four, including you.”
And the original guy?”
“No. He’s running a redevelopment project in Bangalore and another in Thailand. We’re just friends now, and sometimes collaborators.”
“What can you tell me about the others?”
“Nothing. I don’t talk about my clients. You understand, don’t you?”
Alison gazed on Henry’s profile in the night light and nodded. “Yes I do, and I honor that.”
Slowly, Henry turned his face slightly in her direction. “Would you like to see my world?”
There are many ways for a woman to get over a man, and vice versa. In some places, they say the best way for a woman to get over a man is to get under another one. Not so everywhere.
Alison had chosen another path. Abstention. After thirty odd years of marriage, she needed time to find herself. Her old identity no longer applied. Finding her way with Henry’s guidance was working beyond her expectations. She was discovering a heightened appreciation of herself and her abilities. The more she read, the more confident she became. Attending seminars and meeting people, she found herself increasingly comfortable in her own skin.
And now, this. The thrill of seeing Henry again, in person, was compelling. Yet she feared it would be the end of a process she wasn’t ready to give up. Perhaps she should cancel. “Let’s see it through,” she told herself.
Over the next few days, Alison kept busy with her assignments. She took some time off for lunch with Helen but she determined not to tell her about their pending date. They met at Henri’s, an upscale restaurant over looking Nomos Lake. She heard her name as she approached the receptionist.
“Alison! Over here. Across the room, at a doorway leading to the veranda, her friend motioned to her. She smiled at the receptionist and proceeded to the doorway.
“Helen, honey, I am so happy you’re here early. There’s so much to tell. I’m about to explode.”
“First, let’s order our drinks.” Helen motioned toward a round table for two at the water’s edge and flagged the waiter. Two ice teas please, one sweet, the other regular.”
“Come, sit, tell me everything.” Helen said.
“First of all, Helen, I have to thank you for connecting me with Henry. I have grown so much over these last months, I can’t believe it’s still me. Truth is, I’m not me – or more accurately I am not the person I was, and I owe it all to you.”
“Honey, if you’re different, and I agree, you are, it’s because you recreated yourself. Honestly, I hardly ever see you anymore, so I know it wasn’t me. Now I do agree, Henry may have played a part. I ask him about you every time we have a session but he refuses to comment. He is so, oh, you know what I mean.”
“Yes, I do know what you mean. He likes to maintain confidentiality, as well he should. But I can tell you anything you want to know. So, should I start, or do you have specific questions?”
“No, you go ahead,” Helen said as the waiter placed the iced teas in front of them. “Give us a few minutes, won’t you? I’ll signal you when we’re ready to order.”
“That’s fine, ma’am. Call when you’re ready.”
Helen returned her attention to Alison. “You have put an amazing amount of effort into your transformation. I can’t believe it’s you. I mean, you look the same but your energy level is so much higher, and your intensity, and yes, even the way you think. It’s evident in your every behavior.”
“Did you experience similar changes as you worked with him? Did your awareness grow with every session?”
“No. The truth is, Alison, when we started out, Henry applied his skills for me as he does for you. But I’m afraid I wasn’t as committed to becoming as my words would have you believe. He gave me advice, yes, and he suggested books and activities I could benefit from but in subsequent conversations, he would ask me what I read or how I applied my knowledge and it became clear in short order that I was not filling my commitments – to him, and more importantly, to myself.
“A couple months after I introduced you to him, he suggested that I was not ready to move ahead, so it made little sense to continue. He couldn’t help someone who was unwilling to help herself.”
Helen looked away for a moment, her chin falling to her chest. The fun Helen was replaced by a more reflective one. When she spoke, in a quiet, almost subdued tone she said, “Alison, he released me. I was fired.”
In the silence that ensued, Alison found herself uneasy at Helen’s disclosure. Why would she pass on such an opportunity to remake her life? Did she not see what was before her? One question alone came to her lips. “Why?”
Alison, I discovered that I don’t really want to change. Life is good enough as it is. I have enough money to live modestly, and my social life is really enjoyable. I have a couple good prospects, men that adore me, even want to marry me. Life with either one of them could be thrilling. George loves to dance, and he goes on two or three cruises a year. He has a lovely home. And Johnny…”
“Is that all you’ve found out, that you want a sugar daddy? What about your dreams, of writing of public speaking, of applying your talents for the benefit of the community at large?” Did you not read any of the books? Did you not consider in any deep way the questions he posed? Helen, what were you thinking?”
“Seeing you today, experiencing first hand the transformative effects he had on you, I see what I gave up by not taking things seriously. Truth is, I see what I might have become had I made the commitment to myself. But, honestly, I can tell you that while I am thrilled at what he did for you, I know that it isn’t for me. I know it’s not the best thing for me, long term, but who knows, I may still land on my feet.”
As she absorbed Helen’s words, Alison found herself growing in admiration for Henry, this quiet, unassuming man, with seemingly endless questions and a wealth of suggestions. OK, so it wasn’t for Helen but it worked wonders for her, and that’s all that mattered. She still had a friend at this table. In fact it was the same friend she had always had -- unchanged and possibly unchangeable.
“Say, we still have to order. What are you going to have?” she asked, leaning forward to cover Helen’s hand with her own.
Alison stood before the dressing mirror, double checking her appearance as butterflies held court in her stomach.
She felt at once comfortable in a blue flowered dress and black heels, at the same time a bit uncomfortable as she hadn’t worn something so formal in over a year. Her make up was very lightly applied, thanks to soft, clear skin, a genetic gift from her mother.
Doubts filled her mind, distracting her from the finishing touches. I had been almost a year since Harold had packed his bags. The thought of ‘Alison on a date’ had her a bit unnerved. The ringing doorbell brought her back to the moment, One final look, and she proceeded to her door.
Henry was a commanding presence as he stood before her, in blue blazer, tan slacks and a white crew neck, She had forgotten how tall he was and how confidently he projected himself.
“Welcome,” she said, opening the screen door. “Please, Come in.”
Henry smiled as he entered, his eyes adjusting to the light. “You have a very nice home,” he intoned as he turned to face her squarely. “You look lovely.”
Alison felt her cheeks reddening. “Thank you. You look very nice, too. Would you care for a drink, a Merlot perhaps?”
Henry nodded. “That would be nice.”
Alsion led the way through the living room to the lanai, where a fresh bottle of wine was chilling, adjacent to stemware. “Would you do the honors, please?” she asked, offering him the opener. Henry accepted. He gave the wine time to breathe before pouring, then turned his attention to the garden.
“Is this your handiwork?”
“Yes, and my therapy. I can only get so much from my lessons.”
Smiling, Henry looked warmly into her eyes and nodded. “I know what you mean. Working in the soil has a claming, curative effect on the mind. I don’t do as much as I’d like with my schedule but I have been able to create some gardens in my yards in Thailand and in Spain. I make sure my weekends are my own.”
Returning his gaze, Alison sipped her wine. “My time is in the evenings, after ‘class’, so to speak.
With a gesture, she led Henry along the garden path to share its colors and scents. She points out the flowers as she goes along.
“During the days, I follow your guidance, attend some networking events and seminars and, occasionally have lunch with our friend, Helen.”
Henry’s ears perked up at hearing Helen’s name. “Yes, Helen. How is she?” he asks as he sips from his glass.
“She’s fine. She told me that she is no longer a client.”
Henry’s attention is focused on the red roses, which he inspects gently. “Coaching relationships are difficult to maintain sometimes. Perhaps she felt we weren’t a match. Still, she’s a very nice woman, and I wish her all the best.” He stands taller. “This wine is delicious.”
Alison smiled as her eyes closed briefly, absorbing Henry’s tactful transition. “What are your plans for the next few weeks, since you’re not traveling?”
“I want to spend some time sailing, to refresh myself, and to read. In my field there’s always new things to learn. And, what are your plans for those weeks?”
Before she could answer, Henry catches himself and interjects, “Look at the time. Perhaps we can continue this in the car. The theater’s a fair drive from here.”
Their conversation continued unabated for the trip. Alison shared her plans for the weeks ahead, and Henry, for his part gave her additional insights into his life on the road.
“It’s a pretty glamorous life in many ways, if you don’t consider the hours spent traveling, getting through customs, incessant delays and the like.
“What makes it great is the pursuit of solutions to problems of all types, many of which are regional or local, things which we’d never encounter here.”
“Like what?” she asked, turning her body in the seat to face him as much as possible.
Well, in Africa, it’s the water. Finding it, cleaning it, purifying it for drinking. In India and Bangladesh, its micro financing of tiny mom and pop enterprises. In Haiti, its rebuilding after the Hurricane. That entails almost everything in microcosm. People need food, dinking water, work and the ability to start tiny businesses.”
“Kind of makes what I am learning seem small by comparison.”
“What you are learning is important to all this. Sure, we haven’t introduced you to specifics like micro financing but what you’re learning all comes into play very soon. You’ll see.”
Alison sat quietly for a time, engrossed in what she was hearing, and growing in awareness of what she was feeling. Henry was like no one she had ever met. He was gentle to a fault, calm and self-assured. His life, while challenging and financially rewarding, was centered around giving. Her feelings were hard to explain, and she found that somewhat disconcerting.
The theater filled to overflowing. Yet, in spite of the large number of people, there was a harmony to the activity. Soon, they were seated in private box seats. On stage, music announced the arrival Mr. Tony Bennett. The audience stood to greet their revered entertainer. Alison turned to Henry who was looking at her in admiration of his own. Instinctively, she reached out her hand to squeeze his. His face softened as he accepted hers.
Once again in the car, as the gala disappeared in the distance, Alison turned to Henry and noted. “There were hundreds of people there tonight, many of them notable people. I would have thought someone would have recognized you.”
His eyes fixed on the road ahead, Henry took her hand once more. “I have lived in this area for over thirty years but all my work is done elsewhere. Truth is, I don’t even know my neighbors.”
Turning the car onto the highway, he continued. “I am better known by people in Bangkok and Bangalore than I am in Bangor, Maine or Chicago, Illinois, where I have some pretty heady clients. Six people know me in San Francisco, I think.”
“Then why are you here? And why are we together?”
“I’m here because I started my career here. But there weren’t enough clients here who understood what I do or why I am worth what they pay me. I return here because no one knows me here, and I love my little patch of land. I feel right at home here. My home is large, energy efficient, and self-sustaining. It has a 200° view of the lakes and woods galore, with walking trails and rest stops.
“We are together because one of my old clients asked me to help a friend of his who needed some personal guidance but could not afford to pay. After we’d been together a while, that guy told me that he had a friend, and, you get the pattern.”
“So how many people can you coach with all the other things you do?”
“Just one or two, sometimes as many as six.”
“And, at the moment?”
“Four, including you.”
And the original guy?”
“No. He’s running a redevelopment project in Bangalore and another in Thailand. We’re just friends now, and sometimes collaborators.”
“What can you tell me about the others?”
“Nothing. I don’t talk about my clients. You understand, don’t you?”
Alison gazed on Henry’s profile in the night light and nodded. “Yes I do, and I honor that.”
Slowly, Henry turned his face slightly in her direction. “Would you like to see my world?”
Chapter 2
Chapter 2
There are many ways to start life anew. Getting busy is one of them. In some ways, it wasn’t as hard as she had thought. Since she and Harold had lived apart for months, she had grown accustomed to living alone and fending for herself. One egg took pretty much the same time as two,
She found herself thanking her parents for instilling in her the joy of reading. Henry’s list, while daunting, gave her marvelous new insights into herself as well as business. She found that she had encountered a lot of what she read through personal experiences, and it made her more comfortable moving ahead. Senge’s piece on the parable of the lily pads was one such example.
She imagined a lake in her mind, with one lily pad floating in its center. On the second day, there were two, then four, then eight, as each day the number doubled. One lily pad was cute, so was a small cluster. But a lake covered in lilies is a threat to the lake and its inhabitants, blocking life giving sun and depleting oxygen. It was a metaphor for the last few years with Harold. First, a drink, then two.
The week went by in a flash and when Henry’s call came she was ready.
“Alison, this is Henry Lampert. How are you?”
A full smile filled her face. She could feel the warmth of a glow filling her.
“I’m fine, Henry, and how are you?”
Small talk ensued. She found herself opening up, sharing her thoughts and, as he spoke, imagining what life like in Japan, sitting in meetings, experiencing community baths, going to Kabuki theater.
“Have you had a chance to read any of the books I suggested?”
Her lungs filled with pride. “Yes, I have. I finished The Fifth Discipline. I am half way through Joel Barker and I’ve taken in a few chapters of Margaret Wheatley.”
Quiet.
“All this in a week? That’s impressive - and unusual. Share with me what you’ve learned.”
“Well, for starters……”
As quickly as the call had started it was over. Forty minutes, she found, is not enough time. As he brought the session to a close, Henry offered some new assignments.
“Take some quiet time to note what you think are the most important parts of what you have read. Relate it to your past experiences with the ACS and other assignments. What would you have done differently then if you had known what you know now?”
Alison scribbled notes as he spoke and found herself wanting to see him.
“Let’s talk next week, same time. I should be back from Barcelona by then.”
Henry paused before closing. “Alison, you are truly impressive. You’ve taken on this challenge with a passion and intensity well beyond my expectations. I thank you for that.
“Until next week, then. Bye-bye.”
With that, he was gone. No lingering exit, just gone. “That’ll take some getting used to,” she thought.
The next few months of conversations mirrored the first. She read more, shared her thoughts clearly, received glowing praise and moved ahead. After a while, the mold was set. Until he returned from a trip to Thailand.
“Hell-o Henry. How was your trip.”
“Fine, thank you, and how was your week, Alison?”
“Filled. With books and reading. I went to the seminar you recommended and worked the room as you suggested. I was amazed at the number of women in the audience. When I traveled to these shows with Harold, most of the women were wives, not executives. Now they’re the speakers.”
“Times are different, now. And much better.” Henry replied softly. “Soon enough, you’ll be among them.”
“Yes. Me, with my degree in home economics.”
“Don’t kid yourself. Who you were is not who you are. And who you are is not who you are becoming.”
“Sounds Zen-like.”
“In a way. Before we begin, I have a personal question, if I may.”
“Of course.”
“I have an open schedule now, for a month. Would you consider…. Pause
His hesitancy was so out of character, she pressed her ear harder to the phone.
“There’s a concert this weekend, with Tony Bennett. I would like to take you, if you would like to go?”
Alison’s face lit up. She paused for a moment.
“Do you mean, like a date?”
“Yes. A date. Dinner and a show.’
“ I thought you didn’t do that with clients.”
“I thought that, too. Until you.
Silence.
“I will understand if you cannot.”
“Henry, I would love to. I am thrilled you would ask, I’m just stunned, that’s all.”
“Then it’s a date?”
“Yes, a date.”
“Great! Let’s continue with the session. What did you read this week?”
There are many ways to start life anew. Getting busy is one of them. In some ways, it wasn’t as hard as she had thought. Since she and Harold had lived apart for months, she had grown accustomed to living alone and fending for herself. One egg took pretty much the same time as two,
She found herself thanking her parents for instilling in her the joy of reading. Henry’s list, while daunting, gave her marvelous new insights into herself as well as business. She found that she had encountered a lot of what she read through personal experiences, and it made her more comfortable moving ahead. Senge’s piece on the parable of the lily pads was one such example.
She imagined a lake in her mind, with one lily pad floating in its center. On the second day, there were two, then four, then eight, as each day the number doubled. One lily pad was cute, so was a small cluster. But a lake covered in lilies is a threat to the lake and its inhabitants, blocking life giving sun and depleting oxygen. It was a metaphor for the last few years with Harold. First, a drink, then two.
The week went by in a flash and when Henry’s call came she was ready.
“Alison, this is Henry Lampert. How are you?”
A full smile filled her face. She could feel the warmth of a glow filling her.
“I’m fine, Henry, and how are you?”
Small talk ensued. She found herself opening up, sharing her thoughts and, as he spoke, imagining what life like in Japan, sitting in meetings, experiencing community baths, going to Kabuki theater.
“Have you had a chance to read any of the books I suggested?”
Her lungs filled with pride. “Yes, I have. I finished The Fifth Discipline. I am half way through Joel Barker and I’ve taken in a few chapters of Margaret Wheatley.”
Quiet.
“All this in a week? That’s impressive - and unusual. Share with me what you’ve learned.”
“Well, for starters……”
As quickly as the call had started it was over. Forty minutes, she found, is not enough time. As he brought the session to a close, Henry offered some new assignments.
“Take some quiet time to note what you think are the most important parts of what you have read. Relate it to your past experiences with the ACS and other assignments. What would you have done differently then if you had known what you know now?”
Alison scribbled notes as he spoke and found herself wanting to see him.
“Let’s talk next week, same time. I should be back from Barcelona by then.”
Henry paused before closing. “Alison, you are truly impressive. You’ve taken on this challenge with a passion and intensity well beyond my expectations. I thank you for that.
“Until next week, then. Bye-bye.”
With that, he was gone. No lingering exit, just gone. “That’ll take some getting used to,” she thought.
The next few months of conversations mirrored the first. She read more, shared her thoughts clearly, received glowing praise and moved ahead. After a while, the mold was set. Until he returned from a trip to Thailand.
“Hell-o Henry. How was your trip.”
“Fine, thank you, and how was your week, Alison?”
“Filled. With books and reading. I went to the seminar you recommended and worked the room as you suggested. I was amazed at the number of women in the audience. When I traveled to these shows with Harold, most of the women were wives, not executives. Now they’re the speakers.”
“Times are different, now. And much better.” Henry replied softly. “Soon enough, you’ll be among them.”
“Yes. Me, with my degree in home economics.”
“Don’t kid yourself. Who you were is not who you are. And who you are is not who you are becoming.”
“Sounds Zen-like.”
“In a way. Before we begin, I have a personal question, if I may.”
“Of course.”
“I have an open schedule now, for a month. Would you consider…. Pause
His hesitancy was so out of character, she pressed her ear harder to the phone.
“There’s a concert this weekend, with Tony Bennett. I would like to take you, if you would like to go?”
Alison’s face lit up. She paused for a moment.
“Do you mean, like a date?”
“Yes. A date. Dinner and a show.’
“ I thought you didn’t do that with clients.”
“I thought that, too. Until you.
Silence.
“I will understand if you cannot.”
“Henry, I would love to. I am thrilled you would ask, I’m just stunned, that’s all.”
“Then it’s a date?”
“Yes, a date.”
“Great! Let’s continue with the session. What did you read this week?”
Chapter 1
Chapter 1
“Alison!”, said the voice on the other end of the line. How are you, honey?”
“Just fine, Helen. Sorry I missed your call. How are you?”
“I’m great. I wanted to touch base to see how your last day went, to make sure you’re all right and to take you to lunch.”
“Honestly, I’m fine. It was a beautiful ending to a horrible couple years but I think we’ll both be fine. Let’s go to the Water Wheel and sit in the alcove. I like it there.”
“Wonderful. Is 11:30 alright? We’ll beat the crowd and have the place all to ourselves.”
“O.K., Helen. Eleven thirty it is.”
Helen found Alison ensconced in a comfortable leather chair, ice water in hand. “She hailed the waitress and said, “Help us please. My friend is going to overdose on water. Please bring us two glasses of merlot.”
“Right away,”
Helen reached for Alison’s hands and cupped them in her own. “You’re sure you’re alright? Was I presumptuous to order wine this early?”
“Yes, I’m fine. We really did part in the most memorable way. Though that’s all I’m going to say about that. It was beautiful, and it is private.”
“Got it.” Helen responded emphatically. “So, now what?”
“Well, it’s not like we didn’t know it was coming. It was about as spontaneous as the space shuttle. I am ready to move on but to what, I can’t tell you yet. I’ve looked everywhere for some direction but nothing is clear.”
“Then I know just what you need. You need Henry.”
“Your coach?”
“Absolutely. Henry is perfect for you. He’s done wonders for me. And, it’s not like you have to do anything immediately. This is the perfect time for the two of you to meet.”
“Helen, I’m not looking to start another rela,,,,”
“Of course not, Helen interjected, Henry is not a date. He’s a coach, a life and business coach. When Marv and I split, it was Henry who helped me pick up the pieces and create my new life. He’ll do the same for you. And, he’ll do it at the right pace. Please say I can call him.”
“Let me think about it. Can we order, please?”
“Yes. Of course. I didn’t mean to be so pushy.”
They spent the next couple hours together in quiet conversations of lighter subjects. Alison was relieved when it was time to leave. “Look,” she said softly, “Why don’t you arrange for Henry to call me in a couple days. I want to get reacquainted with my surroundings. I want to be alone with me.”
“I understand, Alison, I really do. Let me take care of it. Thursday then?”
“No. Let’s make it Monday.”
“Fine.”
As her car exited the parking lot, tears began to flow in earnest. “Six days may not be enough,”
In the ensuing days, Alison’s emotions stabilized and she found that contemplation helped greatly. By Sunday evening, she had weeded the garden, both literally and figuratively. She found that digging in the soil, pruning the roses and repositioning the stones to create a new look helped her realize that change was alright, that a new look could be nurturing. By the time she drifted to sleep that night she was prepared to meet Helen’s friend.
The phone rang just as she was sitting down with her morning coffee. She noted that the area code was not local and wondered for a moment whether or not to answer.
“Hell-o?”
“Good morning. My name is Henry Lampert. I am calling for Alison Greer. Is this she?”
“Yes, it is Henry. It’s nice to meet you. Are you calling locally?”
“Actually, no. I am in Knoxville, Tennessee, at the airport. I am flying back in about half an hour. I was calling to see if you had time to meet around 3:00 this afternoon.”
“Three o’clock is fine, Henry. Do you know the area?”
“Yes, I do. I understand that you like the Water Wheel. That would be a great place to meet. I imagine it will be quiet at that time of day, so we can get to know one another.”
“That would be fine, Henry. Do I have to bring anything?”
“Not at all. We can talk for a while and see how things go. I’ll have a number of questions and I imagine you will as well. So we start slowly to see if there is a match.”
“That sounds just fine. I look forward to meeting you there. I don’t know what you look like.”
“Well, I’m a little over six feet tall and I’ll be wearing a brown leather jacket and. My hair is very short. I don’t think you’ll have a problem picking me out.”
“Yes, especially on a Monday afternoon in a quiet restaurant.,” she said with a smile. “I look forward to it.”
“Ciao.”
“Ciao,”
Alison smiled as she entered the restaurant. There, in an empty dining room, stood Henry, tall and lanky, and quite appealing.
She smiled as she approached him. “Alison?”
“Yes, Henry. It’s nice to meet you. Helen has told me a lot about you, though to tell you the truth she has never gone into much detail. So, while I know she speaks highly of you and she’s very happy for all you’ve done for her, I really cannot say what that is.”
“Great. So we start as strangers on a clean slate. Shall we sit?”
“Yes, of course. I really like the alcove. It overlooks the water wheel and it’s quite relaxing.”
The hostess showed them to their seats and poured ice water in their glasses. They ordered light snacks and then a quiet fell over them. “Who goes first?” she asked.
“It’s your choice,” he said, a soft smile on his lips.
“Let’s start with you. Helen told me we should meet, and that you might help me get back into the world of work. It’s been years since I had an actual job. I have done a lot of volunteer work for the ACS and a few local charities over the years. And, of course, when our boys were young, I was a soccer mom.”
“I see. So you actually have had a number of jobs, just not salaried. What did you do for the ACS?”
“I was a gopher the first year. After I learned the ropes, I chaired some committees and wrote some articles for the local media.”
“So, you were a manager, and a copy writer.”
“Yes, I guess I was.”
“And before that?”
“We’re really going back a long time, now.”
“Before we go back that far, tell me about marriage, children, et cetra.”
“Until recently, I was married to a wonderful man. He is still wonderful; just not mine. We had two children, both boys. The elder, Seth, is in London, where he works as an investment advisor. His brother, Neville, is an American sign language interpreter and photographer. He works out of Boston, but he takes assignments around the country so he can pursue his avocation.”
“Were you a soccer mom, a volunteer, then, too?”
“Well, yes, I was. Though it didn’t seem like a job.”
“My dear, everything we do is a job of sorts, and they all carry challenges.”
“ I see what you mean.”
“And, before this. College, high school. Tell me about those years.”
“In high school, I was into home economics. I learned to cook, which I love, and to design and make fashions, from dresses to scarves and the like. I made my own prom dress. It was quite a hit. I majored in that in college in hopes of being a dress designer.”
“Fine. I think we’ve covered a lot of ground. You’re telling me that you have been an active participant in your own life, and that you were more than a stay at home mom. You were involved in your community, had a lot of responsible roles, and a pretty full and happy marriage for many of your years.”
“Yes, I guess that’s all true. So, what does it mean?”
“It means,” Henry said, smiling, “*that you have a strong sense of self and a commitment to the things that are important to you. You did not marry and retire. Our meeting now tells me that you are fully engaged in creating the next phase of your life and there is no remediation required. So, do you have any firm direction and time frame?”
“Honestly, no. I have only been a ‘free woman’ for a week or so, and I have the resources to sustain myself for a while, so I can investigate my options without the pressure of having to find a job.”
“Are you a reader?”
“Yes, I am an avid reader of a variety of books and magazines. Even on our vacations we included time to lounge around and read.”
“Then let me offer the following. I will suggest a number of books, from self discovery to specific books in the areas you find yourself leaning. We will talk for forty minutes, once a week, three weeks a month. The other week gives you a chance to catch up on things that fall through the cracks.
“I will call you at our appointed time but I may be calling from anywhere in the world, as my clients span the globe. Don’t worry about the time changes. It may be the middle of the night where I am but it will always be during working hours or early evening for you. If you find a need to contact me at other times, just leave a voicemail and I will return your call as soon as I can.
“We can try this for three months. At that point, we may find that we are a match and continue; or, you may find that you want to pursue other avenues. You have the express right to cancel at any time.”
“Henry paused at this point to let things sink in. Alison took full advantage of the quiet to absorb his words. Finally, she spoke. “I think it’s a fair plan. When do we start?”
“Now.”
Alison was deep in thought as she left the restaurant. Her first session with Henry had been more than she bargained for. His questions were direct, to the point and he was more than willing to give her all the time she needed to answer. The most compelling question was, “What do you want?” She had a hard time answering it. He told her the answer was important but it was not necessary at this moment. “It is something you’ll need to come to grips with before you can go forward in any meaningful way.”
“I want,” she replied, “to be taken seriously, to find a career opportunity that permits me to utilize my strengths and that provides me with challenges for personal growth. I realize from your assessment of me that I have, indeed, faced a wide variety of challenges successfully. I have strong interpersonal and communications skills. I am not as internet savvy as I might be but I can master that in short order.”
As she approached a stop sign, she thought. “I answered his questions pretty well.” Then her thoughts turned to other things. She felt a powerful surge of emotional energy, dare she say sexual. Henry was a commanding presence, quiet, yet magnetic; soft yet deeply masculine. She found herself getting lost in his eyes, and in his smell.
The blast from a horn brought her to her senses, and she waved to the driver behind her as she pulled away from the stop sign. No matter. She would not see him for a while. Their next meeting was a week away. They would be talking by phone and he would be calling from Japan. No need to worry about getting too involved. He’s a gypsy and, anyway, it’s too soon.
She went to her computer as soon as she arrived home to check out some books he had recommended. Some of them were older books, he had said, available for just a dollar or two. It’s not the age of the book, he reminded her, it’s the content. She had never heard of the authors: Bolles, Senge, Wheatley, Barker. She remembered Henry quoting Barker, saying "problems that are impossible to solve with one paradigm may be easily solved with a different one." Soon enough, these authors would all become her friends.
“Alison!”, said the voice on the other end of the line. How are you, honey?”
“Just fine, Helen. Sorry I missed your call. How are you?”
“I’m great. I wanted to touch base to see how your last day went, to make sure you’re all right and to take you to lunch.”
“Honestly, I’m fine. It was a beautiful ending to a horrible couple years but I think we’ll both be fine. Let’s go to the Water Wheel and sit in the alcove. I like it there.”
“Wonderful. Is 11:30 alright? We’ll beat the crowd and have the place all to ourselves.”
“O.K., Helen. Eleven thirty it is.”
Helen found Alison ensconced in a comfortable leather chair, ice water in hand. “She hailed the waitress and said, “Help us please. My friend is going to overdose on water. Please bring us two glasses of merlot.”
“Right away,”
Helen reached for Alison’s hands and cupped them in her own. “You’re sure you’re alright? Was I presumptuous to order wine this early?”
“Yes, I’m fine. We really did part in the most memorable way. Though that’s all I’m going to say about that. It was beautiful, and it is private.”
“Got it.” Helen responded emphatically. “So, now what?”
“Well, it’s not like we didn’t know it was coming. It was about as spontaneous as the space shuttle. I am ready to move on but to what, I can’t tell you yet. I’ve looked everywhere for some direction but nothing is clear.”
“Then I know just what you need. You need Henry.”
“Your coach?”
“Absolutely. Henry is perfect for you. He’s done wonders for me. And, it’s not like you have to do anything immediately. This is the perfect time for the two of you to meet.”
“Helen, I’m not looking to start another rela,,,,”
“Of course not, Helen interjected, Henry is not a date. He’s a coach, a life and business coach. When Marv and I split, it was Henry who helped me pick up the pieces and create my new life. He’ll do the same for you. And, he’ll do it at the right pace. Please say I can call him.”
“Let me think about it. Can we order, please?”
“Yes. Of course. I didn’t mean to be so pushy.”
They spent the next couple hours together in quiet conversations of lighter subjects. Alison was relieved when it was time to leave. “Look,” she said softly, “Why don’t you arrange for Henry to call me in a couple days. I want to get reacquainted with my surroundings. I want to be alone with me.”
“I understand, Alison, I really do. Let me take care of it. Thursday then?”
“No. Let’s make it Monday.”
“Fine.”
As her car exited the parking lot, tears began to flow in earnest. “Six days may not be enough,”
In the ensuing days, Alison’s emotions stabilized and she found that contemplation helped greatly. By Sunday evening, she had weeded the garden, both literally and figuratively. She found that digging in the soil, pruning the roses and repositioning the stones to create a new look helped her realize that change was alright, that a new look could be nurturing. By the time she drifted to sleep that night she was prepared to meet Helen’s friend.
The phone rang just as she was sitting down with her morning coffee. She noted that the area code was not local and wondered for a moment whether or not to answer.
“Hell-o?”
“Good morning. My name is Henry Lampert. I am calling for Alison Greer. Is this she?”
“Yes, it is Henry. It’s nice to meet you. Are you calling locally?”
“Actually, no. I am in Knoxville, Tennessee, at the airport. I am flying back in about half an hour. I was calling to see if you had time to meet around 3:00 this afternoon.”
“Three o’clock is fine, Henry. Do you know the area?”
“Yes, I do. I understand that you like the Water Wheel. That would be a great place to meet. I imagine it will be quiet at that time of day, so we can get to know one another.”
“That would be fine, Henry. Do I have to bring anything?”
“Not at all. We can talk for a while and see how things go. I’ll have a number of questions and I imagine you will as well. So we start slowly to see if there is a match.”
“That sounds just fine. I look forward to meeting you there. I don’t know what you look like.”
“Well, I’m a little over six feet tall and I’ll be wearing a brown leather jacket and. My hair is very short. I don’t think you’ll have a problem picking me out.”
“Yes, especially on a Monday afternoon in a quiet restaurant.,” she said with a smile. “I look forward to it.”
“Ciao.”
“Ciao,”
Alison smiled as she entered the restaurant. There, in an empty dining room, stood Henry, tall and lanky, and quite appealing.
She smiled as she approached him. “Alison?”
“Yes, Henry. It’s nice to meet you. Helen has told me a lot about you, though to tell you the truth she has never gone into much detail. So, while I know she speaks highly of you and she’s very happy for all you’ve done for her, I really cannot say what that is.”
“Great. So we start as strangers on a clean slate. Shall we sit?”
“Yes, of course. I really like the alcove. It overlooks the water wheel and it’s quite relaxing.”
The hostess showed them to their seats and poured ice water in their glasses. They ordered light snacks and then a quiet fell over them. “Who goes first?” she asked.
“It’s your choice,” he said, a soft smile on his lips.
“Let’s start with you. Helen told me we should meet, and that you might help me get back into the world of work. It’s been years since I had an actual job. I have done a lot of volunteer work for the ACS and a few local charities over the years. And, of course, when our boys were young, I was a soccer mom.”
“I see. So you actually have had a number of jobs, just not salaried. What did you do for the ACS?”
“I was a gopher the first year. After I learned the ropes, I chaired some committees and wrote some articles for the local media.”
“So, you were a manager, and a copy writer.”
“Yes, I guess I was.”
“And before that?”
“We’re really going back a long time, now.”
“Before we go back that far, tell me about marriage, children, et cetra.”
“Until recently, I was married to a wonderful man. He is still wonderful; just not mine. We had two children, both boys. The elder, Seth, is in London, where he works as an investment advisor. His brother, Neville, is an American sign language interpreter and photographer. He works out of Boston, but he takes assignments around the country so he can pursue his avocation.”
“Were you a soccer mom, a volunteer, then, too?”
“Well, yes, I was. Though it didn’t seem like a job.”
“My dear, everything we do is a job of sorts, and they all carry challenges.”
“ I see what you mean.”
“And, before this. College, high school. Tell me about those years.”
“In high school, I was into home economics. I learned to cook, which I love, and to design and make fashions, from dresses to scarves and the like. I made my own prom dress. It was quite a hit. I majored in that in college in hopes of being a dress designer.”
“Fine. I think we’ve covered a lot of ground. You’re telling me that you have been an active participant in your own life, and that you were more than a stay at home mom. You were involved in your community, had a lot of responsible roles, and a pretty full and happy marriage for many of your years.”
“Yes, I guess that’s all true. So, what does it mean?”
“It means,” Henry said, smiling, “*that you have a strong sense of self and a commitment to the things that are important to you. You did not marry and retire. Our meeting now tells me that you are fully engaged in creating the next phase of your life and there is no remediation required. So, do you have any firm direction and time frame?”
“Honestly, no. I have only been a ‘free woman’ for a week or so, and I have the resources to sustain myself for a while, so I can investigate my options without the pressure of having to find a job.”
“Are you a reader?”
“Yes, I am an avid reader of a variety of books and magazines. Even on our vacations we included time to lounge around and read.”
“Then let me offer the following. I will suggest a number of books, from self discovery to specific books in the areas you find yourself leaning. We will talk for forty minutes, once a week, three weeks a month. The other week gives you a chance to catch up on things that fall through the cracks.
“I will call you at our appointed time but I may be calling from anywhere in the world, as my clients span the globe. Don’t worry about the time changes. It may be the middle of the night where I am but it will always be during working hours or early evening for you. If you find a need to contact me at other times, just leave a voicemail and I will return your call as soon as I can.
“We can try this for three months. At that point, we may find that we are a match and continue; or, you may find that you want to pursue other avenues. You have the express right to cancel at any time.”
“Henry paused at this point to let things sink in. Alison took full advantage of the quiet to absorb his words. Finally, she spoke. “I think it’s a fair plan. When do we start?”
“Now.”
Alison was deep in thought as she left the restaurant. Her first session with Henry had been more than she bargained for. His questions were direct, to the point and he was more than willing to give her all the time she needed to answer. The most compelling question was, “What do you want?” She had a hard time answering it. He told her the answer was important but it was not necessary at this moment. “It is something you’ll need to come to grips with before you can go forward in any meaningful way.”
“I want,” she replied, “to be taken seriously, to find a career opportunity that permits me to utilize my strengths and that provides me with challenges for personal growth. I realize from your assessment of me that I have, indeed, faced a wide variety of challenges successfully. I have strong interpersonal and communications skills. I am not as internet savvy as I might be but I can master that in short order.”
As she approached a stop sign, she thought. “I answered his questions pretty well.” Then her thoughts turned to other things. She felt a powerful surge of emotional energy, dare she say sexual. Henry was a commanding presence, quiet, yet magnetic; soft yet deeply masculine. She found herself getting lost in his eyes, and in his smell.
The blast from a horn brought her to her senses, and she waved to the driver behind her as she pulled away from the stop sign. No matter. She would not see him for a while. Their next meeting was a week away. They would be talking by phone and he would be calling from Japan. No need to worry about getting too involved. He’s a gypsy and, anyway, it’s too soon.
She went to her computer as soon as she arrived home to check out some books he had recommended. Some of them were older books, he had said, available for just a dollar or two. It’s not the age of the book, he reminded her, it’s the content. She had never heard of the authors: Bolles, Senge, Wheatley, Barker. She remembered Henry quoting Barker, saying "problems that are impossible to solve with one paradigm may be easily solved with a different one." Soon enough, these authors would all become her friends.
Prologue
PROLOGUE
They made love in the most wondrous way, with not a word spoken throughout. It began in the late afternoon in the kitchen, with the two of them preparing their evening meal together, and ended just before nine a.m. the following morning.
It was his idea, really, He wanted it to be ‘just so’, an evening so special that, when they would think about it over the years, and she would, that a warm glow would infuse her, and bring them to tears.
They moved through the kitchen as if choreographed. He washed the spinach; she patted it dry. He sliced tomatoes; she, the hard-boiled eggs. When he wanted her to move to a new station, he put his hands on her waist from behind and she moved like a dancer to his signals. They turned their heads to look into each other’s eyes and smiled as they moved about. Not a word.
They shared a sumptuous feast, communicating through pantomime and touch. Wine, salad, bread, coq au vin, desserts of fresh fruits and ice cream covered with berries, topped with Chambord.
Entering another phase in their foreplay, they moved around the living room to the sounds of Ravel’s Bolero and other sensual recordings. She responded instinctively to his directions as she had for over thirty years, and marveled as she did at his uncanny ability to lead. His agility and grace thrilled her still.
His attention to detail as they made love throughout the night brought her to moments of intensity she had not experienced in years, and brought her close to… and then to, tears. His lips kissed them all against her cheeks.
As the morning sunlight entered the room, he awoke her and they walked hand in hand to shower together. His hands washed her from neck to toes, and they dried her in similar fashion. She willingly followed his lead as they made love once more. She laid her head on his chest and, listening to the power of his heartbeat, she wept. They smiled and hugged as he left her doorstep. One lingering kiss and he was gone.
The memory of the evening returned for the first time in the afternoon, as she curled up on the couch, a glass of Merlot in her left hand, to read the formal decree dissolving their marriage, that day, in her right. No words.
Slowly, she read the text announcing the end of a loving relationship gone awry after decades. Tears flowed softly down her cheeks. She made no effort to stop their movement. “Just let them be.” She thought. “Let them be.”
Rising from the sofa, she walked tentatively toward the bedroom, stopping purposely in the doorway. Her eyes took in the view as her memory brought images from their past together. How many hours had they spent in here, talking about work, sharing their dreams, rejoicing in fleeting successes – and making love. Two children were conceived here, nurtured in cradles nearby. The pains of loss, first her parents, then his mother, were shared here. Arguments – spats at first– were rare, until the last few years. The most bitter of them resulted in sleeping apart, followed by living apart. None of that was in the decree she held in her hand.
She awoke to bright sunlight and the sound of a ringing phone in the living room. She let it ring as she walked slowly toward it. She flipped the cover and pressed the key to see who had called. Helen. As she read the name, the phone beeped again, to announce a message. She returned to her room, put the phone on the nightstand and sat on the edge of the bed. “Good morning.” She said aloud to the walls and the sunbeams filling her space. “My name is Alison. Welcome to the start of my new life.”
They made love in the most wondrous way, with not a word spoken throughout. It began in the late afternoon in the kitchen, with the two of them preparing their evening meal together, and ended just before nine a.m. the following morning.
It was his idea, really, He wanted it to be ‘just so’, an evening so special that, when they would think about it over the years, and she would, that a warm glow would infuse her, and bring them to tears.
They moved through the kitchen as if choreographed. He washed the spinach; she patted it dry. He sliced tomatoes; she, the hard-boiled eggs. When he wanted her to move to a new station, he put his hands on her waist from behind and she moved like a dancer to his signals. They turned their heads to look into each other’s eyes and smiled as they moved about. Not a word.
They shared a sumptuous feast, communicating through pantomime and touch. Wine, salad, bread, coq au vin, desserts of fresh fruits and ice cream covered with berries, topped with Chambord.
Entering another phase in their foreplay, they moved around the living room to the sounds of Ravel’s Bolero and other sensual recordings. She responded instinctively to his directions as she had for over thirty years, and marveled as she did at his uncanny ability to lead. His agility and grace thrilled her still.
His attention to detail as they made love throughout the night brought her to moments of intensity she had not experienced in years, and brought her close to… and then to, tears. His lips kissed them all against her cheeks.
As the morning sunlight entered the room, he awoke her and they walked hand in hand to shower together. His hands washed her from neck to toes, and they dried her in similar fashion. She willingly followed his lead as they made love once more. She laid her head on his chest and, listening to the power of his heartbeat, she wept. They smiled and hugged as he left her doorstep. One lingering kiss and he was gone.
The memory of the evening returned for the first time in the afternoon, as she curled up on the couch, a glass of Merlot in her left hand, to read the formal decree dissolving their marriage, that day, in her right. No words.
Slowly, she read the text announcing the end of a loving relationship gone awry after decades. Tears flowed softly down her cheeks. She made no effort to stop their movement. “Just let them be.” She thought. “Let them be.”
Rising from the sofa, she walked tentatively toward the bedroom, stopping purposely in the doorway. Her eyes took in the view as her memory brought images from their past together. How many hours had they spent in here, talking about work, sharing their dreams, rejoicing in fleeting successes – and making love. Two children were conceived here, nurtured in cradles nearby. The pains of loss, first her parents, then his mother, were shared here. Arguments – spats at first– were rare, until the last few years. The most bitter of them resulted in sleeping apart, followed by living apart. None of that was in the decree she held in her hand.
She awoke to bright sunlight and the sound of a ringing phone in the living room. She let it ring as she walked slowly toward it. She flipped the cover and pressed the key to see who had called. Helen. As she read the name, the phone beeped again, to announce a message. She returned to her room, put the phone on the nightstand and sat on the edge of the bed. “Good morning.” She said aloud to the walls and the sunbeams filling her space. “My name is Alison. Welcome to the start of my new life.”
Alison In Seach of a New Identity
The following content is adult based fiction, with sexually explicit portions. If that is contrary to your values or otherwise offensive to your sensibilities, don't go any further. It's my creation, no yours.
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